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Old 04-25-2015, 06:38 AM   #1
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What Generator to buy?

I just purchased my first TT, a 2015 Jayco 23RB.

I need to know what size Generator to buy to power the entire trailer including AC.

Does anyone have experience with this that can suggest a size. I am going to get a Honda due to reliability and noise reduction.

Thanks
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Old 04-25-2015, 06:49 AM   #2
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Lots of info on JOF about generators. Many members like the twin 2000w configuration because it allows them to only carry and run one gen set when they need less power.

Basic concept to consider is this. OHMs law says: Wattage, divided by Volatge equals amperage.

A 2000 watt generator producing 120 volts, will provide 16.6 amps. If you used it to its maximum, it will be bogged down, and have a very short life span.

Your AC unit, for example, probably draws 12-14 amps at the moment it starts, and needs 10-12 amps to run.

Altitude will diminish the gen sets capacity by 15-20%

Remember that if you are close to capacity running the AC unit, you won't be able to use the microwave at the same time


To run a AC unit, you should be considering a 3000watt or larger, hence the frequent references to twin 2000 watt units ( that sync with each other to become a 4000 w service )
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Old 04-25-2015, 07:00 AM   #3
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Congratulations on the new TT. Although we have a Greyhawk, from what I have read the towable folks think most highly of Honda generators for their reliability and (relatively) low noise level. I wish Greyhawks came with a Honda instead of the Onan.

I have a tri-fuel 8 KW Honda generator for backup power to run the well pump, fridge, etc. at the stick house. I could have bought a cheaper generator, but the Honda was worth some extra bucks. The last thing I want to have to do is to fuss with a balky generator.
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Old 04-25-2015, 07:10 AM   #4
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I have two 2000 Honda's. They are great. They connect together to make the 4000 very easily and when the do you have more then enough power to do what you need. Like jmooney said you don't always need both. I was camping last weekend, temps going down to 30 at night and highs of 50, obviously no ac required and the one did just fine. Had to pack less, it's very light, great on gas. I wouldn't change a thing.
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Old 04-25-2015, 07:12 AM   #5
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If you are set on HONDA, then visit their site keep your eyes open for their periodic sales and their financing. We made our purchases in December and got a great deal (sale, freebies, financing). We purchased through a dealer who also did a great set-up and readiness before we picked-up our purchase. Some of their dealers also do rental so you can 'test it out' first.
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Old 04-25-2015, 07:17 AM   #6
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Thank you for all the great and helpful information

We are excited to get started RVing!
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Old 04-25-2015, 07:35 AM   #7
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One more thing i'd add is if you live in Canada make sure you get your 2000's in the states. For some reason Canadian dealers can't sell them with parallel ports or connections. Really weird!
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Old 04-25-2015, 07:42 AM   #8
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OK so the key to the twin 2000 setup is the parallel ports? I like the 2-2000 idea.
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Old 04-25-2015, 08:09 AM   #9
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Yeah, you have to buy an extra cable, 50$ if i remember correctly and they plug into each genny. on mine you need a flat screw driver to connect the ground and you are good to go.
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Old 04-25-2015, 08:23 AM   #10
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And don't overlook competitive models to the Honda... such as Yamaha, Champion, Generac, et al. Last month, Costco had the 3100W Champion Inverter on sale for $699. That's a heck of a deal considering I paid $1000 for a 2000w Honda from Wise Sales (which has great prices).
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Old 04-25-2015, 09:54 AM   #11
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If you want quiet power...Honda's the answer.
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Old 04-25-2015, 10:11 AM   #12
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The Champion 3100 Inverter/Generator (56db) is just as quiet as the Honda's or Yamaha's price is much cheaper and parts are also easy available. Excellent warranty and if you buy at Costco you also if not satisfied return It!
But each its own.
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Old 04-25-2015, 10:12 AM   #13
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We purchased a Yamaha 2000 due to the way some of the internal mechanics work. It is a super quite unit and very fuel efficient. No belts inside or plastic gears. Just some thing to consider. Our dealer carried both Honda and Yamaha. Very happy with our decision.
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Old 04-25-2015, 10:56 AM   #14
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Are the yamaha 2000's as quiet as honda 2000's Lolead ??
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Old 04-25-2015, 11:01 AM   #15
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Both are very close. I like Honda just because of experience with them. But I'm sure Yamaha's are just as good. Again, Honda is just a preference of mine.
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Old 04-25-2015, 11:02 AM   #16
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After 40 years in the collision repair shop my hearing may not be a good gauge LOL!! The DW and I both could not hear any real difference in sound levelbetween the Honda nd the Yamaha. Is there a dealer near you that sells both brands ? A side by side comparison would be best if possible. Hope this helps, Dave
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Old 04-25-2015, 11:02 AM   #17
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I have a 2400is that is very quiet ! Had it about six years now and starts and runs great . One thing to note is most inverter type generators don't like a surge .
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Old 04-25-2015, 12:48 PM   #18
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I have a Generac 2000ix. I get the same power output as my buddies Honda, but it is noticibly louder. The price was $500 less though. Trade offs.
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Old 04-25-2015, 12:53 PM   #19
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I don't disagree there are many options to consider but from my experience you cant beat a Honda. My 2000's start first pull almost every time, even after sitting all winter with last years gas in them. I wish i had spent the extra couple bucks on my pressure washer to make it a Honda as well. I watched a video recently of them running a Yamaha next to a Honda and the Yamaha was only a couple decibels louder. I don't think you'd ever notice that difference and i'm sure they run great too, just have never owned on.
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Old 04-27-2015, 06:35 PM   #20
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Two Yamahas here. See my signature. Went with Yamaha because have had several other Yamaha products (motorcycle, AV receiver, they make fine musical instruments as well). Got mine from Wise.

Two of them provide full 30 amps for your trailer, as do the Hondas. I can also use one or two for backup power at home.

I run non ethanol gas in them and start them at least once a month.
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