Does a generator beat solar?

[honda03842]

Myron,

Generally agree the thread has gone astray but there were plenty of good replies. I think the biggest factor is where you live. Often where you live and when you camp requires Air Conditioning, particularly southern living and for summer camping. Air conditioners simply require a generator or an electrical hookup.

Solar can meet most needs except air conditioning. One of the biggest consumers of power is 12 volt lights so changing to LEDs makes camping on solar easier.

We have air conditioning but we are not summer campers. If we're in a really hot area we look for an electric hookup, the same goes for really cold weather for us.

We have solar and it allows us to boondock without issue. We choose convenience over optimum solar energy collected. Our panels are fixed (taped) to the roof. People looking for optimum have solar panels on a cable that they can located to maximize sun light seen by the panel.

Our solar panels (80 watts) allow us to run all or lights, the water pump charge all our electronics. run the TV, sat dish and wi-fi hotspot.

We also have the ability to charge our battery while driving.

[RogerDat]

People do have strong opinions on generators, some dislike them a lot, others have a dislike for folks who disparage those using a generator.

Conversation naturally wondered around a bit into general courtesy but I would agree with Norm that there is a good amount of information that directly addresses the original question on relative merits of solar and generator. Along with some insight into how to be a good neighbor if one decides to run a generator.

Amazon does product reviews, this place is more like a bunch of people sitting around in lawn chairs mulling stuff over and sharing experiences.

If you want to know the used value of the generator (or other item) before purchase places such as Craig's list or Fleabay can provide some insight. Local small engine repair shop that you would use for repairs can answer questions on maintenance and parts availability for that model. Folks that work on them know the evil from easy models or specific faults.

[Frederick L. Simson]

This Thread has crossed the line and is now closed.