What Size Generator for 30 Amp RV?

Camping can be a lot of fun as long as one has enough power to run an AC unit, fridge, TV and multimedia set, microwave, or any other similar appliance and device.

30 Amp RVs are very popular and affordable vehicles and can be hooked to the mains power in any camp. But, what when You find yourself in a remote location with no mains power present? The answer is simple - hook up a good RV 30 Amp generator and enjoy your camping ...

Updated: April 17, 2022.

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Intro to 30 Amp RV Power Generators Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Honda EU3000IS Super Quiet Gasoline Portable Generator with Inverter Champion Power Equipment 200988 4500-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator Westinghouse WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Electric Start Portable Generator Champion 76533 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator with Electric Start Few Final Words

 Intro to 30 Amp RV Power Generators

RV generators provide electric power for an RV when there is no mains power present (no electric slot available, no electricity at all, when boondocking, etc.).

For a power generator to be RV ready, it must have either or both:

- NEMA 120/240V 50A 14-50R receptacle,

- NEMA 120V 30A TT-30R receptacle.

Note: NEMA stands for North American National Electrical Manufacturers Association, while TT stands for Travel Trailer. Obviously, we are discussing here North American RVs and generators.

NEMA 120/240V 50A 14-50R receptacle is a four-prong receptacle with two live wires, each being capable of providing 50 Amps, with the maximum power of 12000 Watts (120V * 100 Amps). This receptacle was reserved for larger RVs, but recently it is becoming more common even on medium-size RVs thanks to the ever-growing number of electric devices and appliances.

NEMA 120V 30A TT-30R receptacle is a three-prong receptacle with one live wire, being able of providing 30 Amps, with the maximum power of 3600 Watts (120V * 30 Amps).

For a generator to be considered a "30 Amp RV generator" or simply "RV ready", the generator must have a NEMA 120V 30A TT-30R receptacle.

But, if the generator lacks such a receptacle, all is not lost, thanks to many heavy-duty adapters that can be used to provide the users with the required TT-30R receptacle.

Most 3000-4000 watts power generators come with several 120V 20A 5-20R receptacles, and perhaps one 120V 30A L5-30R receptacle or one 120V 30A TT-30R receptacle (rarely both).

While 5-20P to TT-30R adapter may be used for loads up to 2400 watts, this is not a reliable option for many campers.

However, L5-30P to TT-30R adapter may be used for loads up to 3600 watts, allowing the user to connect and power the 30 Amp RV with a generator that lacks TT-30R but features an L5-30R port.

In theory, power generators with 120/240V 30A L14-30R ports can be used to power 30 Amp RVs using various L14-30P to TT-30R adapters, but one must be VERY careful about such combinations since different generators offer different modes of operation of their 120/240 30A L14-30R ports and each mode may require a different adapter - if the wrong adapter is used, it can, in the best-case scenario, cause the circuit breakers to disconnect the load from the power generator due to the short circuit!

For short, a 30 Amps power generator may be considered RV ready if it features 120V 30A TT-30R (preferably) or at least 120V 30A L5-30R receptacle (which requires L5-30P to TT-30R adapter).

However, when looking for a suitable 30 Amp power generator, be sure to check few more things, including:

Gas-only or Dual-Fuel Generator

Dual fuel power generators may use both gas (gasoline, petrol) or propane gas, while gas-only power generators may use only - gasoline.

As a fuel, propane decreases the output power of a generator, but it is a much cleaner fuel, increasing the engine lifetime, it is environmental more friendly fuel, it is cheaper and it can be stored for a very long time in the propane bottles, with 20 pounds propane bottles being one of the most popular propane bottle sizes.

Also, in emergencies, dual-fuel generators make finding proper fuel much easier - gas is usually the first one to get hard to find ...

Runtime

A larger fuel tank combined with an efficient internal combustion engine increases the periods between generator refueling, allowing the users to enjoy themselves and not worrying about the generator.

On average, when under 50% load, generators should operate at least 7-8 hours, and when under 25% load, generators should operate at least 12-15 hours - 2-3 refueling per day should be more than enough for most units under moderate load.

