Anyone who has experienced camping in an isolated part of a forest or desert knows you should never take darkness lightly. Light can be a lifesaver when there’s a threat of animal attack or when you’re trekking a treacherous path at night. That’s why more camping enthusiasts are investing in recreational vehicles.
Not only does it provide a secure refuge after a long day exploring the wild, but it also has enough electricity to power lighting fixtures and appliances.
But an RV’s power sources—battery and solar panels—can only do so much to keep things illuminated and running. There will be instances when you need electricity outside your RV’s range.
For example, you need a different source of electricity if you’re rock climbing, stargazing at a spot your RV can’t access or setting up a temporary tent deep within the woods. That’s where a generator comes in.
Why is a generator necessary when camping?
A generator provides a portable source of electricity, which can power lights, appliances, and other electrical devices. This is particularly useful when camping in an area where electrical hookups are unavailable or when the weather has been bad for some time and the solar panels haven’t saved enough energy.
Some people also use a generator as a backup power source during emergencies while camping. For instance, they can use it to power medical equipment or other devices essential for your health and well-being.
It’s also handy during a power outage or natural disaster. It can continue providing power as long as you protect it from the elements while they’re running.
But generators are most commonly used for low-voltage or short-term power consumptions, such as charging phones, laptops, and other electronic devices. You can also use it for your power drill or air mattress pump. In general, you don’t use a generator as a primary power source unless you don’t have an RV.
Why choose Generac iQ2000?
Generators are heavy pieces of equipment. A standard unit typically requires at least two people to carry it. But many recent models are portable. One that stands out is the Generac iQ2000. It’s a portable inverter generator with a maximum power output of 2,000 watts.
Generac is a Fortune 1000 company that manufactures backup power generation products for different residential, commercial, and industrial applications. So, their products are guaranteed top of the range.
Other reasons to choose this model include ease of transportation, quiet operation, and fuel efficiency. Those who have used the Generac iQ2000 also claim that it is user-friendly, with a straightforward control panel and a convenient push-button start.
It also has built-in safety features, such as an overload protection system and a low-oil shutdown fuse to help prevent damage to the generator.
Common issues with Generac iQ2000 and how to troubleshoot them
Like any mechanical device, the Generac iQ2000 portable generator may experience some issues over time. Some common problems that users of the Generac iQ2000 have reported include the following:
1. Difficulty starting
To start your Generac iQ2000, connect it to an appropriate electrical load. Next, turn on the fuel valve and make sure the engine is switched off. When you’re ready, pull the starter cord slowly until you feel resistance, then pull rapidly to start the engine.
If nothing happens after following these simple steps, other components must be faulty or switched on or off.
For instance, the starter won’t work if the fuel valve is off and the tank is almost empty. The same thing happens if the spark plug is loose or in bad shape, so you must check that, too. If you’re in a poorly ventilated area, you should take the generator out where there’s enough oxygen to aid in the combustion.
However, don’t leave the generator outside for too long because heat will cause it to shut down. Remember that the generator’s components heat up throughout the operation. That’s why it has its own vent. Adding more heat to the machine can cause the electronics to snap.
2. Inconsistent power output
You successfully started your generator Generac iQ2000, but suddenly, it starts to power down. Then, when you try to move it, it powers up again. This unexpected fluctuation in power output can be frustrating and might even damage your devices.
Generac technicians suggest you check the fuel level. It’s probably too low to generate the power your devices require.
Power output is directly linked to engine performance, so it’s also possible that the problem is with the oil level. Check if the engine has enough lubricant to move parts smoothly. Or maybe a component has been damaged or come loose. That’s another likely cause of inconsistency in the power output.
You should also check the spark plug and air filter. In fact, check every component that plays an essential role in regulating power output.
3. Fuel leaks
If you notice your Generac iQ2000 leaking fuel, turn it off immediately. Remember that fuel is flammable, and electricity can light it up. There are several reasons why it may be leaking fuel. First, fuel may come out from the valve, a serious issue requiring immediate valve replacement. The leak may also come from a damaged fuel hose.
That, too, requires a complete replacement. Don’t bother patching the hole because if the damage is due to old age, another hole will pop up elsewhere eventually.
Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a loose fuel cap, which only needs to be tightened. But the problem can be much more severe, such as a damaged fuel tank. That’s dangerous, especially if the damage is within the tank, as fuel might leak into the generator instead of outside.
It is essential to stop using the generator and fix the issue as soon as possible to prevent further fuel leaks and potential safety hazards. If you are not comfortable diagnosing and fixing the problem yourself, it is best to have a qualified technician service the generator.
4. Noise issues
There could be a few reasons your Generac iQ2000 is loud or creates a whining sound. For one, the muffler might be clogged or damaged. This could cause the engine to run louder than usual.
Try cleaning the damper or replacing it if it is damaged. It’s also likely that the air filter is dirty or clogged. Air isn’t going in evenly, so it creates a strange noise. The loud sound may also come from components that aren’t well-oiled, so make sure to check the oil level and pour in oil if necessary.
Generators are designed to run at their loudest when under high load. If the generator runs at a high load for an extended period, it may be louder than average. So, you should unplug a few devices.
If you have tried the above steps and the generator is still noisy, there may be a problem with one of the internal parts, such as the bearings or the crankshaft. In this case, it is recommended to have a professional mechanic diagnose and fix the issue.
5. Battery issues
How old is your Generac iQ2000? If you got one of the first releases, your generator’s battery might already be too old to hold a charge. That’s one of the reasons it’s not working correctly. Get a new one right away. It’s also likely that the battery needs to get more charge. This could be due to a problem with the alternator or a problem with the charging system. You may need a mechanic to check these systems to diagnose the problem.
In the worst cases, the battery may be damaged. Batteries are hard to fix, so you better buy a new one. But sometimes, it’s not the battery that’s broken but its cables or connections. So, check the wires and connections for corrosion.
Rust and abrasions can create paths for the chemicals in the battery to seep through. If they are corroded, you will need to clean or replace them.
How to choose a portable generator
Generac iQ2000 is undoubtedly a superior product, but others out there can better meet your needs. So, consider the following factors when choosing a portable generator:
- Power output – Consider the wattage requirements of the devices and appliances you plan to run with the generator. Add up the wattage of all the items you want to power simultaneously to determine the minimum wattage you need.
- Fuel type – Choose a generator that uses a fuel type readily available and easy to store, such as gasoline or propane.
- Size and weight – Consider the size and weight of the generator, especially if you plan to transport it to your campsite. A smaller, lighter generator may be more convenient to carry, but it may have less power output.
- Noise level – Some generators can be loud, which may annoy you and other campers. Look for a generator with a low decibel rating if noise is a concern.
- Price – Determine your budget and look for a generator that fits within your price range. Remember that a higher-priced generator may have more features and a longer lifespan.
Knowing what to look for in a portable generator can lead you to the perfect unit. Of course, if you need clarification on your choice, you can always consult a professional mechanic. But the thumb rule is to go for a trusted brand, and you won’t have to do an in-depth check to determine if the product is good quality.
