Conventional generators heavy, oily, have high maintenance and use fossil fuel to generate electricity. Solar generators lightweight, eco-friendly, and generate electricity without the need for refueling.

A solar generator can be charged either from a wall outlet or from a solar panel. It can supply electricity for phones, home security cameras, lights, small electrical devices, or even a window air conditioning unit (for example with this heavy-duty solar generator – Goal Zero Yeti 3000). When paired with solar, you can actually save money on your electric bills, and a solar generator offers clean, quiet power that you can’t get with a conventional generator.

A solar generator is a great choice for camping, tailgating, RVs or home emergency backup system. If you are looking for the best solar generator but don’t know how to pick the right one, this “solar generator review and rating” is for you. In this article we review several solar generators that we feel are worth your hard-earned money. And we also explain some things that you will want to know about solar generators before making a purchase.

Best Solar Generators: Our Picks

	Product	Capacity	Battery	Weight (lbs)	Ranked for	Price
	Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Solar Generator Kit	428Wh	Li-ion	25.9	Best Portable Kit	Check Price
	Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Solar Generator	240Wh	Li-ion	6.6	Best for Camping	Check Price
	Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium	1425Wh	Li-ion	43.7	Best for Home	Check Price
	Suaoki S270 Lithium Power Station	150Wh	Li-ion	2.9	Best for Backpacking	Check Price
	Rockpals RP250W Portable Solar Generator	250Wh	Li-ion	5.5	Best for Backpacking	Check Price
	Renogy Phoenix All-in-one Solar Kit	150Wh	Li-ion	12.8	Best All-in-One Kit	Check Price
	Renogy Lycan Powerbox	1075Wh	Li-ion	60	Best for RV, Off-Grid	Check Price

Read our reviews

What’s a Solar Generator?

As the name implies, a solar powered generator is powered by the sun.

Unlike conventional generators, solar generators don’t run on gasoline, diesel, or propane. This kind of generators capture the sun’s energy via solar panels, store that energy in a battery bank, and release it through a power inverter to be used for standard AC power.

With a conventional generator that is used to supply stand-alone loads, there is a constant output of power from the generator but there is no storage of power to supply the loads when the generator is not running. In this case, solar panels are not able to replace a generator on their own because solar panels cannot reliably produce a steady flow of instantaneous power.

With a solar generator, the idea here is that the solar will supply a varying amount of power to the battery storage, the battery storage will store this power until it is needed and then supply loads with a constant supply of power as necessary.

Simply put, a solar generator works in a way that is similar to a small off-grid solar system, the only difference here is that a solar generator is portable, which you can put in your car and bring with you anywhere you go.

Of course, the solar power generator needs to be designed, both the solar panels, the charge controller, the deep cycle batteries, and the inverter/charger to allow for enough power to be stored in total to meet the loads.

Today’s best solar generators can come equipped with the lithium-ion battery that can store a huge amount of energy in a very small package.

How Does a Solar Generator Work?

Basically, a solar generator is a simple system consisting of 4 key components: the solar panels, the batteries, the inverter/charger, and the solar charge controller (optional).

1) Solar Panel

The solar panel is what powers a solar generator.

A solar panel is filled with individual photovoltaic cells, which have the ability to convert photons of sunlight into electricity. When photons hit a solar cell, they knock electrons loose from their atoms. If conductors are attached to the positive and negative sides of a cell, it forms an electrical circuit. When electrons flow through such a circuit, they generate electricity.

Solar cells are made of silicon crystals cut into super-thin wafers or a film made of silicon, cadmium telluride or other materials. The cells are connected in a series to develop an electrical current that charges a battery.

You’ll find that efficiency levels among solar panels differ. Efficiency refers to how well each cell converts the sun’s photons into electrical current. So a solar panel with a 15 percent efficiency rating produces 50 percent more electricity than a solar panel with a 10 percent rating.

A solar panel typically costs a few hundred dollars and is easy to purchase. With proper installation and maintenance, your solar panel will last, on average, for 20 years.

2) Battery

The solar powered generator is also called the battery powered generator, because of the fact that the battery storage capacity is the most important aspect of a solar generator’s actual usability.

The battery storage is also the first and foremost factor you’ll want to consider when selecting the best solar generator. Depending on your solar generator goals – the number of devices and how much power they draw, you may want a high-capacity battery.

Without decent battery storage capacity, reliability and usability are severely affected. Without batteries at all (batteries not included), a solar generator is pretty worthless.

The battery of a solar powered generator is the deep cycle battery. It’s rated in terms of amp hours (amp/hr). For example, a 12-volt 100 amp/hr battery. To calculate the battery capacity, from amp hours, multiply amps times volts. For example, the watt-hour rating of the above 12-volt 100 amp/hr battery is 1200 (12*100).

Unfortunately, not all of the rated watt-hours should be used. Battery manufacturers recommend only using 50% of the full capacity in traditional lead-acid batteries in order to preserve lifespan and reduce failures. Draining batteries fully will effectively destroy them.

The best batteries for solar generators are lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are lighter and more power dense and can be drained to 10% capacity. This type of deep cycle battery is also more durable and have a longer lifespan than traditional lead-acid batteries, AGM or GEL batteries.

The Jackery Portable Power Station Solar Generator 240Wh is a good example. This is one of the best solar generators for camping on the market and it comes equipped with a lithium-ion battery. The lithium battery makes it compact and lightweight and can store a lot of energy. In addition, its voltage will not change much under heavy load, and their total capacity will not fluctuate much under different loads.

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3) Inverter

Power from a solar generator is direct current (DC), and your appliances need alternating current (AC). So you need a device to convert DC to AC, called an inverter.

Inverter/chargers – an upgraded type of inverter – also grant the ability to externally charge your battery bank by plugging it into the grid or portable generator and routing the incoming AC power to the batteries in DC power. Ultimately, inverters rate the maximum watts you can pull at any one time from a solar generator. For example, a 2,000-watt power inverter lets you pull up to that wattage in AC power.

For a solar generator, look for an inverter/charger with one or more AC outlets to accommodate your appliances. A 2,000-watt voltage inverter provides sufficient power to run most home appliances or RV appliances or power tools. Also, the best solar generators should use a pure sine wave inverter.

Most electronic devices such as Bluetooth speakers, smartphones, and laptop computers require a pure sine wave inverter to operate.

4) Solar Charge Controller

Most solar charge controllers come as an optional when you buy a solar generator. The role of the solar charge controller is to do two things.

• It is to convert the electricity received from the solar panels to the voltage required by the battery bank
• To regulate the flow of power from the solar to the battery bank so as not to damage the batteries. Solar generator’s batteries need to be treated carefully in terms of the rates at which they are charged and discharged so as not to damage them.

Do I always need a solar charge controller? Not always, but usually. Generally, there is no need for a solar charge controller with a small solar system like a solar powered generator. And most portable solar generators available on the market today have been optimized to be charged with portable solar panels.

But if you’re building a DIY solar power generator, you probably need a good solar charge controller. The best way to get full power out of solar panels is to use an MPPT solar charge controller.

Benefits of Solar Generators

1) Solar Generators are Silent

Unlike conventional generators, solar generators don’t run on fuel, so they have no moving parts. They aren’t as loud as gas generators. In fact, solar generators are virtually silent when in use.

2) Solar Generators are Zero-Emissions

One of the most obvious reasons to use a solar powered generator is that it is a “green” choice. It doesn’t harm the environment because it is fueled by the sun, and it does not run off of fossil fuels, like gas or diesel.

When fossil fuels are used to create electricity, they produce harmful gas emissions that affect the safety of air, water, and soil. In contrast, solar energy produces no pollution. The sun’s power offers an unlimited source of energy that does not strip the landscape or harm the ozone layer.

3) No Maintenance and Fuel Costs

As mentioned before, solar generators don’t require fuel to work, so they are maintenance free and operating costs are practically zero.

The only cost associated with the use of a solar generator is the initial investment. This means that despite the large initial investment, there are no additional costs associated with its use, so the cost is recovered quickly.

The best solar generators can cost you a few hundreds of dollars initially but will save thousands of dollars on fuel and maintenance costs after several years of use, depending on the size of the system.

4) Solar Generators are Portable

Most solar generators are portable. Today’s best portable solar generators are compact and lightweight but pack a serious amount of energy. Most portable solar generators are designed for camping sites, outdoor parties, boat life, and road trips.

A portable solar generator is also especially ideal backup power, in that they can be moved and stored when not in use. You will find a solar generator is extremely helpful in the event of power outage.

The most common choice is a solar generator with a capacity of 150-500Wh. These solar generators provide enough power for phones, tablets, laptops, mini refrigerators, portable evaporative coolers, CPAP machines, jump start a car, and keeping lights on for emergency use – but still small enough to pack for a trip.

5) A Solar Generator Works Without… the Sun

One of the most common misconceptions about solar power generators is that they cannot be used when it is cloudy or rainy outside. The solar generator actually stores power on the days when it is sunny, meaning that you will still be able to use the device in inclement weather.

Plus, a solar generator can be charged either from a wall outlet or from a solar panel. That means when it is cloudy or rainy outside and the solar panel is useless, you can recharge your solar generator with a wall outlet.

Finally, once the solar generator is up to full speed, it will run day and night without any input from you. During the day, the electricity charges the batteries and excess powers your equipment. At night, the batteries power your equipment. As long as there’s enough daylight every day, it just goes on and on.

5) Solar Generators Can Be Safely Used Indoor

Not only a solar generator perfect choice for camping and outdoor capacities, but it’s also safe to operate indoors.

Gas and diesel are expensive, dirty, and potentially toxic. Most gas/diesel generators are very loud, meaning that you don’t want to operate them nearby. Worse, the fumes that gas generators put out mean that you cannot operate them indoors, as it would be unsafe.

As a result, gas generators must be kept outside which means you’re going to be dealing with a mess of cables coming through windows and doors that you have to extend repeatedly to get to your devices. Further, if your power is out, typically it entails harsh conditions outdoors and heading outside is often not advised.

Contrary to gas/diesel generators, solar generators are 100% safe to operate indoors. That means no trips out into the harsh weather, and it means no running cables through windows and doors or trying to extend cables multiple times to reach far away appliances. Just set the solar generator down right next to it!

6) A Solar Generator the Best Emergency Backup for 12V Medical Equipment

Most medical devices, and all of those sold as portable devices, will work with the 12-volt power outlet.
You may want to consider a solar generator for your continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device, oxygen concentrator, infusion pump or nebulizer, which will allow you to go camping or otherwise live off the grid and still keep your medical device powered.

REVIEW: The Best Solar Generators to Buy

1. Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Solar Generator Kit w/ Boulder 100 Briefcase Solar Panel Review – Best Portable Solar Generator Kit

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The Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Solar Generator Kit with Boulder 100 Briefcase Solar Panel is our pick as the best solar generator kit for most people. This kit is perfect for basecamps, weekend camping trips, cabins and living off the grid in the wood.

This solar generator kit also a great choice for outdoor activities like hunting and fishing. And you can use this solar generator kit as an alternative to gasoline-powered generators, running small appliances, lights and even medical devices for a short time.

The Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium is an upgrade of the best-selling Goal Zero Yeti 400 Portable Power Stationwith a Lead-acid battery. The Lithium-ion battery in this version is smaller and lighter than a comparable lead-acid battery, so it’s easier to carry around but pumps out the same amount of power.

The Yeti 400 Lithium is also more powerful than its predecessors. It features increased surge allowances, advanced battery protection, user-replaceable lithium battery pack, and longer shelf life. With the 428 watt-hour capacity (39.6Ah and 10.8V), you can power lights, smartphones, tablets, laptops, TVs, CPAP machines, and even a mini-fridge.

And because the Yeti 400 produces pure sine wave output, it’s safe to be used with any electrical device you may have.

Fully charged, the Yeti 400 offers the following approximate power:

This solar generator has three USB ports, two AC outlets, and one 12V output. It has a user-friendly LCD screen featuring a runtime/recharge time estimator, as well as a battery level monitor and an output/input meter. You get real-time usage data at a quick glance.

One of the key features that makes Goal Zero solar generators the best portable solar generators on the market is that they have a user-replaceable battery. Whenever the included battery is dead, you can easily replace it by yourself. The replacement process only takes about 5 minutes and your solar generator will last for years. This is a money-saving feature!

Replacing a GoalZero Yeti 400 Battery | Video by Goal Zero

You can charge the Yeti 400 Lithium from the wall when you’re at home (fully recharges in about 7 hours), it can also recharge by connecting a compatible solar panel. If you are a heavy user using all the power in one day, we recommend using the Boulder 100 Briefcase Solar Panel. The Boulder 100 Briefcase will fully recharge the Yeti 400 Lithium in about 8-16 hours.

If you are a standard or light user and use about 30-40% of the power per day, you can use 1 Boulder 50 Solar Panel.

One thing we don’t like is that this newer lithium-ion solar generator cannot be charged using the 12v cigarette lighter outputs in the car. “DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CHARGE YOUR YETI LITHIUM FROM A 12V SOURCE” is what Goal Zero says on their website. As opposed to this, the older lead-acid Yeti 400 allows recharging from a car. We think this is for safety reasons, charging a lithium-ion battery is harder than charging an AGM lead Acid battery.

Why should I buy the Yeti 400 Lithium over the Yeti 400? Goal Zero Yeti 400 vs. Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium

The short answer is …we think the best solar generator should come with the lithium-ion battery, for 3 reasons:

• Compared to lead-acid batteries, Lithium has a longer lifespan and much higher efficiency.
• Lead-acid batteries should only be run to 50% depth of discharge, while lithium-ion batteries can handle deep discharges of 90% – 100%.
• Lithium batteries can run on a heavy load much better than lead-acid batteries. Their voltage will not change much under heavy load, and their total capacity will not fluctuate much under different loads.

Overall, if you’re looking for a medium-sized solar generator, the Goal Zero Yeti 400 lithium solar generator with Boulder 100 Briefcase Solar Panel is your best bet. The compact size and lithium power make it ideal for camping, tailgating, off-grid living, or using at home. We highly recommend this generator!

Note: When charging gear with the Yeti 400 Lithium solar generator, take note of the LCD Battery Display. If you plug in devices that have a high power requirement (a large refrigerator), the charge level of the Yeti can drop very quickly and you may not get exactly 400Wh of energy.