Noise Levels

Open frame construction power generators are relatively lighter and cheaper, but they create more noise than fully enclosed power generators.

Noise levels below 70 dB are generally acceptable when boondocking, but power generators with noise levels below 53-55 dB are much better, especially when operating at some parking lot with no mains power present.

Engine Start

Having a good manual recoil engine start system is good for - backup.

Don't call me lazy, but starting a power generator with a simple press of the button is much better than pulling the cord, adjusting the choke, checking the fuel line, etc.

And if there is a remote fob available, why not?

Imagine being in your warm bed and wanting a fresh coffee with a croissant - press start on the generator's remote fob, wait few minutes for the engine to warm up, toss a croissant from the freezer (100-200 Running Watts) into the microwave oven (1000-1500 Running Watts) and make a coffee using your favorite coffeemaker (500-600 Running Watts).

Enjoy your trip - don't spend time solving issues and problems! ;)

Digital Meters & Fuel Gauge

Knowing the remaining fuel in the tank allows the user to plan when to refuel. Also, knowing other parameters like output power, frequency, runtime, running hours and similar, help with the maintenance.

High-end units often feature maintenance remainders, similar to cars, and warn the users when it is time to replace the spark plug, change oil, check the air filter, and similar.

Such features increase the price of the unit, but may save some time and effort in the long run...

Warranty

Warranty terms are given for residential use and for commercial/industrial use and is given in years and sometimes run hours.

While warranty terms for residential and commercial use often differ, some models come with the same warranty for both residential and commercial use. Such units are very robust, durable, and very reliable. Also, they are often expensive units, but what You pay is what You get.

The following comparison chart lists some of the most popular power generators suitable as 30 Amp RV generators, with their most important features and specifications (list is alphabetic):

Here is our list of the best 30 Amp RV power generators with their short reviews - when choosing "the best" power generator, always choose according to your own needs and preferences!

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Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator

Generac 7127 iQ3500 is a gasoline-powered inverter power generator that is, according to the manufacturer, 5 dB quieter than the Honda EU3000IS power generator - that would be around 45 dB @25% load, which would be a fantastic result.

Note: we didn't have the opportunity to personally verify this claim, but Generac 7127 iQ3500 is nonetheless a surprisingly quiet unit. And no, various Apps that measure sound level using smartphones are not as reliable as some people think.

Generac 7127 iQ3500 is powered by a 212cc OHV engine, providing 3000 Running Watts and 3500 Starting Watts. Also, the unit features both manual and electric start and with a 2.6 gallons tank, it features a runtime of 8.9h @50% load and 14.1h @25% load, using Eco Mode.

As such, Generac 7127 iQ3500 is not strong enough to provide the required 3600 watts for a 30 Amp RV - if these 600W don't play an important role for your needs, then Generac 7127 iQ3500 is one of the best 30 Amp RV generators for your needs.

But, for the users requiring more power, it is good to know that the Generac 7127 iQ3500 is a Parallel Ready power generator, with the Generac 7668 Parallel Kit being recommended.

Generac 7668 Parallel Kit allows the user to connect two Generac 7127 iQ3500 units, practically doubling the power. Also, Generac 7668 Parallel Kit features additional 120V 30 Amp TT-30R and 120V/240V 50 Amp 14-50R receptacles, just be aware that 240V operation is not supported.

Generac 7127 iQ3500 inverter generator provides output power with very low THD (<3%) making it safe for powering sensitive electronics and appliances.

Power output ports include 120V 20A AC Duplex 5-20R, 120V 30A AC L5-30R, and two USB ports (5V/2.1A, 5V/1A) - so, by default Generac 7127 iQ3500 doesn't feature 120V 30 Amp TT-30R receptacle.

If one Generac 7127 iQ3500 power generator is enough for your needs, but You need a TT-30R receptacle, consider getting an L5-30P to TT-30R adapter.

Generac 7127 iQ3500 comes with several safety features including overload protection and low-oil automatic engine shut-off. Also, it comes with Hour Meter, Fuel Gauge, Wattage Meter, and the Run-Time Remaining displayed on its control panel.

