When you go on a road trip in your RV, you want to make sure that you have enough power to last the entire journey. One way to do this is by charging your RV batteries. This can be done by running a generator for a certain amount of time.
In this blog post, I will discuss how long you need to run a generator in order to charge your RV batteries.
It takes anything between 8-10 hours to fully charge your RV batteries. However, this time can vary depending on the type and size of your generator. If you are using a small generator, it will take longer to charge your RV batteries than if you were using a large generator
Read on as I discuss this topic in more detail so that you can make an informed decision about how long to run your generator.
How Long to Run a Generator to Charge RV Batteries
It’s important to note that this is only a general guideline. Some factors, such as the age of your batteries or the size of your generator, can affect how long it takes to charge them. If you have any concerns, it’s always best to consult with a professional.
Factors That Affect How Long To Run A Generator To Charge RV Batteries
There are various factors that will determine how long you have to run a generator to charge your RV batteries. They include:
The power output of the generator
This is usually measured in watts and will have a direct impact on how long it takes to charge your RV batteries. A higher wattage generator will charge the batteries faster than a lower wattage one.
The type of battery
There are two main types of batteries used in RVs – lead-acid and lithium-ion. Lead-acid batteries are cheaper but take longer to charge. Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive but can be charged much faster.
It takes about 7-10 to fully charge a lead-acid battery while it only takes about 2-3 hours to charge a lithium-ion battery.
The size of the battery
This will also have an impact on how long it takes to charge your RV batteries. Larger batteries with bigger voltage ratings will take longer to charge than smaller ones.
A 12-volt lead-acid accumulator will typically take around 7-8 hours to charge, while a 24-volt lead-acid accumulator will take around 10-12 hours.
The age of the battery
As batteries age, they become less efficient and take longer to charge. This is why it’s important to regularly check the condition of your batteries and replace them when necessary.
How much charge there is in the batteries
Of course, if there is some charge remaining in the batteries, it will take less time to charge them than if they were completely empty.
As a general rule of thumb, it takes about half the time to charge batteries that are half full. So, if your batteries are completely flat, it will take around eight hours to charge them. But if they’re only half empty, it will only take four hours.
Why Is My Generator Not Charging My RV Batteries?
There are a few reasons why your generator might not be charging your RV batteries. They include:
The battery charger is defective
Check to see that the battery charger is plugged in and working properly. If it’s not, then that’s likely the reason why your batteries aren’t charging.
Some fuses are blown
This is another possible reason why your generator might not be charging your batteries. Check the fuse box and see if any of the fuses are blown. If they are, then replace them and try running the generator again.
The battery cables are corroded
If the battery cables are corroded, it can prevent the electricity from flowing properly from the generator to the batteries. Clean the cables with a wire brush and try running the generator again.
The generator isn’t getting enough power
If your generator is not getting enough power, it will not be able to charge your RV batteries. Check to see that the generator is properly plugged into an outlet and try turning up the throttle.
The generator main breakers are tripped
You want to be sure that the main breaker on your generator is not tripped, as this will prevent it from providing power to anything. Check the breaker box and see if any of the breakers are in the “off” position. If they are, then reset them and try running the generator again.
The converter circuit is off
Ensure that the converter circuit is turned on. This is the circuit that allows the generator to charge the batteries.
If you’re still having trouble charging your RV batteries, it’s best to consult with a professional. They will be able to diagnose the problem and find a solution.
How to Charge RV Batteries with a Generator
You can charge your RV batteries in 5 easy steps:
- Start the generator: Make sure your generator is turned on and check the fuel level to ensure that it’s full.
- Plug in the battery charger: Plug the battery charger into an outlet and connect the alligator clips to the batteries.
- Turn on the converter circuit: The converter circuit should be in the “on” position. If it’s not, then locate and turn it on.
- Start charging the batteries: Once everything is plugged in and turned on, the batteries will start charging.
- Monitor the progress: Check on the batteries periodically to make sure they’re charging properly. When fully charged, unplug the battery charger and turn off the generator.
Final Thoughts
It should take anywhere between 7-10 hours to charge RV batteries using a generator. It takes even less time if the batteries have some charge left in them.
