Hunting Washington Forum

Equipment & Gear => Power Equipment & RV => Topic started by: ghosthunter on June 27, 2021, 07:18:09 PM

Title: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on June 27, 2021, 07:18:09 PM: Well now that I own a small travel trailer. I am looking for a generator.

I don’t expect a big load. But would like one that would power my AC or gas furnace if needed.
For the most part it will only be used to charge the trailer batteries on boon docking trips.

The refer is three way so will run it on gas.
The furnace is three way so other than fan it gas.
There is a maxi fan and one other fan.
Hot water is electric or gas, so planning only gas for it.
The AC is the largest draw about 1500.
Than there is a shower fan almost never used.
LP monitor
Water pump

No micro wave
No tv

I am thinking a 2200 size will do the trick.

I read the other thread around a year ago.

So a Honda 2300 I or Roybi ?

Suggestions?

I am 70 this year so weight, and starting important factors.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: trophyhunt on June 27, 2021, 07:23:22 PM: Honda 2,200 and forget about it
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: MADMAX on June 27, 2021, 07:25:37 PM: I use a Honda 500
Runs everything except AC
When I’m boonieing I don’t use AC
My 2cents
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: KFhunter on June 27, 2021, 07:51:10 PM: I use two of these, most of the time I don't have the AC on so just one is running which I alternate.

When I want AC I plug them together and run both.

Buy 2 for less than one Honda, had my 3-4 years now and use them for a lot, charging batteries, running stuff besides the RV

In costco(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210628/25add0fcd5f700025a84c9c5a386d59f.jpg)
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: follow maggie on June 27, 2021, 07:59:19 PM: I’d go with 3,000 watts. The Honda 2200 puts out about 1,800 continuous. If the trailers plugged in it’ll be charging the batteries, plus the ac, plus whatever else is on. You can get a champion 3,000 watt inverter for the same money as the smaller Honda. I have a champion that I use for work & it’s every bit as reliable as my Honda.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Shannon on June 28, 2021, 07:02:23 AM: The Honda is quieter than any other generator I've heard of equal size. The champion will be much louder thats for sure. Honda is the most expensive though. I have a Honda and I have some cheapy ones. I prefer the Honda so I don't have to hear it run when I'm inside.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: CP on June 28, 2021, 07:23:27 AM: You might consider one that runs on propane since you already have propane available. No stinky, messy gasoline to worry about.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: KFhunter on June 28, 2021, 08:16:36 AM: Quote from: CP on June 28, 2021, 07:23:27 AM
You might consider one that runs on propane since you already have propane available. No stinky, messy gasoline to worry about.
If you go that route be wary of consumption rates and propane availability / ease of refills etc.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Ghost Hunter on June 28, 2021, 09:34:20 AM: Finally had to put wheels on my Honda 3000EU. I'm getting old.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: baldopepper on June 28, 2021, 10:40:04 AM: I've had a Honda EU 2000 for about 12 years now. Ran our cabin off it for years and now parell it with another to run the ac on my trailer. Guessing into the thousands for hours and still runs great. Had to clean out the jets once but extremely easy to get at the carb on these Hondas. Not the cheapest but very reliable and they hold their value.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Sandberm on June 28, 2021, 10:52:34 AM: Quote from: baldopepper on June 28, 2021, 10:40:04 AM
I've had a Honda EU 2000 for about 12 years now. Ran our cabin off it for years and now parell it with another to run the ac on my trailer. Guessing into the thousands for hours and still runs great. Had to clean out the jets once but extremely easy to get at the carb on these Hondas. Not the cheapest but very reliable and they hold their value.

Thats why I bought mine. I figured the cost was worth it because they would last as long as me as long as I took care of them. Being quiet was important to me.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Stein on June 28, 2021, 10:57:12 AM: AC takes a fair bit to start up and is an inductive load, if I was wanting to run it on a regular basis I would be looking at a generator probably double the running power of the ac. Refrigerant compressors have to overcome pretty substantial head pressure to get running, especially when it's hot which is when you use them.

