Best RV Generator Size: Choosing the Right Wattage for Your Setup
Selecting the best generator size for your RV depends on the appliances you run and the type of travel you do. This guide breaks down common RV setups and the recommended wattage ranges for reliable, quiet, and efficient power.
Why Generator Size Matters
RV generators must support both running watts and starting watts. Appliances such as air conditioners demand a large surge during startup, while refrigerators and microwaves add continuous load. The correct generator size prevents overloads and ensures stable operation.
Recommended Generator Sizes by RV Setup
Small Travel Trailers
Lightweight trailers without air conditioning typically operate well on 2000–2400 watt inverter generators. These units handle lighting, charging, small refrigerators, and essential electronics.
Travel Trailers with 13,500 BTU AC
For a standard 13,500 BTU air conditioner, RV owners usually need 3500–4500 watts. This range provides enough surge capacity to start the compressor and ample running power for additional appliances.
Large Trailers and Fifth Wheels
Rigs with larger AC units, multiple appliances, or heavy kitchen use often require 4500–6500 watt generators to maintain cooling and handle simultaneous loads.
Motorhomes
Class C and Class A motorhomes vary widely in power demand. Many models operate comfortably in the 4000–6000 watt range depending on appliance count and AC size.
Parallel-Capable Generators for Flexibility
Using two smaller inverter generators in parallel is a popular option. A pair of 2000 watt units can produce 4000–4500 watts combined, enough for many RV AC systems. This approach improves portability and provides a backup solution if one generator fails.
Soft-Start Modules Improve AC Compatibility
A soft-start module lowers AC compressor surge, allowing mid-size generators to handle larger air conditioners. This upgrade improves generator compatibility and quiet operation.
How to Calculate Your Ideal Generator Size
Add up the running wattage of the devices you intend to use and include the highest starting wattage. This ensures your generator can support cooling, kitchen appliances, and charging loads simultaneously.
- AC running: 1,300W
- Refrigerator: 200W
- Microwave: 1,200W
- Lighting and electronics: 100–200W
A setup like this typically requires a generator with at least 3,000–3,500 running watts and 4,000–4,500 peak watts.
Conclusion
The best RV generator size depends on AC load, kitchen usage, and charging needs. Most RV owners find ideal performance between 3500 and 4500 watts, with larger rigs requiring additional capacity. Proper sizing ensures reliability, lower noise, and better overall efficiency.