Cold temperatures (below freezing) can impact the Yeti’s battery capacity. If you’ll be living off-grid in sub-zero conditions, we recommend keeping your Yeti 400 Lithium in an insulated cooler, connected to a power source (solar panels), and charging your gear.

2. Jackery Explorer 240 Review – Best Solar Generator for Camping

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Don’t be fooled by its compact size, the Jackery Explorer 240 delivers enough power for any device you might have on your camping trip. Its lithium battery packs a 240Wh capacity to keep your phones, your laptops, your drones, and even your mini fridge charged for a short time.

Its lightweight and small designed, in a combination with the pure sine wave inverter and many other convenient features, plus a foldable, easy-to-carry 50W solar panel (sold separately) make the Jackery Explorer 240 one of the best solar generators for camping on the market today.

Fully charged, the Jackery Explorer 240 offers the following approximate power:

Weighing only 6.6 pounds and measuring 9.0 ” x 7.8” x 5.2”, the Jackery Explorer 240 is very easy to carry around as well as store. Built into its compact body are a DC Input, 2 USB Outputs, an AC Outlet, and a car port for true compatibility.

There are three ways to charge this solar powered generator: via wall outlets – 7 hours, via solar panels – 7.2 hours for Jackery 50W solar panel, and via 12V car cigarette lighter. You can easily see the charging process, along with Input Watts and Output Watts on the digital display panel. This display will also inform you of the total watts being used.

Jackery 50W Solar Panel is foldable, portable and comes with a nice protective cover and a cable to connect it to the Jackery Explorer 240. The panel is lightweight and folds up, locking itself with magnets. It is a sturdy and easy-to-pack panel that you can take with you on any camping trip without to much hassle.

Overall, the Jackery Explorer 240 is our pick as the best solar generator for camping, especially car camping. This is a great portable generator to take with you on a trip, camping in the woods, or anywhere you might need power.

3. Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium Portable Power Station Review – Best Solar Generator for Home

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The Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium provides an enormous amount of energy for its compact size. With a capacity of up to 1,425-Wh (132Ah x 10.8V), an inverter producing the similar continuous output (1500W), and nearly twice the surge capability (3000W), plus the built-in surge allowances and multistage protection for compatibility with a wide range of electronics, this solar generator can easily power many high-power devices in your home such as your refrigerator, 1/3HP sump pump, power tools, portable table saw, and much more. For this reason, the Yeti 1400 lithium earned our pick as the best solar generator for home.

In addition to its enormous amount of energy, the Yeti 1400 Lithium solar generator also features an easy-to-use, plug-and-play design. It provides an array of output options for any energy need. It has 4 USB outputs, 2 AC outputs, a 12V DC vehicle cigarette lighter-style socket, and a 6mm 12V DC port. You can charge up to 10 devices at once.

With an informative LCD display, it’s very easy to see how much power you’re using. The display also shows the real-time input and output and calculates your runtime.

What can the Yeti 1400 Lithium Power?

The Yeti 1400 Lithium is a WiFi Connected Solar Generator. Wifi connectivity allows you to control your generator remotely. You can turn ports on or off, check battery level, as well as power in and out. Unfortunately, the WiFi connectivity requires a router to work.

Like the Yeti 400 lithium, the lithium battery in this 1400W version is replaceable. That means you can replace the battery when it’s dead.

There are only two ways to charge the Yeti 1400 lithium: from an AC outlet or from the sun. Charge time is dependent on the size of the solar panel. The Boulder 200 Briefcase will fully recharge the Yeti 1400 Lithium in about 16 hours. Charging by AC power takes about 25 hours.

All in all, we were very impressed with the overall quality of the Goal Zero Yeti 400 lithium solar generator. It has an excellent design that looks nice and sturdy. It’s very powerful for its compact size. It can power all essential home appliances during a power outage. It’s safe to be used indoor and is virtually silent. This is one of the best solar generators for home use and we’d recommend it to those looking for an alternative to a 2000W gas generator.

Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium – Home Edition | Video by Goal Zero

4. Suaoki S270 Lithium Portable Power Station Review – Best Backpack Solar Generator

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This 150Wh Suaoki Portable Power Station is amazingly compact. With the weight is only 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg) and size of 7.3 x 4.3 x 4.7 inch, this solar generator can easily fit in your backpack. The battery storage capacity of 150 watt-hour makes it ideal for charging devices such as laptops, phones, tablets, cameras, drones, Bluetooth speakers, CPAP machines, and more.

The Suaoki S270 is probably the most compact solar generator you can buy. This is a great power source to go traveling with, and if you need something that is small in size but big on impact.

This solar generator has most kinds of outputs you could ask for. It has 4 USB ports, one of them is powered by fast-charging QC3.0 technology, ensure that your phones, tablets and cameras stay charged throughout the day wherever you go.

2 AC outlets provide power for small home appliances (max 100W, peak power 150W), 4 DC ports and 1 car port for devices like in-car devices and more. With up to 12 versatile ports to pick from, this generator can keep all the necessary gear powered up anywhere.

Keep in mind that you can only run the devices under 100W with this unit.

All the things above make this Suaoki generator one of the best portable solar generators on the market. But that is not all. The Suaoki S270 features built-in MPPT solar charge controller.

MPPT charge controller optimizes the match between the solar panels and the battery, and helps to get the maximum amps into the battery. With MPPT charge controller inside, the generator can be recharged much more efficient than other models without MPPT, plus it can be recharged on even a cloudy day.

You can charge this portable solar generator by connecting to SUAOKI 60W or 100W solar panel. It can be fully charged in 8 hours by being plugged into a wall outlet. It can also be charged by plugging into your car 12V socket.

5. Rockpals RP250W Portable Solar Generator Review

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If you’re looking for a compact solar generator, but the 150Wh unit above is not enough for your power needs, this Rockpals RP250W Portable Solar Generator is for you.

This solar generator features a lithium-ion battery that has a capacity of up to 240Wh (250W rated, 300W surge) while weighing only 5.5-lbs. It has a travel-friendly design with an easy-carry handle. Its compact size is ideal for traveling and backpacking, keeping your devices charged on long road trips. Featuring pure sine wave output, the Rockpals RP250W is safe for charging up your tablets, iPhone, iPad, laptops, fans, TV, lights and CPAP machines.

What can the Rockpals RP250W power?

Designed for camping and traveling, the Rockpals RP250W features a variety of output options.

It has dual 120V AC (300 Watt Surge) worldwide outlet for powering your Laptop, Monitor, TV, Air Mattress, Lamp, Fan, Router, Modem, Christmas lights; 4 12V DC for car powered device under 60W, such as car vacuum, car refrigerator, car air fan, CPAP machine; 2 5V USB outputs for phones, iPad, GPS devices, mp3, cameras.

And like the Suaoki, the MPPT controller is built into the RP250W and it optimizes the source to maximize power, resulting in up to 40% faster charge times from solar panels. On the best sunlight condition, the generator can be recharged from zero to full in 9-10 hours with the Rockpals 60W solar panel. You can also connect this solar generator with the Renogy 100 Watts Solar Panel via DC 5.5*2.5mm to MC4 connector.

Rockpals RP250 will be fully charged in 8 hours by being plugged into the wall outlet.

In brief, this versatile portable energy source is great for traveling and weekend picnics. It’s light, convenient, and has an affordable price. If you’re looking for a solar generator for your next traveling trip, this is absolutely one of the best to buy.

6. Renogy Phoenix All-in-one Solar Kit Review – Best Solar Generator with Built-in Solar Panel

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The Renogy Phoenix is one of the coolest solar generators we’ve ever seen. Unlike most solar power generators on the market, this generator comes as an All-in-One portable suitcase style solar system. It has high-efficiency built-in 20W Monocrystalline solar panel and a built-in charge controller, a 16Ah lithium-ion battery bank, and an onboard inverter, along with multiple charging ports making it perfect for any outdoor activity.

Without external solar panels, the Renogy Phoenix is very versatile. It’s about the size of a briefcase (16.24 x 11.95 x 3.94 inches) when closed, weighs just 12.8 pounds, and opens up to present a pair of 10W monocrystalline solar panels to the sun for charging.

Two strong latches hold the unit closed when not being used for solar charging, and a large handle makes carrying it along quite easily. Although its size and weight aren’t necessarily conducive to backpacking trips, it’s perfect for car camping on the weekend and off-grid adventures.

We think this is also one of the best solar generators to buy if you sometimes go off-roading or fishing on the boat. The Phoenix is built in a sturdy ABS case, which appears to be rugged enough to take most normal bumps and jolts. The unit isn’t waterproof, but spring-loaded doors protect both the input and output port sections, which should keep out dust, dirt, and grime during transport, and the Phoenix has wide feet that keep it stable and upright when in the vertical ‘briefcase’ position.

The Phoenix generator features three ways to charge: AC Power, Car Power, and Solar Power. It takes approximately 15 hours to charge it to full with the built-in 20W solar panel, which seems quite slow. But the Phoenix is capable of expanding up to 100 watts with additional panels (up to 100W additional, for a total of 120W), which would speed up charging considerably, with a full charge taking just a few hours.

The Phoenix has an AC output (150W max continuous output),  4 USB ports (5V 2.4A), two 12V ports (3A), and a 12V cigarette socket. The lithium battery has a lifecycle of about 1500 charging cycles. It has a storage capacity of about 190 watt-hours. The unit has a built-in pure sine wave inverter, so it should play nicely with most, if not all, small AC appliances.

Overall, we really like the Renogy Phoenix, this is a great all in one solar system for outdoor adventurers and emergency preparedness. Renogy is a renewable energy company that is supplying some of the highest quality solar products on the market today. You can’t go wrong with their solar generators.

7. Renogy Lycan Powerbox Review – Best Solar Generator for RV and Off-Grid Living

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The Renogy Lycan Powerbox charges in 3 hours and produces 900 watt-hours of power, enough to run a full-size refrigerator for eight hours. It’s our pick as the best solar generator for RV and off-grid living, and for good reasons.

This unit is waterproof and it comes with multi-terrain wheels for easy transporting. The generator’s lithium-iron phosphate batteries are rated to last up to 2,000 cycles. 900 watt-hour of continuous power and various outputs and four 110V (1200W max) universal AC ports allow you to run and power many devices and appliances at once.

You can use this solar powered generator for your microwave, TV, laptop, coffee maker, and refrigerator. It’s safe to use indoors, and we think you’ll want to use it at night when camping in an RV campground. Fully charged, the Lycan Powerbox is enough energy for running all night.

The Powerbox has a 75Ah capacity battery, which takes about 7.5 hours to fully charge using house current, or about 9 hours with a single 100W solar panel (or a more optimal 3 hour charge time with 300W solar panels). We’d recommend you use the Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Panel for the highest efficiency.

Once charged, you can plug your devices directly into any of the three 5V USB ports, a 12V car charger socket, one of the two other 12V outlets, or one of the three 110V AC outlets, and have access to plenty of juice, whether for mobile devices or standard appliances.

The lithium battery in the Powerbox is interchangeable. It allows you to prepare a library of fully charged batteries for quick, hassle-free reloads. This feature is not only super convenient and energy efficient, but it could also potentially be a lifesaver in the event of a natural disaster or emergency.

Overall, the Renogy Lycan Powerbox is a very good choice for RV, travel trailer, and off-grid living. It could also be a good choice for job sites and remote areas.

How to Select the Best Solar Power Generator?

The Best Solar Panel for a Solar Generator

There are three types of solar photovoltaic technologies: Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, and Thin Film.

1) Monocrystalline

Monocrystalline solar panels, such as the Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Panel, are the most efficient type (they produce more power per cell). They also are the most energy- and time-intensive to produce, so they tend to be the most expensive type. Their sunlight to electricity conversion efficiencies tend to fall in the range of 25 percent to 30 percent.

2) Polycrystalline

Polycrystalline solar panels, such as Renogy 100W Polycrystalline Photovoltaic PV Solar Panel, made up of many smaller crystals, cost less and provide a similar lifespan, but they deliver slightly lower efficiencies in the range of 13-22 percent. With these, you might need to cover a larger surface area to get the same output you would get with a monocrystalline solar array.

3) Thin-Film

Thin film solar panels are made from non-crystalline layers of semiconductor materials so thin that they are flexible. Thin film solar panel can be produced faster and is less expensive than crystalline cells, but it has a lower efficiency – in the range of 10-19 percent – so about twice the surface area is needed per watt of power.

Despite the lower efficiency, thin film solar panel can use diffuse sunlight better than crystalline cells, is less prone to overheating (good for warm climates), is more shade tolerant and may be more resistant to hail damage. That can help improve output when the solar orientation is not optimal. Thin film output tends to degrade faster than crystalline cells.

The Best Battery for a Solar Generator

A solar generator is also called a battery-powered generator. This means the battery is the most important component in a solar generator. Looking at the battery is one of the first steps when selecting a solar generator.

The amount of battery storage you need is based on your energy usage. Energy usage is measured in kilowatt hours over a period of time.

For example:

100 watts x 10 hours per day = 1kWh per day

Sizing your solar generator capacity:

Lead Acid sizing:

1kWh x 2 (for 50% depth of discharge) = 2kWh

Lithium sizing:

1kWh x 1.1 (for 90% depth of discharge) = 1.1kWh

After estimating energy usage we need to consider which type of battery will work best, as they have unique performance characteristics and are sized differently.

There are three main battery chemistries for solar power generators: Flooded Lead Acid batteries, Sealed Lead Acid (AGM, Gel) batteries, Lithium-ion batteries.

1) Lithium-ion Batteries

Lithium batteries are the most efficient type of battery, which means less power is wasted in the charge/discharge process. They also have a greater discharge depth (up to 90 percent or more) allowing you to fully utilize all of your battery capacity.

Lithium batteries are also lighter and more durable and have a longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries. Because of the better efficiency and deeper discharge depth, Lithium battery banks tend to be only 50-60% of the size of a comparable lead acid bank!

Using Lithium batteries for portable solar generators offers many advantages over older rechargeable technologies. As you can see, most of the best solar generators in our lineup use lithium batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries:

• Recommended
• Most expensive $ $ $ $
• Typical lifespan: 10+ years
• No maintenance
• Highest efficiency, faster charging, more usable capacity (deeper discharge depth)

2) Sealed Lead Acid Batteries (AGM, Gel)

Sealed lead acid batteries, such as the battery used in the older Goal Zero Yeti 400 portable generator, are less efficient than lithium batteries. They are partially sealed, but have vents in case gases are accidentally released for example by overcharging. And they are sensitive and need to be fully recharged every day or week, where Lithium batteries can stay at a partial charge without any adverse effect.