Physical dimensions of the unit are 23.7 x 18 x 21.7 inches (60.2 x 45.7 x 55.1 cm) and it weighs 109 pounds (49.4 kg) dry.

Generac 7127 iQ3500 comes with a 3-year residential and commercial warranty.

If You are looking for an excellent, gas-only powered 3000W power generator and the Honda EU3000IS is over the budget, consider this unit - just be aware that it can't provide full 30 Amps continuously and that it comes with 120V 30A L5-30R, requiring an additional L5-30P to TT-30R adapter.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

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Honda EU3000IS Super Quiet Gasoline Portable Generator with Inverter

Honda EU3000IS is a portable inverter power generator, featuring 2800 Running Watts and 3000 Starting Watts - it is somewhat weaker than the Generac 7127 iQ3500 power generator.

The unit is powered by a very efficient 196cc Honda GX200 engine, which in combination with a 3.4 gal fuel tank, offers a 20h runtime @25% of nominal power (700 Watts) and 6.9 hours at nominal power (2800W).

Honda EU3000IS features both manual and electric engine start.

Physical dimensions are 25.9 x 17.6 x 22.0 inches (~65.8 x 44.7 x 55.9 cm) and it weighs 130.7 pounds (~59.2 kg) dry.

Honda EU3000IS doesn't feature transport wheels, but it comes with a pair of carrying/transport handles. Also, it is possible to order 2 or 4 wheel kits, for easier transport from one spot to another.

Output ports include 120V 20A AC Duplex and 120V 30A AC L5-30R - users looking for a 120V 30A TT-30R receptacle will need to purchase an L5-30P to TT-30R adapter.

But, Honda EU3000IS is a parallel ready unit allowing the user to connect two units in parallel.

Note: Even with parallel cables, two Honda EU3000IS power generators will not have 120V 30A TT-30R receptacles, making an L5-30P to TT-30R adapter mandatory.

Safety features include a low-oil automatic shut-off system, overload protection, and so-called "CO-MINDER" warning system which is an advanced Carbon Monoxide detection system that automatically shuts down the generator before detected CO levels near the generator become dangerously high.

Note: Honda EU3000IS and other power generators must be run outside!

Thanks to advanced inverter technology, Honda EU3000IS features very low THD% (Total Harmonic Distortions percentage), making the unit suitable for powering sensitive electronics.

Honda EU3000IS is a very quiet power generator, featuring noise levels of only 50 dB @25% and 57 dB at full power, making it ideal for camping, tailgating, construction sites, in emergencies in residential areas, and similar.

Honda EU3000IS comes with a 3-year residential and commercial warranty.

Honda EU3000IS is an excellent portable inverter generator, a very reliable and durable unit - it is also one of the quietest units in its power class, with an extra-long runtime on a single fuel tank. The only cons are slightly heavier weight, higher price, which is typical for Honda's equipment, and perhaps the lack of DC output ports (12V, USB 5.0V).

For RV owners, it also lacks a 120V 30A TT-30R receptacle, but required adapters are cheap and can be purchased online or at most hardware stores.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Honda EU3000IS Super Quiet Gasoline Portable Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

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Champion 200988 4500-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator With Electric Start

Champion 200988 4500-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator With Electric Start is a rather compact and relatively lightweight, very energy-efficient inverter, dual-fuel power generator, suitable for direct use as an "almost" 30 Amp RV power generator.

Champion 200988 is powered by a 4-stroke, variable-speed, 212cc internal combustion engine producing 3500 Running Watts and 4500 Starting Watts when running on gas and 3150 Running Watts and 4500 Starting Watts (some sources claim 4050 Running Watts) when running on propane.

Unlike Generac 7127 iQ3500 and Honda EU3000IS, Champion 200988 is able to provide "almost" 30 Amps directly to its 120V 30A TT-30R receptacle - to be accurate, it is able to provide ~29.16 Amps. In real life, this is 28-30 Amps.

A single 2.3-gallon (8.7 liters) fuel tank ensures 14 hours of operation @25% load. When the unit is powered by 20 pounds propane tank, the unit can operate up to 12h @25% load.

As a dual-fuel generator, Champion 200988 allows the user to chose the fuel that is easier to buy and store at any given moment, while gas-only units depend only on gas.

The oil tank capacity is 0.6 quarts (0.57 liters), with the 10W-30 oil being recommended. Also, the Champion 200988 power generator features an automatic low-oil engine shut-off safety system and an overload protection system.

Thanks to the inverter technology, variable engine speed, Economy Mode, and fully enclosed design, Champion 200988 is a relatively quiet unit considering its output power, with noise levels of 61 dB @23 feet (~7 m). Also, it features THD levels of ≤3%, allowing the unit to directly power even sensitive home appliances.

Physical dimensions of the Champion 200988 are (L x W x H) 23.2 x 17.1 x 20.1 inches (~59 x 43.5 x 51 cm) and it weighs 97 pounds (~44 kg) with an empty fuel tank.

Champion 200988 comes with a pair of small transport wheels, built-in handles, and with a pair of foldable handles, allowing the user to easily move the unit around. If required, two adults can even carry it to short distances, just be aware of the unit's weight.

Power outlets include dual 120V 20A 5-20R and one 120V 30A TT-30R receptacle - all power outlets come with a protective cover - making Champion 200988 a truly RV-ready power generator.

But, if required, it is good to know that the Champion 200988 power generator is a parallel-ready unit with several optional parallel kits being available.

The most popular parallel kit for the Champion 200988 power generator is the Champion 100319 50-Amp RV Ready Parallel Kit, which features an additional 120V 50A RV (14-50R) and 120V 30A (L5-30R) ports.

Note: Other parallel kits are available as well, but Champion 100319 accepts a broad range of Champion generators and features a 120V 50A RV 14-50R port, which doesn't come with smaller power generators.

Champion 200988 is an EPA-certified and CARB-compliant unit, which comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

Note: this is a Champion 200988 power generator. Champion 200987 power generator is a gas-only power generator with a remote start, with all other features being almost the same. 

If You prefer gas-only power generators, You will also enjoy the remote start feature of the Champion 200987 power generator. Peronally, dual-fuel generators give larger freedom to their user, since their fuels are generally easier to find and if required, store.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Champion 200988 4500-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator With Electric Start Amazon link (link opens in the new window). 

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WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator

WEN 56380i is powered by a 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine, providing 3400 Running Watts and 3800 Starting Watts, and 8.5h runtime @50% load (1700W) from 2.2 gallons fuel tank, with its engine featuring both manual and electric start system.

Engine speed is variable and in combination with very efficient inverter technology,  ensures good fuel efficiency and very low THD - unit features almost pure sine wave output.

The physical dimensions of the WEN 56380i are (L x W x H) 23.2 x 18 x 20.1 inches (58.9 x 45.7 x 51.1 cm) and it weighs 99.2 pounds (~45 kg) dry.

Power outlets include two 120V 15A AC 5-20R, 120V 30A AC TT-30R, and 12V DC and 5V USB ports - WEN 56380i comes with 120V 30A TT-30R receptacle and with 3400 Running Watts it is able to provide "almost" full 30 Amps to the RVs (27-29 Amps).

WEN 56380i noise levels are ~57 dB @25% load which could be better (or could be much worse!) but it is more than acceptable, making this unit suitable for camping, tailgating, emergencies, and similar.

The unit is Parallel Ready, allowing the user to connect in parallel two same (or compatible) units, providing more power.

WEN 56380i comes with an easy-to-read digital display allowing the user to easily monitor output voltage, generator load (wattage), frequency, run time, and fuel level.

Also, the unit comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

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Westinghouse WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Electric Start Portable Generator

Westinghouse WGen3600DF is a dual-fuel open-frame portable power generator.

It is a relatively simple, but also reliable, sturdy, and affordable unit.

Westinghouse WGen3600DF is powered by a 212cc internal combustion engine providing 3600 Running Watts and 4650 Starting Watts when running on gas and 3240 Running Watts and 4180 Starting Watts when running on propane - when powered by gas, Westinghouse WGen3600DF can provide the required 3600 watts, but if powered by propane, actual power output is below the required 3600 watts.

