Battery question
Ok, this is embarrassing, but I have to ask. This is out first 5th wheel without a generator. So please bare with me. How can I run my TV or other small appilances off the batteries? That is if it ...
Forum Discussion
An inverter with a battery upgrade (depends on amount of usage for the latter) will run your 120V stuff like entertainment devices, charge phones, laptops, and tablets, small power tools, etc. If you wish to power a coffee maker, hair dryer, toaster, or microwave, you'll need a fairly large inverter, say, 2000 W. For the TV and smaller stuff, a smaller 300W or so inverter can handle it. Inverter installation, especially a smaller one, is an easy DIY project. Mount the inverter close to the battery and use appropriate sized battery cables with a fuse.
Recharging batteries is best done with a small solar system. It is cuiet and does the best job of charging. There are a number of threads on the Forum dealing with design, installation, and application for various needs.
If you wish to use a generator for power, the small inverter generators are the best choice. They are not noisy and can be used in most campground situations.
FWIW, I have a 7500W open frame generator. I have occasionally used it for power outages at the house. It is very loud and uses a lot of gas. Mine has wheels and weighs more than 200 lbs. I wouldn't think about taking it camping, it would ruin the experience and be misery to load and offload. When I use it at the house, I roll it in back of the garage and use 100 ft. extension cords. It is still an ear-ringing beast but saves the food in fridge and freezer.
Recharging batteries is best done with a small solar system. It is cuiet and does the best job of charging. There are a number of threads on the Forum dealing with design, installation, and application for various needs.
If you wish to use a generator for power, the small inverter generators are the best choice. They are not noisy and can be used in most campground situations.
FWIW, I have a 7500W open frame generator. I have occasionally used it for power outages at the house. It is very loud and uses a lot of gas. Mine has wheels and weighs more than 200 lbs. I wouldn't think about taking it camping, it would ruin the experience and be misery to load and offload. When I use it at the house, I roll it in back of the garage and use 100 ft. extension cords. It is still an ear-ringing beast but saves the food in fridge and freezer.
