RV FEATURE
Most are marginally less noisy but still audible
in an otherwise quiet campsite. None (to date)
has any meaningful anti-pollution reduction. It
is inevitable that this eventually be required.
3. Petrol, diesel and LP gas generators intended
for long-time use and permanent installation
in converted coaches and motorhomes. These
are well made, reasonably quiet but few (as
yet) have the anti-pollution requirements of
the vehicles that carry them.
MYTH 1
MY ‘XYZ’ GENERATOR
PRODUCES 3 KW (3KVA)
Almost without exception, the quoted power
output is 20% higher than they can sustain for
more than a few minutes. Unless specifically
stated otherwise, a ‘3 kW’ generator is limited to
2.4 kW if used for more than a few minutes. For
optimum fuel usage it is best to limit them
to running at 60-70% of full load.
MYTH
2
A (SAY) 3KVA GENERATOR CAN
RUN ANYTHING REQUIRING THIS
AMOUNT OF POWER
Be wary of this one. The claim itself is reasonably
true – it might be enough power to run
an appliance but not enough power to start
the appliance.
Many loads (particularly motors, pumps and
compressors) need far more power to start
working than needed once running. This is
primarily an issue with the smaller and lighter
generators. The larger units (such as those with
diesel engines) have a heavy flywheel that once
up to speed is not fazed by a sudden short-term
heavy load.
A further issue is so-called ‘power factor’. This is
hard to explain non-technically but it’s a bit like
two people rowing out of synchronisation. Their
combined energy remains the same, but their peak
‘power’ (the rate of performing work) is lower.
For this reason, some makers quote output in kVA
(kilovolts times amps) as their wattage output
can be achieved with purely resistive loads (such
as an electric bar fire or kettle etc).
If planning to run anything with a large electric
motor, discuss this first with either an
electrician, or the generator maker. Not
all generator sales staff will be aware of
power factor.
The Honda EU20i is a 2kVA generator that is
deservedly popular among caravanners. It is
reasonably quiet, economical and portable.
/ 25