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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.
Note:In some areas solar setups and wind turbines are also called “generators”.
The most common built-in generator is the Onan, now owned by Cummins.
The most common high end portable generators are the Honda EU2000-series, with Yamaha second.
Middling brands include Generac,
The lower end is dominated by Champion gennies, which are loud but cost 1/3rd as much as Japanese models.
Some have reported success with Honda and Yamaha clones like Wen (tested) or Kipor.
It is common to leave generators quiet in times of darkness, and to not run them when close to other campers.
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.
An example of an efficient use would be: