All You Want to Know About RV Generators

Your recreational vehicle likely came with a plethora of features and modern appliances to keep you comfortable on your vacations. However, you’ll need a reliable source of power to keep them performing smoothly. Though most campgrounds offer you an electric grid that you can hook your camper to, it’s not always a given. Also, if you plan to go boondocking, you’ll need a power supply of your own to stay comfortable. That’s where RV generators come in handy!

As your local RV dealer, we at Chesapeake RV Solutions know a thing or two about camper generators. That’s why our experts have created this guide to help you find the perfect model for your rig. Read on to learn all you need to about this essential accessory, and for more information, connect with our experts. We’re in Chesapeake, VA, and we are happy to welcome our customers from Virginia Beach and Suffolk.

The Basics

All campers aren’t built the same way, which is why you must make sure you select the right generator for your rig. Ask yourself the below questions to find out if the given model is perfect for you:

• Can it support the wattage of your RV?
• Can it supply power to your whole RV or just a few specific parts?
• Which fuel source will you want to go with—propane, gasoline, or diesel?

To determine the answers to these questions, you’ll need to make a few calculations yourself. For example, the fuel source of your RV will likely be the same for your generator. Also, you’ll need to add up the total watts of your appliances (the ones you want your generator to supply power to) to see if your preferred model is the right fit.

Maintenance

Thankfully, maintaining a generator isn’t hard. However, you’ll need to be regular with its upkeep to ensure it doesn’t break down while you’re boondocking at a remote location.

A few preventive maintenance checks you’ll want to perform before you leave home include inspecting the hour meter and changing the oil as frequently as needed. Ideally, you will want to replace it every 200 operating hours or so. Also, during the months you aren’t using your camper, make sure you run it now and then. This will help keep it functioning.

The Risks

Generators are useful, and many RV owners use them without incident. Nevertheless, it helps to be aware of the risks associated with them.

These machines emit carbon monoxide, which can be fatal to humans. To keep your generator performing safely and efficiently, you’ll need to ensure its exhaust system is in good working condition. It should be able to funnel the fumes outside of the vehicle, which will help prevent buildup inside. To be on the safer side, consider investing in a carbon monoxide detector, which can help keep you safe.

We hope this guide helps you purchase the perfect generator for your RV. If you have more questions, let our experts at Chesapeake RV Solutions address them for you. We’re in Chesapeake, VA, and we proudly serve those from Virginia Beach and Suffolk, so reach out today.