How To Charge Rv Battery With Generator?
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How To Charge RV Battery With Generator? 22 Easy Steps

An excellent way to guarantee you always have electricity when needed is to have a generator for your RV. But some people might find it strange to use the generator to charge the batteries in an RV. 

We’ll demonstrate How To Charge RV Battery With Generator correctly. We’ll also provide some advice on how to maximize the effectiveness of your generator while the battery is being charged. So, whether you’re a beginner or an expert when it comes to generators and batteries, we’ve got the information that you need.

What You’ll Need

When you’re prepared to use your generator to charge your RV batteries, you’ll need these things.

Generator

A different size generator with the power to recharge your RV’s battery is required. The output information is often shown on the label of generators, making it simple to determine if they are strong enough to charge your battery. 

Battery

Before starting the generator, you must completely charge the battery.

RV Battery Charger

This will make it easier to make sure you are getting the most out of your generator.

RV

Make sure the RV is level and placed where the generator can reach it (a park or driveway).

Extension Cords

It would help if you had the appropriate cables to connect your generator to the battery. The electricity that the generator will provide should be able to go via the extension cable. 

AC Power Adapter For The Generator (If Needed)

Some generators have insufficient built-in AC converters to recharge your RV’s battery. In this case, the generator will need an adapter to get electricity from an AC outlet. 

Array Of Outlets

On the generator, you must have at least one electrical outlet. You may do this to connect the RV battery charger to it. 

Screwdriver

Use a screwdriver to access the battery box on your RV.

Wrench

You’ll need a wrench to tighten the charger wires on the RV battery. They are less prone to separate when the battery charges due to this.

Sand Paper

Not all generators will come with an AC outlet built-in. If this is the case, you’ll need to use a screwdriver or a knife to open up the generator and find out where the outlet is. Some generators have an AC outlet on the side, while others may have one in the front or back. Once you find it, use sandpaper to smooth down the edges and prevent any sharp metal from puncturing your extension cord.

Flashlight

While working on specific generators, the illumination may not be too intense. Make sure you have a flashlight with you so you can work while seeing all the components correctly. 

Water

You must have access to water while working. You’ll be able to do this while working and clean up any spills or accidents.

Batteries

Make sure you have several more on hand if your generator doesn’t have built-in batteries. As a result, you won’t always need to use your generator to run your RV battery charger. 

Lighter Fluid

You’ll need a lighter for starting the generator, so have some lighter fluid on hand.

Gasoline

You must have fuel on hand if you want to use the generator. Before turning on the generator, ensure there is at least a quarter of a tank. 

Starter Fluid

Starting fluid can be required to start the generator. Although it’s uncommon, keep some on hand just in case. 

Hose

There will be gas emissions while the generator is operating. As you operate, ensure you have a hose to ventilate the space. 

Screwdriver

Use a screwdriver to access the battery box on your RV.

Safety Gear

Make sure you have the following safety gear before you start charging the battery.

– Goggles

– Gloves

– Earplugs

– Safety vest [optional]

Wire Cutters

To cut the AC power lines, you will need wire cutters. These will be much smaller than the ones you’d use for your generator, so they need to be precise.

Voltmeter

Whether you have a smart charger or not, it’s important to measure the voltage of the generator and the RV battery before you start charging. This will let you know how much power is available and what kind of charge you’re giving the battery.

Crimps connectors or terminals

Make sure you have any necessary crimp connections or terminals if you need to connect the charger to the battery. You will find it simpler to charge as a result.

Rust remover

It could be challenging to keep equipment from rusting when you operate outside daily. Still, this issue will be greatly reduced if you have a rust remover.

Lubricant

Before starting maintenance, ensure the generator’s gears and bearings are properly oiled. Doing this may keep them from wearing out earlier than necessary and ultimately save money.

Duct Tape

If you’re experiencing issues with them, duct tape may hold cables and outlets in place while you work. Some outlets could have a screw on either side, in which case you need the duct tape and won’t need to secure it. 

Metal Cutting Shears

If your generator doesn’t have an integrated outlet, you’ll need metal cutting shears to cut the old cable out. Before beginning, make sure they are very sharp. 

Pry Bar

Use a pry bar if you need to enter the generator. Your hands will be safer while working if you do this. 

Rags

You’ll need clothes to clean up any messes you produce while working. It’s essential to maintain your generator clean to avoid corrosion-related problems.

Container For Removing Oil

You’ll need a container for oil draining when it’s time to maintain your generator. Verify that it can hold all of the oil in your generator. 

How To Charge The RV Battery With The Generator?

