Mercedes Mullins
When it comes to powering an RV, generators are a popular choice for boondocking. The cost of generator fuel is a key consideration, with fuel expenses varying based on generator size and usage patterns. A small 2000-2200 watt generator, suitable for powering appliances like microwaves, typically consumes one gallon of gas for eight hours of runtime. Larger generators, such as a 5000-7500 watt model, burn fuel at a faster rate, emptying a gallon of gas in four to five hours. The Onan 5500-watt generator, for example, consumes five gallons of fuel in eight to ten hours. The choice between a generator and solar power depends on factors like boondocking frequency, with solar being more cost-effective for full-time boondockers despite higher upfront costs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel costs for a small 2,000-2,200-watt generator | 1 gallon of gas for 8 hours of runtime |
| Fuel costs for a 5,000-7,500-watt generator | 1 gallon of gas for 4-5 hours of runtime |
| Propane costs | 10%-20% above the price of gasoline |
| Onan 5,500-watt generator fuel costs | 5 gallons for 8-10 hours of use |
| Champion 2,000-watt generator cost | $500 |
| 800-watt solar panel array cost | $5,000-$6,000 |
| Cellular booster cost | $500-$750 |
| Antenna cost | $150-$300 |
| Starlink satellite cost | $600 for hardware, $135 per month for service |
| Outfitting an RV for long-term boondocking | $2,000-$12,000 |
| Monthly living costs on public lands | $500-$1,000 |
| Fuel costs for moving an RV between campsites | $200-$300 |
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What You'll Learn
- A 2,000-watt generator costs $500 and can power appliances like microwaves
- A 5,000-7,500 watt generator uses a gallon of gas in 4-5 hours
- Onan 5,500-watt generators use 5 gallons of gas in 8-10 hours
- Solar panels are quieter and more convenient but costlier for part-time boondockers
- Fuel costs depend on how long you boondock and the generator's wattage
A 2,000-watt generator costs $500 and can power appliances like microwaves
A 2,000-watt generator is a popular choice for those looking to power appliances like microwaves when boondocking. This size of generator typically costs around $500 and can be paired with another of the same size to double the power output. This increased power can then be used to run an air conditioning unit, which a single 2,000-watt generator cannot power.
Generators are a good option for powering RVs when boondocking as they are relatively inexpensive and can produce a large amount of power. They are also versatile in that they can run on diesel, gasoline, or propane. However, they can be noisy and produce emissions, requiring proper ventilation. Inverter generators are a more stable and fuel-efficient option, but they may not be suitable for high-power appliances.
The fuel costs for a small portable 2,000-watt generator are approximately one gallon of gas for eight hours of runtime. This is a more fuel-efficient option compared to larger generators, which burn a gallon of gas in four to five hours.
While generators are a good option for part-time boondocking, solar power is a more cost-effective and convenient solution for those planning to boondock for longer periods. Solar panels harness free energy from the sun, but they require a significant upfront investment and may not always be reliable due to varying weather conditions.
Overall, a 2,000-watt generator is a cost-effective and versatile option for powering appliances like microwaves when boondocking. However, it is important to consider the trade-offs in terms of fuel costs, noise, and emissions when deciding between a generator and solar power.
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A 5,000-7,500 watt generator uses a gallon of gas in 4-5 hours
The fuel costs for a generator depend on the generator's size and wattage. A 5,000-7,500-watt generator, for example, will use a gallon of gas in 4-5 hours. The larger the generator, the less fuel-efficient it is.
Generators are one of the best choices for powering an RV while boondocking. They are relatively inexpensive and can quickly produce a large amount of power. A small 2,000-2,200-watt generator, for example, can power a microwave and other appliances that need to be plugged into a wall. However, it cannot power an air conditioning unit. To do that, you would need a larger generator or two smaller generators chained together.
The cost of running a generator can add up, especially if you are running it 24/7 to keep your RV cool. Fueling a generator can be incredibly expensive, and the more watts a generator produces, the more power it uses. This means that a larger generator will use more fuel to produce the same runtime as a smaller generator.
There are alternatives to generators for powering an RV while boondocking. Solar power, for example, is a quieter and more convenient option, although it may not be cost-effective for part-time boondockers. Another option is to upgrade your RV's battery bank to store more power.
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Onan 5,500-watt generators use 5 gallons of gas in 8-10 hours
Boondocking in an RV can be a great way to experience nature and escape crowded campgrounds, but it comes with certain costs, such as fuel for generators. The amount of fuel a generator consumes depends on its size and power output. Onan 5,500-watt generators are popular among boondockers and are often built into higher-end trailers and motorhomes. These generators are known to consume a significant amount of fuel, approximately 5 gallons in 8-10 hours of use.
The fuel consumption of the Onan 5,500-watt generator can vary depending on the load it is powering. Under no load conditions, it may use around 0.4 to 0.5 gallons per hour, while at half load, the consumption increases to about 0.7 to 0.8 gallons per hour. With a full load, the generator can consume up to 1.1 to 1.28 gallons per hour. These values translate to a range of 4 to 10 hours of use per 5 gallons, depending on the load.
