7 Best Generators for RV

Generators for RVs are an essential tool for any traveler looking to enjoy the comforts of home while on the road. With a generator, you can power appliances and devices in your RV, including air conditioning units, refrigerators, and electronics. This provides a level of comfort and convenience that is hard to replicate without access to a reliable source of power.

When choosing a generator for your RV, there are several factors to consider, such as wattage, fuel type, and noise level. Each of these factors can have a significant impact on the performance and convenience of the generator. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of generators for RVs, important factors to consider when choosing a generator, top generators on the market, and maintenance and safety tips for using and maintaining a generator in your RV. By the end of this post, you’ll have the knowledge you need to choose the best generator for your RV and ensure that you can enjoy all the comforts of home while on the road.

Best Generators for RV – Review and Buying Guide

1. Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter

As someone who has used many portable generators over the years, I can confidently say that the Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator is one of the best in the market. This generator provides the perfect power solution for anyone who needs to power sensitive electronic devices like laptops, tablets, cell phones, and LCD/plasma TVs.

One of the standout features of the iGen4500 is its low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) rate of under 3%. This makes it an ideal choice for people who need stable and clean power to run their sensitive electronics. I tested this generator with multiple devices and experienced no issues whatsoever.

The iGen4500 is also incredibly portable thanks to its wheels and extendable handle. This makes it much easier to move around than traditional generators, especially if you need to transport it over uneven terrain. I found the built-in USB ports to be very useful, as it allowed me to charge my phone and other devices without needing an adapter.

Another great feature of the iGen4500 is its runtime of up to 18 hours. This is incredibly impressive, and it means that you won’t need to refuel the generator as often as other models. The TT-30R RV Ready Outlet and two 20A household outlets make it easy to power a variety of devices.

I also appreciated the Push-Button Electric Start and wireless remote start features, which made it very easy to start the generator from a distance of up to 109 yards away. The generator comes with a 3-year limited warranty, which gives me peace of mind knowing that I can rely on the manufacturer for any technical support.

Overall, the Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a portable generator that provides clean and stable power. It’s easy to use, portable, and reliable. While there are other generators in the market, I believe this one is the best due to its low THD rate, long runtime, and multiple useful features.

2. Generac GP3000i Super Quiet Inverter Generator

I was excited to try out the Generac GP3000i Super Quiet Inverter Generator, and I must say that it exceeded my expectations.

One of the standout features of this generator is its Power Rush patented technology, which provides over 50% more starting capacity than regular generators. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone who needs to power heavy-duty equipment like power tools or RV air conditioners.

The generator is also very lightweight and compact, making it easy to move around and store. The built-in handle adds to its portability, and I found it very easy to handle and maneuver. I also appreciated the clean power output, which is perfect for powering sensitive electronics like laptops and smartphones.

Another useful feature of the GP3000i is the PowerDial, which integrates the start/run/stop functions into one easy-to-use dial. This makes it very easy to operate, especially for people who are not familiar with generators. The USB outlets were also a nice touch, as it allowed me to charge my devices without needing an adapter.

One unique feature of this generator is its ability to connect two inverters together for double the power. This is perfect for people who need to power multiple devices simultaneously, and I found it to be very useful during my testing.

Overall, the Generac GP3000i Super Quiet Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable, lightweight, and compact generator. Its Power Rush patented technology, clean power output, and easy-to-use design make it stand out from its competitors. While there are other generators in the market, I believe this one is the best due to its unique features and excellent performance.

3. Champion Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator

The Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a versatile and reliable power source.

One of the standout features of this generator is its clean power output, which produces less than 3% THD. This makes it an ideal choice for powering sensitive electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, and LCD/plasma TVs. I tested this generator with multiple devices and experienced no issues whatsoever.

Another great feature of the Champion 3400-Watt generator is its low oil shut-off sensor, which ensures that the engine shuts off automatically when the oil level is low. This adds an extra layer of safety and protection to the generator, which is important for anyone who wants to avoid potential accidents.

The generator is also designed to operate on dual fuel, meaning you can use either gasoline or propane depending on your preference. This adds to its versatility, and I found it very useful during my testing.

The generator features an electric start that includes a battery, and its Cold Start Technology ensures a quick start even in cold weather. I found this feature very useful, as it made it very easy to start the generator in any weather conditions.

