When you’re planning for a caravan trip which involves a free stay camping, chances are you will need some power to run the appliances you carried with you. That’s why you need the best generator for a caravan.
Many caravan owners often pack a portable generator in their trailer to rule out the need for the un-reliable deep cycle batteries or to use them in running appliances that require some more power like the caravan washing machine, A/C units, kettles, microwave, and the like. I believe you too have realized the benefit a caravan generator can give you and that is why you are here. Am I right?
Today I have prepared this article intending to help those searching for the best generator for caravan to finding a model that will satisfy all their needs. I have reviewed the best caravan generator and provided a buyer’s guide. So, read it through and make sure you do not skip a point.
Contents
- Top 6 Best Generator for Caravan in 2021
- 1. WEN 56200i – Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
- 2. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 – Portable Gas Powered Inverter
- 3. Westinghouse WH2200iXLT – Portable Super Quiet Inverter Generator
- 4. Champion 75531i – RV Ready 3100-Watt Inverter Generator
- 5. Briggs & Stratton P2200 – Inverter Generator
- 6. Honda EU1000i – Super Quiet Inverter Generator
- Best Generator For Caravan: Buyers Guide
Top 6 Best Generator for Caravan in 2021
1. WEN 56200i – Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
The first position goes to the powerful WEN 56200i inverter generator. The generator is designed to produce clean energy that is free of voltage spikes and drops making it ideal for running cellphones, monitors, fridges, laptops and any other sensitive electronics.
What I love most on this generator is its power to maximize the fuel economy by engaging its economy mode which reduces the electrical load while also limiting the speed according to the power requirement.
If the 2000 watts isn’t enough for the caravan or you need to connect some other electronics that increase the electrical load, you can connect another generator to this using the WEN 56421 parallel kit.
Pros:
- Powerful 4-stroke OHV engine
- CARB and EPA III Compliant
- Tranquil operation
- Produces clean power
- Parallel compatible
Cons:
- Few outlets
- Warranty period could be better
2. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 – Portable Gas Powered Inverter
My second best generator for caravan is an inverter generator from Yamaha that has been recommended by many as being impressive when it comes to outdoor camping.
The Yamaha EF2000iSvS comes as a gas powered portable inverter generator which you can carry in your caravan and use it to power all your appliances. It provides 1600 running power and 2000 starting power which I would say is enough for a typical trailer.
If your caravan is extra big or you got many or powerful appliances, and this power isn’t enough, you can decide to connect two Yamaha EF2000iSv2 using a parallel kit and double the power. The generator runs on air-cooled, 4-stroke, single cylinder OHV engine which is efficient, reliable, robust and of excellent heat dissipation.
Pros:
- Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control
- USFS-approved spark arrestor
- Super-quiet muffler
- CARB Compliant
- Smart Throttle
Cons:
- Expensive
3. Westinghouse WH2200iXLT – Portable Super Quiet Inverter Generator
My next caravan generator is the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT inverter. It’s a portable, super quiet generator that uses gas as fuel. Why is it among the best?
From its power to its design it’s a model you would want to have in your caravan. It has a lightweight and portable design with a built-in handle, all allowing easy transportation.
The parallel capability gives a way to amplify the wattage by connecting two WH2200iXLTs generators using Westinghouse Parallel cord. With the super quiet operation makes this generator ideal for use during the night and those sound sensitive areas.
Pros:
- Automatic Low Oil Shutdown
- High-Efficiency Run Mode
- Low THD – clean power
- Super Quiet Operation
- CARB/ EPA Compliant
Cons:
- Slightly hard to access the oil reservoir
4. Champion 75531i – RV Ready 3100-Watt Inverter Generator
The Champion 3100-Watt Inverter Generator is my next best generator for caravan. The generator brings a combination of convenience and versatility.
It’s quiet, and lightweight design allows it to be a perfect companion for trailer touring. It features a strong recoil start which works together with the Cold Touch Technology to ensure its stars quickly even in cold weather.
The reason I recommend it as one of the best generators for a caravan is that it produces clean energy allowing you to connect your to run sensitive electronics with confidence.
