30 Amp Generators: Best Picks, How to Choose, and More

What Is A 30 Amp Generator

Whether planning for full-time RV living or going for a short camping trip, you'll need to pack a backup power source. With a 30-amp generator, you can power all your essential appliances, even when you're off the grid.

No matter if you're using a refrigerator, electric grill, or laptop, an RV battery backup source can keep you comfortable and connected regardless of where you are. But not all 30-amp solar generators are created equal. Some generators are too loud, while others don't have enough power.

If you want a large battery capacity power solution that emits little to no noise, consider Jackery solar generators for RVs. These solar solutions are specially built with industry-grade materials to charge most outdoor devices for long hours. In this Jackery article, we will dive deep into what size solar generator will meet your RV power requirements and some best 30 amp generators.

What Size Generator Do I Need For My 30 Amp RV?

Typically small to medium-sized motor homes, campers, and RVs have a 30-amp electrical system. This means you'll need a 30-amp generator to fulfill the electrical requirements of all appliances in the RV.

The simple formula to determine the maximum power that a 30 amp RV is volts × amps. Since the 30 amp electrical system uses 120V, you can calculate the maximum power by multiplying the two values.

Maximum Power from 30 Amp RV Plug = 120V × 30A = 3600W.

However, this doesn't mean you need a 3600-watt generator to run appliances. Since you'll be using only a few devices simultaneously, a 3000-watt generator can efficiently power most RV devices.

One such powerful and robust 30-amp power solution is Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro. It can keep your appliances powered during your travels. Its 2160Wh battery capacity and 2000W power output can seamlessly charge 99% of your electrical appliances.

How Many Watts Does A 30 Amp RV Use?

When connected to a 120-volt power source, a 30-amp RV can use up to 3600 watts. This is because a 30 amp plug has one 120-volt hot wire, unlike a 50 amp plug which has two.

The formula to determine the watt requirement in a 30 amp generator is multiplying amps by volts.

Watt Requirement = 30 amps × 120 volts = 3600 watts.

How Much Electricity Needs For My 30 Amp RV?

The simple way to understand the right size of solar generator for your RV trailer is by determining your electrical needs.

A few things you'll need to calculate before choosing the generator include:

How many appliances are you planning to use at one time?

What are the starting and running watts of your RV appliances?

What are the power needs of all your RV appliances?

The more RV appliances you use at a single time, the larger the battery of your generator should be. The reason is that only a large generator can support multiple high-power-consuming appliances, like ACs, refrigerators, etc., in your RV.

Another factor that determines the generator size is the running and starting watts of the devices. For instance, an RV refrigerator consumes 180 running wattage, while you need to supply 600 watts to start the appliance.

Similarly, other high-power-consuming appliances like electric grills, microwave ovens, blenders, RV AC, etc., require more starting wattage than running. Below we will reveal some most common RV appliances with their starting and running watts.

It is evident from the table that appliances draw more power when they start. Therefore, the right size of solar generator should be capable of providing starting wattage to all devices for efficient functioning.

A 30-amp generator is suitable for charging all the appliances in your RV. For example, suppose you are using an RV AC that consumes nearly 700 to 1500 watts of power, a refrigerator consuming 300-400 watts, and a few lights.

In this case, the total power consumption will be 700W + 300W + 60W = 1060W.

A 2500-2800 watt solar generator will be sufficient to run these appliances for a few hours in a 30 amp RV. However, if you want to power RV electrical devices for a long time, a 3000-watt solar generator or higher is suitable for your needs.

Best 30 Amp Generators

While it might be tempting to use a gas generator while RVing as they are cheaper, it is not highly recommended. This is because an RV is a closed space that requires a clean and quiet power source. You'll need to choose the right-size solar generator that can seamlessly supply power to all your desired RV and camping appliances.

Jackery is one of the leading solar brand manufacturers that build high-quality solar panels, power stations, and solar generators. These home or outdoor generators use solar energy to work and can meet the power needs of all your trips. Hence, you can rest assured that you've ultimate power backup with Jackery.

