|
RV Tip #5
RV
Generators - Power on the Road
Reviews, Comparisons and Tips
Article by Michelle O’Connor,
RV Insurance
Whether you own a Recreational
Vehicle, or intend to buy one, you will need a reliable
source of power. RV generators are designed to provide
reliable power when you are out in the wilderness and to
fit standard recreational vehicle configurations.
Whether you are out in the boondocks, or at a campground
without hookups, a quiet and stable power source can be
a real plus.
RV class generators are specially built. They have
approximately three times the horse power (HP) of
ordinary models. They run at a comparatively lower
speed, which enables the sound to be muffled. They are
built for hours of continuous usage, to meet the unique
power requirements of RV enthusiasts.
Honda RV Generators
Whichever RV you possess, a fifth wheel trailer, a class
A or a class C motor home, or any other mobile vehicle,
they all need a source of reliable electric power. Honda
RV generators have earned global recognition for
dependability, easy usability and ruggedness to meet all
the demands of your vehicle. Compact and fuel-efficient,
these Honda generators can provide smooth, clean power
to your motor coach. They meet all EPA (Environmental
Protection Agency) and CARB (California Air Resource
Board) standards. Another plus, Honda has engineered
comparatively quiet generators for RVs.
Before you buy an RV generator from Honda, you need to
decide on a few things:
• Do you need an electric start? Honda generators are
known for their ease of starting.
• Though most models of generator are small and compact,
do you need a wheel kit for easy movement?
• Calculate how much power you need for your RV. This
will enable you to decide which model to select.
• How does the warranty measure up?
• Does the unit have accessible maintenance points?
Onan RV Generators
Onan, a subsidiary of Cummins Inc., has more than 80
years of power generation experience. Onan is known for
its MicroLite RV Generators – that have noise level
ratings below the standards set by the National Park
Service.
The MicroLite 2500 LP model is considered easy to
install, compact, quiet and features a completely
enclosed muffler. This model is lightweight, making it
well suited for campers, trailers and small Type Bs and
Type Cs. It has been named the quietest generator for
its size. This model offers single side service for
maintenance, and is completely enclosed.
Tips For Selecting A Generator For Your RV
When purchasing one of these units, ensure the height of
the equipment does not stick past its bed rails.
Mounting the unit on the sound-absorbing thick rubber
pads reduces noise level. Another way to reduce the
noise level would be to supplement the motor’s muffler
with any large muffler or an automobile muffler.
These powerhouses are more expensive than normal
generators. For this reason, some RV'ers use average
portable generators. However, you have to place these
items some distance away to avoid the loud noise they
make. Unless you have the largest portable generator on
the market, you will not be able to use your A/C.
Unloading and loading the powerhouse, plus a sizable
length of heavy gauge extension cords long enough to
reach your RV, are some of the other drawbacks of
portable generators. You have to walk up to the
equipment every time you wish to start or stop it. There
is a possibility of theft. If you intend to purchase a
portable generator, go for one made for recreational
vehicles.
Whatever avenue you use to find the right power supply
for your RV, be sure to inspect the equipment carefully.
Evaluate the warranty. Those who travel into the
wilderness for extended periods may even want to
purchase two generators, one for backup, so they are
never without power. If you are purchasing a used
generator, find out how many hours it has been run, is
any time left on the warranty, you might even consider
having a mechanic check it out prior to making your
purchase.
By Michelle O’Connor
Satellite TV Internet for RV’s
|
