One of the most common questions asked by RV enthusiasts is which generator is the best for my RV? The answer to this is dependent on the power requirements. If going off-grid or having access to only limited power and amenities, an RV generator provides a safe and practical way to operate the essential accessories, equipment and devices that make life comfortable. While the power requirements ultimately guide the decision, we have also explained power ratings, types of generators, size considerations together with our professional recommendations to assist your decision making. This guide will help you make the right choice for your needs and budget.

Understanding Power Ratings

RV generators come in a variety of types and sizes that are suitable for a range of applications. The first step in researching how these generators suit your power needs is first understanding power ratings. Generators are rated in Watts (W) or Kilowatts (KW). The higher the wattage rating, the more power the generator can output and the more appliances it can run. Two ratings are provided, ‘Continuous Output’ and ‘Peak Output’. 

The continuous is the power output the total draw of your appliances should remain below. In contrast, the peak output is the power that the generator can produce for a short burst of time, typically when the appliance starts. This information is helpful to understand the power requirements by rating, which guides selection in the model to suit those needs.

Types of Caravan RV Generators

When it comes to RVs, inverter generators are the best type to buy. They are compact, quiet, economical and produce clean power for running sensitive electronics. RV inverter generators are powered by four-stroke motors using standard unleaded petrol, with the exception of large motorhomes and bus conversions, which will call for a more powerful diesel generator. 

As a type, RV inverter generators are more expensive than conventional portable models, but they have distinct advantages. Such as increased efficiency through control by the electronic throttle in response to the demand, lower emissions and low operational noise. Interestingly and most importantly, they are affordable (like the Petrol 2.4KVA Inverter or the Genesys- 2.4 KVA Inverter Generator& Box Combo) and can supply more than enough to power everything you'll need in your RV.

What Size Caravan Generator Do You Need?

Figuring out what requires power is the first step in establishing the correct size of RV generator. To assist with this vital step, we have gathered some basic information to get the ball rolling:

• Air conditioner: uses anywhere from 1,400 to 2,400 watts of electricity

• Fridge: uses on average 500-600 watts in the starting phase and then to run, 150-200 watts.
• Television: 200-600 watts
• Laptop: 250 watts
• Toaster: 1,150 watts
• Microwave: 1,000 watts

Adding up all the power needed to run these appliances provides the total wattage usage. This total illustrates how much power needed and therefore what size RV generator will suffice. Remember that the larger the generator, the more power it produces.

Recommended Caravan Generators

We highly recommend two tried and tested inverter generators for RV-ing, a Genesys and a Honda generator, with both models our most popular based on customer feedback and reviews:

Best Value: Genesys 2kVa Inverter

Genesys 2kVa Inverter Generator

Most Popular: Honda EU22i Inverter

Honda Eu22i

Where to Buy an RV Generator?

Our guide has been put together to guide your research in finding the RV generator to suit your needs. 

We have outlined the most important factors to consider, focusing on showcasing models that are exceptional in quality, reliability and features. Browse our RV generator range, or to speak with the expert team at Blue Diamond, call 1300 998 647