2200 W may or may not start it, depending on what the trip limits for the generator are. You could always look at the starting ratings on the ac or take a peek at the locked rotor current on the compressor.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: carlyoungs on June 28, 2021, 11:19:12 AM: My ac on my rv takes 25 amps to start then goes down below 20 when running.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ironbuck on June 28, 2021, 01:17:39 PM: look up a micro-air easystart soft start, now my little honda starts/runs the ac in my rv just fine
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: CP on June 28, 2021, 02:00:41 PM: I doubt if the AC unit in a 15' RV draws much power. But you don't have to guess. Get yourself one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/Consumption-Electricity-Analyzer-Overload-Protection/dp/B07M9KJRKP/ref=asc_df_B07M9KJRKP/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=309806250188&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2522764980811137793&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9033394&hvtargid=pla-618274191509&psc=1

plug it in and turn everything on and see what your peak and sustained draw is. No need to get more generator than you need, especially if weight is a concern.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: follow maggie on June 28, 2021, 04:31:47 PM: Quote from: Shannon on June 28, 2021, 07:02:23 AM
The Honda is quieter than any other generator I've heard of equal size. The champion will be much louder thats for sure. Honda is the most expensive though. I have a Honda and I have some cheapy ones. I prefer the Honda so I don't have to hear it run when I'm inside.

It’s really not. I have a friend with the 3400 champion inverter and it’s nit much louder than my 2000 watt Honda. It makes a little more noise, but it’s putting out 70% more electricity.. We can still sit next to it and talk in regular voices.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Tbar on June 28, 2021, 04:34:30 PM: Ghosthunter, if you'd like to test a honda 2k, you are welcome to borrow mine.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: KFhunter on June 28, 2021, 04:35:24 PM: Thieves can spot them little red gennys a mile off....
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on June 28, 2021, 05:37:06 PM: Quote from: Tbar on June 28, 2021, 04:34:30 PM
Ghosthunter, if you'd like to test a honda 2k, you are welcome to borrow mine.

Thank you. I think my brother in law has one. Going to be with him over the weekend.

Will see.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: follow maggie on June 28, 2021, 07:28:44 PM: Quote from: KFhunter on June 28, 2021, 04:35:24 PM
Thieves can spot them little red gennys a mile off....

True story! I’ve thought about painting mine black
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on June 29, 2021, 05:59:43 AM: Quote from: MADMAX on June 27, 2021, 07:25:37 PM
I use a Honda 500
Runs everything except AC
When I’m boonieing I don’t use AC
My 2cents

I do have a Honda 500 1980 version. But I doubt it will run my rv. And not the AC for sure.
In most cases I doubt we would be running AC either. This week would be a exception since we have been retreating to the trailer for AC all week. :chuckle:
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on June 29, 2021, 06:05:15 AM: There seems to be mixed reviews on if a Honda 2200 I can run a AC I. A small trailer. Sure don’t want to buy two.
The AC would be used little but nice to be able to when needed.
Quiet is a must have too.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Tbar on June 29, 2021, 06:19:31 AM: Quote from: ghosthunter on June 29, 2021, 06:05:15 AM
There seems to be mixed reviews on if a Honda 2200 I can run a AC I. A small trailer. Sure don’t want to buy two.
The AC would be used little but nice to be able to when needed.
Quiet is a must have too.
I have a 22ft rv and the 2k will run the ac but not much else. It will really come down to what your ac draws.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: trophyhunt on June 29, 2021, 07:00:08 AM: Used to run an ac unit with an older 2300 honda, not sure about 2,200, but tbar has had success. If it doesn't work, just make sure to buy one that can tie into another one to give you over 4,000.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: follow maggie on June 29, 2021, 11:07:36 AM: My Honda 2000 will run my ac, but it’s running on the ragged edge to do so. It’ll even handle the start up spike to 2500 watts. I wouldn’t expect it to have a long life doing it a lot, so I borrow my buddy’s champion 3400.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on July 01, 2021, 10:25:13 PM: Well it looks like for my application which is power my small RV or charging radios in tent camp. The Honda 2200i might be the best choice. Dont want to pack more weight than that.

I will be camping with three other seasoned rvers this weekend and will check out their generators.

Thanks for reply’s.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on July 01, 2021, 10:31:37 PM: Oh and while we are on generators. How’s everyone securing them while in camp.

I always thought those heavy cable bike locks would be harder to cut than chain.