Below we will reveal the most popular Jackery Solar Generators that will keep all your RV appliances powered.

Best For Camper Trailers: Jackery Solar Generator 6000 Kit

Jackery Solar Generator 6000 Kit combines one Explorer 2000 Plus, two Battery Pack 2000 Plus, and two SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels. This gives you a massive battery capacity of 6128.4Wh that can efficiently charge 99% of RV appliances.

The weatherproof and rugged nature of the power station makes it one of the best RV generators, with 30 amps, for long camping trips. The Explorer 2000 Plus has a variety of AC ports, USB-A, USB-C ports, etc., allowing you to power a range of small and large appliances.

One feature that differentiates this solar generator kit from others is its expandable nature. You can modify the power capacity of the system by increasing or decreasing the number of Jackery Battery Pack 2000 Plus attached to the Explorer 2000 Plus. Hence, it is a reliable option for those wanting to charge more power-demanding appliances during extended camping trips.

Best For RV and Van Life: Jackery Solar Generator 12000 Kit

Jackery Solar Generator 12000 Kit can be easily customized by combining Explorer 2000 Plus, five add-on Battery Pack 2000 Plus, and two SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels. Since you can expand the battery capacity to a gigantic 12,256.8Wh, it is ideal for powering appliances during outdoor camping, off-grid living, RV, or van life.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus series is regarded as the first add-on battery pack that can be charged using solar panels. Hence, Jackery gives you access to cleaner and more reliable power for your RV appliances.

The power station features a LiFePO4 battery that has a battery lifespan of around 10 years, even if used once per day. The innovative lithium battery technology operates safely and efficiently even during high temperatures.

How to Choose A Generator For 30 Amp RV?

Anyone who loves to enjoy RVing understands that it's challenging to always find an electrical outlet nearby for power supply. Many rural places and even campgrounds offer limited access, making shore power unreliable and inconvenient.

For this reason, solar generators have become essential equipment for many travelers. However, many RVers and outdoor enthusiasts found it overwhelming to understand "What size generator for a 30 amp RV should they choose?" or "Which is the best solar generator for an RV 30 amp?"

The simplest way to choose the ideal solar generator with a 30 amp RV outlet is by considering a few factors.

Capacity

The first thing you want to look at while choosing a 30-amp generator is its battery capacity. Since your 30 amp RV will require a minimum of 2500-2800 watts of power, you need to select a generator that can supply at least 3000 watts or more for consistent electricity.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus series includes expandable batteries. You can increase or decrease the battery capacity, depending on how much power you require. For instance, if you want to power most of your 30 amp RV appliances, consider Jackery Solar Generator 6000 Kit.

Alternatively, if you are looking for a power solution that can offer two weeks long backup, Jackery Solar Generator 12000 Kit might be your ideal pick.

30 Amp RV Outlet

Next factor you must consider while selecting a 30 amp solar generator is the 30 amp RV outlet. This means you can directly connect your RV and travel trailers to the outlet and start powering.

Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro and Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Stations feature a 30 amp RV outlet. That means you can charge your RV directly. These power stations are convenient and reliable means to charge recreational vehicles and enjoy outdoor activities.

Portable

The weight of the solar generator can impact its portability. The lighter ones generally have lower capacity and might not suit the power needs of 30 amp RV. For this reason, it's best to opt for a solar generator with wheels for easy transportation.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro and 2000 Plus feature a handle and rod that can be used to carry the power station from one place to another.

Additionally, the Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels are foldable and lightweight. You can easily fold and store these panels in your RV when not in use. Choosing Jackery Solar Generators means you never have to compromise with capacity or portability.

Starting and Running Wattage

Different RV appliances have different power needs. Some draw more power while they start, while others operate with the same wattage. Calculating the running and starting wattage of the appliance lets you determine which generator can meet your power needs.

