7 Best 30 AMP Generators - Powerful & Lightweight

Is a 30 amp generator the right choice for you? This complete guide will help answer that question and provide information on what to consider when making your purchase. From features and functionality to size and power, we’ll cover it all!

So, whether you’re in the market for your first generator or are simply looking to upgrade, read on for everything you need to know about 30-amp generators.

What size generator for a 30 amp camper?

In general, a 30 amp generator is the right choice for those with a camper, motor home, or boat that requires up to a 50 amp power supply.

These generators will also work well for car campers, cabin owners, and more. Of course, if you have more than one appliance running – such as an air conditioner – you’ll want to consider a generator with more power.

How much do 30 amp generators cost?

30-amp generators sell for anywhere from $100 to $2,000 and sometimes higher. A higher price doesn’t always mean better quality or a longer lifespan, so you must do your research before making a purchase.

You might even find one on Craigslist at a bargain price, allowing you to save even more money.

30 amp circuit breaker for generator

A 30-amp generator needs a special kind of circuit breaker. Most generators come with the required breakers, but it’s important to confirm your unit includes them before making your purchase. You don’t want any surprises when your items won’t work. If the generator doesn’t include the proper breaker, you can purchase one at an extra cost or have a qualified electrician install one for you.

30 amp circuit breaker for generator

30 amp generator wiring

If you’re going to wire your generator directly to your home’s service panel, a licensed electrician will need to perform the installation. These professionals will ensure everything is done properly and that no safety hazards or code violations are present. A 30 amp generator will run the entire home without any problems when installed correctly.

Portable generator with 30 amp RV outlet

Several generators on the market come with a built-in 30 amp outlet to plug into your RV. These generators tend to take up less space and are easy to transport from location to location. You can simply attach the generator to your RV, plugin and you’re ready to go!

Inverter generators with 30 amp RV outlet

Inverter generators have a different wattage output than traditional gasoline-powered generators. Traditional generators produce 120 volts at 60 Hz, while inverter generators have a more consistent output of 120V or 240V at 50 Hz.

Inverter generators are designed with sensitive electronics in mind, so they’re often used for powering more delicate items – such as computers and appliances that plug into the wall. If you already own an inverter generator, it will work well with your current setup.

If you plan to purchase one, be sure it’s designed for use with sensitive electronics before making your purchase.

7 Best 30 amp generators

30-amp generators are best for outdoor activities like camping, tailgating, and so on. There are different 30-amp generators available in the market. However, in this section, you will get a detailed review of the 7 best and my favorite 30 amp portable generators. Let’s start.

1. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500 Super Quiet – Best for Portable Inverter Generator

Westinghouse iGen4500 - Best for Portable Inverter GeneratorThe Westinghouse iGen4500 is a portable generator that has all the power and features you could want in an inverter-style generator. It comes with a sealed heavy-duty steel frame, low oil shutdown protection system, 4500 watts of power, 135db level at 50ft noise rating, and weighs just over 100 pounds.

Westinghouse Outdoor PowerEquipment iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator is a gas-powered generator that produces power for all the appliances you need in an emergency or those times when the electricity goes out. Westinghouse’s most advanced inverter generator.

Specifications

Product Information Details
Fuel Type Gasoline, Propane
Engine Displacement 224 Cubic Centimeters
Noise Level 52 dBa
Tank Volume 3.4 gallons
Wattage 4500 watts
Weight 104.7 pounds

Features

The iGen4500 features the patented X-FRAME™ design and incredibly efficient Eco-Throttle technology to produce more power in a smaller, lighter package at lower sound levels than ever before.

The Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator is a great selection for individuals who require a little extra electricity to take care of power needs for their RV, small boat, or camper. It arrives with a wheel kit and handles, making it incredibly simple to move from place to place.

Pros
  • It is easy to start.
  • It has a TT-30R outlet which is easy to use on an RV.
  • Its noise level is really low.
  • Its runtime is quite long.
Cons
  • It is a bit difficult to change the oil.
  • Slightly difficult to carry.

 

2. Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable – Best For Power Engine

Champion-3400-Watt-Portable-Inverter - Best For Power EngineIf you are looking for a portable generator, then Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator is here to save the day.

This powerful generator can run on either Gas or Propane, and you can also use it in your home during power outages.

This incredible product comes with two 120V AC outlets and one 120/240V 30A RV receptacle that work together to make your life comfortable.

This generator is built with convenience in mind, as it comes with a variety of outlets – including an RV/Marine outlet.

Specifications

Product Information Details
Brand WGen7500LP
Weight 230 pounds
Dimensions 23.5 x 18.3 x 20.1 inches
Power Output 7000 watts surge, 5000 watts continuous

Features

Some of its other features include low oil shutdown protection, overload protection, short circuit protection, and more! The Westinghouse generator also features a low oil shutdown, so you can safely use it for hours without worrying about damaging the engine.

