What Size Generator to Use for a 30 Amp RV?

Out for an adventure, are we? Are you preparing to gear up your 30 amp RV to explore wilderness, nature, or perhaps even forests and mountains? No doubt, a fascinating trip awaits you.

But wait! Before you set out, have you considered a critical question: what size generator for 30 amp rv? That’s right. No matter where you go, you need a reliable and continuous power supply to ensure your outing remains comfortable. 

Well, read on to learn all about the factors you need to know when choosing what size generator for 30 amp RV, its size recommendation, some remarkable solar generator examples, and how to connect a generator with a 30 amp RV.

Overview of 30 Amp RV Service

A recreational vehicle (RV) is your typical motor vehicle in which you can cook and sleep while traveling. A 30 amp RV, thus, refers to the power your RV will be provided to run all the appliances you have on board. 

A 30 amp RV operates on 120V, therefore: 

Capacity (W) = Amps (A) * Volts (V)

                       = 30 * 120

                       = 3,600W

A 30 amp RV will provide you with 3,600W of power when operating on 120V. 

Now, within an RV, you have several appliances at work, such as an air conditioner, a microwave oven, a coffee maker, and a refrigerator among others. You have a capacity of 3,600W to run these appliances simultaneously. 

However, you need to keep in mind that all these have different power requirements - some have higher power requirements than others. Therefore, you need to prioritize which appliances to run at one time so that the power used does not exceed 3,600W.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Generator 

There are several factors at play that you need to keep in mind when selecting what size generator for 30 amp RV. 

1. Power Needs 

As discussed above, you need to, first of all, figure out which of your electrical appliances will run at what time. Of course, not all appliances will run all the time because 30 amp RV cannot handle all the various appliances running at one time. 

In order to ascertain which appliances you will run at one time, first calculate and list out the wattage requirements of all your devices. Then, determine which you can run at one time. In doing so, also add a 20-30% buffer for future upgrades or unexpected needs. 

2. Surge Watts vs. Running Watts - table

Some appliances, such as air conditioners and refrigerators require two different types of wattage. First is the running wattage we know of - the wattage they are required to run. 

The second is the starting wattage or surge wattage. It pertains to the wattage required by appliances when they start. For instance, a mini refrigerator has a surge wattage range of 280-360W, while its running wattage ranges between 70-90W.

As you can see, the surge wattage is about three times higher than the running wattage. Therefore, when deciding what size generator for 30 amp RV, you need to also keep in mind that some appliances’ surge wattage will consume more power. 

3. Portability

Now, you need to decide if your RV travel is just a one-weekend thing or a long trip. Based on your answer to this, you need to decide what size generator for 30 amp RV. If your traveling isn’t long, a portable generator would be a better choice.

On the other hand, if it is a long (perhaps even an off-grid) travel, a permanently installed one might suit you better. Portable ones also offer more flexibility in terms of moving them around. The choice, ultimately, depends on both your needs and preferences.    

4. Fuel Type

There are various types of fuel types available for generators, including gasoline, diesel, propane, or solar. Among them, gasoline generators are the most readily available but can disturb you due to their noise. They also emit fumes. 

On the other hand, propane options are on the quieter and cleaner side. Diesel ones boast efficiency yet require special handling. Solar power relies on the Sun; thus, it is environmentally friendly. 

Again, it is your needs and preferences that will decide exactly which fuel type to opt for your 30 amp RV. 

5. Noise Level

You may be going out to camp at noise-sensitive areas, or perhaps the RV parks and campgrounds you have chosen have noise restrictions. If your generator keeps making noises, what then?

Thus, the noise level of your generator is another factor you need to keep in mind when choosing what size generator for 30 amp RV. 

For instance, we have inverter generators that are significantly quieter than conventional models, though slightly pricier. Solar generators produce no noise as well.

What Size Generator for 30 Amp RV

There are several things you need to consider to properly determine what size generator for a 30 amp RV.

1. Minimum Size Recommendation

Let’s first look at the minimum requirement. Suppose your excursion is only for one weekend. Calculate the total power wattage that you need. Suppose your total wattage is around 2,000W. 