Sealed lead acid batteries can be turned upside down, so they are much safer than flooded lead-acid batteries.

When using sealed batteries and flooded batteries, you’ll notice it never discharges more than 80%. In fact, most manufacturers recommend a discharge depth of no greater than 50%.

Sealed lead-acid batteries:

• Safe to use
• More expensive $$
• Typical lifespan: 3-5 years
• No maintenance

3) Flooded Lead Acid Batteries

This type of battery is not recommended for solar power generators.

Flooded lead-acid batteries have the least cost per amp-hour of any of the choices. However, they require regular maintenance in the form of watering, equalizing charges and keeping the top and terminals clean.

Flooded lead-acid batteries are heavy and are less durable than lithium batteries when deep cycle. A full discharge causes strain and each discharge/charge cycle permanently robs the battery of a small amount of capacity. This loss is small while the battery is in good operating condition, but the fading increases once the performance drops to half the nominal capacity.

Charging flooded batteries are slow. The battery must always be stored at full state-of-charge. Low charge causes sulfation, a condition that robs the battery of performance.

Unlike Sealed batteries, flooded batteries can NOT be turned upside down, so they are not safe to be used for a solar generator.

Flooded lead-acid batteries:

• NOT recommended
• Lowest upfront cost $
• Typical lifespan: 5-7 years
• Requires maintenance – add distilled water and equalize charge on a monthly basis

Overall, the best battery for a solar power generator is the lithium battery. The AGM and Gel battery can also be used, but they much less efficient than the lithium battery. The traditional flooded lead-acidLifespan is not recommended.

How to Build a DIY Solar Generator?

If you’ve decided to build your own DIY portable solar generator, here are things you’ll want to know. There are quite a few articles about how to build a solar generator, and sometimes it’s too much information for the brain to absorb, so we’re going to keep this section a simple as possible.

#Step 1: Buy a Minn Kota Trolling Motor Power Center. This is a battery holder that can hold one battery (up to group 27). It has a couple 12-volt ports already wired in and ready to go. It also features built-in battery meter displays current “state of charge”.

#Step 2: Buy a deep cycle battery. We’d recommend a battery that has a capacity of at least 50W. If you’re looking for a lithium-ion battery, the Battle Born Batteries 100 Ah LiFePO4 Battery is our favorite option.

#Step 3: Buy a Solar panel. Please check out the previous section

#Step 4: Buy a solar charge controller. A charge controller keeps the battery from overcharging and there are many shapes and sizes.

• How to choose the best solar charge controller.

#Step 5: Buy a power inverter. An inverter to convert low volt DC to standard 120 volt AC power. The best solar generators should have at least a 1.5:1 usable watt-hours-to-inverter-rating ratio (i.e., 1500 watt/hrs to 1000 watt inverter).

• The best pure sine wave inverter and charger to buy

#Step 6: Buy a battery charger. If you want to charge your DIY solar generator from a 110V wall outlet, without an inverter/charger, you’ll need a battery charger. The best charger for deep cycle battery is a smart charger.

• Choosing the best deep cycle battery charger

#Step 7: Integrate Parts to the Minn Kota Trolling Motor Power Center. Commonly, charge controller, battery, inverter, charger, and other things come inside the box. Better place solar panels outside. Later, you could buy a bag to move the solar panels easily. See the diagram on how to do the wiring of a DIY portable solar generator.

You can build your own solar-powered generator, however, if you’re not handy or experienced with wiring electrical parts, you’re better off buying a pre-assembled solar generator.

The post The Best Solar Generator On the Market appeared first on Green Living Blog.

“Is it quiet enough for camping or tailgating and not bothering others with the noise?”;

“How many decibels does this portable generator generate?”

“What’s the quietest portable generator on the market?”

These are the most common questions we get asked about portable generators. People are particularly concerned about the noise that their generator can produce. The noise levels (or decibel ratings) now become one of the most important factors when evaluating a portable generator. We all want the best portable generator with a minimum noise!

After years of using and testing dozens of portable generators, we know which models are quiet and which models are loud. But it’s hard to describe exactly how quiet a portable generator is. So we recently ran a noise test on some of the quietest generators on the market and measured the noise levels of each model by a decibel meter. We’ve written down the actual decibel ratings of each model and show you in a table below. We don’t think these numbers will give you the full sense of exactly how quiet a generator is, but we believe, this is enough to answer the question “what is the best quiet portable generator available to buy today?”.

In this article, we mainly focus on 2000-watt models. In our opinion, this is the best option for outdoor camping and tailgating because they strike the ideal balance between portability, capability, and price. If you’re looking to buy a propane generator or a generator for your RV air conditioner, click to read these articles:

• Quiet RV Generators – Decibel & Noise Test
• Best Generators for Your RV – A comprehensive Buying Guide
• Best Propane Generator on the Market

Best Quiet Portable Generators on the Market

Image	Generator	Noise Levels (Eco Mode 20')	Noise Levels (Eco Mode Off 20')	Noise Levels (Full Load 20')	Starting/Running Watts
	Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator	57dB	59dB	67.5dB	2200/1800
	WEN 56200i Super Quiet Generator	57.5dB	60.5dB	69dB	2000/1600
	Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Inverter Generator	57.5dB	59.5dB	68.5dB	2000/1600
	Westinghouse iGen2200 Inverter Generator	58dB	61dB	70dB	2200/1800
	Ryobi Bluetooth 2,300-Watt Generator	58.3dB	62dB	71.4dB	2300/1800
	Generac GP2200i Inverter Generator	59.6dB	62.5dB	72dB	2000/1600
	Briggs & Stratton P2200 Inverter Generator	60dB	63.7dB	74dB	2200/1700
	Pulsar PG2000iS Inverter Generator	59dB	63.5dB	73dB	2000/1600

Our Picks for You

#1. Honda EU2200i 2200W Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator

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As the name suggests, the Honda EU2200i is super quiet. This portable inverter generator is among the WORLD’S QUIETEST GENERATORS, and it was also the quietest one in our noise tests. The Honda EU2200i is even about 1 decibel quieter than the legendary top-selling Honda EU2000i model, it also has a more powerful engine and delivers 10% more power than the EU2000. Combined with ease of use and simplified maintenance, the EU2200i is a best quiet generator for recreation, camping, tailgating, home backup power, and much more.

Sound is one of the major advantages of Honda inverter generators. In the noise test, at no load with Economy mode turned on, the Honda EU2200i was extremely quiet. It generated only 57 dB from 20 feet, which was quieter than all 2000-watt models we’ve ever seen. When we turned Eco Mode off, the noise jumped to 59dB but was still very quiet. At full load with Eco Mode turned off, the EU2200i generated only 67.5dB at 20 feet, while most other cheaper portable generators exceeded 70dB.

The noise we heard from the EU2200i was mostly low frequency, low humming tone. You will feel very comfortable even when you stand next to the generator when it’s running.

Honda EU2200i inverter generator is the quietest portable generator in our decibel test

In our opinion, you can’t go wrong with Honda’s inverter generators, they are the best choices when it comes to quiet, dependable, durable and easy-to-use generators. They have been proven to last at least 10 to 15 years. The Honda EU2200i portable inverter generator always delivered power constantly and reliably. It always started without a problem and without wrenching shoulders or straining muscles. If you want to be able to rely on the generator as a reliable source of power for your home, camping or tailgating, the Honda EU2200i makes the most sense and is a worthy investment.

The Honda EU2200i portable inverter generator is also available in 2 other versions in the same lightweight, noise levels, and capacity. The Honda EU2200i Companion is ideal for RV use or paralleling with another EU2200i. The Honda EB2200i is designed specifically for job site; it can operate a wide variety of power tools, such as sliding compound miter saws, air compressor, nailers, and jobsite radios.

#2. WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator

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One of the most surprising portable generators we tested was the WEN 56200i portable inverter generator. This is among the cheapest 2000-watt generators on the market, but was also one of the quietest portable generators in our noise tests. It was only slightly louder than the Honda and the Yamaha generator under both Eco Mode or a full load.

As you can see in the chart below, the WEN 56200i generated less noise than most other more expensive portable generators under a load, that is truly impressive!

What makes this inverter generator more compelling than its quiet operation is the very reasonable price that it offers. It’s only less than half the price of either the Honda or the Yamaha but having similar capacity and performance as them. Plus, the WEN 56200i’s engine is a clone of Yamaha EF2000i MZ80 engine (80cc), which allows the generator to run quietly and fuel efficient. You could expect it has similar reliability to the Yamaha. You can even connect the WEN 56200i and the Yamaha EF2000i in parallel.

For the most part, we think this WEN generator is the best quiet portable generator for those who are looking for a lightweight, compact, and reliable portable generator but don’t want to break the bank. On performance and durability, the Honda is the clear winner, but on price, the WEN wins. If you’re going to use your portable generator for recreational activities like camping or tailgating, consider buying the WEN 56200i portable inverter generator.

#3. Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium Portable Power Station

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During the day your generator’s noise might have blended in with the rest of the background noise we create – cars, trucks, radios, and conversations – and not seemed obtrusive. But in the evening, the time we’re relaxing and going to sleep, a very little noise could sound be amplified, even if you have a super quiet portable generator, turning it on at night will likely make others feel annoyed and angry.

So how do you get electricity at night while camping or tailgating without running a portable generator or having an RV deep cycle battery system? A high-capacity portable solar generator like the Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium Portable Power Station may be the best solution for you.

Unlike traditional generators or inverter generators, solar generators don’t run on gasoline or propane. This kind of generators capture the sun’s energy via solar panels, store that energy in a battery bank, and release it through an inverter to be used for standard AC power. Solar generators work in a way that is similar to the solar battery storage systems at home, the only difference is that solar generators are portable, which you can put in your car and bring with you anywhere you go.

A solar generator doesn’t produce too much noise as a traditional generator or inverter generator does. In fact, it makes barely any noise when in use. Therefore, if you’re looking for the best quiet portable generator that you can feel free to use anytime or anywhere, no matter it’s day or night, a portable solar generator should be your best bet.

Another reason that made we thought about recommending a portable solar generator to you is that it can be safely used indoors as it has totally no emissions. So it’s a great generator to keep the lights and your home security cameras on during power outage.

The Goal Zero Yeti 1400 is one of the best portable solar generators on the market. It 1,425Wh battery capacity with 132Ah and 10.8V easily powers devices ranging from lights to laptops and mini refrigerators to power tools. The Yeti 1400 provides almost the same continuous power as a 2000-watt portable inverter generator with much higher surge capacity (up to 3000W).

If you feel 1425Wh not going to be enough for your power needs? Consider buying the Goal Zero Yeti 3000, which is able to store up to 3,075Wh.

GOAL ZERO YETI 1400 LITHIUM | Video by Goal Zero

Remember that this solar generator is only our recommendation for you as an alternative to the noisy conventional generators. It wasn’t in our decibel and noise tests. Now, before you go deeper into our comprehensive reviews for some of the best quiet portable generators available, let’s talk a little about the inverter generators and noise.

—> Want more details about solar powered generators? Click here! <—

Why Should You Invest in Inverter Generators?

Inverter generators differ widely from conventional generators when it comes to noise. Most of the quietest portable generators available on the market are inverter. And here is why:

Conventional Generators

Conventional generators, such as the Westinghouse WGen3600, are the most widely used today, also because they have been around the longest. They run on diesel, gasoline or propane, which in simple terms, powers a motor attached to an alternator that produces electricity. The motor of conventional generators run at a constant speed (typically 3600 rpm) in order to produce electricity with the desired characteristics (120VAC @ 60Hz).

If the engine speed varies, the qualities of the power generated also change, which is clearly undesirable, so the engine speed must remain constant, and with that comes the constant noise of a generator running at full speed.

Inverter Generators

Inverters are a recent technology, which adjusts the electrical characteristics of the power produced using microprocessors and special electronics. Unlike conventional generators, inverter generators can control generator motor speed accordingly. This means that the engine can adjust according to the power load needed, saving fuel and substantially reducing noise.

Designed to mirror a pure sine wave, inverter generators are also safer to run sensitive electronics, such as Bluetooth speakers. So if you want the best quiet portable generator for your home, RV, camping or tailgating – a portable inverter generator is the best choice.

Understanding Decibels – How Loud is a Generator?

Have you ever heard of decibel? Why the decibel ratings are the key to determine the quietest generator?

What’s a Decibel?

The decibel (abbreviated dB) is the unit used to measure the intensity of a sound. The decibel scale is a little odd because the human ear is incredibly sensitive. Your ears can hear everything from your fingertip brushing lightly over your skin to a loud jet engine. In terms of power, the sound of the jet engine is about 1,000,000,000,000 times more powerful than the smallest audible sound. That’s a big difference!

On the decibel scale, the smallest audible sound is 0 dB. And 0 dB is also the quietest sound audible to a healthy human ear. The relative loudness that we perceive is a subjective psychological phenomenon, not something that can be objectively measured.

Most of us perceive one sound to be twice as loud as another one when they are about 10 dB apart; for instance, a 70dB portable generator will sound twice as loud as a 60dB portable generator. Yet that 10dB difference represents a tenfold increase in intensity. An 80dB portable generator will sound about four times as loud as a 60dB portable generator, but in terms of acoustic intensity, the sound it makes is 100 times as powerful.

How loud is your portable generator?

Normally, 80dB is considered very loud, 70dB is moderately loud, 60dB is fairly quiet, and 50dB is very quiet. A vacuum cleaner weighs in at 70dB, office or restaurant conversation weighs in at 60dB, and quiet conversation at home at about 50dB.

A 1dB increase in sound level is barely noticeable to the human ear. In fact, you have to raise a sound level by 3dB before most listeners report a noticeable or significant change.

Here are some common sounds and their decibel ratings. These ratings are taken while standing near the sound.

Best Quiet Portable Generator Reviews

#1. Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator Review – Quietest Generator

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The Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator gets almost all four and five-star ratings on Amazon.com. Is that enough to prove how good it is?

No other portable generators available today can come close to the quality and reliability of the Honda portable generators, even Yamaha generators. Honda’s generators are really good and always run stability, quietly, and fuel efficient, which will save you a lot of money in the long run. The EU2200i features the most advanced inverter technology from Honda, it’s super quiet, lightweight, and has a solid build. If you’re looking for the best quiet portable generator, the EU2200i is absolutely one of the top choices.

