Dear Dave,
Should I use my surge protector when I use my Champion generator? —Chuck, 2019 Grand Design 303RLS
Dear Chuck,
It depends on the type of generator, as Champion has some models that are the “inverter” generator, such as the 5500-watt model, but also the 201489 4-stroke model that is more of a construction-type generator.
The inverter generators will provide a steady, even power source that is compatible with sensitive electronics such as laptops and module boards in appliances. Many RVers feel that these generators are safe and will not provide a surge or low voltage, so there is no need for an electrical management system (EMS). Also, since it is not connected to a grid or affected by other RVs hooking up at the campground, it will provide a smooth, steady power supply.
However, I came across this archived post in RV Travel from 2020 by Mike Sokol where a reader had a Honda generator that was outputting 195 volts!
Mike, in my opinion, is THE expert when it comes to all things electrical. He recommends using an EMS all the time. I guess it is better safe than sorry?
One note: If your generator has a floating neutral—which should be labeled on the electrical panel—you will need a neutral ground bonding plug, as the EMS will not allow power because it senses a fault. You can find one on Amazon here.
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I carry a fairly lightweight dual fuel 1800w inverter generator. I can either run the output directly into my 30A TT with an adapter and a 20A cord. Or, what I do is use a 15 to 30 adapter at the generator, plugging into my TT with my 30A surge protector and cord.
The generator has a external ground connector. I have two ways of dealing with ground – if no power pedestal, I have a portable ground rod. If there is a pedestal (with a power outage), I turn off the 20A breaker and I have a ground wire that has a 15A plug. The ONLY wire in the plug is the ground wire. I plug that into the pedestal outlet and use its ground.
Thank you for the question and answer, Dave. Well, if Mike said it, then that is good enough for me. Have a great day and safe travels!
Be careful with Champion generators, you sometimes will need a bonding plug. Most Champion generators do not bond the ground and neutral which is essential for the surge protector to not reports errors. Check out this video for the finer details of why you might need a bonding plug: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8Y85MEvmHo&list=PLOe2jj_sx1eojCfghyx_zH54ir2xZNTbG&index=19 https://www.youtube.com/watch?.