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What type of Generator do I need?

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  • What type of Generator do I need?

    Hi, we just purchased a 2021 Grand Design Imagine 2970RL. I am new to this, and wanted some suggestions regarding the size generator needed to run most of the electronics in the trailer? Thanks in advance!

    Tim

  • #2
    Originally posted by timstpry View Post
    Hi, we just purchased a 2021 Grand Design Imagine 2970RL. I am new to this, and wanted some suggestions regarding the size generator needed to run most of the electronics in the trailer? Thanks in advance!

    Tim
    Welcome to the forum and congrats on the new 2970RL.

    If you do a search in the bar in the upper right you will find lots of info already discussed here.

    I am currently looking myself and have read on here great reviews of the Champion 3400 dual fuel.

    Brian
    Brian & Michelle
    2018 Reflection 29RS
    2022 Chevy 3500HD

    Comment


    • #3
      Hi Timstpry and welcome to Grand Design's technical forum. There will be a lot of opinions on this topic and some of it has been covered in other threads like these:

      https://gdrvowners.com/forum/operati...r-model-100402

      https://gdrvowners.com/forum/operati...travel-trailer

      https://gdrvowners.com/forum/operati...generator-size

      And if that wasn't enough reading for you, check out the welcome letter for new forum members:

      https://gdrvowners.com/forum/main-fo...to-new-members

      Jim

      Jim and Ginnie
      2024 Solitude 310GK
      GDRV Technical Forum Moderator
      GDRV Rally Support Coordinator

      Comment


      • #4
        timstpry , I think it can be summarized, you need to figure out your "Must Run" and "Must Run simultaneously" list.

        Examples:
        • Do you want to run your AC?
        • Do you want to run your Microwave
        • Do you want to run both your AC and your Microwave at the same time?
        • Don't forget your battery charger will kick in when you apply 120V
        Once you figure that out. Then you can size how big a generator you need. Once you have that, then you can start comparing models. (Size, fuel type)

        One advice. Get an inverter type generator. Other people in the campsite will appreciate the reduced noise.
        Mike
        2017 Imagine 2800BH pushing a 2019 Ford F150 Platinum

        Formerly: 2002 Rockwood Popup
        Location: Massachusetts

        Comment


        • #5
          To make this really simple. If you intend to run your AC unit without any modifications you will need either a single 3500 watt generator (Generac iq3500) or two 2000 units. In terms of type. It should be an inverter generator. A lot of generators can be connected together to supply more power, such is the case with Honda 2200i generator.

          If you are handy you can install a soft start on the AC unit and go with a single small generator. The soft start will run you around $300-$400.

          The benefit of a larger generator is that you can easily run an AC and few other items (TV, computers, etc). AC/Microwave run at the same time is not recommended as both appliances are power hungry. I would recommend turning off AC and run microwave.. On the negative side larger generators can weigh quite a bit (100-120lbs we just keep ours in the bed of the truck).

          Small generators weigh basically half at around 50lbs. Because of their portability they can be more easily stolen.

          Personally we use Generac iq3500 and I'm happy with the unit. It is quiet and has eco mode.The bad thing with this unit is that it doesn't have wheels, is difficult to tilt making oil changes painful. Another alternative is a Predator unit from Harbor Freight, it's also rated at 3500 watts and has wheels to move around. Both units have electric start. Here's the link to HF website https://www.harborfreight.com/mercha...tor-63584.html

          You will also need a special plug that can go from the generator to the camper's power cable. And if you have dual AC units on your trailer most likely you will be able to run only one of them.

          Luke

          2019 Imagine 2400BH
          TV: 2016 Ford F-150 5.0L

          Comment


          • #6
            luke1979 -- always great to see a first post from a new member is one with helpful info. Thank you for the post and welcome to Grand Design's Owners Forum.

            If you haven't seen it yet, please check out the Welcome Letter to New Members https://gdrvowners.com/forum/main-fo...to-new-members

            If you have a moment please leave feedback on the letter's usefulness. (Thanks in advance!)

            Howard
            Forum moderators are not GD employees--we are volunteers and owners presumably just like yourself. Unless specifically mentioned otherwise, we have nothing to gain should you choose to purchase a product or engage a service we discuss on this forum.

            2017 Ford F-350 DRW, '19 315RLTSPlus

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