All generators produce exhaust, and when not allowed to dissipate in a safe fashion that generator exhaust can create a hazardous situation. There are some simple safety measures you can follow to avoid the harmful effects of carbon monoxide exposure when using the RV generator.

Don't let fear prevent you from gleaning the benefits of using the generator's onboard power supply. With or without shore power, the generator is a valuable tool for the RV lifestyle. Designed to run independent of shore power hook ups, the generator can be a dependable source of electrical power while dry camping, or when just stopping for lunch at the side of the road. When the RV is plugged in, the generator can be used to add that extra boost in the event of 30-Amp shore power supply. In addition to supplying electrical power on demand, the generator directs any charge left unused to the house batteries that, when adequately charged, can supply electrical power to the RV free of generator or shore power supply.

A vital key to insuring ongoing successful operation of the generator lies in regularly running the system to keep all moving parts properly lubricated as designed. During drive time, even if you are en-route to a campsite with shore power, engage the generator about 30 minutes before stopping for the day to allow time for the air conditioning system to cool the interior. Continue running the system once the RV has arrived at a campsite to provide ample electrical power while setting up for the night, especially if you find this to be a prime time for running appliances such as the microwave or television. The generator will always take priority over shore power and battery power.

When the RV is not hooked to shore power, allow the generator a few moments of warm up time before putting it under a load. For best results, run the generator system under a load each day for 2 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the evening. Avoid operating the generator for less than 30 minutes at a time. Depending on your particular RV power requirements, the generator can be run for an unlimited amount of time. However, keep in mind that running the system for hours on end may be an unnecessary waste of fuel, increase the cost of oil and filter changes, and annoy the neighbors.

Routine maintenance will insure continued generator operation. Before undertaking to service and repair the generator component, remove jewelry and watches, refrain from wearing loose clothing and don protective eyewear. If the generator system includes Auto Gen Start, disconnect that feature before starting maintenance work. Insure that inhabitants of the RV are aware you are working on the generator and know not to engage the system during maintenance and repair. Carefully follow the component manufacturer's recommendations for service intervals and lubrication requirements. General use oil and filters may be harmful to the specific design of the generator system. For best results, use only manufacturer recommended replacement parts. Keep maintenance records, including receipts.

Frequently test the onboard CO detector to assure proper operation in guarding all RV occupants against the harmful effects of exhaust poisoning. Always investigate and correct the cause of an alarm. Never disconnect an alarm simply because you find it annoying.

For added safety, take steps to guard against exhaust fumes from entering inside of the motor home. Avoid the use of generator exhaust extension pipes. Improper installation or design of the extension pipe, blockage from rodents or pests, and open roof vents may instead result in having toxic fumes directed back into the motor home interior. Additionally, the weight and design of exhaust extensions can compromise the structure of the generator exhaust pipe and lead to cracks or leaks within the system. Malfunction due to the addition of exhaust extensions can be costly.

To manage generator exhaust when parked close to a neighboring camper, limit generator operation. Anticipate electrical needs prior to arriving at a dry camping destination and have the batteries properly charged and maintained. By conserving resources, you can expect ample power using the on board battery supply. Run the generator two hours in the morning and two hours at night to replenish the batteries, keeping in mind that any items running at that time will be competing for battery power.

If you detect the odor of exhaust during generator operation, close the windows, doors and roof vents of the RV. Be aware of neighboring campsites. Don't assume that all occupants of nearby campsites are equipped with a CO detector. When parked on dry grass, monitor the ground area around the exhaust pipe to guard against fire.

To prevent hazardous fumes from filling an enclosed RV storage facility, disconnect the automatic generator start program prior to storing the RV indoors. Use the battery disconnects to the house and the chassis batteries during storage to further assure that the Auto Gen Start setting is disengaged at the inverter. To keep the system in working order it will still be necessary to routinely engage the generator under a load. Before starting the generator for exercise when the RV is in storage, first move the RV to an outdoor location.