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electrical:generator [2017/10/08 11:49] frater_secessus [charging batteries] |
electrical:generator [2023/09/23 13:22] frater_secessus [cooling] |
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[[http://amzn.to/2qVHopt|{{ https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/510UD0JS72L._AC_US218_.jpg}}]] | [[http://amzn.to/2qVHopt|{{ https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/510UD0JS72L._AC_US218_.jpg}}]] |
A generator is a device that creates electricity from some other form of energy. In RV terms this usually means a gasoline powered generator, but they can also run on propane or diesel. \\ | A generator is a device that creates electricity from some other form of energy. In RV terms this usually means a gasoline powered generator, but they can also run on propane or diesel. Residential generators sometimes run on natural gas. \\ |
Note:In some areas solar setups and wind turbines are also called "generators". | Note: in some areas solar setups and wind turbines are also called "generators". Portable "power stations" are sometimes, inaccurately, marketed as [[lifestyle:faq_solar_generator|solar generators]]. |
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The most common built-in generator is the Onan, now owned by Cummins. | The most common built-in generator found in RVs is the Onan, now owned by Cummins. |
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The most common **high end** portable generators are the [[http://amzn.to/2qVHopt|Honda EU2000-series]], with [[http://amzn.to/2qnyZbI|Yamaha]] second. | The most common **higher end** portable generators are the [[http://amzn.to/2qVHopt|Honda EU2000-series]], inverter generator with [[http://amzn.to/2qnyZbI|Yamaha]] a close second. |
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**Middling** brands include [[http://amzn.to/2r3JrGu|Generac]], | The **lower end** is dominated by open-frame, non-inverter "contractor" gennies ([[http://amzn.to/2qqLGBJ|Champion]], most infamously), which are loud but cost much less for the wattage. Recently some inexpensive inverter generators have come to market, including the Harbor Freight Predator line. Lower-end generators may not be intended for repair, and repair parts may not be available. |
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The **lower end** is dominated by [[http://amzn.to/2qqLGBJ|Champion]] gennies, which are loud but cost 1/3rd as much as Japanese models. | |
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Some have reported success with Honda and Yamaha clones like [[http://amzn.to/2qnuwGf|Wen]] ([[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZCG25VM1Lo|tested]]) or Kipor. | Some have reported success with Honda and Yamaha clones like [[http://amzn.to/2qnuwGf|Wen]] ([[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZCG25VM1Lo|tested]]) or Kipor. |
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| ===== inverter generators ===== |
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| Standard generators run the engine at a specific speed to output stable power. Things that affect RMP (load changes, etc) will affect the output. |
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| [[https://amzn.to/46oVNLI|Inverter generators]] adjust engine output to meet power demand, and run a more complex/$$ AC->DC-> AC process to ensure steady output at any RPM. As a result //at lower power levels// inverter generators can be considerably quieter and use less fuel than standard generators. //At maximum rated power// the noise and fuel consumption will be similar. |
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| **Notes**: |
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| * inverter vs standard generators are unrelated to [[electrical:inverter#msw_and_electronics|the PSW vs MSW inverter issue]]. All portable generators output Pure Sine Wave because they make power from a spinning source. |
| * Due to their different internal design inverter generators are often much lighter for the same output rating. |
===== etiquette ===== | ===== etiquette ===== |
It is common to leave generators quiet in times of darkness, and to not run them when close to other campers. | It is common to leave generators quiet in times of darkness, and to not run them when close to other campers. |
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==== charging batteries ==== | ===== charging batteries ===== |
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Generators are not particularly well-suited to [[electrical:12v:charging|charging lead-acid batteries]] (flooded, sealed, AGM, etc) on their own. They work best in [[electrical:12v:alt_and_solar|combination with solar]]; the generator handles Bulk charging and solar handles the long-duration, low-current Absorption and Float stages. | Generators are not particularly well-suited to [[electrical:12v:charging|charging lead-acid batteries]] (flooded, sealed, AGM, etc) on their own. They work best in [[electrical:12v:alt_and_solar|combination with solar]]; the generator handles Bulk charging and solar handles the long-duration, low-current Absorption and Float stages. |
If the generator is being used for some other purpose then by all means add on battery charging. But running a generator for hours at 5% capacity only for charging is not optimal. | If the generator is being used for some other purpose then by all means add on battery charging. But running a generator for hours at 5% capacity only for charging is not optimal. |
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Generators //are// well suited to charging [[electrical:12v:lifepo4_batteries_thread|lithium-chemistry batteries]] as that type can take current at all points of charging. | Generators //are// well suited to charging [[electrical:12v:deep_cycle_battery#lithium_chemistries|lithium-chemistry batteries]] as that type can take current at all points of charging. |
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| If you are considering a genny for use with an inverter/charger combo, perform due diligence beforehand. Some inverter/chargers prefer one type over the other: |