It runs on a robust, reliable single cylinder 171cc engine that produces 2800 watts running power and 3100 watts starting strength, enough to power up your caravan.
Pros:
- Push-to-Reset Circuit Breakers
- Single Cylinder Air Cooled Engine
- Reliable Recoil Start
- Low Oil Shut-Off
- Economy Mode
Cons:
- Expensive
5. Briggs & Stratton P2200 – Inverter Generator
The Briggs & Stratton PowerSmart Series Inverter Generator takes the next position. It’s a model that I have used before but not in a caravan or an RV. The reason I believe it’s an ideal unit for the trailer it’s the fact that it features a portable and lightweight.
It comes with an easy-to-carry which will allow you to have wherever you go. Its powerful computer-controlled engine adjusts its speeds continuously to match your needs for consistent, efficient and quiet power.
The engine is powerful to provide reliable 1700 running watts and 2200 starting watts, and if not enough, you can connect it is a parallel with another P2200 inverter to double the power.
Pros:
- 24-Month Limited Warranty
- Hours of continuous operation
- Quiet Power Technology
- Quiet and fuel efficient
- Parallel capability
Cons:
- Not CARB Compliant
6. Honda EU1000i – Super Quiet Inverter Generator
My last best generator for caravan is the Honda EU1000i Inverter Generator. It’s a super quiet generator as it runs between 53 and 59 dBA. It’s great for powering lights, small appliances, TVs, fans, power tools and much more.
However there those that it can’t power since it not that powerful. In case you need more power, its parallel capabilities allow you to connect another EU1000i and double the power.
The reason I picked it as a caravan generator is fuel efficiency. It’s fuel-efficient and runs for 8 hours on 0.5 gallons of gas at a quarter load.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact design
- Exclusive eco-throttle system
- Inverter technology
- Quiet operation
- Low oil shutoff
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not that powerful
Best Generator For Caravan: Buyers Guide
After reading the review on the best generator for caravan available, the next step is knowing the factors to look for to ensure you buy the ideal model. With the following points, it will be much easier and quicker to pick a generator to invest on.
Power requirements
The first thing to consider the appliances you have in your caravan and the number of gadgets you intend to run with the generator. You need to add all the wattage requirement and get the running power. Remember, the working power is different from starting energy. Starting energy usually is double the operating power. To get the wattage of an appliance, multiply the amps with the voltage, and you will have the watts. Add all together and pick a model that provides enough power.
Portability
Caravan is typically used for cruising and touring. When doing your search, you need to makes sure that the generator you choose is easy to transport. A model with a lightweight, portable design with a handle will be the best for you.
Ease of use
How easy is it to use the generator? You need to pick a caravan generator that you can start on your own. A model that won’t give you stress when starting. Also, a generator that will be simple to change the oil and do other maintenance.
Remember, if you will be buying a generator with a recoil start you have to make sure that starts it quick. If you don’t like pulling the recoil, then you can pick a model with an electric start. That way it will be a matter of pushing an ignition button.
Noise
Some generators operate quietly, but others are quite noisy. When in your caravan trip you might want to settle with a generator that works quietly. Do not pick a model that will disturb your trip friends and also make unnecessary noises during the quiet nights.
Warranty
A machine is always a machine, and it can fail anytime. Warranty can protect you from spending money on repairs that were caused by manufacturing errors. I recommend you invest in a generator that comes with a warranty and make sure you read the terms to understand the limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will my caravan generator charge my caravan battery?
A: Not directly. But your caravan generator provides power enough to operate the onboard converter/charger that charges the caravan batteries.
Q: What does it mean to ‘exercise’ a Caravan Generator?
A: Generator manufactures recommend running a caravan generator for at least 30 minutes every month when not in use. If the generator is being run without the need for the power, it’s often referred to as exercising the generator. It’s crucial you turn on some appliances so that the generator can work a little while it’s running.
GLOBO TOOLS OVERVIEW
Each of the generators in the above review is an excellent candidate for the best generator for caravan. Do your search well and use the buyer’s guide to narrow the search. Make sure the model you pick is a generator that gives you enough power before making your purchase. If satisfied, you can now head to the market for shopping.
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