5 Tips for Choosing a Generator for Your RV
When it comes to camping out in your RV, having access to at least some added power is key to maintaining your comfort and safety. Regardless of whether you want to rough it or kick back with all your RV’s amenities, you’ll need the right amount of energy to power your priority devices. However, not all generators are the same, and the one you ultimately purchase can greatly impact your camping, or glamping, experience. Use our tips for choosing a generator for your RV to ensure you get exactly what you need.
Think About the Appliances You’ll Use
Since there are so many different types of generators on the market, your power needs will be the primary determining factor for your purchase. After all, the last thing you want is to end up with something too weak to reliably run the air conditioner. So, before you browse the different makes and models, make a list of the appliances and amenities you plan to use in your RV. Depending on your priorities, you could end up with something more or less powerful than you initially thought.
Consider the Weight of a Generator
Once you prioritize your electricity needs in the RV, take some time to consider the weight of your potential generator. Though you might feel tempted to buy the most powerful portable generator you can find, they tend to be heavier than less powerful generators. This can affect what you’re able to bring into the RV with you and inhibit your ability to set it up as needed. Because of this, try to find a model that’s the right balance of power and physical weight.
Weigh the Pros and Cons of Different Fuels
Another helpful tip for choosing a generator for your RV is to consider the different types of fuel certain models require. Portable power generators can run on diesel fuel, gasoline, propane, or a combination of these options. Each of these fuels can vary in price, portability, and ease of acquisition depending on how close you are to a gas station. For this reason, it’s important that you think about which one will be easiest for you to buy before making your choice.
Understand Fuel Consumption
In addition to picking the fuel that’s most convenient for you to purchase during travel, you also want to understand how much fuel certain generators consume. More powerful generators that you use to run your RV’s larger amenities will naturally use up more fuel in a shorter amount of time. Whereas smaller generators used to power one or two things may go all day before needing a refill. Taking this into account will help you decide whether it’s cost-effective to purchase certain models.
Factor in Your Budget
Like with any larger purchase though, make sure that you have a budget and that you stick to it. Generators can be incredibly expensive, and you don’t want to end up spending more than you can afford on one. A budget will help you place a cap on what you’ll pay for a generator to prevent you from spending beyond your means.