Gas generator

[kharveston1966]

I'm about to start converting my 6x10 cargo trailer into a camper and of course, I'm trying to keep my costs low and utilize what I have. I ha e a gas generator.  Do a lot of people use them?

 

[bullfrog]

A lot of people even with solar need to use them during cloudy conditions. No one wants to run them for several reasons one being noise but also maintenance, costs to run and runs to town to refuel if carrying cans. Storage can be a hassle as the fuel and oil can smell and the larger units are heavy. I usually run mine on cloudy cold days 4 hours in the morning and a few hours in the evening. Sunny days my solar keeps my batteries so unless I want to use the microwave or some high use appliance it does not get used. I end up changing oil every 3 weeks on average during the winter and filling up cans every two weeks usually during a regular town trip. It is possible to use solar most days but without a generator there will be days where you will need to do without power or plug into the grid without the generator. Many people find doing without is easier and much cheaper than having a generator but tend to replace batteries more often in my opinion.

 

[highdesertranger]

I just got a gas generator last year I am surprised how much I have used it. not to charge my house batteries but to do other things. like when one of my vehicle batteries shorted I used the generator and a battery charger to get my vehicle started to get into town to buy new batteries. highdesertranger

 

[Trebor English]

I'm trying to keep my costs low and utilize what I have

Did you mean exclusively use a generator and not bother at all with batteries, chargers, and solar panels?  Some people do that.  Some people only use shore power not even bothering with a generator.

 

[tx2sturgis]

Do a lot of people use them?

Yep, millions of people use them.

 

[DLTooley]

If you are going with lead acid batteries and already have a generator a small solar system is a big plus due the nature of lead acid charging. This will help extend the life of your batteries and justify the cost. It is worthwhile to plan out your system as much as possible and buy accordingly.

The tradition two golf cart battery basic system is very capable, but I’ve done with less than half that for ten years, including running my compressor fridge in sunlight only.

Figuring out your likely needs is an important part of planning.

The all in one power station ‘generators’ are a good option for smaller systems - due the charging dynamics of these batteries you could fully charge one while running the generator for your peak loads. I wouldn’t go over around 500wh as the value drops.

Do be considerate of others when choosing a spot and time to run. The noise may carry farther than you think - walk around while generating to get a good sense of this.