PORTABLE GENERATORS

Portable generators are smaller, lighter, and quieter than ever. Digital technology has eliminated the need for the old flywheel and now converts the generated power directly to electricity. This means it’s easier than ever to take those treasured gadgets along, even on a camping trip. Do you feel lost without your laptop? Does your teen-aged daughter insist she needs her flatiron? It’s not a problem with a portable generator nearby.

Portable RV Generator

The two main things to consider in choosing an RV generator are the wattage you need and noise levels. Before buying a generator it’s a good idea to add up the watts of everything in your RV that you will run at the same time. Remember that air conditioners take a lot of power, especially when they start up, and don’t forget the refrigerator. Make sure your generator will cover it all. Generators with inverter technology are the quietest, often running in the 50- to 60-decibel range, which meets National Park Service requirements. In addition, many generators include further noise abatement features such as sound absorbing materials.

Honda Super-Quiet Generators

Honda’s quietest generators are those in the EU series, which feature inverter technology for smooth operation. The smallest one is the EU1000i delivering 900 rated watts for up to 3.8 hours on a full tank: the larger EU2000i produces 1600 rated watts for up to four hours. Both are capable of powering small appliances and lights. If you want to run an RV air conditioner you’ll need to move up to the EU3000i with its 2800 rated watts and 7.5 hours run time. All Honda generators have smart throttles for maximum fuel efficiency.

Yamaha Portable Inverter Generators

Yamaha’s inverter generators, the EF series, are the lightest weight generators on the market starting at just 27 pounds. The EF1000iS produces 900 watts when running steadily—with a maximum of 1000 watts—to run those everyday appliances. To get the air conditioner running you’ll have to move up to the EF3000iSE; in between there are the EF2000iS and the EF2400iS models. Yamaha generators also include the fuel-efficient smart-throttle system for running times of up to 20 hours.