You can start when you have all the tools and supplies you need to charge the batteries in your RV.

  1. To ensure you don’t forget, measure the battery voltage in your RV and record the result. It will tell you the amount of electricity your battery requires to charge completely and the appropriate time to add water to the battery (if necessary).
  2. Your automobile’s electrical system must first be directly linked to the generator. This may be accomplished by verifying that the generator’s inverter is working. The inverter’s battery needs to be charged entirely for this to work, and you may use the generator.
  3. After connecting your generator, be careful to flip the switch to turn on the electrical system. It will start the generator, which should begin giving power to the batteries in your RV.
  4. Your RV’s battery compartment should be open. You must first get to this box to connect the generator cable and start charging the battery.
  5. Use a voltmeter connected to the battery to check that the generator is correctly charging your RV. 
  6. Ensure that you turn off the electricity to your generator after you have finished charging your battery. By doing this, you can ensure that your RV’s battery is safe and fully charged so that you can use it later. 
  7. Attach the generator’s output to one end of a heavy-duty alternating current surge protector. Make sure the protector can handle a lot of power. 
  8. Connect this cord’s opposite end to the battery compartment. Secure this connection with duct tape if you’re working outside. Read Also How To Protect Outdoor Extension Cord From Rain? 6 DIY Method
  9. Install a powerful AC surge protector in your RV’s battery compartment. Once it is charged, this will provide additional safety for your generator and RV. 
  10. Connect one end of the cable to the generator. When trimming the extra cord using metal shears, only attach the male end (not the female).
  11. Turn off the generator when the battery is fully charged to keep your RV from overcharging and damaging the wiring and appliances.
  12.  Turn on the generator to confirm that this connection is secure. Duct tape may hold anything in place if any issues emerge until everything is up and running well (as we mentioned earlier). 
  13. Secure everything by closing the battery box on your RV. Use duct tape to secure this connection if you’re working outside. 
  14. Restart the generator to check if anything is blocking it or the cable is loose. You should be able to use your generator to recharge your RV batteries if everything is in order.
  15. After operating the generator, check the RV battery’s voltage. You’ll be able to tell how much power was produced during this procedure. 
  16. While charging, keep an eye on the voltage levels. These levels only need to be checked once per hour. Turn off the generator until the voltages return to normal if you see that they are rising too quickly. 
  17. Ensure that your RV battery is adequately cooled while it is being charged. You may water it or keep it in a shaded area if required. 
  18. While the generator is charging, keep an eye on it. Turn off the battery and the generator if you see that the voltage levels are going too low. 
  19. When working with your generator, take all the required safety measures. Working on your generator entails donning safety gear, including gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing. 
  20. When in use, keep the generator in an open space. It will assist you in determining whether there are any issues when charging your RV batteries.
  21. Keep a close watch on the generator’s exhaust gases. Maintain a safe distance from your family and pets if the levels appear hazardous. Use a carbon monoxide detector to monitor the dangers of these pollutants.
  22. While your generator is functioning, keep an eye on it. If the generator doesn’t seem to be spinning correctly, turn it off and store it cold for future use. 

This Has The Following Advantages

When you wish to remain there for a long time, a generator and an RV with a battery come in handy. You won’t need to start your car’s engine to recharge the battery as long as you have fuel for your generator. To travel when it’s time to depart, it’s advantageous for you to have the RV battery charged. However, sometimes individuals are unable to charge an RV’s battery properly.

When Using A Generator To Charge Your RV Batteries, Bear The Following In Mind

  •  You can’t charge the battery if it’s too cold or too hot outside. For RV batteries, a temperature of around 18 degrees Celsius is ideal (64 degrees Fahrenheit). 
  • Only utilize generators with a maximum output of 150 watts for around nine hours. By doing this, you can be confident that you won’t shorten or damage the battery’s life.
  • To get the most out of the RV batteries, keep them charged. If you don’t, your battery will wind up having issues and won’t last as long. Generators that are no more than 1,000 watts should be used to recharge the RV batteries.
  • To ensure that your generator can do the job, charge it for 20 hours. The generator won’t be able to completely charge your RV battery if you use it for four hours of charging time. 
  • Ensure the inverter is turned on before connecting the generator directly to your car. It will ensure that the generator can recharge your RV battery.
  • Before starting your RV, let the battery charge for a few hours. It’ll also ensure that the battery is in top condition and ready for usage.
  • Make sure to switch off the battery and store it if the RV is not required. It will ensure that your battery is ultimately charged and prepared for use when required.
  • Be cautious to only turn on your RV in an emergency after it has been hooked up. The battery can sustain damage as a result.

