50 Amp RV Generator: What Is It, Best Picks, How to Choose, and More

What Is a 50 Amp RV Generator?

A 50 amp RV generator supplies powerful electricity, up to 12,000 watts, to run multiple high-demand RV appliances like dual air conditioners and microwaves simultaneously. It has two 120-volt "hot" feeds and can provide significantly more power than a 30-amp system's single 120-volt feed.

Modern RVs are becoming increasingly larger and more luxurious, with many amenities that require a significant amount of power. For these RVs, a 50-amp RV generator is the perfect power source as it can efficiently charge high-power-consuming devices.

These 50 amp generators provide more power compared to standard 30 amp generators, making them ideal for RVs with multiple appliances and high-powered electronics. They also have two 120-volt hot wires, which allows them to provide 12,000 watts of power at once.

Below we reveal different types of RVs and their amps.

Travel Trailer: The non-motorized RVs come in all sizes, from small models to large house-on-wheels. Generally, these travel trailers are equipped with residential-sized appliances and require 50 amps of power.

Fifth Wheels: Nicknamed Fiver, these RVs are suitable for extended and full-time trips. These vehicles require a 50-amp RV generator to function appropriately.

Toy Haulers: Many toy haulers are equipped with full-sized appliances, such as refrigerators, ovens, washers, and dryers. More giant toy haulers utilize a 50 amp electrical system and require a quiet generator 50 amp.

Class A Motorized RVs: They are one of the largest and most luxurious vehicles on the road. They often have high electricity demands and are equipped with 50 amps plug.

Class-B Motorhomes: These RVs are smaller compared to Class-C motorhomes. They are perfect for off-roading adventures and have 30- and 50 amps systems.

Class-C Motorhomes: The class C motorhomes are generally available with 30 amps hookups. However, some latest models, especially the ones with larger appliances, may have 50 amps.

Most Jackery Solar Generators are designed to provide reliable and clean power for everyday appliances. The Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus includes a NEMA 14-50 AC output, which makes it compatible with many RV appliances. This RV generator offers convenient and portable power for trips or backup use. While the Jackery Solar Generators are not designed to replace a full 50-amp RV hookup, it gives you an easy way to power various RV appliances without the noise or fuel of a gas generator.

AI Takeaways 

• For a 50-amp RV, you generally need a generator rated at least 12,000 watts (50 amps × 240 volts = 12,000 watts) to run everything at full capacity.
• A 50-amp RV can use up to 12,000 watts if all appliances are running simultaneously, but typical usage is usually lower, around 3,000 - 6,000 watts depending on what’s on at the time.
• In order to determine how much electricity you need for your 50-amp RV, you need to add up the wattage of all devices and appliances you plan to run at the same time. This helps you choose a generator that meets your peak and average power needs safely.
• How to choose a generator for a 50 amp RV.

What Size Generator Do I Need for My 50 Amp RV?

In order to run a 50-amp RV safely, you generally need a solar generator that can provide up to 12,000 watts for full-load operation. However, most RVs typically use 3,000 - 6,000 watts during normal use. You need to choose a generator in this range to ensure you can power almost all appliances, air conditioners, and electronics without overloading the system. With the right size generator, recreational vehicles (RVs) can be your home away from home.

The Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus is a powerful battery backup solution with a NEMA 14-50 AC output and 7,200-watt max output. It can safely power most RV appliances, air conditioners, and electronics. Plus, it can be expanded up to 60kWh, so you can increase total capacity to run more devices for longer periods. It is ideal for extended trips or larger RVs. If you want something portable that can be used as a standalone generator in an RV, you can consider going ahead with the Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus.

How Many Watts Does a 50 Amp RV Use?

The wattage of a 50-amp RV will depend on the appliances you are using in your mobile vehicle. A 50 amp plug has two 120-volt hot wires, which means it can provide more watts of power than a 30 amp plug.

Each hot wire in 30 amps or 50 amps plug is 120 volts. When we multiply 50 amps by 120 volts, we get a rating of 6000 watts. Since the 50 amp connection has two hot wires, the maximum rating becomes 12,000 watts. In short, a 50-amp RV uses nearly 12,000 watts of power.

