DrewE wrote:
valhalla360 wrote:
Obviously, shore power needs to be disconnected unless the generator has a means of syncing with the shore power (small generators we are discussing won't)
Any RV with a built-in generator will have a transfer switching arrangement of some sort which will disconnect the shore power when the generator is supplying power, and vice-versa, so they are not interconnected. Usually it's an automatic transfer switch, but sometimes it's simply having a power outlet connected to the generator that the shore power cord is plugged into.
It is not necessary to disconnect shore power when using the generator, though some do out of an abundance--perhaps overabundance--of caution. It is wise to avoid having the transfer switch operate under any (significant) load, so turning off air conditioning, electric heat, etc. before starting or stopping the generator is highly recommended.
The OP didn't indicate if the generator was built in. Unless there is something wonky set up where you can get both connected and feeding power at the same time, it's usually hard to do...hence my use of the term "obviously".
That said, there are some systems (uncommon) that can sync and merge power from two sources. Most are inverters not generators.