Coming back to our decibel tests, the EU2200i produced less noise than all other portable generators. Simply put, it is the quietest portable generator we’ve found.

Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator Decibels

At no load with Economy mode turned on, it generated only 57 decibels from 20 feet, which was quieter than all 2000-watt models we’ve ever seen. When we turned Eco Mode off, the noise jumped to 59dB but was still very quiet. At full load with Eco Mode turned off, the EU2200i produced only 67.5dB at 20 feet, while most other cheaper portable generators exceeded 70dB. The noise we heard from the EU2200i was mostly low frequency, low humming tone. You will feel very comfortable even when you stand next to the generator when it’s running.

What makes the Honda EU2200i so quiet?

The EU2200i portable inverter generator is powered by the Honda GXR120 engine – which is a legendary engine.

This 4-stroke 3.6 horsepower engine was originally developed as an ideal source of power for rammers – equipment used to compact soil or other granular material. With superb durability and reliability for these heavy-duty applications, the GXR120 is more than ready to meet the high demands required. This engine is more robust than the engines of all other portable generators listed in this article.

The GXR120 engine has a newly designed compact muffler that reduces operation noise by 1 decibel (dB) compared with the current Honda GX100 engine that powers the outgoing Honda EU2000i inverter generator. A simple but innovative lubrication system with a dual-breather chamber optimizes engine lubricating performance. In addition, an automatic decompression system allows for easy engine starting, while an Oil Alert feature prevents the engine from operating if the oil level is too low.

Why the Honda EU2200i is one of the best Camping generators?

The EU2200i generator is one of the best quiet generators for camping and tailgating because it has the right power packed in a compact and lightweight design.

This inverter generator is packing 2200 starting watts and 1800 running watts. This would be enough for most of your power needs when camping. You can use the EU2200i to power a variety of appliances, including televisions, microwaves, refrigerators, and even small window air conditioners or small portable air conditioners.

When needing more power, the EU2200i allows you to add a second EU2200i for additional power. Two identical models can be paralleled with an optional cable for up to 4400 watts of power. The EU2200i will also parallel with EU2000i models.

Equipped with Honda’s exclusive Eco-Throttle System, the EU2200i runs 3.2 to 8.1 hours on just a 0.95-gallon tank of gasoline, depending on the load. More details, it’s able to run 3.2 hours at full load, 6 hours at 50% load, and 8.1 hours at 25% load.

With less than 47 lbs in weight and a built-in handle, the EU2200i is very easy to transport and store. It is also designed for quick and easy starting. Honda’s automatic mechanical decompressor system significantly reduces the amount of force needed to start the engine. This was the only model that started on the first pull every time – even after we drained the fuel tank dry.

Honda guarantees the EU2200i for three years, and the warranty covers all the parts. But you could expect this inverter generator to last at least 10 years. This has been proven.

Conclusion

The Honda EU2200i inverter generator is our pick for the best quiet portable generator money can buy. It’s pricey, but it’s a worthy investment. It’s a perfect camping companion. But if you don’t have much cash to invest in a portable generator, consider the generator model below.

#2. WEN 56200i 2000W Inverter Generator Review – Best Quiet Portable Generator for the Price

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One of the most surprising portable generators in our decibel test was the WEN 56200i portable inverter generator. This generator is among the cheapest 2000-watt generators on the market, but was also one of the quietest portable generators in the test. It was only slightly louder than the Honda and the Yamaha generator under both Eco Mode or a full load. As you can see in the chart below, the WEN 56200i produced less noise than most other more expensive models under a load, this is truly impressive!

WEN 56200i Portable Inverter Generator Decibels

On Eco mode and no load, the 56200i generated only 57.5dB, which was as quiet as the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 inverter generator, and was quieter than most more expensive 2000W models. The decibel level under no load with Eco Mode turned off was 60.5dB. And under full load, the decibel level we measured by a decibel meter was 69dB at 20 feet. We would say this is very comparable to the Yamaha, and you can barely realize the difference between them.

As an inverter generator, the 56200i limits total harmonic distortion to under 0.3 percent at no load and under 1.2 percent at full load, making it safe enough to run laptops, phones, monitors, tablets and other vulnerable electronics. The generator produces 2000 surge watts and 1600 rated watts.

We were also very impressed with the fuel efficiency of this quiet portable generator. With just 1 gallon single tank, it is able to run roughly 9 hours at 25% load and 4 hours at full load – ideal for maintaining overnight power.

Does it mean the Wen 56200i is more efficient than the Honda EU2200i? NO! The reason behind this is that the Wen has the much less powerful engine and produces less power than the Honda (the Wen has a 2HP engine while Honda’s is 3.6HP). But running up to 4 hours at full load on just a 1-gallon tank is still very impressive for such a cheap 2000W portable generator.

The WEN 56200i comes equipped with two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle, and one 5V USB port.  Indication lights on the front of the panel provide overload and low-oil warnings. The automatic shutter controls the intake of gasoline to match the wattage at hand, maximizing fuel economy. The 56200i is Parallel capable, allows you to link up two generators for doubling the power output.

Conclusion

The WEN 56200i inverter generator is by far one of the best and quietest portable generators that we’ve ever found and tested. It’s quiet, lightweight, and easy to use. And for the price, it’s unbeatable!

#3. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Gas-Powered Portable Inverter Generator Review

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When it comes to the best portable generator for camping, most camping enthusiasts recommend models from Honda and Yamaha. They are generally more fuel efficient, more versatile, and much quieter than generators from other brands. We would say you can’t go wrong with either of those two. They get so many positive reviews from both owners and fellow professional reviewers. And the fact that we’ve heard very little negative feedback from users about Honda’s and Yamaha’s generators.

The EF2000iSv2 is one of the best and quietest generators from Yamaha. It was just about 0.5dB louder than the Honda EU2200i at no load and about 1dB at full load. We think this Yamaha generator is as loud as the Honda 2000 watt unit. They are both great units and both will serve you well. But the Yamaha beats Honda when it comes to portability and fuel efficiency.

Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Inverter Generator Decibels

The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 inverter generator weighs in at 44.1 pounds, making it easily portable. It’s packed with 1600 watts of running power and 2000 watts of starting power.

It will run up to 10.5 hours at 25% rated load, 7 hours at half load, and 4.2 hours at full load, on just a 1.1-gallon tank of gasoline. This means when the fuel tank is full the EF2000iSv2 will allow you to power several different power tools or small appliances throughout the day. The EF2000iSv2 also features “Gasoline petcock” that lets you shut off the gas to run the carb dry for storage and helps prevent stale gas problems.

Additional features include an Oil Watch Warning System to prevent engine damage, a 12-volt DC outlet and included cables to charge any 12-volt battery. Easy-to-read fuel gauge. The parallel function lets you connect an additional generator for extra amperage.

Conclusion

You can NEVER say that you have never heard of Yamaha! Just like their cars and other equipment that they produce, this quiet portable generator is made with the same quality and reliability in mind.

The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 inverter generator, in our opinion, is the only competitor of the Honda 2000W generator in terms of quality and reliability. The Honda is more powerful, but the Yamaha is more fuel efficient. Both always deliver power constantly and reliability. And more importantly, both are super quiet.

#4. Westinghouse iGen2200 Portable Inverter Generator Review

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The iGen2200 inverter generator is one of the Westinghouse’s quietest and best selling portable generators. This inverter generator has a very lightweight and compact design and it has a suitcase-style handle allows for easy transportation. The iGen2200 has the same capacity as the Honda EU2200i but it’s about 0.5 pounds lighter and has a bigger fuel tank – up to 1.2 gal – which allows the generator to run entirely the day on a single tank. This generator has a small footprint and takes up little space, so if you’re after a small generator that is easy to store and transport, look no further!

The iGen2200 was pretty quiet in the noise test. The noise level it produced at no load and Economy/Efficiency Mode turned on was 58dB, at no load with Eco Mode turned off was 61dB, and at rated-load was 70dB. It was as quiet as the WEN 56200i under Eco Mode (or Efficiency Mode) and 1dB louder under full load. This makes sense because the iGen2200 delivers 200W more power than the WEN 56200i. The iGen2200 is quieter than most portable generators in its class and we think if you’re looking for the best quiet portable generator, this is one of the top choices.

Westinghouse iGen2200 Portable Inverter Generator Decibels

The iGen2200 inverter generator 2,200 peak watts and 1,800 running watts, making it perfect as an emergency backup for home use or for recreational uses such as camping and tailgating. It weighs in at 46 pounds. A 4-stroke OHV Westinghouse engine allows the generator to run 30% to 50% more fuel efficient than a traditional generator. Under Efficiency Mode with a 1.2 gallons fuel tank, it is able to run up 12 hours at 25% load, 8 hours at 50% load, and 3.4 hours at rated load. This is very impressive for its compact size!

The iGen2200 has 2 USB Ports (5V DC) and one 120 VAC 20A Household Duplex Outlet to power your devices via USB, or other appliances through a standard outlet.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the best camping generator, the Westinghouse iGen2200 is a great option to consider. It is one of the quietest portable generators you can buy. It seems to be very sturdy and well made and we think it will serve you very well for years to come.

#5. Ryobi Bluetooth 2,300-Watt Digital Inverter Generator Review

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The Ryobi Bluetooth 2,300-Watt Digital Inverter Generator features Bluetooth technology which allows monitoring power usage, run time, fuel level in real time and even remotely shut off your generator from your smartphone. It has plenty of great features and it runs very efficiently that will give you enough runtime to cover the majority of your recreational needs.

This generator runs relatively quiet at just 71.4 decibels at full load and much quieter (58.3dB) at Auto Idle/Eco mode and no load. There are several quieter models, but this is still impressive.

Ryobi 2300-watt Bluetooth Generator Decibels

The Ryobi 2300-watt Bluetooth Generator features an 80cc OHV 4-Cycle engine that pushes 2300 starting watts and 1800 running watts. Ryobi makes this generator parallel capable, so you can hook up a second one and get 3600 running watts. The generator has two 120V 20A outlets, as well as two 2.1A USB outlets for your laptops and smartphones. These aren’t GFCI protected outlets, so keep an eye on the weather and nearby water sources when you’re using it.

The Ryobi 2300-watt Bluetooth Generator looks small, but it’s the heaviest portable generator in our lineup. It weighs 53 pounds – almost 10 pounds heavier than the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 – but it has a couple of handles at the top and dual rear wheels for easy rolling around. With a 1.2 gallons fuel tank, this inverter generator will run for 10+ hours at 25% load; 7.5 hours at 50% load; and at rated load it can run for 4.2 hours.

This Ryobi generator features Bluetooth technology, but unlike portable Bluetooth speakers which allow you to stream music via an app on your smartphone, you can’t start the generator with the Bluetooth. Bluetooth is only to monitor power consumption, fuel level, runtime remaining as well as stop the generator.

Conclusion

The Ryobi 2300-watt Bluetooth Generator wasn’t the quietest generator in the noise test, but, it’s definitely one of the best quiet portable generators available to buy today. And with Bluetooth, it’s smarter than most other portable generators.

#6. Generac GP2200i Portable Inverter Generator Review

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Generac makes some of the best quiet portable generators that are at a reasonable price, such as the GP2200i portable inverter generator. The GP2200i has the same capacity in the same lightweight, compact package as the Westinghouse iGen2200. This design is the primary selling point of these both portable generators. It’s easy to transport, store and use, making it a good choice to take on camping trips, a backup supply for short power outages or just to be prepared for those just-in-case scenarios.

But if we have to choose between this Generac generator and the Westinghouse iGen2200, we’d pick the Westinghouse! Why? Because in the performance test, the Westinghouse ran smoother and handled a heavy load better than the Generac. And the Generac was also louder than the Westinghouse.

Generac GP2200i Portable Inverter Generator Decibels

The Generac GP2200i ran relatively quiet at no load with Economy mode turned on, it produced 59.6 decibels of sound at 20 feet. But when running at full load with Eco Mode turned off, the decibel jumped to 72 decibels – which was 2dB louder than the Westinghouse, and much louder than the Honda and Yamaha – but this was still on the quiet side. Most portable generators in its class fall somewhere between 75 and 80 decibels.

This GP2200i produces about 1,700 running watts and 2,200 surge watts. This is more than enough to power for simple things like small appliances like microwaves or a mini fridge, as well as electronic devices like laptops, tablets and smartphones. The generator is equipped with a 1.2 gallons fuel tank allows 10.75 hours of run time at 25% load, 7 hours of runtime at 50% load, and 3.3 hours at rated load.

One more thing to note about this model is that it comes with a parallel kit, which means you can hook two of these generators together for twice the power.

Conclusion

The Generac GP2200i wasn’t the quietest portable generator we reviewed, but it’s a good quiet portable generator to buy. It’s great for taking on overnight camping trips or as a short-term backup power supply for smaller items. It has a unique design that makes it very portable and easily stored.

7. Briggs & Stratton P2200 PowerSmart Inverter Generator Review

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The Briggs & Stratton P2200 PowerSmart was the loudest portable generator in our sound test. But it was reasonably quiet at light loads and even under heavy load it is much quieter than the open frame type generators. The thing we love most about this portable generator is that it’s very powerful. Under heavy load it ran smoother than most other portable generators in its class. It seemed as powerful as the Honda EU2200i inverter generator, but the price was much cheaper.

From 20 feet, we measured the Briggs & Stratton P2200 operated at 60 decibels at with no load with Economy Mode turned on. It was pretty loud when operating at full load with the decibel level measured was 74 decibels. 74dB is the decibel rating at full load of some of the quietest 3000 watts portable generators, such as the Honda EU3000is inverter generator. But as we were saying, this is still much quieter than the open frame type generators.

The Briggs & Stratton P2200 produces 1700W running power and 2200W peak power from a 111cc OHV engine. It has a 1-gallon fuel tank. The best running time you’ll get is about 8-hours at 25% load and 6.5-hours at 50% load.

It has a simple and easy to understand control panel. With two 120V AC outlets and a 12V outlet using a standard cigarette lighter type plug. The generator comes with a kit that includes a 12V alligator clip adapter and a 12V USB adapter. You also get a funnel and multi-purpose screwdriver. The control panel also has LED indicator lights for run, low-oil warning and overload warning. In the center of the panel is an input for the parallel cable. Both the DC and AC circuits are protected by circuit breakers.

