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jarata1's avatar
jarata1
Explorer
Jul 15, 2016

Generator question

I have a small 16 ft travel trailer we are going to do some state park camping with no hookups.Im thinking I have to buy a generator because .I have 3 choices.Both are brand new.

1 Champion 1500 watt great reviews 65dcb and lightweight

2.Champion 3500

3 Power pro 4050 watt alot more power 74 dcb and 114 pounds

This is getting to be more of a problem I thought generator was the way to go,then after a few comments about using generators,i looked into golf cart betteries and its really expensive also.Im just looking for a way to go 3 days with only a battery on front and not running out of power

39 Replies

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  • Mfan's avatar
    Mfan
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2016
    If you are not going to use in a crowded campground or quiet hours, get the biggest one you can afford. I've never heard I wish I would have gotten a smaller generator. Happy camping
  • jarata1's avatar
    jarata1
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2016
    Well I wish i had money for an inverter with paying for college and close to retirement thats not happening.As for getting an electric site if that was an option dont you think I would do that instead.In new england most public campgrounds have no hookups.
    I really didnt post this to get lectured on noise.I wouldnt use these at a crowded campground or during quiet time maybe 2 hours a day.Incidently 60db is the same as a normal coversation.
    I just wanted to know which one would be a better choice
  • is_it_friday_ye's avatar
    is_it_friday_ye
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2016
    I would get the Champion 3100 watt inverter generator. The description said its 58 db. I looked at them before we bought a trailer with a built in Onan.
  • aguablanco's avatar
    aguablanco
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2016
    Since you are new you should understand that there is no place in a campground for "open frame" generators. I own the Champion 3100 inverter and it is relatively quiet, especially compared to OF's. While these generators cost more than the OF's they use less fuel, are quieter, and make better electricity to power electronic devices and appliances. The Champion can be had for ~$800. And it can be lifted by one person in reasonable shape.
    RichH
  • Golfcart's avatar
    Golfcart
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2016
    If you're going to state parks, why not just pay the extra few dollars and get an electric site?

    Anyhow, 75db is pretty loud, I would avoid that if possible. Thats like standing next to a loud vacuum
  • gbopp's avatar
    gbopp
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2016
    Spend the extra money and buy an Inverter Generator.

    They usually run quieter.
  • SoundGuy's avatar
    SoundGuy
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2016
    jarata1 wrote:
    1 Champion 1500 watt great reviews 65dcb and lightweight

    2 Power pro 4050 watt alot more power 74 dcb and 114 pounds

    Not sure which to get any help would be great


    BOTH are far too noisy for use in any organized campground where others may be present. :E
  • korbe's avatar
    korbe
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2016
    jarata1 wrote:
    .....Im thinking I have to buy a generator because Im not sure how long the battery will last.......

    That statement is how so many people think. I wish everybody attempted to adjust their lifestyle when camping instead of using the generator every day. It's much "quieter" when a campground is full of campers enjoying the environment on battery power, IMHO.
    We figured out how much juice our 12-volt devices used, measured the use every day, and dry camp with that limit in mind. Much more enjoyable, IMHO.
  • Jim-Linda's avatar
    Jim-Linda
    Explorer II
    Jul 15, 2016
    If this is only for battery charging, the Champ is a no brainer. Put a battery charger on the genny, attach to battery(s).

    Jim

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