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| > Inverter chargers generally prefer conventional generator and not inverter generators. This is because they control the amount of power they pull from the generator just adjusting your island frequency. Inverter generators do not handle an external actor trying to adjust the frequency and will rigidly keep 50 or 60Hz until they trip. -- therealrimwarren((https://www.reddit.com/r/SolarDIY/comments/tv41bj/options_for_generator_on_an_off_grid_system/i381dv2/)) |
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| but there are reports that other inverter/chargers are very picky about a stable 60Hz((or 50Hz)) frequency. |
===== efficient use ===== | ===== efficient use ===== |
Generators generally have a minimum amount of wattage they can produce. This means that until you hit that minimum multiple loads can be run for "free", speaking in terms of fuel consumption. | Generators generally have a minimum amount of wattage they can produce. This means that until you hit that minimum multiple loads can be run for "free", speaking in terms of fuel consumption. |
- start the generator in the morning when batteries are most depleted and can take the most current | - start the generator in the morning when batteries are most depleted and can take the most current |
- use your heavy loads at the same time as possible, up to the practical limit of the generator | - use your heavy loads at the same time as possible, up to the practical limit of the generator |
- shut the genny down after the battery bank reaches Vabs and let solar handle Absorption and Float stages | - shut the genny down after the battery bank reaches Vabs and let solar handle Absorption and Float stages((Lithium banks may be efficiently charged by generator alone). |
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| ===== specs ===== |
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| **Generators with higher wattage ratings** tend to be bigger, louder, heavier, use more fuel, and cost more. Given the above (and since generators often make most efficient use of fuel when fully loaded) one rule of thumb is to **get the smallest generator that will meet your needs**. |
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| Generators are often rated (and named) after their **peak wattage** output. For example, the small [[https://amzn.to/3EEvCT1|Honda eu1000i]] is a **1000**w max **i**nverter generator rated at 900w continuous. |
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| Not all generators put out Pure Sine Wave (PSW) 120vac; some are Modified Sine Wave (MSW). See [[electrical:inverter|the inverter article]] for more info on PSW vs MSW. |
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| **THD** ("total harmonic distortion") is a spec describing the "cleanliness" of the sine wave output. Delicate or picky electronics may require ≤5% THD.((https://powerupgenerator.com/total-harmonic-distortion-portable-generators/)) |
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| **Runtime** means how long the generator will run a single fueling. |
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| Some generators can be **paralleled**, or combined to make more power in tandem. |
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| **Fuel injected** generators may offer better performance at altitude extremes. |
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| The **physical dimensions** of the generator will need to fit in the space you have available. The **weight** needs to be something you can tolerate if it will not be permanently mounted somewhere. |
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| **Eco modes** may allow fuel conservation at lower power outputs. |
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| {{ https://soundproofingguide.com/wp-content/uploads/Levels-Of-Noise-In-Decibels.jpg?150}}**Noise** is rated in decibels (dB), traditionally measured at ~23' (7m) when running at full load. Read specs fully to see if a dB claim is made at idle, 1/4 load, or some non-standard distance. Very quiet generators allow normal conversation rather close by, and imperceptible((or nearly so)) outside the immediate campsite. Loud generators might be heard hammering away at a distance of 100yds+. |
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| Generators typically require maintenance after initial break-in and every X hours thereafter. Read the manual for specific instructions, but recommendations are typically for **oil changes** after the first two hours then every 20 hours thereafter. The frequency of oil changes make make it worthwhile to watch oil-changing videos for each model under consideration. Remember to carry spare oil and a way to transport used oil to a recycle or disposal point. |
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| Depending on design, **air filters** will require cleaning or replacement. **Fuel filters** and **spark plugs** re also replaced as needed or according to maintenance schedules. |
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| **Fuel** left in an unused generator can leave residue resulting in poor (or no) performance. It is common to run the fuel out of the genny at the end of the camping season to avoid this residue. [[https://amzn.to/3sKVGcR|Fuel stabilization products like Sta-Bil]] may help reduce the problem. |
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| ===== cooling ===== |
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| Most portable generators used by 'dwellers are air-cooled; they use forced air across the engine and "power head"((alternator)) to cool them. For this reason the intake and exhaust vents must be unblocked, and the exterior panels must be on during operation for proper routing of airflow. Gens mounted in confined spaces (as in dedicated RV compartments) can [[https://www.irv2.com/forums/f54/overheating-onan-623825.html|present special cooling challenges]]. |
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| The generator should be placed in shade((like under a tree)) when possible to keep it from heating up further from direct sun. |
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| ===== further reading ===== |
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FIXME | * Chinese genny megathread: [[http://www.rv.net/forum/index.cfm/fuseaction/thread/tid/15131645.cfm|3000w Chinese Gensets Info]] |