How to Use Propane Generators for RV: The Basics

Using a propane generator for RV power is a popular way to get power while camping off-grid. But if propane-powered RV generators intimidate you, you’re not alone. It can be confusing to find the right generator, amount of propane to operate it, and hookups.

In this article, we take a closer look at propane RV generators, their benefits, and how to use them. Let’s get into it. 

What Is an RV Propane Generator?

A propane generator for an RV is like a gas or diesel-powered generator, except the fuel is liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), more commonly called propane.  

Some RVs come with an onboard propane generator plumbed into the LPG system instead of the fuel system. Others purchase propane generators or convert their gasoline-powered generators to propane-powered models. 

Propane is one of the most popular fuels for RV generators, and for good reason. It burns cleaner, the generator requires less maintenance, and it has a much longer shelf-life. 

How Do You Use an RV Propane Generator?

Using a propane generator is pretty simple. You’ll start by hooking it up to a propane source and double-checking the connection is secure. Then, turn on the tank, check for leaks, and follow your generator’s instructions to start it. 

Once your generator is running, you can use it just like you would any generator for RV power–charging your batteries, running high-powered equipment, and more. 

What Are RV Propane Generators Used For?

You can use a propane generator just like you would a gas generator. Most RVers use propane generators to power their RV amenities when they’re boondocking. They can be used to recharge house batteries, run appliances, watch TV, etc. 

Propane generators for RV power are helpful for summertime dry camping when you want to run your air conditioner, too, as long as you have a big enough generator to do so. Or, you can also use a generator for increased power demand when running multiple power-draining items. 

The options of using your propane generator in your RV are only limited to the size of your generator. 

Pro Tip: A generator  acts as a safety net for your RV’s power sources, but only if you have the right size. Read more to learn: What Size Generator Do I Need for My RV?

Are Propane Generators as Powerful as Gas or Diesel?

Yes and No. Propane has 25% less energy per gallon than gasoline and hence produces about 25% less power. This can sometimes be compensated for by burning more fuel or using a larger generator.

Even with this lower power output, propane generators emit 12% less Co2 and 20% fewer Nox emissions than gasoline for the same power output. This makes them a more environmentally friendly choice. Because the fumes are less harmful running a propane-powered generator at your campsite can also be safer for you.

The Benefits of Using a Propane-Powered RV Generator

There are many benefits to using a propane generator for your RV. In fact, you might want to get one yourself after reading these reasons other RVers have made the switch! 

First of all, they tend run a tad quieter than gasoline or diesel options. Usually, this has more do with the design of the generator than the fuel, however.

Propane also has a much longer shelf-life than other types of fuels. This means that your generator can sit for months without running, and you don’t have to worry about it not working the next time you need it. Conversely, gas and diesel tend to gum up and break down when they sit for long periods. This is one of the best features of a propane generator in an RV, because many get stored for long periods of time.

In fact, our propane generator sat for many years without running but fired up fine when we went to use it. This would not have been the case with gasoline.

RV propane generators also require less maintenance than their gasoline or diesel counterparts, which accumulate carbon build-up. It can affect the operation, and you’ll need to clean them regularly. Propane generators don’t have this problem, so they’ll start up more reliably.

Finally, propane is a cleaner-burning fuel. You won’t have the icky exhaust smell that you find with gas or diesel-powered generators when you’re running on propane.

Should You Use a Built-in or Portable Propane Generator?

Many RVs come with built-in generators, which is highly convenient. But a portable model could be beneficial too. So, should you use a built-in or portable propane generator for your situation? 

Portable

If you don’t already have a generator, purchasing a portable one from the get-go could be a great idea. While you’ll need to find a way to transport it, at least storing it won’t be a big issue. 

Unlike portable gas-powered generators, a propane model won’t stink up the area that you store it in. Gas generators leach gas fumes, and after you use them, you end up with a stinky storage bay. Propane generators have little to no smell after you use them. 