The 192cc Champion engine produces 3400 starting watts and 3100 running watts, which is more than enough to power most household appliances and electronic devices. I also appreciated the 0.6-quart oil capacity, which made it easy to maintain the generator.

Overall, the Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a versatile and reliable power source. Its clean power output, low oil shut-off sensor, and dual fuel operation make it stand out from its competitors. While there are other generators in the market, I believe this one is the best due to its unique features and excellent performance.

4. WEN 56380i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator

The WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable and quiet power source.

One of the standout features of this generator is its clean power output, which is free from voltage spikes and drops. This makes it an ideal choice for powering sensitive electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, and LCD/plasma TVs. I tested this generator with multiple devices and experienced no issues whatsoever.

Another great feature of the WEN 56380i is its quiet operation. This generator produces much less noise than traditional generators, which makes it ideal for use in residential areas or camping sites where noise restrictions may apply.

The generator features a 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine that produces 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts. This is more than enough to power most household appliances and electronic devices.

The generator includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, and one 5V USB port. This makes it very versatile and easy to use with multiple devices.

I also appreciated the digital load and fuel display, which made it very easy to monitor the generator’s performance and fuel level. The half-load runtime of up to 8.5 hours is also impressive, which means you won’t need to refuel the generator as often as other models.

Overall, the WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable, quiet, and versatile power source. Its clean power output, quiet operation, and multiple outlets make it stand out from its competitors. While there are other generators in the market, I believe this one is the best due to its unique features and excellent performance.

5. DuroStar DS4000S 4000 Watt Portable Recoil Start Gas Fuel Generator

As someone who has tested multiple portable generators, I must say that the DuroStar DS4000S 4000 Watt Portable Recoil Start Gas Fuel Generator is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and powerful generator.

One of the standout features of this generator is its 7.0-horsepower air-cooled overhead valve engine that produces 3300 continuous running watts of power. This is more than enough to power most household appliances and electronic devices. I tested this generator with multiple devices and found it to be very reliable.

Another great feature of the DS4000S is its 8-hour run time at 1/2 load, which is very impressive. This means you won’t need to refuel the generator as often as other models, which adds to its convenience.

The generator features a heavy-duty steel frame with four-point fully isolated motor mounts, which adds to its durability and longevity. I also appreciated the easily readable gauge, which made it very easy to monitor the generator’s performance and fuel level.

The super quiet muffler that reduces engine noise (69 dBA rating) is another great feature of the DS4000S, making it ideal for use in residential areas or camping sites where noise restrictions may apply.

The generator includes two 120V household outlets and 1 120V 30A twist lock outlet, which makes it very versatile and easy to use with multiple devices. The automatic low-oil shut off feature is also very useful, as it protects the engine from potential damage.

Overall, the DuroStar DS4000S 4000 Watt Portable Recoil Start Gas Fuel Generator is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and powerful generator. Its durable construction, long run time, and multiple outlets make it stand out from its competitors. While there are other generators in the market, I believe this one is the best due to its unique features and excellent performance.

6. WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator

the WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient power source.

One of the standout features of this generator is its clean power output, which is free from voltage spikes and drops. This makes it an ideal choice for powering sensitive electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, and LCD/plasma TVs. I tested this generator with multiple devices and experienced no issues whatsoever.

The generator features a 79.7cc 4-stroke OHV engine that produces 2000 surge watts and 1600 rated watts. This is enough to power most household appliances and electronic devices. The generator operates at an incredibly quiet 51 decibels at quarter load, making it quieter than a window air conditioner or an average conversation.

The generator’s lightweight design makes it very easy to move around and store. The ultra-efficient one-gallon tank provides 6 hours of half-load run time, which is impressive for its size.

The generator includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle, and one 5V USB port. This makes it very versatile and easy to use with multiple devices.

Overall, the WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable, efficient, and quiet power source. Its clean power output, lightweight design, and multiple outlets make it stand out from its competitors. While there are other generators in the market, I believe this one is the best due to its unique features and excellent performance.

7. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 1600 Running Watts Gas Powered Portable Inverter

Yamaha EF2000iSv2, 1600 Running Watts/2000 Starting Watts, Gas Powered Portable Inverter is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a powerful, efficient, and portable generator.

One of the standout features of this generator is its innovative inverter system, which is able to generate up to 2000 watts of clean AC power. This makes it an ideal choice for powering sensitive electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, and LCD/plasma TVs. I tested this generator with multiple devices and experienced no issues whatsoever.

