Check your generator manual to determine if this is a regulated, tapered output, or simply an unregulated “constant amperage” output. Here’s where a bit of caution needs to be exercised. Other portable generators offer a greater low-voltage output, perhaps pumping out 8 or 10 amps. If the generator offers a low-ball output (we’ve seen some that offer a 3-amp output), you’ll be running through a lot of generator fuel to catch up on your power needs. Many portable generators have a “12-volt” output, and yes, this can be hooked up to the house battery system. Is it feasibly to recharge house (chassis) batteries with a generator? It depends on the generator, and how you go about it. And for those who don’t have solar power, if you get away from the utility grid for very long in the boonies, you too will soon be whimpering, “More power! Please-more power!” It may be that nature lets us down, or that we’ve simply been using more battery power than we can easily replenish. But step away from shore utilities and head out for a session of boondocking, and you’ll soon know if your batteries are staying happy.Įven for those RVers equipped with solar or wind power, there are times when we need a bit more of a boost than our alternative energy system can provide. We may not think much about them, particularly when hooked up to shore power, with a converter keeping up with the low-voltage needs. They keep the lights on, the control boards in many appliances operating, and turn the pump over so you can take a shower. Batteries are the heart of your RV electrical system.
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