Our Essential RV Generator Safety Guide

Generators are necessary when you're on the road in your RV and want to camp in remote areas or attend festivals without access to electric hookups. For RV camping purposes, an inverter generator is generally your best option. It's small, lightweight, and quieter than other models — perfect for quick setups and takedowns and not bothering your neighbors. You'll also get better fuel efficiency, but it's important to find one with the wattage to support all your electronic devices.

Safe RV generator usage can prevent many safety risks and hazards associated with their operation. Below, we discuss the top safety measures to protect yourself and other occupants in an RV park.

5 Essential RV Generator Safety Tips

RV generators run on combustible fuel to convert chemical energy into mechanical energy that produces an AC current to power appliances. Inverter generators operate at a lower noise level because they convert the current to a more regulated and sustained level. As with any electrical appliance or device, you should take precautions when using and handling generators.

The following are tips for ensuring safety when operating a generator to run appliances inside an RV.

1. Ensure Proper Ventilation and Distance

You should always run your generators outdoors with sufficient airflow to prevent the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and accidental ignition. The CDC recommends keeping portable and inverter generators at least 20 feet away from your RV. Additionally, the exhaust should face away from the RV and surrounding RV's doors, windows, vents, and other openings. This minimizes the risk of CO poisoning from the exhaust fumes moving in and collecting inside the RV through the openings.

You must also check that there are no obstructions in the path of the exhaust. This is especially important when using shelters or canopies to protect the generator from extreme weather conditions. The best canopies for your generator fit squarely over your generator, protecting it against rain, snow, and strong winds without blocking the exhaust.

2. Store Backup Fuel Appropriately

When traveling in your RV, it's a good idea to carry backup fuel to avoid inconveniences for both your vehicle and your generator. Whether you're using gasoline, diesel, or propane, it's important to observe appropriate storage and shipping practices. For starters, fuel or flammable liquids must only be stored or transported in fuel-approved containers made of plastic or metal.

Store your backup fuel a safe distance away from the generator and other heat sources, such as gas or electric stoves, grills, and fire pits. You should avoid smoking or lighting handheld cigarettes near your generator or fuel storage.

3. Use the Right Cords and Cables

Using the right power cords and cables is essential to prevent electric fires and electrocutions. It is important to make sure the amps on your power cord match the the most powerful outlet on your generator to prevent possible damage and wasted power potential. When using extension cords to connect appliances to your generator, use a high-rated, low-gauge one that can handle all the appliances you need to power. The cords and cables must be in good working condition and should not be frayed, broken, twisted, broken, cut, or damaged.

4. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

When using a generator to run your RV appliances, be sure to install CO detectors to alert you when CO exceeds safe levels inside. If you already have CO detectors installed, inspect them before you get on the road and pack extra batteries. Keeping your generator at least 20 feet away from your RV will also protect against CO exposure and fire risks.

5. Always Keep Generators Dry

Running a generator in rain, snow, or other wet conditions is dangerous because the generator fuel could mix with water, causing a short circuit or a fire. Fortunately, with a protective cover, you can operate your generators safely in all weather conditions. GenTent inverter and portable generator canopies protect your generator in up to 18 inches of snow, up to 12 inches of rainfall per hour, and 70 mile-per-hour wind speeds.

Our generator tents are rated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), meaning they protect your generator from extreme weather conditions without the risk of auto-ignition. They prevent damage to the control panel, outlets, and other parts of the generator while ensuring reliable operation.

Other RV Safety Tips

To enjoy a stress-free time when camping or attending festivals in your RV, here are some general safety tips to follow:

• Create a safety checklist that you refer to every time before heading out for your adventures.
• Inspect the condition and inflation of the tires.
• Check under the hood for any issues with hoses and belts.
• Check all fluid levels, including oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid.
• Check that all exterior lights, including headlights, turn signals, and brake lights, are working correctly.
• Disconnect the water hose, sewer hose, and power cord and store them appropriately.
• Turn off the gas supply at the tank or bottles and ensure all gas appliances are off as well.

What to Watch Out for and Initial RV Rental Prep

When renting an RV, there are a few things you must look out for to ensure you get the right one for your needs and the safety of the occupants and other road users. Some things to watch out for include:

• Read the RV's manufacturer's manual or ask the dealership to explain how the electric, water, and sewer hookups work.
• RVs vary extensively and don't provide the same experience as driving a car — be sure to practice or ask to take it for a test drive before leaving the rental lot to ensure it's manageable.
• Check for old tires and ask for replacement — if your rental doesn't come with tire pressure monitors, it's a good idea to invest in some to get alerts before problems become disasters.
• If the RV doesn't come with a backup camera, it's a good idea to get one to assist with reversing and prevent dangers in blind zones.

Van Life and Van Living Safety

Personal safety is crucial when living in a van. Below are top safety measures that will minimize risks on the road and when camping:

• Exercise situational awareness by being mindful of your surroundings, the people, and activities in your vicinity.
• Keep your generator stored in a safe place and secure it carefully when you're on the road.
• Follow all generator safety precautions and ensure it's a proper distance away from your van during operation.
• Secure all your belongings in storage compartments and ensure the exterior compartments are locked.
• Stay connected with friends, friends, and local authorities to create a safety network.
• Reinforce your doors and windows to safeguard your can and enhance your on-the-road experience.

View Our GenTent Safety Canopies

Generator covers are essential for safe operation while using your RV or van. Our GenTent generator tents allow you to cover your generator when it's running outside in the rain, snow, or other severe weather.

We have a range of waterproof rain covers and accessories for different types of generators, including portable, inverter, and larger generators. Enter your generator make and model into our fit finder to find the best cover for your needs or contact us today to learn more about our GenTent canopies.