Generator Wattage vs RV Appliances (Complete Power Chart)
One of the most common questions RV owners ask is how large of a generator they need to run their trailer appliances. This RV appliance wattage chart helps show how much power common camper appliances use and what size generator you may need.
Air conditioners, microwaves, coffee makers, and other appliances all require different amounts of power. If your generator is too small, it may trip breakers or fail to start larger appliances like the RV air conditioner.
In this guide, we’ll break down the typical wattage requirements for common RV appliances and help you determine what size generator is best for your camper or travel trailer.
If you’re still deciding what generator size to buy, you may also want to read our guide on how to choose the best generator for a travel trailer.
The RV appliance wattage chart below shows the typical power requirements for common appliances used in travel trailers and campers.
The following chart shows the typical running wattage of common RV appliances. Actual power use varies by brand and model, but these estimates help determine generator sizing.
| RV Appliance | Typical Wattage |
|---|---|
| RV Air Conditioner (13,500 BTU) | 2,800 – 3,500W |
| Electric Water Heater | 1,200 – 1,500W |
| Microwave | 900 – 1,200W |
| Coffee Maker | 600 – 800W |
| Hair Dryer | 1,200 – 1,800W |
| Electric Griddle | 1,200 – 1,600W |
| RV Refrigerator | 400 – 700W |
| Space Heater | 700 – 1,500W |
| TV / Laptop | 50 – 300W |
| Lights / Chargers | 20 – 100W |
Actual appliance power use can vary by manufacturer. For detailed appliance specifications, check resources like the U.S. Department of Energy appliance energy guides.
Running Watts vs Starting Watts
Many appliances require more power to start than they do to run continuously.
For example, an RV air conditioner might only use 1,500–2,000 running watts, but it can require 3,000+ starting watts when the compressor kicks on.
If you’re wondering whether a smaller generator can handle this load, see our guide:
Can a 3000 watt generator run an RV air conditioner?
Because of this, your generator must be able to handle both running and starting loads.
Example:
RV AC running watts: ~1,500W
RV AC startup surge: ~3,000W
Using the RV Appliance Wattage Chart to Estimate Power Needs
If you run the following appliances:
- RV air conditioner → 2,800W startup
- Microwave → 1,000W
- Coffee maker → 700W
- Lights & electronics → 200W
Total:
≈ 4,700 watts
This is why many RV owners choose a 4000W–5000W generator.
If you’re planning to run multiple appliances at once, a 4500 watt generator or larger is usually recommended for travel trailers.
See our guide to the best generators for travel trailers for recommended models.
Larger RVs with 50 amp service may require more power. See our full guide on what size generator for a 50 amp RV.
What Size Generator Do Most RV Owners Use?
Most RV owners choose their generator size based on the size of their camper and the appliances they want to run.
Typical setups look like this:
Small campers and teardrop trailers
• 2000W inverter generator
• Best for lights, charging devices, and small appliances
Mid-size travel trailers
• 3000W generator
• Can run microwaves, coffee makers, and many RV appliances
Larger travel trailers
• 4500W–5000W generator
• Often required to start and run a 13,500 BTU RV air conditioner
If you’re trying to choose the right model, see our guide to the Best Generator for Travel Trailers.
Best Generator Sizes for RVs
Based on common RV appliance loads:
2000W Generator
Best for:
- lights
- charging devices
- TV
- small appliances
👉 Best 2000 watt generators for campers
3000W Generator
Best for:
- microwave
- coffee maker
- small AC units
👉 Best 3000 watt generators for RV air conditioners
4500W+ Generator
Best for:
- running RV air conditioner
- multiple appliances
- larger trailers
👉 Best generator for travel trailers
Pro Tip: Start Appliances One at a Time
When using a portable generator, avoid starting multiple appliances at the same time.
Starting the air conditioner while the microwave or coffee maker is already running can exceed the generator’s surge capacity and trip the breaker.
Understanding the power requirements of your RV appliances helps ensure you choose a generator that can run your equipment safely and reliably.
FAQ Section
How many watts does a travel trailer use?
Most travel trailers require 2,000 to 4,000 watts depending on appliances.
Can a 3000 watt generator run an RV?
Yes, a 3000 watt generator can run most RV appliances, but may struggle with starting a 13,500 BTU air conditioner.
What size generator runs a 13,500 BTU RV AC?
Most require 3,000–3,500 starting watts.
Can a 2000 watt generator run a camper?
A 2000 watt generator can run basic RV appliances like lights, battery chargers, and small electronics. However, it usually cannot start an RV air conditioner.
For a detailed breakdown, read our guide:
Can a 2000 watt generator run a camper?
Related Articles:
Can a 2000 Watt Generator Run a Camper
Best Generator for Travel Trailers