RV Generator Fuel Runtime Calculator
Planning a boondocking trip? Find out exactly how long your generator will run and how much it will cost.
Generator Runtime Estimator
Estimated Runtime
16.7 Hours
Until Empty
Fuel Consumption
0.60
gallons/hr
Cost Per Hour
$2.40
Total Tank Cost
$40.00
Understanding Generator Fuel Consumption
Knowing how long your generator will run is critical for boondocking and emergency preparedness. Fuel consumption varies significantly based on the load you place on the generator.
Factors Affecting Runtime
- Load: Running an A/C unit (high load) will drain fuel much faster than just charging phones (low load).
- Generator Type: Inverter generators are generally more fuel-efficient than standard open-frame generators because they can throttle down the engine when the load is low.
- Altitude: Generators may run richer at high altitudes, potentially affecting efficiency and power output.
Fuel Type Comparison
- Gasoline: Most common, easy to find, but degrades over time.
- Diesel: More efficient and fuel stores longer, but generators are heavier and more expensive.
- Propane: Clean burning and indefinite shelf life, but less energy dense than gas or diesel (meaning you need more of it to produce the same power).