But what’s your solution?
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: JKEEN33 on July 02, 2021, 05:13:48 AM: Some rv’s have a 1300 and some have a 1500 ac. My old RV had the 1500 and the 2200 Honda would not run the ac. Another thing to consider is the generator looses output as you climb in elevation. I’m far from an expert, but did a lot of reading a few years back when I was researching the same thing. I believe they lose 100 watts of output per 1000 feet of elevation. Again, going off memory from a few years back. I have the Honda 1000 for charging batteries. Runs everything but ac and microwave. I also have the 3000 which runs everything with the newer 1300 ac. The Honda’s are great. I’ve had the 1000 for probably close to 18 years with a lot of hours. Light and quiet. Starts with one or two easy pulls. Easy to move and secure with a cable. I keep it in the back of my truck when not in use. The 3000 is bigger and has the wheel kit. Easy to start, but harder to move. I originally got this for my dad, and bought a dog ramp so he could wheel it into the back of his truck. Worked great.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: trophyhunt on July 02, 2021, 08:06:15 AM: Quote from: ghosthunter on July 01, 2021, 10:31:37 PM
Oh and while we are on generators. How’s everyone securing them while in camp.

I always thought those heavy cable bike locks would be harder to cut than chain.

But what’s your solution?
seems locks and cables just slow down the scum from stealing, they do keep the honest thieves away. I use a Heavy coated cable with the locks that have the guards on them, like high collars. But, when I leave camp, I put my gens in the trailer, those Honda’s are easy to move around.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Igor on July 02, 2021, 08:42:16 AM: Quote from: ghosthunter on July 01, 2021, 10:31:37 PM
Oh and while we are on generators. How’s everyone securing them while in camp.

I always thought those heavy cable bike locks would be harder to cut than chain.

But what’s your solution?

I bought a VULCAN Security Chain and Lock Kit. The chain is advertised as being uncuttable with bolt cutters. I simply loop it around the tongue of my camping trailer, and secure the generator that way.

I also had a welding shop weld two pieces of the same Vulcan chain around my batteries on the tongue of the trailer, and fasten them with padlocks that can't be cut. I had my RV batteries stolen twice before I discovered this security chain......so far, so good.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on July 04, 2021, 07:49:58 PM: Well I camped the weekend with two seasoned RV guys. One was running a Honda 1000i the other guy had a Predator 3500. It weighed 100 lbs. He had put a electric winch arm in back of his truck canopy. To lift it in and out.
To big for me. But it was very quiet.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: NRA4LIFE on July 04, 2021, 08:38:21 PM: I run a Yamaha 2400 EFIS (or something like that) and it runs our AC no problem. 20' camper. Not sure about running other high amp stuff at the same time, never tried. The Yamaha's run quieter, are more fuel efficient, and cheaper than the Hondas.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: hunt6226 on July 04, 2021, 11:29:17 PM: I have the predator 3500 also. Very quiet. Runs my 36’ 5th wheel no prob.. yes a bit heavy but other than that really happy with it.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on August 28, 2021, 07:48:36 PM: Well a lot of research I decided to try a Predator 2000 inverter.

Half the cost of a Honda.

Try it on the trailer over Labor Day.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: KFhunter on August 28, 2021, 08:21:25 PM: I got two iPower 2200 from Costco.

1 won't start now, gotta see what's up with it.
Used em quite a bit, been good, till now. It sat out in the rain.

Powered by Yamaha
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: millerwheeler on August 28, 2021, 08:30:25 PM: Other than the weight of the predator 3500 I love mine and would never switch back to Honda again in the aspect of generators
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Zardoz on August 29, 2021, 11:35:41 AM: Quote from: millerwheeler on August 28, 2021, 08:30:25 PM
Other than the weight of the predator 3500 I love mine and would never switch back to Honda again in the aspect of generators

What about parts for it? I'm looking to update an old Yamaha, which I had no problem getting parts for. :dunno:
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Hilltop123 on August 29, 2021, 01:54:09 PM: I'm still running a Gen 1 Predator, yes you can get parts for it. So I'm guessing the newer ones parts are available also. I'll try finding the website and post the address. If you wish to run the AC, get a 2200 minimum, with this Gen I can run 1 AC unit, tv and some lights. Runs about 6 hours with that load.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Hilltop123 on August 29, 2021, 02:00:32 PM: https://www.generatorguru.com/predator/

This where I got the repair parts.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: millerwheeler on August 29, 2021, 09:06:22 PM: Quote from: Zardoz on August 29, 2021, 11:35:41 AM
Quote from: millerwheeler on August 28, 2021, 08:30:25 PM
Other than the weight of the predator 3500 I love mine and would never switch back to Honda again in the aspect of generators

