Generator Selection Dilemma

[mattskav]

I'd really like to get a generator for our 23D. The problem is the choices are limited (I need to buy from Cabela's since I have a lot of gift cards for there). They sell the following:

Yamaha 1000
Yamaha 2400SHCi
Generac iQ2000
Champion 2000
Champion 3100
Polaris 2000i

My primary goal is to get something to charge the batteries in state campgrounds in ME and VT (via the 30A). I really want it to be as discreet/quiet as humanly possible so as not to make anyone upset, I'm hypersensitive to being the a#$% w/ the airstream. While I'd love to be able to run the AC if needed, it's probably unnecessary.

I'm leaning to the Generac iQ since it seems to be the quietest but it seems it has fuel leak problems in the reviews, i'm concerned the Yamaha will trip since it's only a 1000, no one seems to own the Polaris, and the Champions seem like they may be loud watching the videos online. I could throw in some cash and stretch up to the Yamaha 2400SCHI which will serve all my needs but it seems REALLY expensive and is heavy.

Any suggestions?

[65CV]

I have a Yamaha 2400 and I couldn't recommend it as one that will run your air conditioner without problems. We were running a Dometic Penguin and it kept kicking off on overload when the A/C cycled. Our A/C on our current Airstream is a 15K unit and I haven't bothered even trying to run it on the 2400.

That said, it's a very good unit and is quite quiet. When we first used it, I was in a state park in Vermont and went to the next campsite to be sure they weren't bothered by it running. They didn't realize it was even on!

We have used it after power losses at home, post Hurricanes, and it's performed very well.

From the sounds of your post, the Yamaha 1000 might be the right choice.

2017 could be a great year for Boston sports fans

[tjdonahoe]

Champion 4400 watt, $287, works good..

[SeaLevel]

I was going to suggest going the solar route, although that might not meet your pricing criteria. Otherwise, it would be the most quiet and it could charge your batteries. You might need panels you could move around though, so that you could chase the sun. Sorry I couldn't address your direct generator question... I don't have one either at this point. I'm interested in what others have to say.

[AWCHIEF]

If all you want to do is charge batteries the 1000 is more than adequate. If planning on running hair dryer, microwave, TV and AC go with the Yamaha 2400. With either choice I would suggest a propane conversion and supplement with 200 watts of solar either fixed or portable.

[Rich W]

For each of the brands you list, how close are their service centers? If something goes south during warranty you don't want to have to be shipping it off or driving a long way to get it serviced.

[jcanavera]

The Yamaha products are more expensive but you do get what you pay for. For occasional usage then any of them might do you well. But if the generator is going to get a lot of usage, I'd go with the Yamaha. Be sure you get an inverter/generator. The inverters all adjust the engine speed to match the power needs and are much more economical to run. A generator needs to run at a higher constant speed no matter the wattage you need and will use more fuel.

I've measured the wattage need for my 30' Classic and all my appliances (including the refrigerator and water heater on gas) and lights, can run concurrently under 1,000 watts except for the microwave, electric water heater element and air conditioner. The last two I would not operate if on the generator.

I carry a 2000 watt Yamaha that can handle 2,000 watt peaks, but is rated for 1,600 watt continuous. I have a tri-fuel unit that allows me to run on natural gas, propane, and gasoline. With the Classic I would use propane. Propane is a lot cleaner burning, no deposits or worry about gasoline fuel storage and the freshness of the supply.

Jack

[FCStreamer]

Originally Posted by tjdonahoe

Champion 4400 watt, $287, works good..

I think he said he wanted a quiet one.

[AWCHIEF]

Originally Posted by FCStreamer

I think he said he wanted a quiet one.

[Soyboy]

Go with the Yamaha, it is well built and quiet. I've had a Yamaha and a Honda and they are both nice units. As someone mentioned, whatever you buy, make sure that it is an inverter style generator. If you don't want noise, don't plan on running your AC with one as these modest sized units will be cranking trying to run it (if they even will). Please don't buy an el-cheapo noise-o-matic construction style generator, they are bad enough on a construction site and don't belong in a campground. There is not anything much more annoying, than someone else's noisy generator when you are trying to relax in the campground. Just sayin.

[carlc]

I have the smarter tools gen. It has the yamaha engine in it, same as the yamaha 2000i.
it will not operate your air though. We mostly camp in the mountains in the shoulder seasons so do not need air, if we go in the summer months i will go to a campground that has, at least electric. You can get a parallel unit and that will be plenty for your air , but i have not gone enough in the summer to justify the extra cost. We have that option though. http://www.usesmartertools.com/manua...0IQ_MANUAL.pdf

[mattskav]

Originally Posted by 65CV

I have a Yamaha 2400 and I couldn't recommend it as one that will run your air conditioner without problems. We were running a Dometic Penguin and it kept kicking off on overload when the A/C cycled. Our A/C on our current Airstream is a 15K unit and I haven't bothered even trying to run it on the 2400.

That is great info, I assume it was a 13,500 that you had issues with?

[Echelon73]

Cabelas also sells the Champion dual fuel 3500 inverter generator. I did not see that one on your list. It is a quiet closed frame unit that runs on gas or propane. Mine runs my AC with ease and still has power left over for other things. I have never put gas in the tank. I only use it on propane so I do not worry about old gas damaging my carb.

[SCOTTinNJ]

I have a Yamaha 2000 which works well so I'm a bit partial toward the brand. That said, if the 2400 can't run your AC I wouldn't buy it. In my opinion there is no need to buy a 100 lb generator to get more power than most 50 lb 2000 watt generators can provide unless you make the jump to a generator that can power the AC.

Given your choices I'd probably go with the Generac 2000 and maybe the Champion 2000.

Quick question, can you unload the gift certificates? If you know someone making a purchase at Cabela's maybe they will buy them off you? Then you can shop elsewhere.

[1973Argosy]

The Yamaha 2400 runs my coleman 13500 like a dream.

[Peter Culp]

I bought the Champion Dual Fuel 3100 at costco. It is great not having to worry about gas. I am very pleased with it. Cabelas has the 3500 dual fuel. I would look very seriously at that one.

[CRH]

The Champion 3100 inverter would be my choice.

[mattskav]

I went to the physical store today since they had them all there. The guy there echoed most folks here and also was pro Yamaha so I picked the Yamaha 1000. We'll have to see how it does. At the end of the day it only cost me $9.00 (I had quite the pile of gift cards).

The 3100 Champion seemed too heavy, and is overkill for what I imagine using it for. The Generac seemed really well built and was a good size but I still have yet to hear someone recommend it...

Anyway thanks for the input!

[Wolfe]

is that 1000 an inverter ? if so you should be ok. let us know.

[Spinonedad]

Look up echo worthy solar panels on Amazon
They sell a 120 watt fold up unit that does a good job of keeping batteries topped off while there is sun out,,,and the generator can stay quiet those days

This solar panel sold for $235 including free shipping
I'm very happy with mine,,,just save the shipping box as it comes with no case And you will want to store it in something while in transit

Ken