What Size Generator For 50 Amp RV? (Calculated)

Are you in the market for a generator for your 50 amp RV? Choosing the right size generator for your needs can be a daunting task, but don’t worry.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different size generators available and which one is best suited for powering your RV.

We’ll also provide tips on how to select the best generator and how to use it safely.

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What Size Generator For 50 Amp RV?

For a 50 Amp RV, you would typically need a generator that can produce between 6,000 to 8,000 watts to power most appliances and devices comfortably, though a 50 Amp RV can technically handle up to 12,000 watts.

Below is a table that lists some popular models and their features suitable for 50 Amp RVs.

Type	Rated Power	Peak Power	Fuel Type	Run Time	Noise Level	Price
Portable Generator	12,000 W	15,000 W	Gasoline/Propane	16 hours (gasoline) / 11 hours (propane) at 50% load	74 dB	$2,599
Portable Generator	12,000 W	15,000 W	Gasoline	9 hours at 50% load	78 dB	$2,199
Portable Generator	15,000 W	22,500 W	Gasoline	10 hours at 50% load	74 dB	$3,099
Inverter Generator	5,500 W	7,000 W	Gasoline	18 hours at 25% load	52 dB – 60 dB (eco mode)	$4,499
Dual Fuel Generator (Portable/Inverter)	9,500 W (gasoline) / 8,550 W (propane)	12,000 W (gasoline) / 10,200 W (propane)	Gasoline/Propane	8.83 hours (gasoline) / 7.2 hours (propane) at half load	72 dB	$1,299

Types of Generators Suitable for 50 Amp RV

The following types of generators are suitable for 50 Amp RVs.

Portable Generators

Portable generators are the most common type of generators used by RVers.

They are powered by gasoline or propane and can produce a lot of power for a relatively low cost. They are also easy to move around and store when not in use.

Inverter Generators

Inverter generators are a newer type of generators that are more efficient and quieter than portable generators.

They use advanced technology to convert DC power into AC power with minimal loss of energy.

They also have a smart throttle that adjusts the engine speed according to the load demand.

Inverter generators are ideal for sensitive electronics such as laptops and TVs because they produce clean and stable power with fewer fluctuations and distortions.

Standby Generators

Standby generators are permanent generators that are installed outside your RV and connected to your electrical system.

They are powered by natural gas or propane and can automatically turn on when there is a power outage or when you need extra power.

Standby generators are great for long-term use and peace of mind because they provide reliable and continuous power without any hassle or interruption.

They also have higher power output and longer run times than portable or inverter generators.

Solar Generators

Solar generators are eco-friendly generators that use solar panels to capture the sun’s energy and store it in batteries.

They can provide clean and renewable power for your RV without any noise or emissions.

Solar generators are perfect for RVers who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel costs.

Essential Features to Consider When Choosing a Generator for 50 Amp RV

Here are some essential features that you should consider when choosing a generator for your 50 Amp RV:

Power Output

To find out how much power you need for your RV, you can use this simple formula:

Total Power Needed (Watts) = Total Power Used by Appliances (Watts) + 20% Margin

For example, if you have an air conditioner that uses 3,000 watts, a microwave that uses 1,000 watts, a refrigerator that uses 600 watts, a TV that uses 200 watts, and some lights that use 100 watts, then your total power used by appliances is:

3,000 + 1,000 + 600 + 200 + 100 = 4,900 watts

To add a 20% margin for safety and flexibility, you multiply this number by 1.2:

4,900 x 1.2 = 5,880 watts

This means that you need a generator that can produce at least 5,880 watts of rated power to run all these appliances and devices in your RV.

Fuel Efficiency

To find out how fuel-efficient a generator is, you can look at its run time.

Run time is the amount of time that a generator can run on a full tank of fuel or battery charge at a certain load level.

Load level is the percentage of power output that the generator is using compared to its maximum capacity.

For example, if a generator has a run time of 10 hours at 50% load, this means that it can run for 10 hours when it is producing half of its maximum power output.

If it has a run time of 5 hours at 100% load, this means that it can run for 5 hours when it is producing its maximum power output.

Noise Level

To find out how noisy a generator is, you can look at its noise level. Noise level is the amount of sound that a generator produces, measured in decibels (dB).

The higher the decibel number, the louder the sound.

For example, a normal conversation is about 60 dB, a vacuum cleaner is about 70 dB, and a rock concert is about 110 dB. You should look for a generator that has a low noise level, preferably below 70 dB.

The noise level of some generators can be reduced with features like mufflers, sound insulation, or eco mode.

To make your generator quieter, you can place it away from your RV or on a soft surface, use a generator enclosure, or add sound-absorbing materials around it.

Portability and Size

To find out how portable and compact a generator is, you can look at its weight and dimensions.

Weight is the amount of mass that a generator has, measured in pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kg).

Dimensions are the measurements of the length, width, and height of a generator, measured in inches (in) or centimeters (cm).