To put this into perspective, a smaller 2,000 to 2,200-watt generator, which is commonly used by boondockers, consumes about 1 gallon of gas for 8 hours of runtime. This means that the Onan 5,500-watt generator, with its higher fuel consumption, may require more frequent refuelling, impacting the overall cost of boondocking.
When considering the fuel efficiency of the Onan 5,500-watt generator, it is essential to factor in the cost of gasoline or propane, as these fuels can fluctuate in price. Additionally, the overall cost of boondocking with a generator includes not just the fuel but also the initial purchase of the generator itself, which can range from $4,000 to $9,000 depending on the model and fuel type (gasoline, propane, or diesel).
To optimize fuel efficiency and reduce costs, some boondockers opt for alternative power sources, such as solar panels. While solar panels require a higher initial investment, they offer free energy from the sun and reduce the need for frequent refuelling. However, solar panels may not be as effective for part-time boondockers due to the higher upfront costs. Ultimately, the decision between a generator and solar panels depends on individual preferences, boondocking frequency, and budget constraints.
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Solar panels are quieter and more convenient but costlier for part-time boondockers
Solar panels are a great way to power your RV while boondocking. They are quieter and more convenient than generators, but they can be costlier, especially for part-time boondockers.
Generators are a popular choice for powering RVs while boondocking due to their affordability and ability to quickly produce a large amount of power. A small 2,000- to 2,200-watt generator can cost around $500, while a larger generator capable of powering an air conditioning unit can cost upwards of $1,000. Fuel costs for running a small generator are about one gallon of gas for eight hours of runtime, while larger generators are less fuel-efficient, burning a gallon of gas in four to five hours.
Solar panels, on the other hand, offer a quieter and more convenient option. They harness free energy from the sun, and as long as there is sunlight, they will generate power. Solar panels also allow for off-grid camping, freeing you from reliance on campgrounds for electricity. However, solar panels require an initial investment, as they typically need to be purchased and installed separately. A basic solar setup for an RV, including solar panels, batteries, and an inverter, can cost around $5,000 to $6,000.
For part-time boondockers, the cost of solar panels may be harder to recoup. A generator is a smaller investment and can provide a significant amount of power for the price. Additionally, with a generator, there is no reliance on sunlight, and you won't have to worry about keeping your batteries charged.
However, solar panels offer several advantages. They are quieter, and you won't have to worry about fuel costs or engine maintenance. Solar panels are also a renewable energy source, providing cost-effective power in the long run.
Ultimately, the decision between solar panels and generators depends on individual needs and usage patterns. While solar panels may be costlier upfront, they offer quieter and more convenient power for boondocking, especially for those who plan to do it frequently. Part-time boondockers may find generators to be a more cost-effective option, but they will need to consider the ongoing fuel costs and the potential inconvenience of engine noise.
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Fuel costs depend on how long you boondock and the generator's wattage
Fuel costs for running a generator while boondocking depend on various factors, including the generator's wattage, runtime, and fuel type. The larger the generator and the longer it runs, the more fuel it will consume.
A small portable generator in the 2,000 to 2,200-watt range is commonly used by boondockers. These generators are typically fuelled by gasoline and provide approximately eight hours of runtime on a single gallon of fuel. This option is suitable for powering appliances such as microwaves and wall-plugged devices but may not be sufficient for air conditioning units.
Larger generators, such as the Onan 5,500-watt generator, consume more fuel. This generator burns through five gallons of gasoline in about eight to ten hours of use. The fuel efficiency decreases as the generator size increases. For example, a 5,000 to 7,500-watt generator will use a gallon of gasoline in approximately four to five hours.
The cost of fuel can vary over time, and propane fuel, commonly used in RVs, tends to be priced 10% to 20% higher than gasoline. For example, if gasoline costs $5.00 per gallon, propane will likely cost between $5.50 and $6.00 per gallon.
To save on fuel costs, some boondockers opt for solar power, which harnesses free energy from the sun. However, solar panels can be expensive, and the sun's availability may vary, impacting the system's effectiveness. Therefore, boondockers who rely on generators for power may need to factor in the fuel costs based on their generator's wattage and expected runtime to estimate their overall fuel expenditure.
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Frequently asked questions
A small 2,000-watt generator uses about one gallon of gas for eight hours of runtime.
The price of fuel can vary, but propane at a fuel station usually follows the same trend as gasoline, at about 10% to 20% above. So, if the price of gasoline is $5.00 a gallon, propane will be between $5.50 to $6.00 a gallon.
Running a generator 24/7 can be incredibly expensive, especially if it's being used to cool your RV. A 5,500-watt generator will use about five gallons of fuel in 8-10 hours, so running it 24/7 would cost about $25-$30 per day, depending on fuel prices.
Running an RV air conditioner on a generator will depend on the size of the generator and the air conditioner. A small 2,000-watt generator can be used to kickstart a 13,500 BTU air conditioner, but it will only run for 30-45 minutes. A larger 3,000-watt generator can run the same air conditioner for an hour and a half.
The cost of boondocking with a generator will depend on the size and fuel efficiency of the generator, as well as the number of appliances being run. Most boondockers spend $500-$1,000 per month on fuel and other costs, with full-time boondockers spending up to $2,000 per month.
