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Old 09-08-2017, 09:57 AM   #1
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Default Generator Recommendation

I am looking for generator recommendations for my 18' Fun Finder. Most of the State Parks in NC do not have electric hookups. I am looking for a generator to charge 2 house batteries and provide electricity for my CPAP machine. I would like the option to run the a/c if needed. Newbie here. Thanks.
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Old 09-08-2017, 12:05 PM   #2
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I would go with anything 3000 watts or better.

some of the champions have a plug just for an RV.

https://www.championpowerequipment.c...att-generator/

I use this when just needing to keep batteries charged.
https://www.harborfreight.com/engine...arb-63025.html
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Old 09-08-2017, 12:14 PM   #3
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Thank you for the reply.
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Old 09-08-2017, 12:54 PM   #4
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Get something quite or you will have alot of PO'd camping neighbor.
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Old 09-08-2017, 03:19 PM   #5
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Be sure to get an INVERTER type generator to protect and electronic items you may run. A standard generator fluctuates power and can fry electronics.

I'd recommend a Honda brand and you won't be sorry.

I have two; the EU20o0i and the EU2000i companion and hook them together w/parallel cable set, an RV adapter plug and also have the battery charging cables.

They provide more than enough power to run the microwave, air conditioner and other items. They are super quiet, don't suck alot of fuel and don't weight much individually so easy to handle...plus don't take up much space.

check it out: Honda Generators: Portable Generator Power for Home, Work, and Play

Buy the Honda's and you will not be sorry in the long run.

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Old 09-08-2017, 03:31 PM   #6
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I would also recommend Honda but they are $$$.
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Old 09-08-2017, 03:58 PM   #7
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Proven high quality generally is and as Hallmark says "When you want to (have) the very best"

Frying the A/C, microwave, computer, cell phone, flat screen TV with a plain ole generator is more expensive IMO. Or have a cheepie crap out on the first night of your 2 week vacation ... however, the decision is the buyers choice as suggestions were requested and given.

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Old 09-08-2017, 05:17 PM   #8
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I appreciate the input. I am leaning towards the Honda.
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Old 09-09-2017, 08:57 AM   #9
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For sure you want an inverter generator as opposed to an open frame type. An open frame will be LOUD and the whole campground will not be pleased, especially if you run it at night.
Inverter generators will also provide cleaner power for electronics if you plan to run a computer. Not sure if your CPAP would need that but it might.
Since you mentioned CPAP I assume you want a generator that you can run all night.
It's been a few years, but when I was looking the only 3000W generator that would run the AC all night (I need that where I live) was the Honda eu3000i. You can do it with 2 2000W generators set up in parallel but you will need to have some type of extended run auxiliary fuel tank. Personally I didn't want to fiddle with that.
The only downside to the 3000W Honda is that it's heavy at ~130 lbs.
Whatever you decide on I recommend you check your local craigslist. I find my Honda there for $500 less than brand new and it had only been started once. It still had all the tags hanging on it even.
One other thought, Honda also makes a 3000 W generator called the Handi. It doesn't have a large enough fuel tank to run for a full 8 hrs.
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Old 09-09-2017, 09:35 AM   #10
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An option to running a generator all night long, would be to purchase a DC converter for your CPAP machine. You can get them for under $100.00 on line at any CPAP supply supply site. It would connect to your battery and run off 12 volt, I get 2-3 nights on a small AGM stand alone battery.
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Old 09-09-2017, 09:53 AM   #11
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An alternative to the Honda would be the Briggs & Stratton that now has inverter/generators with quiet run.

I have no experience with them but seem to have good reviews. On the plus side, less expensive than Honda.

Briggs & Stratton PowerSmart Series 3,000-Watt Gasoline Powered Portable Inverter Generator-30545 - The Home Depot

Also have the Q6500 series, more power, 110 & 220 Volt outlets and quiet.
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Old 09-09-2017, 11:41 AM   #12
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Many camp grounds do not allow generators to be run after 10 pm so I would not plan on running one over night. As for the need, if you can live without AC, then just invest in solar panels and multiple batteries that will power your 12 volt system. The 12 volt system coupled with propane will provide refrigeration and heat plus lights and charging of your electronics.
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Old 09-09-2017, 04:49 PM   #13
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We bought this Champion 3100 inverter from Cabela's. But I only see the dual fuel version on their site now. Still a good price on that.
This is also a good price on it. Long Long Honeymoon on YouTube gave it a good review also. Will run an ac.
https://factorypure.com/products/cha...SABEgL1hfD_BwE

Review here. Under $800.

https://youtu.be/00fkBB3IZrU
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Old 09-09-2017, 11:45 PM   #14
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Like Eagle said go with an Inverter type, either Honda or Yamaha, which ever has a closer dealer for you. They are both good. If you buy a noisy one it sure can ruin the quiet experience for every one around you. Some one might dump part of their beer in the gas tank to teach a lesson. Just saying. LOL
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Old 09-10-2017, 06:50 AM   #15
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You don't have to pay Honda or Yamaha prices to get a good and quiet inverter generator anymore. Check out the noise tests on YouTube. That's old school thought now. Both Champion and Briggs & Stratton are well made and not much noisier for a lot less money. Also, if you have a tonneau cover, make sure the generator you buy will fit under it.
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Old 09-17-2017, 03:18 PM   #16
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We have a Honda generator, purchased it last year. One thing we wish we would of gotten was the remote control for the generator. My husband has had to get up many times to go out at night to either turn it on or turn it off. This is a pain when you are in bed. Just a suggestion you might want to think about.
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Old 09-17-2017, 05:36 PM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Cynsew2 View Post
We have a Honda generator, purchased it last year. One thing we wish we would of gotten was the remote control for the generator. My husband has had to get up many times to go out at night to either turn it on or turn it off. This is a pain when you are in bed. Just a suggestion you might want to think about.
I'm lost as to why one would "get up many times to go out at night to either turn it on or turn it off." ?

I've started mine before or when going to bed and let it run till morning OR have turned it off before going to bed if didn't need to run the A/C thru the night.

Perhaps I'm missing something but am totally lost on the multiple trips to start or stop the unit during the night?

I run a pair of Honda 2000i's w/parallel cables with a BERG dual feed fuel tank .... https://www.amazon.com/IPI-Industrie.../dp/B003BURT3C
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Old 09-18-2017, 04:19 AM   #18
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Well, first it seems like every time we go camping, it starts to rain. Then he has to get up and go out and turn it off. Also he doesn't like to run it very long if there are other campers around. He is very cautious of disturbing someone. I guess it is just personal taste.
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Old 09-18-2017, 09:02 PM   #19
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As an alternative to a generator, you might find solar panels and batteries a possibility. You can use them to power everything but the AC and microwave. Just a thought.
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Old 09-19-2017, 05:49 AM   #20
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Never had an issue running any generator including the Honda's in the rain, including a heavy downpour.
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