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Old 08-20-2012, 10:13 PM   #1
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Portable generAtor question

We have a ultralite197 & are considering getting a 2000watt Yamaha inverter generator. We know it wont't run the a/c but willitrun the furnace/heater? We eventually will buy 2. & that can be used together torun a/c & more but for this winter, we just need heat. Also, what kind of adapter would weneed to use since it doesn't have a 30 amp plug?one last question, do we really need an inverter vs a low cost champion generator (non-inverter)?

Thxfor the input,

Josie
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Old 08-20-2012, 11:26 PM   #2
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A 2000 watt will run your refrigerator, lights, furnace, tube type tv, and probably your two closest neighbors. You are correct that it won't run the microwave or ac. I would save and get an inverter type so you can use the new tv's and a computer.
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Old 08-21-2012, 08:37 AM   #3
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Doing the same thing; just placed an order for a Yamaha ef2000is last night. I went with the Yamaha due to quality, portability, and the ability to move to a parallel setup if needed. Wife and I went to Cabela's last weekend; they had a Champion and Yamaha sitting right next to each other. Just playing with the switches, pull-cord, ... IMO you could tell the Yamaha was many steps above the Champion in terms of quality.

Only have heard these generators running in videos, but based on that it just seemed the Yamaha engine had a nice even purr vs a semi-stuttering sound of the Champion. Semi-stutter is probably too strong of words, but just seemed the Yamaha's engine sounded like it was under less stress too me in the videos I watched. Plus, I will be storing my trailer in a storage facility that does not have electric available, wanted something I could easily throw in the back of the pickup and run up to the storage facility to perform maintenance, etc.. Yamaha is easily handled with one-hand.

In terms of the adapter; I am thinking this 15-30 amp pigtail adapter. That way I should be able to connect directly to the generator; thinking the normal 15-30 amp adapter would have too big of footprint (e.g. would take up both plugs or too big period).
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Old 08-21-2012, 09:47 AM   #4
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I agree with other posts. With Generators you get what you pay for, not saying the others won't do the job but you need to consider all the factors. Noise of course, but also service network and basic reliability.

If you are leaning towards Yamaha, maybe look at the 2400 if you want to run your AC. Certainly for less than running 2 units in parallel you can get the 2400 and I have read many saying it I'll start and run 13.5 ACs.
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Old 08-21-2012, 10:34 AM   #5
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Thanks, everyone. I appreciate the help since I've never bought a generator before & this is my first TT.

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Old 08-21-2012, 11:33 AM   #6
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Good deals can be found on Craigslist. Yamaha is a quality unit, I would have no concerns buying a gently used one from CL. My Honda came from CL from an older couple who decided they were done camping with out hook ups and simply didn't need it any more.
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Old 08-21-2012, 04:12 PM   #7
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You can buy 2 Champion 2000 watt generators and parallel them together (same as the Yamaha or Honda). The Champions are half the price and have close to the same specs. 53bd and near same fuel burn. The Honda is a better unit for its surge capacity, but the Honda wont run your AC either. Two Champions paralleled will operate your whole camper.

or

The Yamaha 2400 was supposedly built specifically to run a rood top air. They can be had for 1200+

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Old 08-21-2012, 04:24 PM   #8
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I have a friend with a Yamaha 2400 and it does start and run his AC. The down side is the weight, it is heavier than the 2000 but one person can move it.
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Old 08-21-2012, 05:05 PM   #9
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There is a vendor selling Champion generators on ebay for $399 with free shipping. 2 of those for $800, and 1 paralleling unit for $70. Then you have the option to one use 1 if you want.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/73531i-Champ...27258036242199

With these you can use 1 of you need, or both if duty calls. Same as the Honda or Yamaha plus you have saves some serious coin. Both Cabelas and Home DEEP HOLE (Depot) have them brand new for $599.

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Old 08-21-2012, 08:32 PM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by clutch View Post
A 2000 watt will run your refrigerator, lights, furnace, tube type tv, and probably your two closest neighbors. You are correct that it won't run the microwave or ac.
Unless you have a microwave that draws more than 1500 watts the 2000 watt generator will run it. Most microwaves are fewer than 1500 watts.
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