For example, a generator may weigh 200 lbs and have dimensions of 30 x 20 x 25 in. You should look for a generator that has a low weight and small dimensions, as this will make it easier to move and store.

Wheels, handles, foldable handles, or collapsible handles can make your generator more portable and compact.

You can also use carts, dollies, or cases to make your generator more portable and compact.

Price and Warranty

To find out how much a generator costs and what warranty it offers, you can look at its price and warranty.

A generator’s price is measured in dollars ($) or other currencies. A warranty states how long and under what conditions a generator will be repaired or replaced.

For example, a generator may cost $2,000 and come with a 3-year warranty.

You should look for a generator that has a reasonable price and a long warranty, as this will save you money and give you peace of mind.

Depending on the generator, you may be able to lower the price or extend the warranty.

The best way to save money is to compare prices, look for coupons or rebates, or buy used or refurbished generators.

Run Time

To find out how long a generator can run on a full tank of fuel or battery charge at a certain load level, you can look at its run time.

Run time is the amount of time that a generator can run on a full tank of fuel or battery charge at a certain load level.

Load level is the percentage of power output that the generator is using compared to its maximum capacity.

For example, if a generator has a run time of 10 hours at 50% load, this means that it can run for 10 hours when it is producing half of its maximum power output.

It can run for 5 hours at 100% load, which means it can run for 5 hours at maximum power.

You should look for a generator that has a long run time at different load levels, especially at higher loads.

This will give you more flexibility and convenience when using your generator with your RV.

Parallel Capabilities

To find out if a generator has parallel capabilities and how to use them, you can look at its parallel capabilities.

Parallel capabilities are the ability and the method of connecting two or more generators together to produce more power.

Some generators have built-in parallel capabilities, while others require special kits or cords to enable them.

For example, a generator may have parallel capabilities that allow you to connect it to another identical generator using a parallel kit.

This will double the power output of the generator, allowing you to run more appliances and devices in your RV.

Your RV generator should be parallel-capable and compatible with other generators you may have or want to buy. This will give you more options and versatility.

How to Calculate the Right Size Generator for 50 Amp RV

Here are some steps that you can follow to do this:

Step 1

Make a list of all the appliances and devices that you want to run in your RV, and find out how many watts they use.

You can do this by looking at their labels or manuals, or by using a wattage calculator.

Step 2

Add up the wattage of all the appliances and devices that you want to run at the same time. This is your total power demand.

Step 3

Multiply your total power demand by 1.2 to add a 20% margin for safety and flexibility. This is your total power requirement.

Step 4

Find a generator that can produce at least your total power requirement in rated power.

You can use the table above or do your own research to compare different generators and their features.

Step 5

Check if the generator has enough outlets and the right voltage for your RV. You may need to use adapters or converters to connect your RV to the generator.

Step 6

Test the generator with your RV before using it on a trip. Make sure that it works properly and safely, and that it can handle the load of your appliances and devices.

>> What size generator to run a 2000 square foot house?

Practical Tips for Operating Generator with 50 Amp RV

Here are some practical tips that you can use to operate your generator with your 50 Amp RV:

Regular Maintenance:

Keep your generator in good condition by following the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean, service, and store it.

Check the oil, fuel, air filter, spark plug, and battery regularly, and replace them when needed.

Proper Ventilation:

Place your generator in a well-ventilated area away from your RV or any flammable materials.

Use a long extension cord to connect your RV to the generator, and avoid running it indoors or in enclosed spaces.

Install a carbon monoxide detector in your RV and monitor it frequently.

Fuel Storage:

Store your fuel in approved containers and keep them away from heat or sparks. Use fresh fuel and avoid using old or contaminated fuel.

Drain the fuel tank and carburetor when not using the generator for a long time.

Monitoring Power Usage:

Monitor how much power you are using in your RV and adjust accordingly.

Turn off or unplug any appliances or devices that you are not using, and avoid overloading the generator.

Use an energy meter or a wattage calculator to keep track of your power usage.

Parallel Capabilities:

Use parallel capabilities if you need more power than one generator can provide.

Connect two or more compatible generators together using parallel kits or cords, and make sure that they are balanced and synchronized.

Best Generator For 50 Amp RV

1. DuroMax XP4000S Portable Generator-4000 Watt Gas Powered Camping & RV Ready

2. Westinghouse 6000 Rated & 7500 Peak Watts Portable Generator

3. Champion 8000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start

4. Pulsar Heavy Duty 9500 Rated Watts & 12000 Peak Watts Portable Dual Fuel Generator

FAQs about What Size Generator For 50 Amp RV

Final words

The power needs of the certain appliances you are going to run determine the size of the generator for 50 amps RV.

So before learning what size generator for 50 amps RV, determine the number of appliances you will run most of the time and their power requirement.

While choosing the best size generator for 50 amps RV doesn’t avoid its specification like the ease of use and weight, noise levels for a convenient experience.