Pros
  • As an added benefit, this generator isn’t noisy
  • It produces less than 56 decibels of sound. It’s also approved for safe use with sensitive electronics.
Cons
  • The handle locks could be more durable, and the wheels are a bit flimsy.
  • You will have to supply your power cord if you need one because it doesn’t come with one.

 

3. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen3600 – Best for Quality performance Portable Generator

Westinghouse WGen3600v Portable Generator - Best for Quality performance Portable GeneratorWestinghouse has been a popular brand in the US and Canada for over 70 years. The company is known for its wide range of products, including home appliances, power tools, generators, and other outdoor power equipment.

Its steel frame construction allows you to move this unit easily from place to place, while its wheels make transportation even easier.

The 3400-watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator produces clean power in a lightweight and portable design that makes it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities.

Specifications

Product Information Details
Fuel Type Gasoline
Engine Displacement 212 Cubic Centimeters
Noise Level 68 dBa
Tank Volume 15 L
Wattage 3600 watts
Weight 99 pounds

Features

The Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator features a powerful 420cc Champion OHV engine and runs on natural gas or liquid propane fuel. It offers a 10,000-watt surge capacity and produces 3400 running watts of power.

WGen3600 Portable Generator is an outstanding product. Its Champion series is the most powerful portable generator. This unit has fuel efficiency, durability, and portability in one.

Pros
  • You can run it continuously for about 18 hours.
  • Its fuel tank is really big.
  • It is durable.
  • It doesn’t need that much maintenance.
  • You can run your devices without an adapter.
Cons
  • A bit heavy to carry.
  • Its noise level is a bit high, which is 68 dBa

 

4. DuroMax XP4850EH Generator – Best for Commercial Use

DuroMax XP4850EH Generator - Best Dual Fuel 30 amp GeneratorThe XP4850EH generator is a great little machine that can act as a power backup for your home or camping. The DuroMax XP4850EH Generator comes with an air-cooled OHV engine that ensures the smooth functioning of this device. This generator also comes with a 3-year limited warranty on the whole unit and a 2-year warranty on the generator head.

The XP4850EH generator is a product of DuroMax, a company that produces generators for both household and commercial use. It has a power output of 4850 running watts and 8000 starting watts, which makes it ideal for home backup.

Specifications

Product Information Details
Fuel Type Dual Fuel
Engine Displacement 208 Cubic Centimeters
Noise Level 69 dBa
Tank Volume 3.96 gallons
Wattage 3850 watts
Weight 121.7 pounds

Features

The DuroMax XP4850EH Generator is the perfect solution for your home backup power needs. This unit features a single-stage OHV engine, an electric start, and a convenient power panel with circuit breakers for overload protection.

DuroMax XP4850EH Generator is truly the best generator you will ever find. This generator has a fuel capacity of 22 gallons and runs for up to 10 hours at half load. It is manufactured in the United States, with quality materials used from top to bottom.

Pros
  • It features a solid frame.
  • It can run for a long time.
  • Really affordable.
  • Easy to install and start.
  • Easy to move.
Cons
  • It is difficult to change the oil.
  • It is not that good for sensitive electronics.
  • A bit noisy on 100% load.

 

5. WEN 56380i Super Quiet – Best Eco-Friendly Generator

WEN 56380i 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator - Best Eco-Friendly GeneratorWEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is a perfect choice for your home backup or camping. It has the power of 3800 watts and comes with a 7.5 ft. 120V power cord for easy plug-in.

The generator’s low oil shut down feature ensures your safety, and it has no emissions, so you don’t have to worry about polluting the environment when using it outdoors.

A quiet generator that runs at 38 decibels, the WEN 56380i is ideal for camping and outdoor activities. It also comes with a three-year warranty.

Specifications

Product Information Details
Fuel Type Gasoline
Engine Displacement 212 Cubic Centimeters
Noise Level 57 dBa
Tank Volume 2.2-gal
Wattage 3800 watts
Weight 99.2 pounds

Features

This unit has a low oil shut down to protect the life of the engine, and it starts easily in cold weather or hot without any issues. Additionally, it has a 12-gallon tank and can support multiple appliances at once.

It’s fuel-efficient and produces less than 4% total harmonic distortion, which is ideal for sensitive electronics.

Pros
  • It is really quiet.
  • It is fuel-efficient.
  • Easy to move.
  • It has a low noise level.
Cons
  • Its run time is a bit low.
  • It is difficult to access its oil chamber.

 

6. Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator – Most Lightweight Generator

Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator - Most Lightweight GeneratorThe Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator is perfect for anyone who wants to run power tools, appliances, and other electronics inside the RV.

This generator has a fuel capacity of 6 gallons and comes with 3120 starting watts and 3320 running watts. It can run up to 10 hours on a full tank at 50% load.

