Generator and Auto Transfer

[CJK]

Are there any 50 amp plug n play automatic transfer "boxes" to connect shore power and generators if power goes out if I'm not in my unit?> Thanks

[RJS3791RD]

Short answer - yes. There are many different companies that offer auto transfer switch that defaults to shore power but switches over to generator in the event of a power loss. The bigger issue is that you will need an auto start for the generator to start in the event that the shore power goes off. PLUS you will end a generator that has an auto start feature. Not every generator will function as an auto start

[chuckster57]

Oman makes gens that have auto start but they are based on battery voltage or inside temp (for ACs). I’m not aware of any RV gens that will auto start on loss of shore power.

[flybouy]

The "one stop solution" would be an automatic backup generator for a house. It would be a non-mobil instillation. The same type of pkg can be found in some high end class A motor homes but they are very expensive. If you are looking for a simple "box" to plug an existing generator into to accomplish the automatic start and transfer it doesn't exist., the required componets are too complicated to make any generator auto start.

[JRTJH]

Originally Posted by CJK

Are there any 50 amp plug n play automatic transfer "boxes" to connect shore power and generators if power goes out if I'm not in my unit?> Thanks

I'm not sure why you'd need that type of system....

If it was intended to keep the RV operational while you're away or while it's not being used, as soon as the propane or the generator fuel tank ran dry, you're in the same "situation" that you were in when the shore power was lost. Most generators (except the toyhauler Onan with auto-start and a 30 gallon "dedicated generator fuel supply) are going to run dry either after the propane tanks are empty or the internal gas tank is empty. That's maybe a few hours or at most 12-24 hours. After that, the trailer is going to be "dead anyway", so that automatic system has some significant limitations that make it a temporary solution, not a "failsafe protection against a long term power outage" (like a tripped shore power circuit breaker)...

On the other hand, if you're sitting in the trailer and shore power is lost, it's a simple matter of starting the generator and plugging it in. Just my opinion, but the "benefit of a "high dollar automatic system" so I can stay sitting in my recliner just doesn't seem practical or necessary"...

What kind of situation are you considering an attempt to avoid with your modifications ???

[CJK]

Thank you all again! Great insights. We live about 1.5 hours from our cabin and I was hoping to find out what experienced users use. I'm glad I stumbled upon this forum.

JRTJH - best answer with "just my opinion, but the "benefit of a "high dollar automatic system" so I can stay sitting in my recliner just doesn't seem practical or necessary"[/I]

[flybouy]

If you're talking about a cabin (a stationary structure) then a home automatic backup generator with an ample LP storage tank would be best.