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Topic: Shore Power Lines - Automatic Generator Start Device (Read 301 times) previous topic - next topic
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Shore Power Lines - Automatic Generator Start Device
Happy 4th of July everyone.

Does anyone have experience installing a device that automatically kicks on the generator when shore power is lost?

I recently purchased the Shorepower Monitor from rvautomations and am seeking experience from others who have installed this, or something like this, before I start splicing and modifying things. My dog needs this, as it is getting hot outside, and my awesome neighbors already saved him once when we lost power at the camp. I use a weather station from LaCross to monitor the temps while away from the camper. Once temps hit a user-programmable threshold (my threshold is at 90F), I receive an alert on my phone. But if my neighbors are not home, I am away, and the power goes out, it will be a hot dog.

The automatic generator starter device I got connects to the generator and the 120v 30a incoming power line from the shore.  Ideally, the device will be mounted next to, inside, or close to the Onan generator. But this requires me to run wires from the device to the shore power. It seems that the ground wire will be an easy day, since already next to the generator at the GENSET Terminals. I am looking for info on the best way to get access to the shore Neutral and Load (hot) wires next to the generator. 2005 RB.

Attached is a picture to try and clarify my question. If anyone has experience or ideas on getting the shore power lines next to the generator, I would very much appreciate hearing. 

-Joe
2005 26.5 RB
Re: Shore Power Lines - Automatic Generator Start Device
Reply #1 –
I have installed them on large, stationary generators, never in a RV. I have see them in DPs that require a lot of power to function.
I understand wanting to keep your dog cool when you are gone but depending on shore power or that the generator that starts automatically is pushing it.
Owning a pet and leaving it in an hot RV, with the hope the the technology is always going to work, unsupervised, is not responsible pet ownership. IMO. A failure can result in a dead dog.
You already stated that you had one close call, what if it happens again and the generator doesn't start? Every time you add another layer of mechanism, the odds of failure increase.

Remote monitoring is fine if you can receive the signal, cellular coverage is NOT universal, there are many places where they do not work, even in cities, so you may not know the situation until you return.
In hot weather, you either need to take the dog with you or move to a cooler climate. Too many pets have died in hot RVs when something failed to work.
Pets are the same as taking a small child with you when traveling, I hope you wouldn't leave a child alone in a hot RV for hours, hoping the A/C continues running.

Larry


Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Shore Power Lines - Automatic Generator Start Device
Reply #2 –
Where do you travel, temperature wise?

It could be that leaving the coach windows and vents open would be a solution.

A LazyDaze doesn't heat up the same way a car would because of the white roof and heavily tinted vertical windows.  If it's 90 degrees outside, it can be 90 degrees inside too as long as the windows are open.  Run a fan for bonus points. 

Plenty of people and dogs managed to live long and happy lives with 90 degree summers before A/C became common.  Lots of people manage to boondock without shore power or A/C on warm days.   

Try to make sure your cab windshield isn't in direct sun.

Trusting a generator auto-start device wouldn't be my first choice.

Rich
'03 MB in NC
2003 MB
Re: Shore Power Lines - Automatic Generator Start Device
Reply #3 –
"Try to make sure your cab windshield isn't in direct sun."

And use a cab blanket to isolate the cab from the rest of the coach--that will make a big difference in keeping temperatures down in hot weather.
Andy Baird
2021 Ford Ranger towing 2019 Airstream 19CB
Previously: 1985 LD Twin/King "Gertie"; 2003 LD Midbath "Skylark"