There’s a long list of reasons why investing in a power generator that you can rely on is a wise decision, even when talking about home use alone.
That is exactly the device that can spare you the need to install a backup sump pump if you live in a place that’s prone to flooding. It is also necessary for energy-consuming electric medical devices users and people who like to stock their fridge with food.
Of course, preparing for possible power outages is usually part of the winter checklist, but why not think ahead of time?
A quality generator becomes even more indispensable if you like to travel with your recreational vehicle which makes it more of a summer topic to cover. It has a lot of potential tasks to perform on the road, from powering your refrigerator to potentially enabling air conditioning and a lot in between.
Since priorities differ depending on your preferred setting, choosing a model for both your home and your trailer might be confusing. If you have a clear idea of your needs, though, you could benefit dramatically from an all-purpose lightweight generator, such as the Duromax XP5500 EH, with enough power for most tasks. This article explores the key criteria for shoppers.
Energy Provided
Probably the most essential parameter of all, the amount of electricity that your generator can produce is also often referred to as its size (which can be confusing since it has little to do with the unit’s dimensions).
This is one case where the less is more doesn’t apply. If you invest in a model that’s too weak to cover your needs, you’ll most probably suffer a very restrictive experience while traveling.
It’s typical for RV users to choose models providing between 3,000 and 4,000 Watts.
For a more customized choice, though, and especially for those who are planning to power their air conditioning and heating with the generator, the wisest tactic would be to calculate the total need for power based on how many appliances there are to feed.
Do this for both your home and the vehicle, taking into account every device or system you might want to use at some point. There is a formula for calculating your power need using the information on device labels that will give you a reasonable minimum to start with.
Fuel Type
Power generators run on different fuels; some will accept several options for greater flexibility. The rule of thumb here is not to switch fuel types to replace an old RV generator.
If you are looking to refine a vehicle that doesn’t have a generator originally, feel free to choose the option that feels the most viable to you. The most common RV-friendly fuel types are gas, diesel, and liquid propane.
For those to whom the environment is priority number one, propane-fueled generators are likely the best fit. Propane is relatively easy to store, too.
Unfortunately, it might be difficult to get your hands on compared to the other fuels, which is why it is arguably easier to use gas as the most accessible power source.
Diesel stands in between the two extremes, being reasonably available, especially for an RV that runs on diesel, and potentially providing a lot of power.
Of course, having options like gas or propane is the best configuration for dual-use.
Outlet Type
To plug in your RV directly, you would need a TT-30R or other travel trailer-friendly receptacle. The fact that a generator comes with one is often marked by its label saying it’s RV-ready.
This is not nearly vital if you are planning to use it at home because you could compensate for the lack of compatibility by using an appropriate adapter.
Noise Level
Intense noise is bad for your health and the environment as it can scare away wildlife like fish, birds, and most animals. It is also perceived as disturbing by many people, which is why many campgrounds and RV lots have ordinances regarding noise.
While not crucial for home use, quiet operation is much prized in RV power generators.
Weight
Since every pound matters when on the road, a more lightweight model should be preferable to a similar one that’s heavier.
There’s typically a tradeoff between this parameter and generator size, though, making it somewhat secondary, and it is far from critical in the context of the at-home application. Still, don’t miss an opportunity to relieve your recreational vehicle.
Safety Tips
Both home and RV generators require regular checks and maintenance to function safely and efficiently. Each model comes with the manufacturer’s instructions on how and when to service.
Paired with common-sense safety measures like minimizing the risk of flooding at the installation stage and storing your fuel in an appropriate manner, this approach can ensure safe home use.
When using your RV, however, it’s vital to comply with more specific safety rules to prevent dramatic outcomes, including parking techniques and more.
Smarter Power Management for Increased Comfort
A dependable power generator is a device that can bring your comfort in everyday life to a whole new level by adding confidence and security to many of its essential aspects. Even in the comfort of your home, power outages are not impossible.
By investing in a dependable generator, you will be able to skip a tiresome routine that would be part and parcel of your energy-saving and safety approach otherwise. For proud owners of recreational vehicles, this is one of the most essential strategies for ensuring convenience on the road.
If you are looking for a generator that will deliver in both home and RV settings, be sure to base your choice on the amount of power it generates as well as its portability, compatibility, and noise level.
Remember to follow the vital maintenance rules, and enjoy an RV season full of comfort!
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