Generator rental for RVs and recreation

The air conditioner sets the size

A rooftop RV air conditioner draws a modest amount running but a large surge starting — commonly two to three times the running figure. That surge is what determines the generator you need, not the total appliance list.

A soft-start device fitted to the air conditioner reduces the surge considerably and can bring a smaller, quieter unit into play.

Campground rules

Most campgrounds set generator hours and a decibel limit. Inverter units are usually the only practical choice where the sites are close together.

Some parks ban generators entirely and expect battery power or hookups. Check before you travel, not on arrival.

Safe placement and fuel

Never run an engine in a compartment, under an awning against the vehicle, or anywhere exhaust can drift toward a sleeping area. Carbon monoxide is the recurring cause of camping fatalities involving generators.

Carry fuel only in approved containers, and refuel a cool engine away from the vehicle.

Before you book

• Air conditioner running and starting watts
• Whether a soft-start device is fitted
• Campground generator hours and decibel limit
• Safe placement well away from sleeping areas
• Approved fuel containers and storage
• A working carbon monoxide alarm inside the vehicle

Questions people ask

Equipment that usually fits

• Inverter generators — 2 - 10 kW
• Solar and battery power — 1 - 300 kWh storage
• Work out the kW you need
• Understand the cost structure