The generator is also very fuel efficient, and it can run continuously for up to 10.5 hours without refueling. This is very impressive, and it makes it ideal for use during power outages or camping trips.

The super-quiet muffler with USFS-approved spark arrestor of 51.5 dBA at 1/4 load is another great feature of the Yamaha EF2000iSv2. It’s one of the quietest generators on the market, which makes it ideal for use in residential areas or camping sites where noise restrictions may apply.

The generator features a smart throttle engine that improves fuel economy and reduces noise. This adds to its efficiency and convenience, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to save on fuel costs.

The generator includes a pulse width modulation (PWM) control, which makes it very easy to adjust the output according to your needs. The generator is also EPA and CARB compliant, which means it meets the highest standards for air quality.

Overall, the Yamaha EF2000iSv2, 1600 Running Watts/2000 Starting Watts, Gas Powered Portable Inverter is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a powerful, efficient, and portable generator. Its innovative inverter system, fuel efficiency, and quiet operation make it stand out from its competitors. While there are other generators in the market, I believe this one is the best due to its unique features and excellent performance.

Types of Generators for RVs

There are two main types of generators for RVs: portable and permanent.

Portable generators are designed to be easily transported and can be taken with you on the road. They are typically powered by gasoline or propane and can provide up to 4,000 watts of power. Portable generators are versatile and can be used for a variety of applications, not just in RVs. They are also less expensive than permanent generators and can be a good option for occasional RV travelers. However, they are louder than permanent generators and require regular maintenance.

Permanent generators are installed directly into an RV and are typically powered by diesel or propane. They are designed to provide more power than portable generators, with some models capable of providing up to 12,000 watts of power. Permanent generators are quieter than portable generators and require less maintenance since they are designed to be used regularly. They are also more expensive than portable generators and require professional installation, which can be a disadvantage for some travelers.

Portable generators are a good option for occasional RV travelers who want an affordable and versatile generator that can be easily transported. Permanent generators are a better option for frequent RV travelers who want a more powerful, quieter, and low-maintenance generator that is designed specifically for RV use. Ultimately, the choice between a portable and permanent generator will depend on your specific needs and budget.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Generator

When choosing a generator for your RV, there are several important factors to consider. These include:

Wattage: The wattage of a generator determines how much power it can produce. Consider the appliances and devices in your RV that you want to power and choose a generator with enough wattage to handle their power needs.

Fuel type: Generators can be powered by gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas. Each fuel type has its advantages and disadvantages, such as cost, availability, and storage requirements.

Noise level: Generators can be loud, especially portable models. Consider the noise level of the generator and choose one that won’t disturb you or your neighbors.

Weight: Portable generators can be heavy, which can be a disadvantage when traveling in an RV. Consider the weight of the generator and choose one that is easy to transport and store.

These factors can have a significant impact on the performance and convenience of the generator. For example, choosing a generator with insufficient wattage can result in frequent power outages, while choosing a generator that is too heavy can be difficult to move around when needed. Similarly, choosing a generator with a high noise level can be disruptive and unpleasant for both you and your neighbors.

When choosing a generator for your RV, it’s important to consider the wattage, fuel type, noise level, and weight of the generator. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a generator that meets your power needs, is convenient to use, and doesn’t disturb your surroundings.

Maintenance and Safety Tips for Generators

Using and maintaining a generator in an RV requires careful attention to safety and maintenance. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

Store fuel safely: Store fuel in a safe and ventilated location away from heat and flame. Make sure the fuel container is properly labeled and tightly sealed.

Check oil levels: Regularly check the oil levels in the generator and change the oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Monitor for carbon monoxide poisoning: Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk when using a generator in an enclosed space. Install a carbon monoxide detector in your RV and make sure it is in good working condition.

Keep the generator clean: Regularly clean the generator to remove dirt and debris that can cause it to overheat.

By following these tips, you can extend the life of your generator and keep yourself and your fellow travelers safe.

Conclusion

Having a generator in your RV can provide power and comfort while on the road. When choosing a generator, it’s important to consider factors like wattage, fuel type, noise level, and weight. Additionally, using and maintaining the generator properly is essential for safety and longevity.

We hope this blog post has provided you with the information you need to choose the best generator for your RV and use it safely and effectively. Remember to do further research and consult with experts before making a purchase. With the right generator and proper care, you can enjoy all the comforts of home while on the road.