Now, you need to choose a generator that can offer you at least 2,500W. After all, you need to ensure a safe margin as well.  

2. Optimal Size for Comfort

Next, we look at your comfort and extended requirements. Suppose your trip is a long one. Now, you need to ensure that you are not always worrying about running out of power for your necessary appliances.

Therefore, ensure that the generator you select for your 30 amp RV should have 3,500W to 4,000W of capacity. 

Best Solar Generators for 30 Amp RV

Let’s now look at some amazing solar BLUETTI products - the ultimate powerhouses for your 30 amp RV. 

1. BLUETTI AC300+2*B300 (FREE 120V AC300 Home integration Kit+Trolley) Power Kit

The AC300+2*B300 (Free PV200 Solar Panel) Power Kit is an exciting product that you will definitely want to keep in mind when deciding what size generator for 30 amp RV.

Key Features:

• Capacity: With AC300, 2 B300 batteries, and 2 PV200 solar panels, this kit comes with a total 6144Wh capacity. But, with 4 B300, you can take it to a total capacity of 12,288Wh. How cool is that!
• Power Output: Supplying you 3,000W of power through a pure sine wave inverter, your 30 amp RV is guaranteed sufficient power to function smoothly. 

You can adjust the charging rate from 1,800W to 3,000W through wall outlets. However, if you wish for a rate higher than 3,000W, a special 30A charging cable will be required, which is sold separately.

• 5400W Blazing Input Rate: By connecting two B300 batteries, you can charge the AC300 very quickly, at a maximum rate of 5,400W, by using both wall outlets and solar panels simultaneously
• 240V Connection Available: you can make the set even more powerful by using a Fusion Box Pro (P030A). 

According to this, you can connect two AC300 units in series to provide 240V/6,000W output, doubling the power capacity to a total of 24,576Wh (when each AC300 is connected to four B300s).

2. BLUETTI AC200L+PV350 Solar Kit

While the AC200L+PV350 Solar Kit does not offer a power output of 3,000W, it is, nevertheless, a useful power source if you are not planning long excursions on your 30 amp RV.

Key Features:

• Power Output: Having a power output of 2,400W, it provides you with the minimum required power for 30 amp RV for short-term use.

Further, if you use it with the optional D40 accessory, the AC200L can become an efficient DC power source, providing 12V charging options perfect for RV batteries.

• Capacity: It has a capacity of 2,048Wh, though you can increase this capacity to 8,192Wh by connecting it with B210, B230, and B300 expansion batteries. How awesome is that! 
• The Fastest Charging: You can charge it up to 80% in just 45 minutes with a 2,400W AC input. This fast charging power is simply wonderful. 
• 20ms UPS: With its 20ms UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply), you are ensured uninterrupted power supply for your RV appliances. 

Also, find out the best solar generator for your home/RV air conditioner. 

How to Connect a Generator to Your 30 Amp RV

There are four essential steps you need to keep in mind when connecting your 30 amp RV with a generator: 

• First, you need to ensure that the generator is off before connecting it. It is done to avoid power surges.

• Also, make sure to use a heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cord in order to connect the RV to the generator.

• Next, you can plug into the generator's 30 amp outlet if it is available, or you can use an adapter if needed.
• Lastly, start the generator, and then gradually power on your RV appliances - it avoids overloading.

Final Words

In conclusion, we now know that a 30 amp RV is a motor vehicle in which you can cook and sleep while traveling. When operating on a 120V, you can have 3,600W of power. 

When deciding what size generator for 30 amp RV, you need to consider the power needs of your RV appliances, their running and starting watts, portability, fuel type, and noise level. You need to have a generator that is both minimally sized for an RV and also ensures your comfort. 

When selecting what size generator for 30 amp RV, the BLUETTI AC300+2*B300 Power Kit,  and BLUETTI AC200L+PV350 Solar Kit are great choices to consider. 

Lastly, ensure that the generator is off before connecting it to your 30 amp RV. Use a heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cord for connecting, and after plugging them in, gradually power on your RV appliances.