Conclusion

The Briggs & Stratton P2200 wasn’t as quiet as we expected but it’s still one of the best quiet portable generators on the market. It’s a great generator to buy if you’re looking for a powerful and reliable power source for your home backup or RV camping. Add to this, Briggs & Stratton has many years of experience building generators and it’s the name you can definitely trust.

#8. Pulsar PG2000iS Portable Inverter Generator Review – Best Budget Quiet Portable Generator

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The Pulsar PG2000iS 2000W inverter generator was the cheapest model in our review. It’s also one of the cheapest 2000-watt portable generators you can buy. It’s cheap, but it turned out a quiet generator. We were really impressed with how quiet it was.

The PG2000iS was quieter than many more expensive models that we saw, and it was even quieter than the Briggs & Stratton P2200 inverter generator at full load. It’s so amazing for such a cheap generator! If you’re looking for a good quiet portable generator but don’t want to invest much in it, this Pulsar 2000 watts inverter generator is a decent option to purchase.

The Pulsar PG2000iS was pretty quiet at no load with the Economy mode turned on. It generated just 59dB of noise from 20 feet, which was quieter than that of the Generac and the Briggs & Stratton. At full load, it generated 73dB of noise, which is considered fairly loud. But 73 decibels of noise exceeded our expectation for the one at only one third the cost of a comparable Honda.

Weighing in at just 47 pounds and having a handy “suitcase” design, the 2000iS offers a great portability for outdoor power and entertainment use. It produces 2000 Peak watts/ 1600 running watts of power and is capable of up to 8 hours at 50% load on just 1.18 gallons of fuel. Features like the dual 120-volt outlets, 12V ‘cigarette’ outlet, and direct connect USB port provide you with pure, safe electrical power perfect for cellular devices, laptops, and other mobile devices.

This inverter portable generator is parallel capable allows you to easily connect 2 units together for increased power output.

Conclusion

This is one of the best quiet portable generators to purchase if you’re on a tight budget. It is small, lightweight, and easy to use, and it seems to be very sturdy and well made. And on top of all this, it has a very affordable price.

#9. Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium Portable Power Station Review – Best Solar Portable Generator

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The Goal Zero Yeti 1400 is a solar generator. It has a built-in high-capacity Lithium-Ion battery that is packed with a 1425Wh of power, in a lightweight and compact package. The battery recharges by connecting to a compatible solar panel and a small MPPT solar charge controller. This solar generator is a perfect alternative to a 2000 watts conventional generator. As it doesn’t use gasoline or propane, it has no noise as well as no emission. It’s safe enough to store inside your home or apartment for running lights or appliances during an emergency power outage, and still durable enough to take along to your next outdoor project.

The Yeti 1400 features a 1425Wh capacity (132Ah/10.8V, 396Ah/3.7V) with various high-power 120V AC, USB, USB-C, USB-PD and 12V outputs capable of running 10 devices at once. With these 10 versatile ports, it keeps all the necessary gear powered up anywhere. It features higher surge capacities for greater compatibility with more power-hungry devices, and the latest in USB-C Power Delivery capable of charging larger USB devices like laptops.

The Yeti 1400 is great for all your larger sized or multiple device power needs:

• Smartphone: 70+ Recharges
• POV Camera: 230+ Recharges
• Headlamp: 230+ Recharges
• Tablet: 52+ Recharges
• Laptop: 23+ Recharges
• Light-a-Life: 465+ Hours
• Fridge: 23+ Hours
• 32 LCD TV: 14 hours.

With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can control the Yeti 1400 remotely via Goal Zero Yeti App – which available on both Apple Store and Google Play Store. Through this app, you can turn ports on or off, check battery levels, even update the Yeti’s firmware with your chosen device.

Conclusion

With no noise at all, the Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium is definitely the quietest portable generator you can buy. If you need power that comes in a small size, easy to move around, quiet enough to use in any campsite or national park, this is the one to own.

The post Best Quiet Portable Generators You Can Buy appeared first on Green Living Blog.

RV generators, as we know, come in all types, shapes and sizes. Selecting the best generator for your RV can be a daunting task. You’ll have to figure out which type of generator is right for your RV or how much juice you’ll need to run the appliances you use throughout your travels.

For instance, if you know you’re only going to need to run a few small appliances and charge the RV’s deep cycle batteries, a smaller quiet portable generator, such as the Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator, is going to be the best generator for your RV/travel trailer.

Whereas if you’re traveling in peak summertime and you’ll be off the beaten path for a while, you’ll probably need an RV air conditioner on the rooftop, and a few major appliances, so the best generator for your RV might be a larger model such as the Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator.

In this article, we walk you through the process of selecting a portable generator for your RV or travel trailer. We talk about the pros and cons of each generator fuel type, and then some of the ways you can determine how much power you’ll need, and finally are our reviews on some of the best RV generators on the market today. Let’s get started!

• —Read More—: Best Quiet Portable Generators – Noise Comparison

Best Generators for RV & Travel Trailer

Image	RV Generator	Running/Starting Watts	Generator Fuel Type	Running AC Unit?
	Honda EU2200i Quiet Portable Inverter Generator	1800W/2200W	Gasoline
	Champion 3400-Watt RV Ready Generator	3100W/3400W	Dual-Fuel	15k BTU
	Champion 3800-Watt RV Ready Generator	3800W/4750W	Dual-Fuel	15k BTU
	Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Portable Inverter Generator	1600W/2000W	Gasoline
	Westinghouse WGen3600 Portable Generator	3600W/4650W	Gasoline	15k BTU
	Briggs & Stratton P3000 PowerSmart Inverter Generator	2600W/3000W	Gasoline	13.5k BTU

Our Picks for the Best Generator for RV

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Honda generators are Number 1 when it comes to reliability, durability, and portability. They are also significantly quieter than other brands. The Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator is our pick for the best generator for RV. It delivers 10 percent more power than the legendary top-selling Honda EU2000i model, both have the same quality and represent the leading edge of portable power technology.

Not only is the Honda EU2200i one of the best portable generators for your RV, it’s one of the quietest RV generators available. It produces even less noise than a normal conversation, which is ideal for using at RV campgrounds or anywhere you need reliable power with minimal noise. The Honda EU2200i is also surprisingly fuel-efficient – it can run up to 8.1 hours on just 0.95 gallons of fuel at 25% load.

The Honda EU2200i is a great option for most RVers because it’s a combination of portability, capability, and low-noise level. 1800 rated power is enough to power most devices you need on a camping trip. When need more power to run your RV’s rooftop AC, you can connect 2 of Honda EU2200i portable generator in parallel to get up to 4400 surge watts, 3600 rated watts. Or another way is to buy the below model.

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The Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Generator was our top pick of the best quiet RV generator. It was even quieter than the Honda EU2200i under a 1,500W load. And unlike the Honda EU2200i, this Champion generator runs on either gasoline and propane and can power your RV air conditioner.

When running on gasoline it produces 3400 starting watts and 3100 running watts and will run for 7.5 hours at 25% load. On propane it produces 3060 starting watts and 2790 running watts, and will run for 14.5 hours at 25% load when using a 20-pound propane tank. That’s enough to run a wide variety of devices and appliances that you may have.

What makes this generator more enticing is the fact that this generator is RV ready. Meaning it’s specifically designed for RV use. It has a 120V 30A RV (TT-30R), two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R), a 12V DC automotive-style outlet with a dual USB adapter. Additionally, it is also parallel ready and has the ability to connect with another Champion 3400 Watt for increased power output.

Video: Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator Reviews

Those are the models that we rate are two of the best generators for your RV and the specific needs of your trip. But if you don’t like them, read on to figure out the ideal model.

Propane vs Gas vs Diesel Generator – Which is Best for Your RV?

For many RVers, the first consideration when shopping for an RV generator is what type of fuel they would like to burn. RV generators can be powered by propane, gasoline, or diesel. Some models allow you to switch between fuel types. Each of these fuel types can differ greatly in how they function, how long they last, how much they cost, and in how easy it is to gain access to them as well. Similarly, the best generator for your RV will vary depending on the type of fuel you are considering.

1) Propane RV Generator

• Click here to read our reviews of the best propane generators

Like the name implies, a propane RV generator utilizes propane as the fuel source to convert to electricity. Propane requires a tank separate from the generator itself. These tanks can be the same kind used for fueling heaters and grills, or you can rely on a larger, stationary tank that must be periodically refilled by a service truck.

Pros:

RV propane generators beat out other options when it comes to portability and safety. Propane is considered a clean-burning fuel – it’s nontoxic and produces fewer emissions than some other fuel types do.

Unlike gasoline and diesel, propane will not degrade in storage, so it is a viable option for people who rarely or sporadically use their generator. Propane is also safer to store. Except in the coldest of environments, propane works well. If you are in an area where the temperature is below zero °F then gasoline might be a better option for you. For us, storing gas is an issue because we are so prone to wildfires and gas is highly flammable.

An RV generator using propane can require less maintenance than one that using gasoline or diesel. Gasoline and diesel leave carbon deposits in your engine and exhaust, which need to be cleaned from time to time. These fuels also leave residue in fuel lines and system parts, adding additional maintenance. Propane has none of these effects upon engines, making propane generators easier to maintain. Some of the best propane-powered RV generators won’t require any fuel maintenance, other than ensuring your tank is adequately full.

Cons:

The only drawback of RV generators using propane is that they aren’t quite as efficient as gasoline or diesel RV generators. The reason that they might use more fuel than other types of RV generators is simply a matter of physics. The amount of energy, or energy density, that propane is capable of producing when it burns is simply less than both diesel or gasoline.

The fact that there are very few portable generators for RV that only use propane. Most propane-powered generators are hybrid or dual-fuel, which can be powered by either propane or gasoline.

One of the best generators for RVs that is powered only by propane is the Sportsman GEN4000LP Propane-Powered Generator (4000 watts surge/3250 watt continuous). This generator is significantly less expensive than other similar-sized dual-fuel generators.

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2) Gas-Powered RV Generator

Gas-powered RV generators are the most common, due to the ease of access and relatively low cost of gasoline – it’s not necessarily the best option for all situations, but it’s what you’ll see most RV generator units using.

Pros:

Gas-powered RV generators tend to be less expensive than other models. Gasoline is very available so it’s very easy to refill a gas powered generator or keep reserve fuel around. RV generators using gasoline generally more efficient fuel than their propane-powered cousins so you can power more RV’s appliances at a given time. But gasoline less efficient than diesel. Theoretically, diesel has an energy density of 35.8 megajoules per liter (MJ/L), and gasoline has an energy density of 34.2 MJ/L). Propane, however, only has an energy density of 26 MJ/L.

Cons:

Gas-powered RV generators require more upkeep and care than other fuel models. Gasoline is slightly more dangerous to store than propane and diesel, as it has a very low flash point, and is an extremely flammable liquid. Gasoline also has a relatively low shelf life, and most blends begin breaking down or absorbing moisture within a month. Even gasoline that is several years old is viable, but it may contain elements that will break down or wear engine parts.

If you have a mid-sized RV that uses a moderate amount of power, then a gas-powered generator is probably the best option. Most of the best generators for RVs that we review in this article are gas-powered.

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3) Diesel Generator

Diesel-powered generator is the most powerful of the generator types when comparing apples to apples. Diesel-powered generators are the best choices if your RV runs on diesel fuel like many Class A motorhomes so you only need to use one fuel source. They are cleaner burning than gas-powered generators.

Pros:

Diesel generators require less upkeep and are more efficient than other fuel types. They are typically preferred for their efficiency and low maintenance. Diesel is the most efficient of generator fuels, most diesel generators provide more horsepower per gallon of fuel than comparable gas-powered generators.

Cons:

Although diesel generators have a reputation for being more durable than gas, if they are not run regularly they may be more prone to breaking down. Like gasoline, diesel will burn even after years of storage, but it may degrade the workings of your engine. Diesel is also much more expensive than gasoline or propane and harder to find. The generators themselves are typically the most expensive.

The Generac 5,000-Watt Diesel Portable Generator is a very good option to consider if you’re after a diesel-powered generator.

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4) Dual-Fuel RV Generator

Dual-fuel generators allow the user to switch between gasoline or propane. One of the biggest reasons people prefer the dual generators is convenience. If you are in your RV traveling across the United States, you may not be able to find propane or natural gas, but typically gasoline is available at every exit and in small towns. Therefore, you may choose to run the fuel type that you prefer, but have another fuel as a backup in case you run out somewhere along the way.

When it comes to the best gas-powered generators for RVs, most RVers recommend models from Honda and Yamaha. They are generally more fuel efficient and much quieter than other cheaper generator models. But when it comes to dual-fuel generators, the Champion dual-fuel generators are the most frequently recommended. Most of Champion’s dual-fuel generators get solid reviews. We’ve heard very little negative feedback from actual users.

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What Size RV Generator Do You Need?

To find out the best generator for your RV, you will need to determine the right size of the generator. RV generators come in various sizes available range from 500-watt generators to 4000-watt generators, all the way up to 6500 watts. The number of options is actually quite impressive.

How much power you use will determine the size of RV generator you’ll need. The 2,000-2,500 watts portable generators are the best option for RVers who only use a moderate amount of power and to charge the deep cycle batteries. The 3,000-4,000 watts portable generators will power everything in your RV including your RV air conditioner, which we think is also the most ideal option.

An RV with a 13,500 BTU air conditioner will probably need a 3000 generator, and an RV with a 15,000 BTU air conditioner will need at least a 3300W generator. That is, of course, if you don’t turn on any appliance simultaneously with the AC. You also need to know that most RV generators have a starting watt and running watt rating. For example, the Champion 3400 Watt RV Ready Dual Fuel Inverter will produce 3400 starting watts and 3100 running watts on gasoline.

So a 3,400W RV generator might give you up to 3,400W to start that air conditioner, but for long-term use might only be rated 3,100W. So after your 3,400W RV generator starts your 13,500 BTU air conditioner which might run at 2000W, you have around 1,100W to use on other items.

We recommend not compromising on the size of RV generator you purchase. When boondocking or dry camping and it’s a hot day, you’ll be thanking yourself for investing in a high wattage generator that powers your rooftop A/C alongside your coffee machine. The best generator for your RV should be the one that is enough power to run everything you need on a camping trip.

Without an RV air conditioner, the portable generators under 2,500 watts, such as Yamaha EF2000iSv2 or Honda EU2200i inverter generator, would be enough to run most of devices and appliances in your RV, including microwaves or refrigerators.

