Generator??


Lory

New Member
We are completely new to camping first of all! Just bought a Dutchmen Classic 35 Ft. It does have air conditioning but i guess we need a generator to run it if there is no electrical hookup. Can anyone recommend a type or size generator we would need. We really know nothing about it yet.
Thank you to all
 

hertig

Senior Member
Generator??

The first question to be answered is: where will you carry (and run) the generator? If you expect to install it in, and run it from, a compartment in the trailer, then the size of that compartment is very key in choosing the generator. Generally, ONAN makes most of the built-in generators, although I think Generac makes one as well.

If you are going to carry the generator in a compartment in the trailer (or in the back of your truck) and remove it during use, then you can get anything you like that will fit. Honda 'inverter' models are very popular due to the high efficiency, low noise and very clean power. Yamaha has a few models which may compete with these.

The absolute minimum, for 1, small, A/C would be about 3000 watts. You may need to install a 'hard start' (or 'easy start' :) ) kit to increase the reliability of this setup. 4000 watts would be better. 2 Honda EU2000 hooked together with a synch cord is a popular, easy to carry, setup, but also easy to steal due to the small size and light weight of each unit.

Keep in mind that if your generator is loud or obnoxious, you may be limited when and where you can run it.

If you have a bigger A/C or 2 A/C units, you will need more power, probably in the 6000 to 7500 watt range. 2 EU3000 hooked with a synch cord may do the job, but boy will it weigh and take up space.

If your generator is built into the trailer, you may want to consider running it off of propane to easy your fuel management. On the other hand, propane tends to be less efficient, so you'll need a bigger generator than you would with gasoline. Also, altitude decreases the efficiency of generators, so it you spend a lot of time at height, you will want to have a bigger generator (or at least have it adjusted for the height).
 

Kirk

Senior Member
Generator??

Keep in mind that a genset that will carry two a/c units, or at least 5KW, will burn about 1 gallon per hour of fuel when running the a/c units and a little more if you operate on propane. In other words, you probably have about 20 gallons of propane or less than one day of operation. Also, assuming that you have a fifth wheel, be sure that the space where it is installed has been built air tight to avoid any exhause inside of the RV or you may not wake up in the morning. And be sure to install a quality CO detector to keep you alive. Your best bet is probably to use a portable generator, but you will need a very large one. Think safety first!
 
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