generator is an excellent helper wherever you do not have access to electricity. It is therefore an excellent solution for a caravan. It can power common electrical appliances, lights or a vehicle battery charger. A noiseless generator will then ensure that such operation is as quiet as possible. In the article, you will learn how to choose a quiet generator and what to pay attention to when choosing it.
Advantages and disadvantages of a generator in a caravan
An undeniable advantage electricity headquarters is the fact that it does not depend on any external energy source, only on the amount of fuel you carry with you. This is also the main difference between generators and solar panels - the latter need sunlight to produce electricity and are therefore dependent on good weather. You won't have to deal with this with the generator, the supply of electricity will be permanent regardless of the season. In addition, they also deliver much higher current supplies compared to other solutions.
Another advantage of generators is their affordability. Prices vary according to the required model and specification, but generators can offer a cost-effective way to produce your own electricity.
But at the same time there is a disadvantage in the advantage. In order to power the headquarters, you must also carry fuel with you. Of course, the more you drive, the better, so together with the headquarters they take up a lot of space.
generators also require your attention. You have to operate them and you can't just leave them running unattended, so they present some limitations. In addition, they can also be quite noisy, so it is desirable that you try to choose the quietest generator possible.
Another factor is that the generator produces exhaust fumes - so you can't use it everywhere.
How to choose a generator for a motorhome or caravan?
Choose the right generator it's not that complicated. It is important to look at 3 key factors, which we will look at now.
generator power
In order to be able to choose a generator with sufficient power, you must first clarify how many appliances it will power and how often and for how long it will run.
The key is to know how much energy these appliances will take when switched on (what is their consumption).
How to calculate electricity consumption? You will need to find out the wattage of the appliances you plan to use. This is an indication of how much energy these appliances need to achieve the performance that is expected of them. Then these numbers need to be added up.
When you add up the power inputs and arrive at a specific number, it is still necessary to increase it by at least 30%. It is for the reason that the generator should have at least a third more power than the sum of the power of the appliances used. Only then will he be able to manage the operation of all appliances at the same time.
Fuel
The most used propellants in generators are diesel, gasoline and gas.
Petrol generators they are less powerful compared to diesel ones, so they are more suitable for short-term use. Diesel generators they last longer in operation and are also more economical at the same time.
Gas generators are powered by CNG or LPG, and their advantage is clear – they are the most ecological option from the selection. The most sought after for camping are inverter generators, which meet the performance and noise requirements that are suitable for a caravan.
generator noise
Use in a caravan requires quiet generators. Normally, generators can produce noise in the range of up to 60-100 dB.
How do you recognise a quiet generator for a caravan? Look for a model with an acoustic enclosure designed to reduce operating noise. A low-noise model can improve comfort during your stay.
Other options for powering the caravan
The generator is definitely not the only option to supply your caravan with electricity.
Also popular are solar panels that are installed on the caravan and then generate electricity from the sun's energy. Their advantage is definitely environmental friendliness.
Another alternative is fuel cells, which work on the principle of cold combustion. It is an electrochemical process in which electrical energy is generated from fuel. These cells are silent and environmentally friendly.