The best place to store your generator in a travel trailer depends on several factors, including generator size, trailer layout, and safety considerations; secure, well-ventilated compartments designed for storage are paramount. This article will explore the safest and most practical storage options for your portable power source, ensuring convenience and minimizing risk.
Understanding the Challenges of Generator Storage
Storing a generator in a travel trailer presents unique challenges. Generators are heavy, emit fumes, and can be prone to fuel leaks. Proper storage is crucial for protecting your health, preventing damage to your trailer, and ensuring the generator remains in good working order.
- Weight Distribution: Generators can be surprisingly heavy. Incorrectly positioning it can negatively impact your trailer’s balance and towing stability.
- Ventilation: Generators produce exhaust, including carbon monoxide, a deadly odorless gas. Insufficient ventilation poses a severe health risk.
- Fuel Storage: Gasoline is flammable. Storing a generator near flammable materials or in a poorly ventilated space can create a fire hazard.
- Security: Generators can be attractive targets for theft. A secure storage location can deter potential criminals.
Optimal Storage Locations Inside Your Travel Trailer
While external storage is often preferred, sometimes interior options are necessary. Here are some considerations:
- Dedicated Generator Compartment: Some newer travel trailers come equipped with a dedicated generator compartment. These are usually located near the front of the trailer, often with ventilation and a reinforced floor. If your trailer has one, this is almost always the best option. Check the compartment’s weight capacity before loading your generator.
- Cargo Area (with modifications): If you have a dedicated cargo area or a large storage bay, you might consider storing the generator there. However, modifications are usually necessary. This may involve installing a heavy-duty slide-out tray for easier access and a ventilation system to exhaust fumes. Consider using leak-proof containers for fuel storage and securing the generator with straps to prevent movement during travel.
- Under the Bed (with significant modifications): Storing a generator under the bed is generally discouraged due to space constraints, ventilation issues, and potential noise disturbance. If you absolutely must store it here, ensure the bed frame is structurally sound enough to support the weight. You will absolutely need to create a completely sealed and vented compartment to the outside. This option requires professional installation and is generally not recommended.
Prioritizing Exterior Storage Options
Exterior storage offers significant advantages over interior storage, primarily in terms of ventilation and safety.
- Tongue-Mounted Generator Box: A tongue-mounted generator box is a popular choice. These boxes are specifically designed for generator storage and are typically made of durable materials like steel or aluminum. They offer secure storage and easy access to the generator. Ensure the box is properly vented and securely mounted to the trailer tongue. Carefully consider the added weight and its effect on tongue weight and overall trailer balance.
- Bumper-Mounted Platform (with caution): A bumper-mounted platform can provide a convenient storage location. However, exercise extreme caution when using this option. Many travel trailer bumpers are not designed to support the weight of a generator. Have a professional inspect the bumper and reinforce it if necessary. Secure the generator to the platform with heavy-duty straps and consider the added weight and its effect on the trailer’s handling.
- Truck Bed (if towing with a truck): If you are towing your travel trailer with a pickup truck, storing the generator in the truck bed is an excellent option. This keeps the generator away from the trailer and provides ample ventilation. Secure the generator with tie-down straps to prevent movement. Consider using a truck bed cover or tonneau cover to protect the generator from the elements and deter theft.
Key Considerations for Safe Generator Storage
Safety must be your top priority when storing a generator in or on your travel trailer.
- Ventilation is paramount: Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Install a carbon monoxide detector inside your trailer and test it regularly.
- Fuel storage safety: Store gasoline in approved, tightly sealed containers away from the generator and any potential sources of ignition. Never store gasoline inside the living area of your trailer.
- Secure the generator: Secure the generator with straps or locks to prevent movement during travel and deter theft.
- Regular maintenance: Regularly inspect the generator for leaks and ensure it is in good working order. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.
FAQs: Generator Storage in Travel Trailers
Here are answers to frequently asked questions to further guide your decision:
FAQ 1: Can I store my generator inside the travel trailer while driving?
Generally, it’s not recommended to store a generator inside the living space of your travel trailer while driving due to ventilation concerns and the risk of fuel leaks. If you must, ensure it’s in a dedicated, heavily vented compartment and the fuel tank is empty.
FAQ 2: What size generator box do I need?
The size of the generator box depends on the dimensions of your generator. Measure your generator carefully and choose a box that provides enough space for ventilation and easy access. Add a few inches to each dimension for adequate airflow.
FAQ 3: How do I vent a generator box properly?
Proper ventilation requires both an intake vent and an exhaust vent. The exhaust vent should be located as high as possible on the box to allow hot air to escape. The intake vent should be located lower down to allow fresh air to enter. Consider using a powered vent fan to improve airflow.
FAQ 4: Is it safe to run my generator while it’s stored in a box?
Never run your generator inside a closed box. The box must be adequately vented to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Even with venting, monitor the generator’s temperature to prevent overheating.
FAQ 5: How can I secure my generator to prevent theft?
Use heavy-duty locks and chains to secure the generator to the trailer frame or the generator box. Consider installing a GPS tracking device on the generator to help locate it if it is stolen.
FAQ 6: What type of fuel container is best for storing gasoline?
Use only approved gasoline containers that are specifically designed for fuel storage. These containers are typically made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and are designed to prevent leaks and spills.
FAQ 7: How often should I inspect my generator and fuel containers?
Inspect your generator and fuel containers before each trip and periodically during the trip. Look for leaks, cracks, or other signs of damage.
FAQ 8: Can I store my generator on the back bumper of my travel trailer?
While possible, exercise extreme caution. Most travel trailer bumpers are not designed to support the weight of a generator. Have a professional inspect and reinforce the bumper if necessary. Distribute the weight evenly and use heavy-duty straps to secure the generator.
FAQ 9: What are the legal restrictions on transporting gasoline?
Regulations vary by state and country. Check local regulations regarding the maximum amount of gasoline you can transport and any specific requirements for containers and labeling.
FAQ 10: How do I reduce the noise of my generator?
Consider purchasing a sound dampening enclosure for your generator. Place the generator as far away from your campsite as possible and point the exhaust away from inhabited areas.
FAQ 11: What if my travel trailer has no suitable storage space?
If your travel trailer lacks suitable storage space, consider purchasing a smaller, lighter generator that is easier to transport. Alternatively, explore external storage options such as a tongue-mounted generator box or the bed of your pickup truck.
FAQ 12: Should I empty the fuel tank before storing my generator?
It is generally recommended to empty the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer before storing your generator for an extended period. This will prevent fuel from degrading and clogging the carburetor.