Does Every RV Owner Need a RV Generator? - Because RVs are meant to travel to remote places that usually have no power sources, without a special generator, life in an RV on the road would be miserable. Think about it for a moment... with no electrical power you wouldn't be able to use the necessities of life such as a refrigerator, microwave, air conditioning, coffee maker, computer or a hair dryer. You also wouldn't be able to watch television or have access to hot water. Talk about a drag! Who's going to want to live like that? Without a RV Generator in your recreational vehicle, you would literally be living in the Stone Age.
Why Can't I Use Any Type of Generator to Power My RV? - There are two primary reasons; (1) because of the health issues related to emissions and carbon monoxide poisoning. All generators produce carbon monoxide; the odorless, colorless and tasteless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if inhaled. Remember that recreational vehicles are in enclosed spaces with very little ventilation. Having said that, certain generators, don't meet the stringent standards required to protect Rvers from these common dangers.
Let me put it this way; when it comes to an RV Generator, not all generators are created equally. Since your safety is your number one concern, you want to use a RV compliant generator, one that meets or exceeds EPA emissions and carbon monoxide standards. Secondarily, many campgrounds have noise limitations and RV generators that do not meet their standards can be barred from being used. If the owner doesn't comply, they can be banned from using that RV Park or facilities.
It boils down to this; no one wants to be disturbed or awakened to the sound of a generator rumbling away, no matter what time it is. You can best believe, when that type of disturbance happens, everyone in close proximity of the noisemaker is going to let his or her objections be known!
What Features Should You Look For in a Good RV Generator? - An electric start with an electric fuel pump, easy access maintenance points for easier repair, safety mechanisms such as automatic fuel safety and high oil pressure shutoff, efficiency, (i.e., low fuel consumption and a high-energy output), easily readable gauges, (i.e., fuel, wattage, temperature). Some of the best generator brands for recreational vehicles are: Onan, Honda, Kohler, Kipor, Yamaha and Generac Guardian.
