Coelacanth wrote:
Well,…last summer we were camping at a local state park when a violent series of thunderstorms passed through. It seemed to last for hours. In the process, the entire campground lost power. This occurred at about 2am and lasted for most of the night. The temperature and humidity were both in the 90’s.
As a result, the interior of the RV became beyond oppressive. I don’t mind. I’m generally oblivious. But, my wife is extremely claustrophobic. You can’t imagine. Therefore, it’s an experience I’d rather not repeat.
So, if in the future I only need a generator once, I’m only too willing to pay the price.
Ergo, the initial question.
If it's very rare and just a fan would be enough, a 2000-2200w unit would work fine. You might even find a 1000w generator works but you will have to really limit what electrical loads you run.
If you want to run the air/con, go at least 3000w. Keep in mind, those quiet dB ratings they advertise are typically for something like 25% load. The little 2000w generator will struggle to start the air/con and then be running a 75-90% of continuous load rating...so much for being quiet.
The other issue if the generator sits most of the time is small carbureted engines don't like to sit for months. Any gas eventually evaporates leaving a gummy residue that stops the carb working properly. Seriously consider getting a dual fuel generator that can run on propane.
We have a 4500w Champion Dual Fuel. Not much bigger than a 3000w and it barely notices when the air/con kicks on. Only running at like 30% load, so even though it's not rated as quiet as the high priced hondas, it's quieter than the 2000-2200w hondas under actual operation. Watch and you can find them new in the $800-900 price range when they go on sale several times per year. You will pay more than that for the 2200w honda gas only option.