Inverter vs. Conventional Generators – Which is Best For RV?

When you’re shopping for an RV generator, you’ll see two basic types: old school conventional generator and newer inverter-style generator. Which is the best generator for RV?

Conventional Generators

Conventional generators, such as the Westinghouse WGen3600, have been around for quite a while, and the basic concept behind them has remained essentially unchanged. They consist of an energy source, usually a fossil fuel such as diesel, propane or gasoline, which powers a motor attached to an alternator that produces electricity.

The motor must run at a constant speed (usually 3600 rpm) to produce the standard current that most household uses require (in the U.S., typically 120 Volts AC @ 60 Hertz). If the engine’s rpm fluctuates, so will the frequency (Hertz) of the electrical output.

Inverter Generators

Inverter generators, such as the Honda EU2200i, produce DC power and then convert it to AC current via digital magic. This allows for the on-demand production of the electricity you actually need, meaning a quieter, more efficient operation – all in a lighter, smaller machine. And some come with surge protecting GCFIs, which gives a more stable power stream akin to power lines. The rub comes at the price. Inverter generators cost 3–5 times more than a conventional one.

Which Type Should I Buy?

The best generator for your RV may boil down to what you’re powering. If you’re only looking to keep the milk fresh in the mini-fridge or need big power for air conditioning unit, a cheaper conventional generator may be right for your RV. But if you need to keep sensitive equipment like computers online, a smaller inverter generator with surge protection might be better for your needs. Inverter generators are designed to mirror a pure sine wave inverter, they are safer to run laptops, cell phones, monitors, tablets and other vulnerable electronics in your RV.

Inverter generators also differ widely from conventional generators when it comes to noise. Inverter generators are designed to be comparatively quiet. Quieter engines, special mufflers, and sound-dampening technology are used to reduce noise to amazingly low levels. All of the quietest RV generators available are inverter generators. An inverter generator running low, could be the equivalent of people conversing (50-65 dB). Instead, many conventional generators can have the same noise range as a lawnmower.

Many of the new inverter generators are surprisingly small and lightweight for the electrical generation punch that they pack. Sizes of just a couple of cubic feet and weights in the 30 to 50 pounds range are not uncommon today. For example, the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 weighs only 43 pounds while produces up to 2000 peak watts (Honda EU2200i is 47 pounds).

To give you a better idea, we’ve compiled a comparison table below, and indicated which type of generator comes out on top for each of them. So you can easily select the right type of portable generators for your RV.

Click on the image to enlarge it

Best Generator For RV Reviews

Now it’s time to look at some of the best and quietest RV generators available to you.

#1. Honda EU2200i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator – Best & Quietest Generator for RV Camping

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In our opinion you can’t go wrong with Honda portable generators, they are the NUMBER #1 when it comes to reliability and quality. Honda portable generators are famously fuel efficient and quiet. The Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator is one of the Honda’s top-selling generators and it’s our pick for the best RV generator. It delivers 10 percent more power than the legendary top-selling Honda EU2000i model, both have the same quality and represent the leading edge of portable power technology.

The Honda EU2200i is surprisingly quiet. It generated only 57 dB from 20 feet, which was quieter than most, or maybe all, RV generators we’ve ever seen. To put that into perspective, the noise will be somewhere between listening to a normal conversation and sitting in a private office.

Plus, while this inverter generator puts out up to 1800 watts at full load, it is incredibly lightweight and portable, only less than 47 pounds. So if a lightweight design and quiet operation are your top priorities when shopping for an RV generator, the Honda EU2200i is probably the best choice for you.

Overall, from our own reading reviews from buyers on Amazon.com, talking to the real users, and browsing many RV forums, we can tell that the Honda EU2200i inverter generator is the best generator for RV and camping. It would be enough power to run most devices you need when RV camping, but if you need more power to run RV air conditioning unit, you can add a second EU2200i to double your power, up to 4,400 watts max.

#2. Champion 3400-Watt Dual-Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator – Best Quiet RV Generator for RV Air Conditioner

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The Champion 3400-Watt Dual-Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator was our top pick for the best quiet RV generator. It was even quieter than the Honda EU2200i under a 1,500W load. And unlike the Honda EU2200i, this Champion generator can handle a 15k BTU A/C unit and runs on either gasoline and propane. This is a huge advantage for those in an RV or Travel Trailer as many already have propane on board. Although, when operating on propane the generator does not produce as much power.

You can also run two RV air conditioning units at the same time by connecting two generators together via the optional Champion Parallel Kit.  The Champion Parallel Kit is designed to easily clip-on and connect to two 2800 Watt or more inverters and comes travel-ready with standard 50A RV outlet with enough power to start and run two 15k BTU RV air conditioners. That truly is convenient in such a way that you can easily get more power when you need it, without having to trade up for a larger, heavier RV generator.

You get more power without sacrificing portability. For that reason, we think the Champion 3400-Watt Dual-Fuel RV Ready is the best generator for your RV if you’re looking for a generator model that is able to handle your A/C unit in the hot days while has the ability to extend the power whenever you need.

The Champion 3400-Watt Inverter Generator has a run time of up to 7.5 hours on a full tank of gasoline or 14.5 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank at 25% load. It features a push-button electric start and a built-in Volt Guard to protect your devices from sudden voltage spikes and power surges. It includes a 120V 30A RV (TT-30R), two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R), a 12V DC automotive-style outlet with dual USB adapter, plus a propane hose with a built-in regulator.

#3. Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator

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If you need more power from your RV generator but you don’t have much money to spend, and a quiet operation isn’t your top priority, then the Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator is a very good option to consider.

This unit provides more power than the Champion 3,400W dual-fuel inverter generator but is only half of the price. When using a 20-pound propane tank, it’s capable of producing 4275 starting watts and 3240 running watts, and will run for 20 hours at 25% load – the running time is much longer than that of the Champion 3,400W. When running on gasoline, it produces about 4750 starting watts and 3800 running watts, and will run for 9 hours at 50% load.

You can use this generator to run a 15k BTU A/C unit and several appliances in your RV simultaneously without any issue. As one of the best generators for RVs that Champion offers to the market, the 3800-Watt Dual Fuel already comes with a standard 30A RV outlet. It also features Volt Guard built-in surge protector which prevents overloads and keeps your RV’s appliances safe.

There are also plenty of outlets available: a 120V 30A RV (TT-30R), a 120V 30A locking outlet (L5-30R), and two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R). The convenient electric start includes a battery, plus Cold Start Technology ensures a quick start in cold weather. Finally, Champion’s thoughtful packaging make setup hassle-free, plus the foldaway handle makes it easy to store, while the never-flat tires in the included wheel kit make transport a cinch.

Overall, if you’re looking for an inexpensive portable generator that will give you an awesome power, the Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is one of the best generators you can buy for your RV. Though with a noise level of 68 dBA from 23 feet, it can be quite a bit loud.

#4. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Gas-Powered Portable Inverter Generator – Best Small Generator for RV

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When it comes to the best portable generator for RV and camping, most people recommend models from Honda and Yamaha. They are generally more fuel efficient, more versatile, and much quieter than portable generators from other brands. We think you can’t go wrong with either of those two. They get so many positive reviews from both owners and fellow professional reviewers. And the fact that we’ve heard very little negative feedback from users about Honda’s and Yamaha’s generators.

The EF2000iSv2 Gas Powered Portable Inverter is Yamaha’s top-selling generator. It competes directly with the Honda EU2200i in price, features, and noise level, but it delivers 10 percent less power (200W) and has a slightly smaller engine – which makes it lighter than the Honda (44.1 lbs).

The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 produces 1600 watts of running power and 2000 starting watts. This is not the one for running multiple devices in your RV at the same time. And also not enough power to start up a 13,500 BTU air conditioner. However, if you use a small window air conditioner in your RV, this portable generator would work without any issues.

Additional features include an Oil Watch Warning System to prevent engine damage, a 12-volt DC outlet and included cables to charge any 12-volt battery. Easy-to-read fuel gauge. The parallel function lets you connect an additional generator for extra amperage. Gasoline petcock allows you to shut the gas off and run the carburetor dry for storage.

#5. Westinghouse WGen3600 Gas-Powered Portable Generator – Best Cheap Generator for RV

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The Westinghouse WGen3600 Portable Generator is a great option if you’re after an inexpensive RV generator that is powerful enough to do most jobs for which you might use it. Like the Champion 3,800W dual-fuel above, this Westinghouse generator is an open frame generator. The biggest advantage of an open frame generator is the price. It can be significantly less when compared to a similar-sized inverter generator. With that cost saving does come a heavier and louder unit.

The WGen3600 runs at 3600 running watts and 4650 peak watts due to its solid Westinghouse engine. The engine in this unit is 212cc and OHV, contained in a cast iron sleeve for strength and protection. When a 4-gallon fuel tank is full, the engine can run for approximately 18 hours at a 25% load. The WGen3600 comes with two 5-20R 120V household duplex receptacles, one RV-ready TT-30R 30 Amp Receptacle, and one L5-30R 30 Amp Receptacle. All have rubber covers for added protection. The unit is also made for easy use. It comes with modern parts, such as the helpful, intuitive control panel. The operation is easy for most adults.

With such many convenient features and a warranty up to 3 years, this is definitely one of the best generators for RV you can buy without breaking the bank. But if you’re looking for a really quiet RV generator for using at campgrounds, we’d suggest you consider another model.

#6. Briggs & Stratton P3000 PowerSmart Gas-Powered Portable Inverter Generator

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Engineered to be ultra portable and ultra powerful, the Briggs & Stratton P3000 PowerSmart Inverter Generator is the ideal power-house for dry camping or boondocking. With a 3,000 starting watts/2,600 running watts output, this is a monster that produces enough power to run just about everything you need, where ever you want to go – from the most basic tailgate essentials to higher-wattage items including: big screen TVs, crock-pots, small refrigerators, microwaves and a 13,500 BTU RV air conditioning unit (not all at the same time).

The P3000 comes equipped with all the bells and whistles you might expect from Briggs & Stratton, including an auto-idle mode recommended for best fuel economy, a standard fuel gauge and a handy LCD display “StatStation”. The Briggs & Stratton StatStation display – although it might sound simple, this digital readout shows you exactly how much power you’re sucking – and prevents a nasty power overload.

In addition to the RV ready connection, including one 12V DC outlet and one 120V 30A RV outlet, you will take advantage of the 4 onboard 120V outlets, as well as the USB connection. If you often travel with lots of gear, these dedicated outlets would come in handy – providing a charge to your phone, camera, and many devices with ease.

But what really impressed us about this generator was the fact that while it weighs up to 84 lbs, it is very easy to move around. At the back of the generator you’ll find two beefy air-less wheels and at the front a telescopic handle – allowing you to drag the generator around with you effortlessly. Not to mention, up-top there is twin lift handles that allow two people to lift this generator with ease.

Overall, the Briggs & Stratton P3000 PowerSmart is one of the best generators for RV camping and power outages with plenty of power and so many awesome features.

The post What’s the Best Generator For Your RV? appeared first on Green Living Blog.

Propane generators beat out other options when it comes to portability and safety. Propane is considered a clean-burning fuel – it’s nontoxic and produces fewer emissions than some other fuel types do. Unlike gasoline and diesel, propane will not degrade in storage, so it is a viable option for people who rarely or sporadically use their generator. Plus, generators using propane are generally quieter than generators using gasoline or diesel. That’s why they are very popular for recreational use like camping, RV, and even emergency backup.

If you’re going to invest in a propane generator, this article is for you. We review some of the best propane generators available that we think are worth your money. The fact that most of the models listed here are dual-fuel, that means they can run on both gas and propane, giving you options when the fuel storage or clean-burning benefits of propane are preferred, while having the ability to utilize a more mobile free-standing generator for more routine applications with gasoline.

• What’s the quietest portable generator on the market? Noise & Decibel Comparison
• What’s the best generator for my RV?

Best Portable Propane Generator: Our Pick

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One of the best and quietest propane generators available is the Champion 3400-Watt Dual-Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator. This was also one of the best quiet generators for RVs in our decibel test. It was even quieter than the legendary Honda EU2200i portable generator when running under a 1,500W load.

What makes this portable generator more enticing than the super quiet operating levels is the fact that it is RV ready. It’s designed for RV use and comes with a battery for an easy electric start. Additionally, it can be paralleled (connecting two generators together to provide double the power), although this unit is supposed to provide enough power for an RV Air Conditioner, 13.5k or 15k BTU.

So if you’re looking for the best quiet propane generator, this Champion generator is for you.

How Do Propane Generators Work?

Propane generators work basically the same as any other type of generator. The only exception is that instead of using a traditional carburetor they often have specialized carburetors that are designed especially for burning propane. In other cases, they have carburetors that have been converted to run on propane.

Another difference is that instead of pouring fuel into a gas or diesel holding tank, you will connect a hose coming from the propane tank to the generator. Other than that, they basically worked the same as any other type. The propane is simply another type of fuel that powers an internal combustion engine. It’s a flammable hydrocarbon gas, when burned by the generator’s engine it will produce electricity. This is the same regardless of the type of fuel that is used to power the engine.

Benefits of Propane Generators

Here are a few benefits of having a propane generator compared to gasoline and diesel generators.

1) Propane is easier to access during natural disasters

Gasoline pumps need electricity to function, so if you are caught in a long-term power outage you may have trouble restocking your gasoline supply. This means that when using a gas-powered generator, you generally need to stock up on fuel in advance and store it somewhere at home. With a propane-powered generator you can relax knowing that you can still purchase fuel if you run out. It doesn’t require electricity to fill a tank of propane.

Propane is also safer to store. Except in the coldest of environments, propane works well. If you are in an area where the temperature is below zero °F then gasoline might be a better option for you. For us, storing gas is an issue because we are so prone to wildfires and gas is highly flammable.

For those reasons, if the main purpose of your generator is to be a power source during an emergency, then you should consider a portable propane generator or a dual-fuel generator that can run on propane.

2) Propane generators can require less maintenance

There are certain kinds of maintenance that you’ll have to conduct for gasoline and diesel generators that you won’t have to do for one that runs on propane. Gasoline and diesel leave carbon deposits in your engine and exhaust, which need to be cleaned from time to time. These fuels also leave residue in fuel lines and system parts, adding additional maintenance. Propane has none of these effects upon engines, making propane generators easier to maintain. Some of the best portable propane generators won’t require any fuel maintenance, other than ensuring your tank is adequately full.

