RV Generators
There are plenty of great reasons to invest in an RV. For starters, you’ll receive a long list of innovative features that come with the rig. From useful appliances to comfortable furniture, these vehicles are designed to be your home away from home on the road. This means you’re going to need a power source to keep everything up and running. Most parks will have an electrical grid for you to hook it up to, but it’s not always a given and it won’t be an option when you’re boondocking. Fortunately, this is where generators come in handy. They’ll supply your vehicle with the power you need regardless of where you are.
While it might seem like a fairly simple investment, there are some important things to know about generators. If you need assistance, stop by your local RV dealer today! Broadmoor RV has got you covered when you’re looking for RVs near the Tri-Cities, Yakima, Seattle, Spokane, and Walla Walla, WA. We also proudly serve those in Portland, Pendleton, and La Grande, OR. Our staff would be happy to answer your questions and show you our selection of RVs for sale.
Narrowing Down The Options
The most crucial decision will be making sure you choose the right generator for your rig. After all, not all campers are built the same. You want to confirm your generator can support the wattage of your RV, which will call for some math. Your appliances should have a wattage attached to them. You’ll need to tally up how many watts your generator will need to supply, either to the whole RV or just the parts you want to power for extended periods of time.
Next, consider how you plan to power your generator. Keep in mind that it will need its own power supply to create electricity. There are three main fuel sources available: propane, gasoline, and diesel. Each one of these has its own benefits and drawbacks, so you’ll want to consider what makes the most sense financially and will be most effective for your needs.
Lastly, you’ll want to remember that your rig will play a factor in your decision. In addition to figuring out what wattage you’ll need to run it, your RV’s fuel type can affect your choice as well. For instance, a diesel-powered vehicle might require you to go with a diesel generator (appliances for these rigs also tend to run on diesel).
Maintenance
Routine maintenance shouldn’t take you too long, but it’s important to keep up with it. You don’t want your generator to give out on you when you’re camping in the middle of nowhere. Check the hour meter and change the oil consistently, around every 200 operating hours or so. During the months that you’re not using your generator or camper, be sure to run a heavy load at least once a month to keep it functioning properly. If you need help with maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact your local RV dealer for assistance.
Dangers
Many people use their generators without incident, but there are still dangers you should be aware of. First of all, these machines emit carbon monoxide, which can be fatal to humans. The main preventative step you’ll need to take is ensuring your exhaust system is working correctly. This will then funnel the fumes outside of the vehicle to prevent buildup inside. Additionally, you should invest in a carbon monoxide detector. Even the most mechanically-sound rigs can have leaks, so a detector is the best way to prevent a terrible accident.
As you can see, a generator is a must-have when you’re going to be camping far away from electrical connections. Generally speaking, you should be able to turn it on and forget about it, but it’s still a good idea to check it once in a while to confirm everything is working as it should be. If you’re still looking for the perfect rig, visit us at Broadmoor RV to check out RVs near the Tri-Cities, Yakima, Seattle, Spokane, and Walla Walla, WA. We also serve Portland, Pendleton, and La Grande, OR. In addition to offering a variety of RVs for sale, your local RV dealer can also assist with parts, service, and RV consignment.