RV Genset Maintenance
Generators for RV camping require maintenance and attention in order to keep them running and running smoothly. That doesn't mean they need constant attention but they will need some specific time dedicated to keeping them going. Any RV generator needs to be started and run from time to time in order to keep the system free from debris. Operating the genset is the best and simplest way to ensure that all internal parts are functioning properly. It's better to run the generator, and check its reliability and generation abilities, while at home rather than find out it's not working when on an actual vacation.
To run generators and make sure they are functioning is mainly something that needs to be done with gasoline fueled or diesel fueled generators. The basic rule of thumb is that these should be operated at least once every month so that the motor is engaged and in ready and working condition.
Often people think that they can just use a fuel preservative and that will solve all their problems but if a genset sits idle for a very long time than no amount of fuel additive is going to reduce the wear and tear on a generator. If the fuel sits for too long than there is little that can be done. Preservatives help but they aren't the only thing that should be done to preserve the generator. When a generator runs out on full it heats up the internal parts and allows for things like water vapor that is built up to burn out of the system. Running the generators also keeps the seals intact and keeps carbon from building up in the unit.
The generator should be run for a minimum of two hours each month at a 50 percent load in order to meet the proper internal function. It's important that the generator run on a load and not without anything hooked up. It would be a good idea to attach a few appliances to meet the minimum load requirement. Find out what works best for the RV and what is easy to run for the maintenance exercise and what isn't. Of course, it's always a good idea to rotate appliances and check out their condition as well as the generator. It is also usually better to run more of a load on the generator than to run too little. Maintain the generator correctly by always checking with the operator's manual.
Base your annual maintenance on hours run and keep a log of service dates. This will help keep up with the demands of service schedules and ensure that the system is set up properly before going out of town. It's best to be prepared rather than arrive at a campground or scenic area and not have the power you had counted on.
To run generators and make sure they are functioning is mainly something that needs to be done with gasoline fueled or diesel fueled generators. The basic rule of thumb is that these should be operated at least once every month so that the motor is engaged and in ready and working condition.
Often people think that they can just use a fuel preservative and that will solve all their problems but if a genset sits idle for a very long time than no amount of fuel additive is going to reduce the wear and tear on a generator. If the fuel sits for too long than there is little that can be done. Preservatives help but they aren't the only thing that should be done to preserve the generator. When a generator runs out on full it heats up the internal parts and allows for things like water vapor that is built up to burn out of the system. Running the generators also keeps the seals intact and keeps carbon from building up in the unit.
The generator should be run for a minimum of two hours each month at a 50 percent load in order to meet the proper internal function. It's important that the generator run on a load and not without anything hooked up. It would be a good idea to attach a few appliances to meet the minimum load requirement. Find out what works best for the RV and what is easy to run for the maintenance exercise and what isn't. Of course, it's always a good idea to rotate appliances and check out their condition as well as the generator. It is also usually better to run more of a load on the generator than to run too little. Maintain the generator correctly by always checking with the operator's manual.
Base your annual maintenance on hours run and keep a log of service dates. This will help keep up with the demands of service schedules and ensure that the system is set up properly before going out of town. It's best to be prepared rather than arrive at a campground or scenic area and not have the power you had counted on.