The 4-gallon gas tank ensures 18h runtime @25% and 13.5h @50% load, while the 20 lbs propane tank ensures runtime of 10.5h @50% load.

Westinghouse WGen3600DF features an electric start and a remote start fob, with a maximum range of 260 feet (~80 m), which is an excellent feature for people wanting to start their generator from RV, without getting outside.

Power outlets include 120V AC Duplex 5-20R, 120V 30A AC TT-30R, and 120V 30A AC L5-30R ports - Westinghouse WGen3600DF features both 120V 30A AC TT-30R and 120V 30A AC L5-30Rm which is great since in most situations there is no need to use special adapters.

The physical dimensions are 23.3 x 22.8 x 21.3 inches (59.2 x 57.9 x 54.1 cm) and it weighs 109 pounds (~49.4 kg) dry.

Westinghouse WGen3600DF features an open frame construction and is a somewhat noisier unit (68 dB), but the noise levels are acceptable.

Westinghouse WGen3600DF comes with a 3-year limited residential warranty and a 1-year limited commercial warranty. 

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Westinghouse WGen3600DF Dual Fuel Electric Start Portable Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

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Champion 76533 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator with Electric Start

Champion 76533 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator with Electric Start is powered by a 224cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine, producing 3800 Running Watts and 4750 Starting Watts when running on gas and 3420 Running Watts and 4275 Starting Watts when running on propane - when powered by gas, it can easily provide required 3600 watts for a 30 Amp RV.

Champion 76533 comes with a 3.4 gallon (~12.9 liters) gas tank providing 9 hours runtime @50% load (1900W).

When the unit is powered by 20 lbs propane tank, its runtime is 10.5 hours @50% load.

The engine is designed to operate at 3600 RPM with an oil tank capacity of 0.6 quarts (~0.57 liters).

Despite the engine size, its constant speed, and open frame generator design, the unit is not too loud - noise levels are ~68 dB @23 feet (~7 m), allowing the unit to be used for camping, in emergencies, on construction sites, and similar. But, yes, it could be quieter - open frame construction allows easy access to all parts, but such generators are not the quietest units on the market.

Champion 76533 features both electric and manual recoil start - while electric start is an excellent feature, it is good to have a manual start option (just in case...). The unit comes with a starting battery, of course.

Unit comes with IntelliGauge, a 3-mode digital meter, allowing the user to keep track of the voltage, frequency, and run-time hours, to monitor the unit's power output, and to track maintenance intervals (oil, spark plug, air filter, etc.).

Physical dimensions of the unit are (L x W x H) 26.3 x 24.8 x 22.9 inches (~66.8 x 63 x 58.2 cm) and it weighs 119 pounds (~53.9 kg) with an empty fuel tank.

Since the unit is anything but lightweight, it comes with a pair of 8 inches (20.3 cm) wheels, allowing the user to manually move the unit where and when required.

Champion 76533 power generator features 120V 30A L5-30R, 120V 30A TT-30R, and 120V 20A duplex 5-20R receptacles - there are no USB nor 12V DC ports.

Personally, it would be overkill to turn on a power generator of this or a similar size just to charge the smartphone or tablet...

Thanks to the 120V 30A TT-30R receptacle, Champion 76533 can be directly connected to 30 Amp RV (no adapter needed).

Champion 76533 is an EPA-certified and CARB-compliant propane/gas power generator and it comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Champion 76533 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator with Electric Start Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

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Few Final Words

When choosing a good and reliable 30 Amps power generator for your RV, choose according to your own needs and requirements.

While 3500-4000 Watts power generators are generally enough to power 30 Amps RVs, stronger units also have some power reserve left (and few more receptacles) that can be used to power other tools and appliances, for example, a multi-bank battery charger via 120V 20A 5-20R receptacle that is used for charging RV's house battery bank (ensuring that all power transferred via 120V 30A TT-30R may be used for RV appliances).

Also, be sure to thoroughly read the Owner's Guide of your power generator and to keep it close by, just in case.

And whatever You do - stay safe ...