However, you don't always need a solar generator that can provide that 12kWh power to efficiently run appliances in a 50 amp RV. The exact amount of wattage you need will depend on the electric needs of the devices you are using and how many of them are working at the same time.

To determine the wattage required, you can multiply the amps by the volts. For example, if you are using an air conditioner that draws 15 amps and a refrigerator that draws 5 amps, the total wattage required would be 15 amps * 120 volts + 5 amps * 120 volts = 1800 watts + 600 watts = 2400 watts.

Similar to the above example, you can determine how much electricity you are planning to use in your RV by adding the wattage of all appliances. If all your RV devices use 4000 watts combined, you can choose a solar generator that supplies 4000 watts or more power.

How Much Electricity Needs for My 50 Amp RV?

The electricity needs of your 50-amp RV will depend on the starting and running watts of all the RV appliances. Startup or starting watts refers to the power a device requires to get started while running watts means the energy needed to keep the appliance running for hours.

While choosing the best solar generator for your RV, you need to ensure that it can supply enough startup wattage for your appliances. This is because some devices, such as ACs and microwaves, require a lot of power to start up.

In the below table, we will include some common RV appliances with their starting and running wattage.

Note: These are the general numbers to give you an idea of how much electricity your appliances consume. If you want to find the exact wattage requirements of the devices, you can check the user's manual.

To calculate the basic wattage needed for an RV, you will need to add up the running watts you are planning to use simultaneously. For example, if you use an RV AC (1200 watts), a portable refrigerator (200 watts), and lights (60 watts), the total basic wattage you'll require will be 1200 + 200 + 60 = 1460 watts. In this case, you will need a solar generator that efficiently supplies 1500 watts or more electricity to all the appliances.

It is also essential to consider the peak wattage of your RV devices when choosing a 50-amp inverter. Peak wattage is the maximum amount of power an appliance can draw at any time. For example, an air conditioner may have a running wattage of 500 watts, but its peak wattage might be 1500 watts.

If you plan to use multiple appliances at the same time, you will need to make sure that your 50-amp portable generator can handle the peak wattage of most devices.

JD Hill, an avid RV traveler and owner of an RV rental business, relies on Jackery to make off-grid camping both convenient and efficient. With the Jackery products, he powers essentials like his coffee maker, hair dryer, and even a Starlink internet setup. Jackery also comes to the rescue during unexpected fridge issues, saving him money and hassle on trips. For JD, Jackery is a tool that supports his dry camping guide, helps manage battery packs, and allows his RV rental guests to enjoy stress-free adventures. Read JD’s full Jackery Story here.

Best 50 Amp RV Generators

RV owners are often tired of being limited by the power supply while on the road. Fortunately, the right-size solar generator can help you with reliable and efficient power to handle the electrical needs of the RV appliances. Jackery is a leading solar generator manufacturer offering solar power solutions in various sizes and capacities.

The solar generators from Jackery are portable, quiet, and highly efficient, ensuring they can provide continuous power for long hours. In this section, we have compiled a list of the best RV generators specifically designed to provide ample energy to run almost all your appliances.

Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3000

The Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3000 is a compact and portable RV generator that can work as a standalone power source for RV trips. While it does not connect directly to a 50-amp RV system, it can still keep your essential RV devices, lights, and small appliances running smoothly for hours. Its quiet operation and clean power make it a hassle-free option for powering your RV gear wherever you park. It also features dual-sided handles, so you can move the solar generator in and out of the RV.

Appliances Running Time 

• Microwave (1000W) = 2.3H
• RV Refrigerator (180W) = 12.9H
• Coffee Maker (800W) = 3.2H
• TV (200W) = 11.8H
• Toaster (1150W) = 2.2H

Who Should Buy This 

The Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3000 is ideal for RV owners or travelers who need a lightweight, portable power source for essential devices, small appliances, and electronics. 

Customer Review 

Drove from California to Wyoming to my yearly camp spot, and the 30 Amp hook-up didn't work. Only the 120 Amp worked. It got a little warm in the trailer, and I had to turn on the AC in my trailer, so I brought out the Jackery 3000 to cool the trailer down. Easy set up to plug in the trailer to the Jackery then plugged in the SolarSaga panels. Happy camper with Jackery with us.