Hints And Techniques 

If you use a generator with a power output of more than 1,000 watts, your RV will charge more rapidly. However, be careful not to use more powerful generators than 10,000 watts.

  • Be careful to maintain enough airflow around the RV batteries and generator. Additionally, you must put them in a room with good ventilation. 
  • You may charge the batteries if your RV’s alternator is in good working order. Verify that the alternator’s maximum power is 150 watts. 
  • Use a deep-cycle battery or another battery that can withstand being charged by generators. By doing this, you can be confident that your battery is strong and capable of completing the work. 
  • Always watch how much electricity you use to recharge your RV batteries. You can do this by using a voltmeter to check the voltage in the RV when the generator is running.
  • Always make sure the generator is connected to a switched electrical system. Make sure that you are constantly on unless you are charging your battery.
  • Never operate the generator on your RV for longer than nine hours. By doing this, you can ensure that your generator isn’t overloaded. 
  • Always use a voltmeter to check if the RV battery is being charged. You will be better off because you will always know how much power you are getting.
  • Check on your RV once a month to ensure it’s in excellent shape and ready to go. 
  • Recharge your battery before it runs out of juice entirely. A deep-cycle battery operates best when charged at around 12.5 volts. 
  • Before unplugging the generator from your RV, be sure it is off. This will ensure that neither the generator nor the batteries of your RV are harmed. 

Other Ways To Charge Your RV Battery

  • Suppose your alternator is the proper size and has excellent performance. In that case, you may also use it to charge your RV batteries. Make sure you don’t use an alternator to charge your RV for more than nine hours. 
  • If your RV battery is the proper size and performs well, you may use solar panels to charge it. 
  • Ensure that the solar panels you use to recharge your RV batteries have a maximum power of 30 watts each. Additionally, there should be at least three solar panels installed.
  • Be careful to charge your RV batteries from just one solar panel at a time. Doing this can prevent overcharging the battery and damaging the solar panel.
  • Check to see that each of the solar panels has no more than 12 volts. By doing this, you may prevent over-voltage damage to the RV battery.
  • You may also use a wind turbine to charge your RV batteries, but only up to 30 watts at a time.
  • Avoid charging your RV batteries for longer than nine hours or throughout the night. By doing this, the RV batteries will remain solid and durable.
  • Confirm if the wind turbine has a brake mechanism and a low vibration level. A voltmeter can be used to measure the voltage it produces.
  • Be careful to place the wind turbine in a space that is open and free from any metal.
  • Additionally, you should add potassium hydroxide or distilled water to your RV battery to keep it in good shape.
  • Only 75% of these ingredients ought to be introduced into the cells. You may check the chemical composition of your RV batteries with a hydrometer.
  • Use less than 1 amp per cell while charging your RV batteries with chlorine. You could also use baking soda for this.
  • When charging your RV battery, you must never combine the chemicals. This will prevent them from reacting and harming the RV battery. 
  • By cleaning the cells of your RV batteries with a little brush, you should also maintain them. Additionally, it would help if you used paste or rubbing alcohol to keep the terminals clean and shiny. 
  • Additionally, you should use a tiny brush to remove any debris or dust from the battery housing of your RV. To avoid corrosion, wipe the terminals with a paste or rubbing alcohol. Avoid any dampness in the area where your RV batteries are stored.
  • Never use a power inverter, charger, or alternator to charge the batteries in your RV. Doing so will hurt the batteries.
  • Never keep your RV’s generator running for more than nine hours. By doing this, you can ensure that your generator and batteries aren’t being overloaded.
  • Always have a voltmeter close by while you are recharging your RV battery.
  • Using this information, you will be able to know the voltage and how to monitor your RV batteries will be made easier with the use of this information. 
  • It would help if you also used a generator to recharge your RV’s batteries in a dry, dust-free environment.
  • Before charging the batteries in your RV, ensure your generator is operating correctly.
  • Before starting the generator, ensure all of your RV’s appliances are off. 

FAQs

Will Use A Generator With A More Than 1,000-Watt Rating To Charge My RV Battery Harm It?

No, the generator won’t harm the batteries in your RV. But if you use a generator with more than 10,000 watts, it will also affect this.

What Voltage Must My RV Battery Have To Function?

12.5 volts is the recommended charge for your RV battery. If you allow the battery to go to zero, it will quickly stop holding a charge and die.

How Should I Charge My RV? What Kind Of Battery Should I Use?

To charge your RV, you should use a deep-cycle battery. This indicates that the battery is less likely to catch fire and is built to let electricity out.

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