Going on an RV trip is a very relaxing experience. Many people who like to camp out at the National Parks and other scenic locations buy an RV or rent one. If you have an RV you can have a lot more fun if you get a generator for it. This will allow you to use the heating and cooling for long hours and stay comfortable throughout the trip.
A diesel or propane generator is best for a diesel RV. If the RV runs on gasoline get either a gasoline or propane generator. Gasoline has a shorter shelf life (six months) than diesel which can be stored for as long as 14 months, while propane can be stored indefinitely. You can browse propane, gasoline and diesel generators for your RV online. First, check the new models so you can benefit from the latest functionalities. These days all of us are very dependent on communication devices. A Wi-Fi enabled generator with a less than 5% total harmonic distortion will serve your needs better. Diesel generators are less expensive and have a robust engine. They require less maintenance due to their simple built.
Before you buy a generator check the size of the air conditioner in your RV. If it is 13,500 BTU you will need at least 2800-3000 starting watts and the running watts of your unit need to be 1500-2000W. With a 15,000 BTU air conditioner, a generator with 3300-3500 starting watts and 1300-1800 running watts will work perfectly.
The next thing you need to consider is the other kitchen items such as the RV fridge, coffee maker, microwave and cooker. For the fridge add 600 starting watts and 180 running watts. The cooker will use between 170-270 running watts/starting watts while the coffee maker will also use 600W starting/running watts. The microwave uses more watts so add 1000 running watts for it. The TV uses less wattage and you can add 120-200 watts for it. After you have the totals you are ready to buy your RV diesel generator.
All generators are rated for starting wattage and running wattage. So, a 4000W generator will give you 4000W to start the air conditioner, but for running it for long is may be rated at only 3500W. When you buy a 4000W unit you will use up 2800-3000 on starting a 13,500 BTU air conditioner. The usage then is reduced to 1500-2000W. This way you have an additional 2000W or more for use with other items such as the laptop or the TV and so forth. It is good to make the calculations first and have ample wattage for your use. RV generators can save you on fuel if you run it at a 50% load. This way you will have more runtime. The size of the fuel tank also increases the run time so look for one that has a large one.
If your RV diesel generator is noisy, it will keep you up all night. If you are camping at a park, the neighbors will get disturbed. To avoid such a situation, you want to look for one with a low dBA. A 51-68 dBA model is ideal for camping. The noise level of a hairdryer is measured at 80dBA while the vacuum cleaner is 70dBA. The noise level of air conditioners is rated at 60dBA. The vacuum cleaner works twice as loud as the air conditioner and the hairdryer works twice as loud as the vacuum cleaner. Here 10dBA means double the noise.
Another consideration while buying an RV diesel generator is the size. If the generator is too large it may be a hassle to get it in and out of the RV. The smaller models usually offer less wattage. So look for a generator that is both compact and can produce at least 4000W. Some models on the market can be paralleled to get double the power. When you do not want to use the AC you can use only one unit and in summers or winters, you can use both.
Cummins Onan Commercial Series QD5000 5kW diesel mobile generator produces lower noise and vibration. It has the self-diagnostic capability that simplifies troubleshooting. It is easy to install and works quietly at 68dBA. You can buy it in a single-phase or three-phase configuration. This model is just right for a 13,500 BTU air conditioner.
If you have a 15,000 btu air conditioner, take a look at the Cummins Onan QD 8000 watt RV diesel generator. With its computer-controlled variable speed operation, it matches the engine speed to load demand. The housing is designed to dampen sound while the three-point mounting system reduces vibration. This model also has the self-diagnostic capability and can run two 15,000 Btu air conditioners with ample power to spare for other appliances.
RV generators are made in different styles and can run on a variety of fuel. So select an RV diesel generator that is perfect for your RV. Get it installed by a professional or buy a portable model that can be used for working with tools or as a backup source of emergency power at home or the shop when grid power fails.