The 10 Best Generators For RVs
Special Honors
Cummins Onan P4500i From a maker of industrial power solutions, the Cummins Onan P4500i is a reliably option that offers both push button and remote start capabilities, as well as a pull cord backup. It is RV ready with a 30A TT-30R outlet, can be set up to run in parallel if you have very high electricity needs, and features a telescoping handle and wheels for portability. cummins.com
Editor's Notes
August 31, 2020:
No matter what your intended use, two things cannot be overlooked when choosing a generator. These are reliability and capacity. If your generator doesn't start and operate reliably, it won't provide you with power when you need it. Along those same lines, if it doesn't have the capacity to handle the load you will be placing on it, you'll constantly be overloading it and tripping the circuits. After considering reliability and capacity, we also took into account noise level, and ease of portability and operation.
When it comes to noise level and portability, few can match the Honda EU2200i, which has been a favorite of liveaboard sailors for a long time for those very reasons. As great as it is though, 2200 watts may not be enough for some users, which is why we also added the Honda EU3000iS. While a bit heavier and harder to move, it actually isn't that much louder, so if you need some extra juice and won't be moving your generator often, it is a smart choice.
In regards to versatility, the Champion 3400-Watt Dual Inverter is a top contender, since it can run on both gasoline and propane. It also boasts a low noise level, rated at just 59 dB at 22 feet. When considering convenience, we like the Champion 4000-Watt DH Series because of its remote start, so you won't even have to leave the comfort of your RV to go outside and start your generator when you need some power. Plus, with 3,500 continuous running watts, it can power most portable AC units easily enough.
If you know you have devices that have a high start-up load, like power tools or blenders, the Atima AY3000i is a good option, since it can produce 2.5 times its operating output for short surges.
As with anything that relies on a combustible fuel source and produces a high electric output, you should follow all the manufacturer's recommended safety guidelines on how to responsibly use any generator you buy. You will also want to learn about the proper way to store combustible fuels when in transit.
January 25, 2019:
Champion seems to be the, well, champion of this particular category, as they have several models on addition to those that made our list that could easily be considered contenders. Their dual fuel selections are particularly attractive for their added versatility, especially considering the fact that propane can be a bit safer to transport than gasoline, and can also go toward fueling things like camping stoves.