— KelnAng.

Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus offers more storage and output, which makes it ideal for longer RV trips or running multiple devices at once. It is a standalone only and cannot be wired into a 50-amp RV system, but it can run lights, fans, small kitchen appliances, and electronics in an RV without trouble. With the help of a telescoping handle and wheels, the solar generator can be easily rolled in and out of the RV for powering the appliances whenever required.

Appliances Running Time 

• Microwave (1000W) = 3.0H
• RV Refrigerator (180W) = 15.1H
• Coffee Maker (800W) = 3.7H
• TV (200W) = 13.7H
• Toaster (1150W) = 2.6H

Who Should Buy This 

The Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus is ideal for those who want more power and longer runtime on the road. It is helpful for RV users who run multiple devices at once or need a reliable standalone backup for extended trips.

Customer Review 

Very easy to set up, solar charge, great support! Going to buy more batteries!

— Mike Palmer.

Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus is the most powerful option for RV owners looking for a standalone solution with a massive battery capacity. It features a NEMA 14-50 AC output that can power many high-wattage RV appliances, and its expandable battery modules let you run devices for longer periods. It can keep your essential systems running quietly and efficiently wherever you go. It also has wheels and a pull rod for easier transportation on the road.

Appliances Running Time 

• Microwave (1000W) = 4.1H
• RV Refrigerator (180W) = 18.6H
• Coffee Maker (800W) = 5.0H
• TV (200W) = 17.1H
• Toaster (1150W) = 3.6H

Who Should Buy This 

The Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus is ideal for RV owners or families looking for a high-capacity, expandable generator ideal for powering high-wattage appliances and electronics for longer periods.

Customer Review 

We are off the grid, powering our 35-foot Viking using the Jackery 5000 plus, well, it’s been awesome not having the generator running. The Jackery keeps the boat running with no issues.

— Darryl Ward.

How to Choose a Generator for a 50 Amp RV?

With so many best 50 amp RV generators available, it can be hard to choose the one that fits your power needs. The simple way to select the right generator is to determine your RV's total running and starting wattage needs by listing all appliances you might run simultaneously. In this section, we will reveal the things you must keep in mind before choosing a 50-amp RV.

Capacity

Battery capacity is a crucial factor you'll need to consider while choosing the 50 amp portable generator. The higher the battery capacity of the generator, the longer it can power your RV appliances.

Specific models like Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus are designed to connect with another similar model or battery packs to provide additional power. These solar generators are rated to provide stable running and startup wattage to all low to high-power-consuming appliances.

Portable

The 50 amp RV generator has a larger battery capacity, so it weighs more than smaller models. This makes it less portable compared to other generators with lower amps. However, that's not the case with Jackery Solar Generators available in various sizes and capacities.

The newest expandable Jackery Solar Generator for RV features wheels and a handle. You can easily roll the power station from one place to another without worrying about the heavyweight. They also have a foldable handle, ensuring you can carry the power station if the need arises.

In addition, the Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels are foldable and portable, making them a great choice for RV adventurers.

Starting and Running Wattage

As mentioned above, appliances consume more power while starting. This means you'll need to choose a generator that can supply appropriate starting wattage to your RV devices. Jackery Solar Generators are designed to provide stable and sufficient energy to run heavy-duty appliances.

Additionally, Jackery Solar Generators feature multiple ports, so you plug in various devices to power them at once. For instance, if you want to plug only a few things in and want a standalone solar generator that can be moved in and out of the RV as needed, you can consider the Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus.

Quiet

Noise output is an essential consideration when investing in a solar generator. A lot of solar generators for RVs claim to use 'Quiet Technology' that makes them less noisy. However, they still produce around 55 to 70 decibels of noise while running.

The noise can be a hassle, especially for those using it at night to charge their CPAP devices. Fortunately, Jackery Solar Generators are designed to operate at low volume. You can use the Jackery smart app to activate Quiet-Charging mode, and it will start working with little to no noise.

