5+ Best RV Generators For The Money and Buying Guide

The idea of any perfect vacation is a continuous road trip where the only time you stop is for beautiful scenery, not because your recreational vehicle ran out of power and now you are stuck somewhere unknown. 

Nevertheless, you have to be prepared for any emergency. The best way to do this is by installing an RV generator in your vehicle that will accomplish all your power needs, while you sit back peacefully with your pals and enjoy the route. 

Thus we bring to you an extensive guide about the best RV generators in 2021 that will suit your needs and be an aid to fight emergency vehicle issues.

Let’s take a deep look. 

5+ Best RV Generators For The Money and Buying Guide

Installing a generator is an easy process, but what is more important is you install the right one. Essentially your RV generator should be powered with the ability to stay off the grid. It should allow you to have portability and flexibility with your vehicles and devices.

The RV generator you install must be in sync with your vehicle. It must prove to be the right match for your device along with easy maintenance. The energy efficiency must be high for a better output. 

All in all, you must get the right generator that not only is an equivalent match to your vehicle but also maintains safety and produces clean energy. It must also fit perfectly in your budget. 

Product reviews

1. WEN 56310i-RV Super Quiet 3100-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator

First up in our list of best RV generators, we have WEN 56310i-RV Super Quiet. The first factor that stands out is the portability aspect. It has a realistic organization along with a collapsible handle that facilitates portability. This RV generator has two bars on the top that allows you to carry it. 

The second factor is its manoeuvrability that aids you to generate efficient power for even the most delicate electronics like laptops or phones. It is devoid of voltage spikes along with the functioning of an eco-mode switch that manages fuel usage to achieve the maximum results in minimum consumption. Even though it houses a small fuel tank in comparison, it can work for 7.5 hours at an efficiency rate of 50 percent, with only a single gallon of tank. 

The last feather on its cap is its super quiet nature that almost makes no noise and does not make you feel its presence, while it does the work smoothly. 

2. Honda EU2200i 2200-Watt 120-Volt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator

Next up on our list of best RV generators, is Honda EU2200i. This device is extremely compatible with a large number of applications and locations. Hence you can rely on this generator and its portable characteristics to produce power at homes, camping or job sites, or any safe location of your choice.

If you are tired of the ears echoing with the generator’s sound throughout the day, this model will put your worries to rest. The Honda EU2200i functions at a sound level of 48 to 57 dBA, which is a lower noise level than any normal conversation. Thus it can be credited to be one of the best quiet generators in the market. 

The Honda EU2200i is equipped with the Eco-Throttle System that provides increased fuel efficiency. This generator is the best pick to run power for an entire night or long-time applications. It can be operated from 4 to 9.6 hours on a single tank. 

3. Westinghouse iGen2500 Portable Inverter Generator

The third recommendation on this guide to finding the best RV generator is the Westinghouse iGen2500. The first aspect that attracts you is its low weight design that facilitates extensive portability and easy transportation. You can carry it to any place of your choice with almost low effort. 

The efficiency and manoeuvrability are commendable. A single gallon of the fuel tank can last up to 10 long hours, despite a load percentage of 25. It is credited to be 30-50 percent more efficient in fuel consumption when compared to all the conventional RV generators. 

The design comes with low-tone mufflers and double insulation along with speed adjustment techniques that extract the right amount of power for you. It is extremely compatible in all outdoor areas and can charge the most delicate applications like mobiles and laptops, safely. 

4. Westinghouse WGen9500 Heavy Duty Portable Generator

The next competent RV generator on this list is the WGen9500, which is credited to have a long-running time, portability, and easy to assemble functions. 

It can be operated to power appliances for a massive 17.5 hours and can still be operated for half a day on the load percentage of 50. It is designed to be easily accessible to its users. The starting and operation are extremely easy. It employs an electric push button and a remote key fob that is used to start this RV generator even from a distance of 109 yards. 

The low oil shutoff feature along with a fuel panel makes the operation an efficient one. You can also connect it to a manual transfer switch. For added portability, this RV generator houses handles and wheels. It also offers amazing technical support. 

5. Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator

The fifth generator on our list of the best RV generators is the Generac GP3500iO. It is equipped with True Power Technology, which enables you to power or charges delicate electronics. It also has a brilliant operation time of 8 hours with a load percentage of 50.

Its PowerRUSH patented technology enables a starting capacity exceeding 50 percent, which allows it to power RV AC units to a limit of 13,500 BTU. 

It also works well on the noise-producing factor, with 50 percent less noise than its corresponding units. The company also built a 25 percent lighter RV generator than the GP3300. 

6. WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator

The next one up is the WEN 56200i. With the 2000 watt eco-mode, this RV generator facilitates maximum fuel efficiency and money-saving. It takes charge of the fuel usage based on the exact amount needed during a particular operation and its intensity. Thus it proves to be sustainable. 

It works well in the transportation and management factor as well. The generator is equipped with a handle grip that is used to carry it around. Its weight is less and hence you can place it in your vehicle with ease. It has an incredibly low noise rating of approximately 51dB. 

Finally, this generator is built to be clean and safe for operations in campgrounds, construction sites, tailgates, and power outages. It takes utmost care and restrains any possible destruction to delicate devices like phones, tablets, televisions, and computers. 

7. Champion 3100-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator

The second last best RV generator on this guide is the Champion 3100-Watt. It has a considerable amount of efficient features that make it a good fit. To begin with, as the title suggests, this model is already on board with RV, saving you from any kind of difficulties related to its functioning with vehicles. 

