Community Forums

itsrturn · 05-26-2013, 05:32 PM

Anyone have recommendations for reliable/quiet/light weight portable generators?

I will be pulling a 24' Jayco TT and want to have a generator to bring along. Is there a formula or good way of determining the best wattage for a particular application?

Thank you

csrrsr · 05-26-2013, 05:59 PM

We have a diesel 7500 Onan, but we also bring along a Honda 2000 when we know our entire stay will be boondocking. It's everything you described, runs the microwave and is great for just keeping the batteries up in the morning without having to turn on the big one.

Doggy Daddy · 05-26-2013, 06:04 PM

My friends love the Honda EU1000i Generator.
Honda EU1000i Generator - CARB Compliant - Honda EU1000IAC - Honda Generators - Camping World

clyon51 · 05-26-2013, 06:26 PM

Most RVers prefer the Honda EU2000I, because it has the features you want. It is limited to 2000 watts, which basically eliminates running an AC unit. What is nice about this unit is, you can parallel 2 of them to get 4000 watts when needed, but only run one when not needed. Some on the forum like the comparable Yamaha units. I have no personal experience with either.

To determine what size generator you need, you need to figure out what 120v items you will be using and the wattage each one uses. Then you need to figure out which ones you will NEED to use at the same time. If these items are always less than 2000, then the aforementioned will work fine. If it's 2500 watts, then the Honda or Yamaha 3000 watt unit is what you want, ect.

Most 120v items are rated in amps. To figure watts, it's amps x volts = watts. ie: a 10 amp hair dryer @ 120v would be 1200 watts.

vsheetz · 05-26-2013, 06:29 PM

Honda 2000 to run pretty much everything, except air conditioning. Add another Honda 2000 via parallel kit if and when air conditioner is needed.

Dr4Film · 05-26-2013, 06:44 PM

The Honda EU2000i will be your best investment in a portable generator.

Super quiet and fuel efficient.

Dr4Film ----- Richard

Roger G · 05-26-2013, 08:58 PM

I've had a Generac 2000i and now have a Honda 2000. If buying again I would buy the Honda, it's a lot quiter and easier to crank but it will not run a AC unit. If you are going to run a AC you need a 2000 plus a 2000 companion or a 3500. The 3500 has a larger fuel tank so that's a plus but it is heavy as in two people to load and unload. My 2000 will run for 7-8 hours on a gallon tank full. We have a onan 5500 in our MH but if we aren't running the AC, I use the Honda and set it away from the camper so we don't have the noise and vibration of the on board genny.

TXiceman · 05-26-2013, 09:15 PM

Honda EU 2000i and EU2000i Companion. If we just need a little power, we can run one generator. If we need the A/C unit, we run them in parallel.

Each generator weighs a bit over 50#, so you can manage to load and unload from a locker or a truck bed.

The Hondas are not cheap, but they are reliable, quiet, fuel efficient and parts and service can be found all over the USA.

Ken