Best RV Generator Reviews (Updated September 2022)
It is necessary to have a reliable source of power while you are in the RV because you don’t know what to expect on your next camping trip. These generators are mainly for RV appliances, and they are more expensive compared to portable generators. However, the majority of people buy portable generators because even if one plans to use an air conditioner wisely, it is necessary to have one.
If you are going to go to the boondocks, you will find it useful at some point. For instance, if the camp site does not have any electrical hookups, there are appliances that will require a generator. In case you also do not know where to start in buying a generator for your RV, this is a guide on how to choose the right one and the products you can choose from.
Rank | Image | Product Name | Score | Our Review |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 97 /100 | |||
2 | 96 /100 | |||
3 | 95 /100 | |||
4 | 95 /100 | |||
5 | 94 /100 |
**Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Things to Consider Before Buying Generator For Your RV
1. Know the wattage you have
Via Amazon.com
You are going to have to do math if you do not want to end up buying an excessively big, loud, and expensive generator. The electricity will be utilized by you in a lot of ways which ranges from coffee making and also working on your computer.
Remember that a generator that consumes too much wattage is going to need a lot of fuel, and you will not be comfortable with all that noise. In addition to this, a large generator will be difficult to move around.
2. Craftsmanship and durability
When you already know the amount of power you require, it is important to try and establish the generator’s craftsmanship and durability. The most ideal portable generator for your RV is constructed together using the best materials available and buying from a reliable brand will guarantee just that. You will have a generator that is reliable and will last long.
3. Pick the type of fuel
After you have figured out the power requirements of the RV generator, then you are ready to pick the type of fuel you need. The normal type of fuels is gasoline, propane and diesel. Propane has less pollution compared to other kinds and it can be quieter than generating gas. The power capacity and run time of generators that use propane are lesser than diesel or gasoline.
If you are looking at power generation that is environmentally safe, you can opt for biodiesel, wind and solar energy generators, and also fuel cell. All of the systems have their advantages, but the ones such as solar and wind function better-using battery storage.
4. The level of noise
The ideal portable generator is something that can be used at home without increasing the volume on your TV that is not on the normal level. Moreover, purchasing a loud generator is going to give your trouble sleeping at night while adding to the noise pollution of the neighborhood.
5. Output requirements
Via Amazon.com
It is not enough to just have the right wattage in the generator. You might need to connect a lot of extension cords, but they should not be cascaded. Since you need to use the generator so that multiple appliances will have power, then you are going to need more than one output. You might also have to call an electrician to have a power transfer installed switch for systems that are hard-wired.
6. Choosing a style of RV generator
RV generators are quieter and reliable, but costs more than conventional ones. There are manufacturers that offer some generators. The one you need to choose is the one that gives the power you will need, at the noise level you can handle.
There are those that are similar to lawn mowers using a pull start. Others simply need a key for turning. Other types are the remote start ones that make it unnecessary for you to walk out of the RV during the night to turn it off or on.
7. Review ratings of users
One way of determining the types of products and companies is to inspect the product reviews and how people rate it. These reviews are usually written by customers, but some companies, websites and organizations also give product recommendations, but this guide is all you need to find out which one is right for you. The customer service experience is also given feedback as you read more of this post.
Top 5 RV Generator Reviews
1. Westinghouse WGen3600 Portable Generator – 3600 Rated Watts and 4650 Peak Watts (Gas powered)
Via Amazon.com
The running watts is 3600 and the peak watts is 4650. It has a recoil start, a fuel tank that is 4 gallons with gauge, and the run time is 12 hours with 50% load. The features are 5-20R 120V household receptacle; RV ready TT-30R 30 Amp receptacle.
There are rubber covers on each outlet for safety. It is plug and play, oil is already included, funnel, tool kit, and a manual to help you get started right away. The power is from a 212 cc Westinghouse 4-stroke OHV. The dimensions are 21.56 x 22.83 x 23.23” and the weight is 107.14 pounds.
Pros
- The run time is longer compared to most of the generators in the market
- The warranty is good for 3 years
- There is a protection for electrical overload
- How quiet it amazes me despite the great power it has
- Assembling it was quick and did not give me too much pain
- It works just like how it is described in the advertisement
Cons
- The instruction that came with it is hard to understand, but it is easy to install anyway
This generator will work like you expect it to be and I am happy with it because it is really quiet and my sleep is not disrupted.