A portable generator is also easy to refill the fuel. All you have to do is get a propane tank, and you can easily remove it to fill it at any propane station. Portable propane generators make an excellent choice for RVers.

Best of all, having a portable generator gives you more options outside of your RV. If you want to take a camping trip without your RV or want to power something outside of your rig, your portable power unit makes it easy. 

Some portable generators can be converted to run on propane like this kit for the popular honda 2200i series generators.

Hutch Mountain Compatible with Honda Eu2000i...

View on Amazon

Built-In

The benefits of having a built-in generator include the convenience of operating your RV’s amenities, the lack of storage needs, and easy transport. 

But if you have a gas or diesel built-in generator, should you make the switch to propane? 

Carefully weigh the pros and cons of using propane vs. your current fuel type. If you feel that the expense of gas or diesel, the maintenance, the smell, or any other disadvantages are becoming too much to handle, switching to a propane generator might be worth the expense. 

One key consideration is that gas or diesel generators often tap into your rig’s main fuel tank. So, if you have significant power needs, you might use more fuel than you intended and could risk running out of fuel and becoming stranded. A built-in propane generator connects to your onboard propane system, so you’ll never have to worry about using your fuel. 

Keep in Mind: There are many different types of RV generators to choose from, so how do you pick what’s best? We made The Complete Guide To RV Generators for you.

How to Maintain Your RV Propane Generator

Propane generators require less maintenance than gas or diesel ones, but you should still care for them. Here’s how to handle the upkeep of your RV propane generator. 

Test It Regularly

Although propane doesn’t break down as gasoline or diesel fuels will, it’s still wise to exercise your generator at least monthly. If a problem has arisen while it’s been sitting, you’ll be able to spot it before you need to use it. 

Do Regular Oil Checks and Changes

Propane generators still use oil. Follow the manufacturer’s schedule for oil changes and other routine maintenance. Make sure you use the correct type of oil as listed in your generator’s manual. 

How Long Can a Propane RV Generator Run on a 20lb Tank?

The length of time you can run a propane RV generator on a 20lb tank depends on the generator capacity and the amount of load running off of it. You can figure it out with some simple calculations, but if you use these charts from the generator retailer U.S. Carburetion, it’ll make things easier. 

According to their charts, you can expect to get just over 6 hours of run-time on a full load with a 20lb propane tank using a 3500W propane generator. 

In general a propane generator will burn more fuel for the same power than a gasoline generator. This could be a drawback since propane can be a bit harder to find sometimes and usually an attendant is required to fill it.

Do You Have to Use Your RV Generator to Have Power?

While you can plug your RV into your generator and use it to run various amenities, you don’t have to. If you have access to shore power, you can use that to operate your rig, mainly your 120V or larger RV appliances. 

Most RVs also have a battery system that keeps 12V appliances and features running as long as the batteries are charged. You can also run your 120V+ devices with an inverter that plugs into the house battery. 

Most of the time, you’ll use a generator when you don’t have access to shore power. You can either recharge low RV batteries or run large appliances and your 120V system directly from the generator. 

If you don’t have shore power or a generator, another alternative is solar power. Whether you have a couple of portable solar panels or an entire solar system on your roof, you could get enough power to operate your RV in the right conditions. 

Are RV Propane Generators Worth It? 

Propane generators for RVs have a lot of benefits over gasoline and diesel-powered generators. It’s all about weighing the pros and cons of your situation. 

Propane RV generators can definitely be worth it for anyone who wants a generator for power but doesn’t want to deal with the hassle, smell, or cost of gasoline or diesel. It could also be the perfect option for those just starting out in their RV. 

Do you use a propane generator in your RV?  Drop a comment below.

Read More From The Mortons:

• The Complete Guide To RV Generators
• What Is An Inverter Generator?
• What Size Generator Do I Need for My RV?
• 7 Best Portable Generators for RV Camping
• 40 RV Boondocking Tips To Make Your Off-Grid Camping Better

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