Do I need an RV specific generator?
I am considering building my own rig (a 10-16 foot box van)and just trying to factor some costs. I see highly rated generators on Amazon, etc... for a few/several hundred dollars. I am going to ...
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Guysaker, I think you've seen the answer but I wanted to spell it out as a workflow. This is the same regarding what generator or air conditioner you buy.
If you want to use the AC you have to start the generator, then turn on the air conditioning. The generator will stay running the entire time the air conditioner is turned on. The air conditioner itself might cycle on and off, but the generator has to stay running the entire time.
As for the Honda eu2000i and 3000i they have an economy switch (eco throttle) that when the air conditioner cycles off the generator will return to idle. This will save fuel and noise. When the air conditioner turns on again the generator will rev up to meet the demand.
At least this should work for your suggested small AC unit. A larger unit such as a 13.5k rooftop would require the generator to run full throttle all the time. If you buy a cheap generator they all typically run full throttle the entire time they are on, and will be quite a bit louder than the Honda/Yamaha.
If you want to use the AC you have to start the generator, then turn on the air conditioning. The generator will stay running the entire time the air conditioner is turned on. The air conditioner itself might cycle on and off, but the generator has to stay running the entire time.
As for the Honda eu2000i and 3000i they have an economy switch (eco throttle) that when the air conditioner cycles off the generator will return to idle. This will save fuel and noise. When the air conditioner turns on again the generator will rev up to meet the demand.
At least this should work for your suggested small AC unit. A larger unit such as a 13.5k rooftop would require the generator to run full throttle all the time. If you buy a cheap generator they all typically run full throttle the entire time they are on, and will be quite a bit louder than the Honda/Yamaha.