2. DuroStar DS4000S, 3300 Running Watts and the starting watts is 4000 (gas powered and portable)
Via Amazon.com
It is a 7.0 Hp Durable DuroStar with an OHV engine that is air cooled that shuts off if there is low oil. The steel frame that comes with four points is fully isolated that can be mounted easily. The pane is full power with a warning light for the oil, circuit breaker, volt meter, and outlets.
The configuration of the power plug is 120V, 20 Amp, 60 Hz- NEMA with 5-20R outlets, L5-30 outlet. The run time is 8 hours and the tank is 4 gallons. The dimensions are 23 x 18 x 17.5” and the weight is 92.4 pounds.
Pros
- This generator has survived more than one hurricane and it is inexpensive
- Operating it is really simple and it does not take a genius to do so
- I have a welder and it is able to handle that as well because of its great power
- They made it with excellent quality and I could not complain about the way it is advertised because it is true
- The price is reasonable which is awesome
Cons
- Their customer support needs improvement, but I still love the product
I would recommend this to anyone who is on a budget and wants an efficient and powerful generator for their RV.
3. Champion power equipment 46539 3500 Watt RV Ready Portable Generator (Wireless Remote)
Via Amazon.com
It is ready RVs and equipped with the usual 30A RV outlet with enough power for a 15,000 BTU RV. It uses a 4-stroke engine that gives off 3500 watts and starting watts of 4000. Powered by a 196cc Champion cold start engine with easy start optimization for the cold weather.
The outlets are 120V 30A for locking, 120V 20A household outlets, and 120V 30A RV which are all protected by Volt Guard so your appliances will not experience power surges. There is a limited warranty of 2 years and their technical support is lifetime. The dimensions are 30.7 x 22 x 22.8” and the weight is 139 pounds.
Pros
- The weight of the product is manageable and the function of the wheels are great
- It works quietly and the remote makes operating it so easy because it works even from inside the RV
- Shutting it off is really easy even if it is very powerful
- The delivery was on time and no delays
- The advertisement does not lie because it does work that way
Cons
- It could be a little quieter, but other than that, it is an awesome generator
I think that it is one of the good ones you can buy for your money and if you do not mind the little noise it produces because it is a powerful and efficient one.
4. WEN 56475 4750 Watts (Gas powered and portable)
Via Amazon.com
The digital readout helps in managing changes maintenance and oil changing schedules. It has an electric start, shuts down if it is low in oil, with an automatic regulator and protection against overload for safety maximization.
The CARB and EPA III is going to meet the requirements that can be bought in 50 states. There is a wheel kit and foldable handles included so you can easily transport it. 223cc engine that is providing 4750 surge watts and 3750 rated watts. The dimensions are 17.3 x 17.1 x 26.6” and the weight is 112.5 pounds.
Pros
- I got the generator well-packaged without any defects and on time
- This product works even under extreme hurricane and with several appliances running
- It is a powerful generator that is also easy to set-up and the instructions that came with it are easy to understand and comprehend
- If there is enough oil and gas, it is a very quiet generator that will not make your neighbors complain
- It can fit into small spaces and does its job well
Cons
- The battery was dead when I received it, but they sent me a replacement right away so I don’t have any other issues
If you want a generator that will not disappoint you, this one is what you need to get. Aside from the easy-to-follow instructions, using it is easy. It is also a good value for your money.
5. Champion Power Equipment 73536i 2000 Watts Generator (Portable Inverter)
Via Amazon.com
It is a quiet, stackable and lightweight generator that operates using 53 DBA and its weight is less than 50 pounds with a design that is space-saving and stackable. Ideal for RVs, cabins, campsites and others. The starting watts is 2000 and 1700 running watts with a run time of 9.5 hours on a full tank.
The power is from an 80cc Champion engine that can connect to an inverter that is also Champion. There is a limited warranty of 2 years and the dimensions are 22.4 x 16.5 x 18.9” and the weight is 47.8 pounds.
Pros
- It is able to run everything that I require in the camper
- I love its quietness and it sips fuel
- The output is higher as if it is going to run even my microwave compared to other brands
- I found the start-up instructions to be really simple to follow
- I used grinders, drills and saws to test out the generator; it did not disappoint
- I do not hear any disturbing noise coming from it so my sleep at night is not interrupted
- It is a great product for the price tag
Cons
- There is no external fuel tank port, but that is the only complaint I have. It is still overall a good product that I do not regret purchasing
This is a generator that will not disrupt your sleep and will not annoy you with late delivery or failure to do its job. I also recommend this product to anyone who wants a light one, but powerful.
It is not good to lack power when you are camping in the RV because you do not know what to expect in the campsites you will go to. The products listed here are the ones that are worth the purchase and will not make you regret buying them.