3) Propane has a longer shelf life

You can only store gas for about 12 months, but you can store propane indefinitely. It will literally outlast the container holding it. So the only long-term concern is maintaining the tank. This allows you to stock up on it without worrying that it’s going to degrade and be useless when you need it.

4) Propane is safer

Propane is a “cleaning burning” fuel, which means that it produces a significantly lower amount of carbon monoxide and doesn’t act as a greenhouse gas like other fuel sources, specially gasoline. Releasing around 30 percent of the CO of a typical gas-powered generator, many people consider propane to be the best generator fuel around. While you still need to respect all rules and guidelines for ventilation, creating fewer emissions is a major advantage when you’re considering gas vs. propane generators.

Also, propane is a better option as a power source because it is non-toxic and is released as a gas. So, when your tank is being filled there is no risk of spillage, especially with the hassle-free and safe hose and valve attachment that is used when connecting your propane tank to the propane source (a larger safe tank) during fill-ups. Gasoline is a different story. There is a risk of spillage and hassle associated with filling a gasoline tank, which doesn’t protect our environment at all. Propane’s high ignition point, 940 degrees Fahrenheit, makes it less of a fire hazard than gasoline, which ignites at 430 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

5) You can run a propane generator 24/7 without even touching it

Most gas-powered generators come with a predetermined tank size and depending on the efficiency of the unit, must be monitored often so as not to run out of fuel. With portable propane generators, you determine the tank size and those can range from 5-gallons to 1000 plus gallon tanks. This means that you can use the generator as needed without management.

The best propane generators can operate for roughly eight to fifteen days when fully stocked with fuel. They often have smart features that shut them down if there is a problem with fuel delivery or if there is a systemic issue. You might not even notice your propane generator is running if you put it far from your house.

Drawbacks of Propane Generators

The only drawback of propane generators is that they aren’t quite as efficient as gasoline or diesel generators. The reason that they might use more fuel than other types of generators is simply a matter of physics. The amount of energy, or energy density, that propane is capable of producing when it burns is simply less than both diesel or gasoline.

Theoretically, diesel has an energy density of 35.8 megajoules per liter (MJ/L), and gasoline has an energy density of 34.2 MJ/L). Propane, however, only has an energy density of 26 MJ/L, almost a third less of that of diesel and gasoline. Therefore, when it comes to comparing costs, you’ll ultimately spend less on fuel in an emergency situation if your generator runs on diesel or gasoline than if it runs on propane.

Best Portable Propane Generators Reviews

If you’re looking for a propane generator, these are some of the best portable propane generators on the market that we think are worth your money.

#1. Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator – Best Quiet Propane Generator

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Among all of the portable propane generators that we’ve reviewed, the Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator is the quietest one. When it’s running, you can stand next to it while carrying on a comfortable conversation. More importantly, even though this Champion inverter generator produces a whopping power output of 3,400 watts, it’s still very affordable. At roughly the same price as the Honda or Yamaha, yet 1500 Watts larger, dual fuel and electric start, this generator is easily one of the best propane generator for the money.

This Champion dual-fuel generator runs on either propane or gasoline, you can easily switch fuels with a quick turn of the fuel selector dial. When using a 20-pound propane tank, the engine produces 3060 starting Watt and 2790 running Watt, and will run for around 14.5 hours at 25% load. When using gasoline, it will produce 3400 starting Watt and 3100 running Watt, and will run for 7.5 hours at 25% load. When more power is needed, you can hook it up to another Champion inverter generator for double the power.

This quiet propane generator comes with a battery for easy push-button electric Touch Start and includes a battery-maintenance Smart Charger to keep the battery charged when not in use. It has a smart Economy Mode that can determine exactly how much power is needed slowing down the engine when applicable. As the electrical load is reduced the engine automatically idles lower allowing for quiet operation extended engine life and higher fuel economy. Also included is a standard 50-amp RV outlet with enough power to start and run two 15,000 BTU RV air conditioners.

• What’s the best RV surge protector?

Overall, with many such great features, the Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator is easily one of the best, if not the best, portable propane generators.

#2. Westinghouse WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Best Propane Generator for Home Emergency Backup

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The Westinghouse WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator is one of the best propane-powered generators for home emergency backup. It produces 9,500 peak watts and 7,500 running watts when using gasoline, 8,550 peak watts and 6,750 running watts when using propane. With either fuel, the WGen7500DF produces more than enough power to simultaneously run your water pump, refrigerator, air conditioning unit, television and computer with the capacity to spare. This unit can provide you with peace of mind during heavy storms when your power could go out. Even if the outage lasts a few days, the WGen7500DF is up to the task of powering all your home essentials.

The Westinghouse WGen7500DF is an open frame generator, thus it is quite a bit louder than other inverter generators. If a quiet propane generator is what you’re after, the WGen7500DF is not for you. With a noise level of 74dBA from 23 feet at its rated load of 7500 Watts, it can be relatively noisy. However, the biggest advantage of an open frame generator is the price. It can be significantly less when compared to a similar sized inverter generator. Built with a 720cc Westinghouse OHV Engine, the WGen7500DF can run for up to 16 hours on a 6.6-gallon fuel tank at 25% load. A built-in extendable handle and rugged never-flat wheels make transporting this unit easy and it’s loaded with features such as low oil shut down, overload protection. This unit also features remote start which is operated by key fob, adding to the convenience of having power wherever you need it.

We think the Westinghouse WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator is one of the best portable propane generators available. And with a 3-Year limited residential warranty plus lifetime technical support, you can go wrong with it.

#3. Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Best Propane Generator for the Money

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The Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a great option if you’re looking for an efficient portable propane generator at a reasonable price and a quiet operation isn’t your top priority. This unit provides more power than the Champion 3,400W dual-fuel inverter generator but is only half of the price. When using a 20-pound propane tank, it’s capable of producing 4275 starting watts and 3240 running watts, and will run for 20 hours at 25% load – the running time is much longer than that of the Champion 3,400W. When running on gasoline, it produces about 4750 starting watts and 3800 running watts, and will run for 9 hours at 50% load.

Not only is this unit a great solution for backup power during an emergency, it’s also one of the best portable propane generators for powering your RV appliances. It comes travel-ready with a standard 30A RV outlet with enough power to start and run a 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner. It also features Volt Guard built-in surge protector which prevents overloads and keeps your RV’s appliances safe.

There are plenty of outlets available: a 120V 30A RV (TT-30R), a 120V 30A locking outlet (L5-30R), and two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R). The convenient electric start includes a battery, plus Cold Start Technology ensures a quick start in cold weather. Finally, Champion’s thoughtful packaging make setup hassle-free, plus the foldaway handle makes it easy to store, while the never-flat tires in the included wheel kit make transport a cinch.

Overall, if you’re looking for a propane-powered generator that would give you an awesome power to run your house or your RV in the event of a power outage, particularly during the hurricane season, the Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a decent option to buy. Though with a noise level of 68 dBA from 23 feet, it can be quite a bit loud.

#4. DuroMax XP2000EH SideKick Dual Fuel Inverter Generator – Best Small Propane Generator

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If you’re looking for a small propane-powered generator that you can easily bring with you on your camping trips, turn to the DuroMax XP2000EH SideKick Dual Fuel Inverter Generator. This unit produces 2,000 starting watts and 1,600 running watts. With the integrated handle and lightweight maneuverability of only 47 pounds, this is the most versatile propane generator available. The SideKick is capable of keeping the lights on and a few household appliances during an emergency, powering a food-cart, or running a TV, and most power tools on the job sites.

Designed for safe and easy operation, the XP2000EH features a user-friendly, Recoil Start and high leverage handles that make it easy to transport. Starting this small propane generator is quite easy thanks to the redesigned responsive pull starter that decompresses before each start. The built-in parallel ports allow for easy daisy-chaining of 2 generators to be used in tandem to produce 4,000W of power. And like on the legendary Honda EU2000i inverter generator, the XP2000EH has a 12V, 8amp outlet that allows you to charge your 12V deep cycle batteries with ease without using a dedicated battery charger.

The DuroMax XP2000EH Side Kick is able to run for 24 hours on a 20lb tank at 50% load (800W). We think it’s the perfect companion for camping, charging deep cycle batteries, or using on the job site. With 3-year Residential Limited Factory Warranty, this is the best small propane generator we’ve found.

#5. Duromax XP4850EH Dual Fuel Electric Start Portable Generator

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As far as value and overall quality the DuroMax XP4850EH is hard to beat. In fact, DuroMax generators are excellent generators, especially when compared to what you pay. Let’s be honest, if you want the absolute best portable propane generator then you should be looking at our top pick, but for most homeowners DuroMax makes fantastic generators for the money.

Engineered with sustainability and durability in mind, the XP4850EH comes standard with a dual fuel system that operates on either gas or propane. It’s equipped with a mighty 7 HP 196cc engine which gives you 3850 running watts and a peak power (starting watts) of 4850W. This the perfect amount of power for most standard RVs and will also give you enough amps to run most of your household electric appliances. It will run for 8 hours at 50% load on a full tank of gasoline or 10 hours at 50% on a 20 lbs propane tank.

Like all DuroMax generators, the XP4850EH is built to be tough and reliable. You can immediately see this in the rugged steel frame and large 10½” solid rubber wheels with steel rims. Because of an over-sized muffler, even though the XP4850EH doesn’t have extra sound insulation, like the more expensive generators, it still produces less noise than most other portable propane generators on the market – 69dB from 23 feet. Some other great features include: Low Oil Protection, AC and DC Regulators, a Spark Arrestor, an Electric Start Key for easy starting, full power panel with engine shutoff, volt meter, circuit breaker and power outlets.

Overall, if you’re looking for the best propane generator, we’d highly recommend you consider the DuroMax XP4850EH.

The post What’s The Best Propane Generator of 2019? appeared first on Green Living Blog.

Unfortunately, it’s not easy to find out the best quiet RV generator that fits your needs. Manufacturers use a variety of terms when describing features about their generators: Power Output, Run Time, USB Ports, Advanced Features, etc. But most of them never provide the actual Noise Levels, or Decibel Ratings, of their models. This is all we need to determine how quiet an RV generator is. You can go to a dealer who is willing to actually demonstrate the generator for you, but this may make you feel uncomfortable. And the fact is most dealers won’t do this before you make a purchase.

Luckily, we’ve actually conducted a noise test on some of the quietest RV generators on the market today, including generators from Honda, Yamaha, Champion Power Equipment, Briggs & Stratton, and Wen. We’ve written down the actual decibel ratings of each model and show you in a table below. And it turned out that the noise levels of an RV generator depend significantly on whether it is operating under ECO mode or under a load (1,500W heat gun). And surprisingly enough, one of the largest RV generators in our test was the quietest RV generator under a load, and its price was very affordable.

• The Quietest Portable Generators Reviews – Noise & Decibel Comparison
• What’s The Best Propane Generator?
• Best generator for RV – Reviews and Buying Guide 

Best Quiet RV Generators (Scroll down to see reviews)

Image	RV Generator	Noise Levels (Eco Mode 20')	Noise Levels (1500W 20')	Running/Starting Watts	Running AC Unit?
	Champion 3400W Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator	62 dBA	65 dBA	3100W/3400W
	Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator	57 dBA	67.4 dBA	1800W/2200W
	Honda EU3000iS Gasoline Portable Inverter Generator	60.5 dBA	70 dBA	2800W/3000W
	Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Gas Portable Inverter Generator	57.5 dBA	68 dBA	1600W/2000W
	Briggs & Stratton P3000 PowerSmart Series	61 dBA	74 dBA	2600W/3000W
	WEN 56310i CARB Compliant Inverter Generator	63 dBA	71.7 dBA	2800W/3100W

Our Recommendation For You

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Much to our surprise the largest inverter generator that we tested was the QUIETEST RV GENERATOR UNDER A LOAD. The Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator really impressed us! Not only was it the quietest generator under a load, it was relatively quiet in eco mode.

What makes this generator more enticing than the super quiet operating levels is the fact that this generator is RV ready. It runs off Gasoline or Propane straight out of the box and comes with a battery for easy electric start. Additionally, it can be paralleled (connecting two generators together to provide double the power), although this unit is supposed to provide enough power for an RV Air Conditioner, 13.5k or 15k BTU.

Many people opt 2000W generators for their RVs, such as the Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator. These generators would be enough for most of your power needs, but one of the major disadvantages of them is that they can’t handle your RV’s air conditioner, as most RV air conditioners will need somewhere between 2800 – 3500 watts to start. This is a very important factor when selecting the best quiet generator for your RV as summer is coming soon and your RV can get uncomfortably hot without air conditioning. That’s why we think 3000W to 3400W (starting watts) units are more suitable.

However, if you’re using a window air conditioner unit (10,000 BTU or less) in your RV, a 2000W portable generator would work without any issue. A 10,000 BTU window AC unit has surge wattage of 1800 watts and a running wattage of 1200 watts.

Video: Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator Reviews

Understanding Noise/Decibel Levels

Have you ever heard of decibels? Do you ever wonder what they are and why they are used to determine which is the quietest RV generator in our test?

The decibel (abbreviated dB) is the unit used to measure the intensity of a sound. The decibel scale is a little odd because the human ear is incredibly sensitive. Your ears can hear everything from your fingertip brushing lightly over your skin to a loud jet engine. In terms of power, the sound of the jet engine is about 1,000,000,000,000 times more powerful than the smallest audible sound. That’s a big difference!

On the decibel scale, the smallest audible sound is 0 dB. And 0 dB is also the quietest sound audible to a healthy human ear. The relative loudness that we perceive is a subjective psychological phenomenon, not something that can be objectively measured. Most of us perceive one sound to be twice as loud as another one when they are about 10 dB apart; for instance, a 70-dB RV generator will sound twice as loud as a 60-dB generator. Yet that 10-dB difference represents a tenfold increase in intensity. An 80-dB RV generator will sound about four times as loud as a 60-dB RV generator, but in terms of acoustic intensity, the sound it makes is 100 times as powerful.

Here are some common sounds and their decibel ratings. These ratings are taken while standing near the sound

Any sound above 85 dB can cause hearing loss, and the loss is related both to the power of the sound as well as the length of exposure. You know that you are listening to an 85-dB sound if you have to raise your voice to be heard by somebody else. Eight hours of 90-dB sound can cause damage to your ears; any exposure to 140-dB sound causes immediate damage (and causes actual pain). So protecting ears is another reason why you should buy a quiet RV generator.