The GP3500iO is ideal for powering essential appliances and tools in your home, and it’s also perfect for powering RV refrigerators, lights, and other accessories during extended camping trips.

Specifications

Product Information Details
Brand Generac
Fuel Type Gasoline
Voltage 120 volts
Dimensions (L x W x H) inches 19.7 x 16.5 x 16.4
Wattage 3500 watts
Weight 74.3 pounds

Features

The inverter generator starts easily with a push-button electric start and operates at 3600 watts of power output.

The Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator is a portable generator that runs quietly so that you can enjoy the comfort of your home or cabin outdoors. This model features low maintenance and operation, so you can use it for camping and tailgating parties.

Pros
  • Easy to carry.
  • Best to run sensitive electronics.
  • Comes with USB outlets.
  • It is quiet.
Cons
  • It doesn’t have a wheel kit.
  • The recoil start option sometimes does not work on the first pull.

 

7. DuroMax XP8500E Gas Powered Portable Generator – Best for Gas Powered

DuroMax XP8500E Gas Powered Portable Generator - Best for Gas Powered Portable GeneratorDuroMax is a brand of Generac Holdings, Inc. The company was established in 1980. Its products are immensely popular across the globe, and it has been providing power backup solutions to domestic as well as industrial sectors since its inception.

DuroMax XP8500E Gas Powered Portable Generator is specially designed for people who want to stay stationary and still able to enjoy the convenience of power.

This generator is an ideal choice if you need a high-quality, dependable, and easy-to-use portable generator at a reasonable price.

Specifications

Product Information Details
Brand Generac
Fuel Type Gasoline
Voltage 120 volts
Dimensions (L x W x H) inches 19.7 x 16.5 x 16.4
Wattage 3500 watts
Weight 74.3 pounds

Features

DuroMax generators are equipped with the 8500E PowerPro engine, capable of producing up to 8500 watts. The XP8500E also includes 120/240V outlets and a 12V DC outlet for charging all types of equipment.

DuroMax generators come in a variety of models ranging from 5000 to 10000 watts. Features include an automatic low oil shutdown, recoil start, high altitude operation, and overload protection. All DuroMax portable generators are CARB-compliant units that meet Tier II emission standards without using “regenerative” or afterburner technology.

Pros
  • It comes with multiple power outlets.
  • It features a durable frame.
  • Its low oil shutoff option automatically turns off the generator when there’s low oil.
  • Its idle control option saves gasoline when it is not in use.
Cons
  • Its noise level is a bit louder.
  • A bit expensive

 

What can a 30 amp generator run?

A 30 amp generator can power an entire home – if it’s properly installed using the right wiring for your location. The best way to determine whether or not any given generator will work with your setup is to figure out how many watts are required by all of your appliances, electronics, and other devices.

30 Amp Generators – FAQs

Can a 30 amp generator run a house?
It depends on the size of your house and the wattage of your generator. A 30-amp generator should be able to run a small house, but it’s always best to consult with an electrician to be sure.
Do generators have 30 amp outlet?
Yes, generators have 30 amp outlets. The reason for this is that a generator must be able to provide enough current to start an air conditioner or other large appliance. If you try to plug a smaller appliance into a generator with a higher-amperage outlet, you run the risk of blowing the fuse or tripping the circuit breaker.
Will a 3000-watt generator run a 30 amp camper?
It will depend on the amperage of your camper. A generator is rated in amps, so it’s hard to say without knowing how big your circuit breaker box is. But generators are designed for running lights and basic appliances during a power outage, not for powering large motors or air conditioners which require much more electricity than lights do. You should either consult with an electrician or find out what kind of wattage hours you need to run your appliance before buying a generator because lots of things don’t work well when powered by gas or diesel engines (like computers).
What size generator for 30 amp travel trailer?
A 30 amp generator should be able to handle most travel trailers. It is important to make sure that the wattage of the generator is greater than or equal to the sum of the wattages of all appliances that will be used at once. So, if you have a microwave, coffee maker, and air conditioner, for example, your generator should have a wattage rating of at least 3,000 watts.
How many watts is a 30 amp generator?
The number of watts a generator produces is based on the amp rating, and a 30 amp generator will produce between 3-5 thousand watts.

 

Our verdict

A 30 amp generator is powerful enough to run your entire home if you have the proper circuit breaker installed. This type of generator will work for your RV, but only if there’s a built-in 30 amp outlet or if it comes with its special kind of power cord.

You can find several generators that are safe to use around sensitive electronics, including the Westinghouse iGen4500. This generator is powerful and very easy to use with a variety of outlets as well as a low oil shutdown.

We highly recommend this model for anyone who needs a high-output, efficient generator that’s safe around sensitive electronics!

Thank you for reading our 30 amp generators: A Complete Guide

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