While choosing the best solar generators for campers, you can note down the running and starting watts of all the appliances you're planning to use. Once you know the wattage you'll be using, consider purchasing a generator that can meet the starting watts of the devices.

Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro and 2000 Plus Portable Power Stations can charge 99% of your low and high-power-consuming appliances. With a high power output, they ensure you can safely charge larger devices like refrigerators.

Quiet

Silence is of utmost importance if you want to choose the generator for a small, closed space like an RV. Running a gas generator can produce significant noise that can keep you awake all night. This is why campers prefer choosing a quiet generator with 30 amp built with Quiet Mode technology.

Jackery Solar Generators are designed with quiet mode and emit less than 30dB of noise, which is less than what you hear in the library. These generators are suitable for running CPAP machines, ACs, etc., at night, ensuring you can sleep peacefully.

Safe

Safety is one of the most critical factors you'll need to consider while selecting solar generators for campers. Jackery offers reliable and safe solar generators that align with safety standards and can meet power needs during camping.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro is built with industry-leading BMS (Battery Management System) technology. The 12 layers of protection offer robust safety against short circuits, overvoltages, etc. The pure sine wave inverter safeguards the appliances by delivering stable power.

Similarly, Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is built with a durable and robust LiFePO4 battery. It has high-temperature resistance, which makes it incredibly efficient and safe.

Lifespan

Lifespan is another crucial factor that you must take into consideration. While some 30-amp generators last for years, others require frequent maintenance. For instance, all Jackery Solar Generators come with a long lifespan, all thanks to the industry-grade materials used while manufacturing.

The battery level of Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus will remain at 70%, even after completing 4000 charge cycles. Similarly, Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro comes with a 5-year warranty. The power station is estimated to have more than 70% of its original capacity even after 1000 complete charge cycles.

FAQs About 30 Amp Generator

What size generator do I need for 30 amps?

A minimum threshold for 30 amp RVs with appliances like AC units, refrigerators, etc., is nearly 2500-2800 watts. However, it's best to purchase a 3000-3500 watts generator to be on the safer side.

Here we will explain how you can calculate the working time of the generator based on the appliance used and battery capacity.

Suppose you use Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro to charge heavy-duty appliances like refrigerators (300 watts), AC (1000 watts), and TV (100 watts).

Working Time = Capacity in Wh × 0.85 / Operating wattage of the devices = 2160Wh × 0.85 / 1400W = 1.3H.

If you want more power than Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro, consider power solutions like Jackery Solar Generator 6000 Kit  or 12000 Kit.

What can you run on a 30-amp generator?

The exact appliances you can run on a 30 amp generator depend on its battery capacity. A 30 amp RV generator can most likely supply electricity to your microwave, toaster, coffee machine, electric water heater, refrigerator, small AC unit, etc.

Can a 30-amp generator power a house?

If most of your home appliances are energy-efficient, you may run a house with a 30-amp generator. The exact answer, however, can vary depending on the brand and type of solar generator you are using.

For instance, Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro can efficiently run 99% of your home appliances for long hours. With a battery capacity of 2160Wh, this 30 amp generator can charge refrigerators, AC, coffee makers, electric grills, laptops, TV, etc.

How many watts are 30 amps?

The maximum wattage capacity of a 30-amp RV with a 120-volt AC electrical system can be calculated as 30 amps × 120 volts = 3,600 watts.

How many watts can a 30-amp circuit take?

The maximum wattage of a 30-amp circuit with a 240-volt AC electrical system can be easily calculated by multiplying its amps and volts.

Watts = Amps × Volts = 30 amps × 240 volts = 7,200W.

Conclusion

Full-time RVing or enjoying camping is a great way to unwind stress and spend time away from the chaos of city life. Investing in a 30 amp generator can help you improve your RV experience and give you a sense of home away from home.

Jackery Solar Generators for RVs are portable, reliable, and have a larger battery capacity. Not only can they help you charge most of your RV appliances, but they also offer noise-free and clean power.