Inverter vs. Conventional Generators – Which is Quieter?

Inverter generators differ widely from conventional generators when it comes to noise. Inverter generators are designed to be comparatively quiet. Quieter engines, special mufflers, and sound-dampening technology are used to reduce noise to amazingly low levels.

Conventional generators are the most widely used today, also because they have been around the longest. They run on diesel, gasoline or propane, which in simple terms, powers a motor attached to an alternator that produces electricity. The motor of conventional generators run at a constant speed (typically 3600 rpm) in order to produce a stable flow of electricity.

Inverters, on the other hand, are a recent technology, which adjusts the electrical characteristics of the power produced using microprocessors and special electronics. Unlike conventional generators, inverter generators can control generator motor speed accordingly. This means that the engine can adjust according to the power load needed, saving fuel and substantially reducing noise. To give an idea, an inverter generator running low, could be the equivalent of people conversing (50-65 dB). Instead, many conventional generators can have the same noise range as a lawn mower.

Designed to mirror a pure sine wave, inverter generators are also safer to run laptops, cell phones, monitors, tablets and other vulnerable electronics in your RV. So if you want a quiet generator for your RV and camping trips – inverter generators are the best choice.

Video: What are the differences between inverter generators and conventional generators?

The Best Quiet RV Generators You Can Buy

Now we’re ready to look at some of the best quiet RV generators available to you, and they come from a big selection of various brands. Some are from brands you would consider the industry leaders, such as Honda or Yamaha. We know you would like the quietest generator possible, but at the same time there are a lot of other things you’ll need to take into consideration before you find the right one for you. Therefore, besides looking at exactly how loud each RV generator is, we’ll look at the other benefits of each model.

#1. Champion 3400-Watt Dual-Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator – Best Quiet RV Generator For The Money

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The Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator gets our first spot not only as it was the quietest RV generator under a load in our test, a 3400W output makes it a perfect solution for powering RV’s air conditioning unit, up to 15,000 BTU. More importantly, even though this Champion inverter generator produces a whopping power output of 3,400 watts, it’s still very affordable. At roughly the same price as the Honda or Yamaha, yet 1500 Watts larger, dual fuel and electric start, this quiet RV generator is easily one of the best for the money.

When it comes to generators, more power will always equal more decibels. The Champion 3400-Watt inverter generator, however, produced less noise than most 2000W generators on the market. Under 1500W load, it operated at only 65 dB from 20-feet away, which was quieter than all RV generators in the test. You can stand next to it while carrying on a comfortable conversation. With Eco mode turned on and with no load, it was louder than the Honda eu2200is but still sound pretty quiet. We’d characterize the sound level as similar to that of a car at idle. With such a quiet operation, this generator is suitable for use at virtually all campgrounds in American where generators are allowed.

Not only is this one of the quietest RV generators on the market, it comes with many great features that the best RV generators should have. The convenient electric start includes a battery, plus Cold Start Technology ensures a quick start in cold weather. This is an RV ready generator, it operates off gasoline or propane. On gasoline, the generator will produce 3400 starting Watt and 3100 running Watt, and will run for 7.5 hours at 25% load. It produces 3060 starting Watt and 2790 running Watt, and will run for 14.5 hours at 25% load when using a 20-pound propane tank.

It’s also unlikely you would ever need this considering the large power output, but as with any decent RV generator you’ll be able to hook it up to another Champion inverter generator for double the power, although we’re not sure you would need the parallel port unless you live in a mansion.

If you’re looking for a smaller unit with a lower price, consider the Champion 3100-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator. This quiet RV generator has almost the same noise level as the 3,400W unit, it was even quieter in Eco mode. And it comes with a convenient Wireless Remote Start, which allows you to start and stop your generator from up to 80 feet away.

#2. Honda EU2200i Gas-Powered Portable Inverter Generator – Most Reliable Quiet RV Generator

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In our opinion you can’t go wrong with Honda generators, they are the NUMBER #1 when it comes to reliability and quality. And this Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator is one of the best quiet RV generators offered by Honda. This is also one of the best-selling portable generators of all time.

Sound is one of the major advantages of Honda portable inverter generators. In Eco mode with no load, the Honda EU2200i was extremely quiet. It generated only 57 dB from 20 feet, which was quieter than most, or maybe all, RV generators we’ve ever seen. To put that into perspective, the noise will be somewhere between listening to a normal conversation and sitting in a private office. Under 1500W with Eco mode off, the generator generated about 67.4 dB at 20 feet, which was a bit louder than the Champion 3,400W inverter generator. You can barely hear the noise when sitting in your RV though.

What makes this popular portable generator one of the quietest RV generators in the industry?

The EU2200i is powered by the Honda GXR120 engine – which is a legendary engine. This four-stroke engine was originally developed to power 110-lb. to 175-lb. rammers—heavy duty construction equipment used to compact soil or other granular material—at multiple elevations with ease. It includes a special cast-iron cylinder sleeve and a high carbon-steel, dual-ball bearing crankshaft that provide improved engine strength and lasting durability.

A very compact muffler, combined with the OHC engine layout, reduces operation noise by one decibel (dB) compared with the current Honda GX100 engine that powers the outgoing EU2000i generator. A simple but innovative lubrication system with a dual-breather chamber optimizes engine lubricating performance. In addition, an automatic decompression system allows for easy engine starting, while an Oil Alert feature prevents the engine from operating if the oil level is too low.

The Honda EU2200i inverter generator is packing 2,200 starting watts, and the running watts is 1,800, which is enough for powering most appliances in your RV. If you want to use it with the air conditioning unit, you can add a second EU2200i to double your power, up to 4,400 watts max.

With less than 47 lbs in weight and a built-in handle, the EU2200i is very easy to transport and store. It is also designed for quick and easy starting. Honda’s automatic mechanical decompressor system significantly reduces the amount of force needed to start the engine. This was the only model that started on the first pull every time—even after we drained the fuel tank dry.

#3. Honda EU3000iS Gasoline Portable Inverter Generator

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Yes! You can wire two of the Honda EU2200i inverter generator in parallel for additional power. But you don’t have to. This Honda EU3000iS Gasoline Portable Inverter Generator is enough for virtually everything you need. It provides up to 3,000 watts of power which can start up and run a wide variety of appliances in your RV, including a furnace, refrigerator, microwave, water heater, and most 13,500 BTU RV AC units. Even if you need more power than that, two models can be paralleled with a cable to produce up to 6000 watts.

Along with the EU2200i, the EU3000iS is one of the quietest RV generators offered by Honda. With a noise rating of only 60.5 dB in Eco mode and 70 dB under a 1500W load, it was only as loud as most 2,000W inverter generators on the market.

The Honda EU3000iS Generator is by far one of the simplest generators to operate due to its excellent panel design. Starting on the top left there is a parallel operation outlet that doubles its power with another unit. Below it there is an output indicator, overload alarm, and oil alert. It provides two 20-Amp 120v AC outlets to accommodate regular appliances and a 23-Amp twist lock outlet for power tools.

This quiet RV generator is said to be a fuel efficient if it uses less fuel while it runs for a longer period of time. Thanks to the exclusive eco-throttle, it runs 7.2 to 20 hours on just a single tank, depending on the load – ideal for maintaining overnight power. Eco-Throttle also allows the generator’s engine to automatically adjust the engine speed to produce only the power needed for the application in use and helps to reduce exhaust emissions. This CARB-compliant model also features a U.S. Forestry-approved spark arrestor for safe use in parks and forests.

#4. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Gas-Powered Portable Inverter Generator

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Not only is this one of the best quiet RV generators you can buy but it’s easily one of the most versatile, if not “the most versatile” inverter generators. In at just 44.1 pounds with the ability to power a wide range of applications for an extended time, the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator is a perfect choice not only for most RVers but also for anybody who requires power on the go or wants to be prepared in case of an emergency or disaster.

The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 competes directly with the Honda EU2200i in price and features, but it delivers 10 percent less power (200W) and has a slightly smaller engine. Even though the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 has a smaller engine, it’s slightly louder than the Honda EU2200i – 57.5 dB in Eco mode with no load and 68 dB under a 1,500W load. This is a very small difference and both are two of the quietest RV generators you can buy. But we think that if you’re shopping for top class of RV generator, the Honda EU2200i is really the better choice.

The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 produces 1600 watts of running power and 2000 starting watts. This is not the one for running multiple devices in your RV at the same time. And also not enough power to start up a 13,500 BTU air conditioner. However, if you use a small window air conditioner in your RV, this portable generator would work without any issues. Additional features include an Oil Watch Warning System to prevent engine damage, a 12-volt DC outlet and included cables to charge any 12-volt battery. Easy-to-read fuel gauge. The parallel function lets you connect an additional generator for extra amperage. Gasoline petcock allows you to shut the gas off and run the carburetor dry for storage.

Overall, like with the Honda EU2200is, you can’t go wrong with this Yamaha EF2000iSv2. It’s not a cheap generator but it’s easily one of the best quiet RV generators that you can buy. It’s well engineered and designed for portability and maximum power. It’s very easy to carry around and transport while providing excellent smart features that protect your investment while providing power wherever you need it.

#5. Briggs & Stratton P3000 PowerSmart Series Gas-Powered Portable Inverter Generator

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The Briggs & Stratton P3000 PowerSmart Series is one of the best RV generators for dry camping and boondocking. With a 3,000 starting watts/2,600 running watts output, this is a monster that produces enough power for all important electronics in your RV, including a 13,500 BTU RV air conditioner. If you don’t think that’s enough power, it also has parallel capability so you can connect two units together for more power. Additionally, it’s equipped with (4) household outlets, (1) 12V 30-amp locking outlet with RV adaptor DC charging outlet and a USB port. Hence if you’re looking for a single generator that can power everything you need on a camping trip, and has the ability to extend its capacity when needed, this is a great choice.

Even though is this one of the best quiet RV generators on the market, it’s the loudest generator under a load we’re reviewing today. At 20 feet in Eco mode with no load, the Briggs & Stratton P3000 produced a noise level of about 61 dB. Under 1,500W load, it jumped to 74 dB, which was a bit louder than the Honda EU3000iS and much louder than two of our top picks. However, this is completely acceptable for an RV generator with such a robust engine.

The Briggs & Stratton P3000 PowerSmart Series is larger than the briefcase-style generators, although Briggs & Stratton have made it as portable as possible for you. The design of the handle and the wheels make it feel like you’re wheeling a suitcase around the airport. The weight is roughly 30 pounds heavier than some of the 2,000-watt models, which isn’t too much of a difference.

#6. WEN 56310i CARB Compliant Inverter Generator 3100W – Best Cheap Quiet RV Generator

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The WEN 56310i CARB Compliant Inverter Generator is a great choice for anybody who does not have much money to spend. You couldn’t buy any other quiet RV generators with such a low price. In terms of quality, there is no way this cheap RV generator can be better than the Champion, Honda, Yamaha, or Briggs & Stratton units. But as you can see it’s 2x to 3.5x less expensive. You could buy 2 WEN units and have one laying around for spare parts and still be a thousand bucks ahead compared to buying a Honda or Yamaha.

One of the really impressive things is the fact that even though this WEN inverter generator was not optimized for silence, it still manages to output just 63 decibels of noise from 20 feet under Eco mode with no load. Under a 1,500W load, it produced only 71.7 dB at 20 feet, which was still quieter than the Briggs & Stratton P3000 PowerSmart Series.

This RV generator generates 3100 surge watts and 2800 rated watts of power. It packs a larger engine, a 212cc 4-stroke OHV that combines with the 1.85-gallon fuel tank to deliver over 7.5 hours of run-time under 50% load. The front panel is loaded with two 3-prong 120V receptacles, a single 120V 30A AC NEMA twist lock receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, and dual 5V USB ports for charging your cell phone or external battery bank.

Overall, the WEN 56310i is a good quiet RV generator for you if you’re on the budget. For the price that you have to pay for the Champion 3,400W dual-fuel, you could get 2 of WEN inverter generators and connect them in parallel to have up to 6,200W, which is enough power for everything you have in your RV.

Other Things to Consider When Buying A Quiet RV Generator

You now know which are the best quiet RV generators on the market that you should consider. But there are some final problems that you need to overcome before you lock in on the perfect model. You need to ask yourself the following questions :

How big of a generator do I need for my RV?

The answer to this question is very much determined by another: How big of a generator do I need to run my RV air conditioner? Your air conditioner will likely take the most wattage by far, so you need to start here. You also need to know that it takes more power to start the air conditioner than it does to keep it running. The minimum wattage of the generator you need is equal to the starting wattage of your air conditioner.

So an RV with a 13,500 BTU AC will probably need a 3000W generator, and an RV with a 15,000 BTU AC will need at least a 3300W generator. That is of course, if you don’t turn on any appliance simultaneously with the AC. You also need to know that most generators have a max wattage rating and a running wattage rating. So a 3000W generator might give you up to 3000W to start that air conditioner, but for long-term use might only be rated 2800W. So after your 3000W generator starts your 13,500 BTU air conditioner which might run at 2000W, you have around 800W to use on other items.

Without an RV air conditioner, the models under 2,500 watts would be enough to run most of devices and appliances in your RV, including microwaves or refrigerators.

Which fuel will my RV generator use?

The second important thing to consider when shopping for a quiet RV generator is what type of fuel they would like to burn. RV generators can be powered by gasoline or propane (LP). Gasoline is more popular thanks to its cheap price, fast burning nature, and the fact that it can be easily stored in containers, so you can carry more gasoline with you than you can carry propane. Gasoline is also a more efficient fuel than propane, most of the best quiet RV generators currently available are gas-powered.

Some generators allow you to switch between gasoline and propane. They are called dual-fuel or hybrid generators. The Champion 3,400W RV Ready Inverter Generator is the only model in our rating that is dual-fuel.

Dual-fuel generators provide solutions to fuel availability issues that invariably arise in times of crisis when you need a temporary emergency backup power source typically configured with the LP tank fueled generator. Dual fuel generators also give users options when the fuel storage or clean-burning benefits of propane are preferred, while having the ability to utilize a more mobile free-standing generator for more routine applications with gasoline. This additional level of versatility has been very popular with RV owners, affording them a valuable alternative with the flexibility to switch between propane and gasoline fuel sources and reasonably valued below the alternative of owning and operating both a gas and a propane generator of equivalent size.

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