Gas generator for motorhome

Overview: Gas generator, diesel generator and petrol generator for motorhomes

No matter whether it's a generator, power generator or emergency generator. All these names describe the same device: a power generator. They supply electricity when it is needed. We present the different devices.

Important features for a mobile home generator are:

  • Quiet: A camping generator should be quiet.
  • Small: Small so that it can be easily stowed away.
  • Light: Lightweight so as not to increase the overall weight of the vehicle too much.
  • Transportable: Handy and transportable.

The following technical aspects should also be considered when purchasing a generator set:

  • Power: Depending on the model, the power varies from a few hundred watts to the megawatt range.
  • Voltage: What should be connected? Household appliances require 230 V, large machines require 400 V.
  • Tank volume and consumption: Small appliances consume 1-3 liters per hour, large ones 10 liters or more.
  • Starting mechanism: There is a manual pull-start mechanism, as well as an electric push-button or remote starter.
  • Running time: For how long is electricity required? Smaller appliances can run for 4-8 hours, larger ones for up to 24 hours.

How much power can a genset generate?

Depending on the model, different amounts of electricity can be generated. Smaller gensets generate between 1 and 5 kW, which is sufficient for household appliances. Larger models can generate significantly more.

Overview: Power output of generating sets

Generator set typeOutput (kW)Suitable for
Small genset1 - 5 kWHousehold appliances, camping
Medium genset10 - 50 kWConstruction sites, trade
Large genset100 - 500 kWIndustry, hospitals
Industrial generator1 MW and moreLarge companies, emergency power grid

Which is better: gasoline or diesel emergency generator?

Both gasoline and diesel gensets have their advantages. The decision should be made according to preference.

Gasoline or diesel generator set?

Petrol gensets

  • Quieter than diesel generators
  • Cheaper to purchase
  • Higher fuel consumption
  • Shorter service life
  • Ideal for occasional use, e.g. camping


Diesel gensets
  • Longer service life
  • Lower consumption
  • Higher acquisition costs
  • More robust and durable
  • Particularly suitable for continuous operation or high loads

How does a power generator with gasoline and diesel work?

Generating sets consist of a generator and an internal combustion engine. The combustion engine drives the generator through mechanical rotation so that electrical energy is generated.

Diesel generator set

Which diesel emergency generator is the best?There are various manufacturers of generators for motorhomes. Popular manufacturers include Kohler, Honda, Pramac, SDMO and Deutz.How many liters of diesel does an emergency generator need?Small units consume 1-3 liters per hour, large ones 10 liters or more.How much power does a diesel generator produce?Between 3kW and several megawatts are possible.

Gas generators for motorhomes

Which gas for the generator?Natural gas, propane or liquid petroleum gas (LPG)How does a gas generator work?

A gas generator works in a similar way to a petrol or diesel generator. The gas is fed into the engine as fuel, mixed with air and ignited. This generates electrical energy.

Conclusion: Fuel cell motorhome

The purchase of a generator set for camping can make perfect sense. When purchasing, the power and preferred fuel type should be taken into account. However, the volume, consumption and tank size are also important to ensure an independent power supply.