What about parts for it? I'm looking to update an old Yamaha, which I had no problem getting parts for. :dunno:

Simple look online everything is available
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Zardoz on August 30, 2021, 12:51:52 PM: Quote from: millerwheeler on August 29, 2021, 09:06:22 PM
Quote from: Zardoz on August 29, 2021, 11:35:41 AM
Quote from: millerwheeler on August 28, 2021, 08:30:25 PM
Other than the weight of the predator 3500 I love mine and would never switch back to Honda again in the aspect of generators

What about parts for it? I'm looking to update an old Yamaha, which I had no problem getting parts for. :dunno:

Simple look online everything is available

Thanks.. :tup: Why didn't I think of that? :bash:
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Sandberm on August 30, 2021, 01:13:11 PM: Are you guys like me and run only non ethanol gas? My two Honda 2000's have had nothing but non E gas and Ive never had to tear the carb apart to clean, though if it has sat for months a takes a few pulls.

Ive gone also to only keeping them half full. That way I am always topping off with fresh gas to mix with the old gas. :dunno:
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: KFhunter on August 30, 2021, 01:19:10 PM: Yes, non E Supreme with startron added
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: follow maggie on August 31, 2021, 09:11:33 AM: I add startron to regular gas and have never had a fuel problem since I started using it. It’s good stuff.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: millerwheeler on September 01, 2021, 09:34:30 AM: Quote from: follow maggie on August 31, 2021, 09:11:33 AM
I add startron to regular gas and have never had a fuel problem since I started using it. It’s good stuff.

This is what I do as well great stuff saves a lot of headaches
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Stein on September 01, 2021, 09:36:19 AM: For small engines, I run ethanol free with Stabil as I don't use a ton of fuel and don't have to remember which gas is treated and which isn't.

My Honda generator had a warning label on it as well as the directions stating it should not be used with ethanol fuel.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: KFhunter on September 02, 2021, 03:24:48 PM: Quote from: KFhunter on August 28, 2021, 08:21:25 PM
I got two iPower 2200 from Costco.

1 won't start now, gotta see what's up with it.
Used em quite a bit, been good, till now. It sat out in the rain.

Powered by Yamaha

It had water in the gas, the vent was open but I couldn't imagine water getting in.

Dunno. Drained the carb, works perfectly now.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on September 02, 2021, 06:51:30 PM: Well I picked up the new Predator and have about 8 hrs on it. It says you can run e gas up to 10%.

But always use non e gas on all my stuff.

So far I really like it. Easy start and quiet enough for me.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on September 05, 2021, 04:09:55 PM: Quote from: ghosthunter on September 02, 2021, 06:51:30 PM
Well I picked up the new Predator and have about 8 hrs on it. It says you can run e gas up to 10%.

But always use non e gas on all my stuff.

So far I really like it. Easy start and quiet enough for me.

So went camping over weekend, and the generator is not charging the trailer for some reason.

Trailer charges at home on shore power no issues.

Think I read some where about a special plug. Anyone have a clue?
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Stein on September 05, 2021, 04:19:22 PM: Did you try plugging anything else into the generator to make sure it is working? Looks like there is at least an overload reset on the generator.

Not sure what special plug you might be talking about.

Also check any breakers or fuses you have in the RV.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: ghosthunter on September 05, 2021, 04:31:17 PM: Quote from: Stein on September 05, 2021, 04:19:22 PM
Did you try plugging anything else into the generator to make sure it is working? Looks like there is at least an overload reset on the generator.

Not sure what special plug you might be talking about.

Also check any breakers or fuses you have in the RV.

Yeah I ran several items with the generator.

Someone just messaged me on the trailer forum. That I need a Neutral Ground Plug which gets the inverter working. Some generators require it.

Thank for the reply.
Title: Re: Which Inverter Generator for my. 15 ft RV ?
Post by: Stein on September 05, 2021, 04:40:25 PM: Gotcha, you need a plug that bonds the neutral and ground off the generator. You can make one or buy them, if you make one just sure you bond the neutral terminal and not the line (hot).

When power comes from the generator the neutral isn't bonded to ground and they can float apart and the voltage monitor detects that and the voltage protector trips.