It provides great power with the starting watt capacity of 3,100. It is running watts capacity is 2800 and it can operate up to 8 hours. The design and composition are impressive with attributes like a shut-off sensor that ensures safety when there is a drop in oil supply. It curbs the electrical load, facilitates an efficient engine, and adds fuel economy with the presence of a smart economy mode. 

This unit works on low noise levels of 58 decibels, which is very impressive. 

8. DuroMax XP4400E 4400 watt

The last best RV generator we recommend is DuroMax XP4400E. It has impressive power output capacities, i.e. a rated output value of 3500 watts along with a peak output value of 4,400 watts. This implies it can power an entire small scale house. It works non-stop for a time of 8 hours on a load percentage of 50. It has low noise levels due to the in-built muffler.

It can be operated on any variety of things, mainly recreational vehicles. This generator allows easy activity and monitoring with the power panel that displays its power outlet, circuit breaker, voltmeter, and engine shutoff switch.

This RV generator is equipped with a low-oil shutoff feature that stabilizes the heavy load and protects the generator’s engine. You can efficiently run it at 120 V and 240 V, at the same time or single-handedly run it at 120 V in its full power capacity. 

Buyer’s guide for Best RV Generators in 2021.

Now that you have read the reviews, here is a checklist that outlines all the important attributes you should consider while you get an RV generator. 

Noise levels

The best way to check the noise level of the engine is closely examining the in-built muffler to know whether it has noise containing abilities or not. A noisy generator is always a nuisance. Whether you are using your RV generator in an open field or you are using it in your neighbourhood, a noisy generator is always troublesome. 

The majority of the above generators included in this guide have low noise levels, so you can pick the one that suits you the best. Generally too, companies these days are giving extra priority on designing generators that are quiet in operation. 

 The capacity of the fuel tank:

The next feature to keep in mind is the quantity of fuel your tank can hold, i.e. the fuel tank capacity. You have to ensure you opt for tanks with optimum capacity so that you will be saved from the task of re-filling it again and again. 

High fuel capacity tanks save you from running out of the much-needed fuel in your RV generator when you are out on a trip. 

Engine efficiency:

This feature helps you achieve fuel economy. More the efficiency of your engine, the better the fuel burns to produce the output. It determines how productively your fuel has been used. 

Power output:

This factor needs to be taken into account to ensure that the final power output of your RV generator is sufficient to run all the devices connected to it. The power output on generators varies on options like 3000 watts or 4500 watts. Higher the rating, better the performance of the RV generator. 

Your generator should be equipped to stock more than the required power to operate all the connected electronics without completely exhausting your gas. If you feel your single generator will not meet the demands, it is advised to power your recreational vehicles with multiple generators in parallel or install a larger machine. 

Construction:

The element of construction plays a pivotal role when you choose your RV generator. The ideal RV generator would be having a sturdy frame but an overall light weighted body. This is important for portability reasons, as you should be comfortable to carry your generator around.

The RV generator should be compact and manageable, but also the structure should not compromise on its internal features like the basic wattage requirement. 

Frequently asked questions? 

Here are some questions users often ask. Check it out. 

Q1. Can you explain the difference between surge watts and running watts? 

Answer: These two confusing terms have certain distinct meanings. Running watts, also known as rated watts implies to the most watts that your machine is powered to generate regularly. It is what is required to keep your things functioning.
Whereas, surge watts is the additional power surge that is required as a means of starting the electrical motor. It is an important component of all-electric motors.

Q2. What fuel is ideally recommended for my RV generator?

Answer: This has to be a very careful call based on your RV generator type or the purpose of its use. Diesel is a common fuel used in RV generators for quick functioning. The next alternative is gas that is economical, easy to access, and efficient for longer trips.  Some people also make use of propane as it has high environmental sustainability. However, it is not easily available in emergencies.

Q3. What are the best ways of maintaining my RV generator?

Answer: The efficiency and performance of your device are increased when you maintain it thoroughly. One way to do this is to constantly keep a check on the exhaust system of your RV generator. The second thing to remember is that your generator will achieve high maintenance when it is utilized regularly. Hence, you have to operate it frequently and change the oil and filters without fail. Finally, follow the instructions specific to your RV generator in the user manual.

Q4. How quiet should be your RV generator?

Answer: As discussed above, noise levels of an RV generator is an important attribute. It varies from product to product based on its specifications and size. However, it is crucial to maintain the noise level to avoid any form of inconvenience in the surroundings. 
As specified by the National Park Service, the noise limit should not exceed 60 decibels at a distance of 50 feet. To put this into more perspective, it should have the sound lesser or similar to an average normal conversation. 

All guns blazing, the undeclared winner is: 

Champion 3100-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator

Rating: 5 stars

Among all these competent models, our pick has to be the Champion 3100-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator due to its comforting operation, Maneuverability, and technical support. 

Impressive design: 

This generator comprises a Quick Touch Panel that allows you to access all your controls under one roof. It also houses a low-oil shut off sensor. 

Quiet Operation:

For a pre-equipped RV in the generator, the noise level is very low, i.e. only 58 dBA. It also works on a smart economy mode that lessens the noise, adds to the engine life and increases fuel efficiency.

Smart and sensitive cleansing:

This RV generator provides clean and safe power when operated on any device. It takes extra precaution when working on delicate devices. 

Assurance of quality:

This product is powered by the Champion Company and guarantees quality. It also comes with a 3-year limited warranty, along with free lifetime support from experts in the technical team of the company. 

Conclusion: 

RV generators are a valuable investment. They supply portable power and are super easy to be transported. They are your saviour in the crisis of emergency power outages. It can be utilized for either occasional or daily uses. Your vacation has been secured as you will never have a vehicle breakdown in the middle of nowhere if you carry an RV generator.
We hope this article was objective enough to help you find the best RV generator in the market.