| For a gasoline generator you should start and run the | | | | generator: |
| generator with at least a half rated load for a minimum | | | | The onboard generator makes your RV fully |
| of two hours every month. It is extremely important | | | | self-contained. It allows you access to 120- volts when |
| that you run it with this minimum rated load. Generators | | | | there is no shore power available, but keep in mind that |
| are designed to run with a load placed on them. Our | | | | carbon monoxide is deadly! Test the carbon monoxide |
| motor home has a 4,000 watt generator so I can | | | | detector every time you use the RV. Know what the |
| either turn the roof air conditioner on in the summer | | | | symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are: |
| time, which is about 2,000 watts or I can use a couple | | | | 1) Dizziness |
| of small portable electric heaters if it's cold out. It's | | | | 2) Vomiting |
| always better to let your generator run for longer | | | | 3) Nausea |
| periods than it is for short periods. Check your | | | | 4) Muscular twitching |
| generator owner's manual for load ratings specific to | | | | 5) Intense headache |
| your unit. | | | | 6) Throbbing in the temples |
| Other maintenance intervals for generators are based | | | | 7) Weakness and sleepiness |
| on usage. Your generator set will have an hour meter | | | | 8) Inability to think coherently |
| so you can monitor the usage. Consult your owner's | | | | If you or anyone else experiences any of these |
| manual for maintenance intervals. | | | | symptoms get to fresh air immediately. If the |
| Changing the oil and filters on a regular scheduled basis | | | | symptoms persist seek medical attention. Shut the |
| and for seasonal changes is just as important for your | | | | generator down and do not operate it until it has been |
| generator as it is for your automobile. For extended | | | | inspected and repaired by a professional. |
| storage requirements consult your generator owner's | | | | Happy and Safe Camping, |
| manual. | | | | Mark |
| NOTE*- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and your | | | | Copyright 2006 by Mark J. |