Forum Discussion

ssthrd's avatar
ssthrd
Explorer
Aug 16, 2020

use generator/inverter to charge batteries and power trailer

I am an electrical dummy, and I need some help with this one.

I realize that when plugged in at an rv site, my on board inverter (converter?) will charge my batteries. This year we have been boon docking quite a bit, and have been using our 2000W generator/inverter to run a few 120V things like a blender or hair dryer.

My question....... when I have the generator hooked up and running to power the little stuff, should I hook up the batteries as well to charge them, or does it make any difference at all? I also carry a 12V separate charger which I can plug in to the generator and charge the batteries.

My feeling is that the inverter on my generator might be better than the onboard unit.

Thanks for your help.

22 Replies

  • Let's start with a converter will charge your batteries from 120 volts and an inverter will use amps from your battery to give you 120 volts.

    If you plug your RV into your generator to use your hair dryer your converter will be charging your batteries at the same time. There is no need to use a separate battery charger. It will take 3-4 hours to charge the batteries depending on how much you discharged them the night before.
  • jdc1's avatar
    jdc1
    Explorer II
    Nope. That 2000w generator charger is only 8A. Your converter is 30A. Stick with the converter.