Maintaining RV Portable Generators

by E. Tineo

Custom Search

This interesting article addresses some of the key issues regarding portable generator. A careful reading of this material could make a big difference in how you think about portable generator.

A common problem at RV dealerships is that portable generators don't work correctly after sitting for several months over the winter. They either don't start or have a weird sound when they do run. This is usually caused by the fuel breaking down and gumming up in the generator from non-usage. The generator is a critical part of RVing and must be maintained to be a reliable source of power. If you let the portable generator sit for several months, you can be sure that you will have problems the next time you try to use it or an emergency comes up and you need to use it.

To maintain a RV portable generator, you should do a safety check first. The worst danger with a RV portable generator is carbon monoxide. You should inspect the exhaust system to make sure that there are no leaks and that the exhaust will not leak into the living area. This is critical, a small leak can allow enough carbon monoxide to build up until it can kill you. You should also have operating carbon monoxide detectors located in the living area to monitor for carbon monoxide. The generator shares the common fuel tank with the RV engine, but shuts off at 1/4 tank to keep the generator from running out of fuel without realizing it. The generator can be operating while traveling in the RV. It is actually more energy efficient to use the roof mounted air conditioner than the vehicle's unit to keep the RV cool.

Sometimes the most important aspects of a subject are not immediately obvious. Keep reading to get the complete picture.

To keep the generator in a ready-to-go state, you should operate the generator at a least once a month for at least 2 hours with at least a 50 percent load on it. This means turning on lights, air conditioner, appliances or everything else you normally run off of the portable generator. This will make sure that all moisture is removed from the system, all parts are well lubricated and there is no carbon buildup. Always check the owner's manual for complete details on any other maintenance that should be performed.

You will also have to perform scheduled maintenance based on the hours of usage of the RV's portable generator. Again the owner's manual will give specific details of what is required and at what intervals. By using the RV's portable generator on a regular basis, you will find it to be dependable and ready for use whenever you need it to provide electricity for you to enjoy your trip.

That's the latest from the generator authorities. Once you're familiar with these ideas, you'll be ready to move to the next level.

Article Source: ArticleCube.com

About the Author:
E. Tineo author of several websites and ebooks. You can see one of my websites at www.portable-electric-generator.com

Back to Top