Unlike traditional solar generators, Jackery Solar Generators produce less than 30dB of noise while operating. That is, less than what you hear in a quiet library. Hence, this makes Jackery Solar Generators a suitable charging solution for the night.

Safe

RV lifestyle demands a safe generator that does not emit fumes and suits the closed space. While gas generators seem cost-effective, they emit harmful gases and are unsuitable for RVs. This is where solar generators sound like the perfect solution.

These generators use sunlight to run and do not produce toxic gases like carbon monoxide. Jackery power stations can be easily recharged using foldable and portable solar panels. Not only does a solar generator supply stable power to appliances, but it also positively impacts the environment.

Additionally, Jackery uses cutting-edge rapid charging technology ChargeShield, which incorporates 62 protective mechanisms, 12 protective algorithms, and 4 physical safety protection features to take safety to the next level.

Lifespan

Lastly, the lifespan of the battery will determine the generator you wish to choose. Jackery Portable Power Stations have an in-built LiFePO4 battery that ensures years of lifespan. Even if you use the Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus once per day, it can last up to 10 years.

Additionally, the battery level of the power station will remain at 70%, even after 6000 charge cycles. The battery is built using the latest and innovative lithium technology, ensuring it can deliver incredibly efficient and safe operation.

FAQs About Generator for 50 Amp RV

The power needs of an RV will depend on how many appliances you wish to charge. In this section, we will reveal some common questions about the 50-amp RV generator.

What size generator do I need for a 50-amp RV?

For a 50-amp RV, you need a generator with at least 6,500-7,500 running watts and 8,000+ starting watts to handle dual air conditioners and appliances, although the ideal size depends on your specific appliances and how many you run simultaneously. 

Let's take an example: If you are using the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus to run an AC (1000W), mini-fridge (100W), and a TV (50W) simultaneously, the working hours can be calculated using the Running Time Calculator available on the product page. In this case, the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus will run these appliances (1150W) for 3.6 hours.

Will a 4500-watt generator run a 50-amp RV?

While a 4500-watt generator is generally insufficient to run a 50-amp RV if the RV has multiple air conditioners or other high-draw appliances, it can only power a limited number of appliances simultaneously in a 50-amp RV. In order to determine if the 4500-watt generator is fit for your needs, consider adding the wattage of appliances you will simultaneously use in your RV. As a general rule of thumb, you need to ensure it does not exceed 4500 watts for efficient usage.

How many watts do I need for 50 amps?

For a 50-amp circuit, the potential wattage is 12,000 watts, calculated using the formula Power (W) = Voltage (V) * Current (A), with a typical RV system voltage of 240 volts (50A * 240V = 12,000W). Generally, you can operate appliances in your 50-amp RV with a 6000-watt generator.

How many amps can a 10000-watt generator run?

If you want to determine the amps a 10000-watt generator can run, you need to know the voltage of the electrical system.

Here is the formula to calculate amps:

Amps = Watts / Volts

Let's consider two standard voltages:

For a 120-volt system:

Amps = 10,000W/12V = 83.33A

For a 240-volt system:

Amps = 10,000W/24V = 41.67A

While a 120-volt system can provide 83.33 amps, a 240-volt system offers 41.67 amps.

Note: This is only a general calculation, and the exact amps might differ.

Conclusion

Generally, a 50 amp RV can take up to 12000 watts of power. However, the exact battery capacity required will depend on the types of appliances you have in your RV. Additionally, it depends on how long you plan to use them.

For instance, if you want to use appliances that consume nearly 5000 watts, you can invest in a solar generator with a battery capacity of 6000Wh. However, you will need a larger capacity generator of nearly 12,000Wh to power heavy-duty appliances that consume more than 10,000 watts.

While Jackery Solar Generators are not meant to plug directly into a 50-amp RV, they are ideal standalone power solutions. With models like the Jackery HomePower 3000, HomePower 3600 Plus, and Explorer 5000 Plus, you can easily run your essential appliances, charge devices, or keep small electronics going while on the road or during an outage. They are quiet and portable, which makes them simple to enjoy reliable power wherever you are.