How to Start an RV Generator – 2025 Answer

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Last Updated on February 17, 2025 by Jessica Lauren Vine

If you want to learn how to start an RV generator, keep reading, and I’ll show you the easy way to do it.

Before we get into it, you should remember that there are portable generators for your RV, and there are onboard generators for your RV. Not all RVs have an onboard generator, but there are many that do.

If you have a class A or a class C RV or a larger fifth wheel, you may have an onboard RV generator.

To start an onboard RV generator, you have to flip a switch inside your RV to get it going. However, if you have a portable generator, you will either need to do a pull start or a push button start.

Starting the Generator Onboard Your RV

If you aren’t sure where to turn your onboard generator on in your RV, it’s time to turn to your handy owner’s manual. I know it is annoying to have to go look at your owner’s manual for your RV, but if you want to start the generator without worrying about operating it the wrong way, you need to check it out.

If you don’t know where to find your RV’s owner’s manual, we put a post together about where to find them here: How to Find Old RV Owner’s Manuals Online

Starting a Portable RV Generator

If you can get a generator with a start button, it’s much better than having to pull your arm out of the socket to start the RV generator. A push-button starter on your RV generator won’t make it that much more expensive, but it will make it much more enjoyable.

1. Turn your fuel valve on
2. Turn the choke on
3. Turn ignition on
4. Pull the recoil cord (or push the button)
5. Move engine choke to run after the engine starts

It’s simple to get started, but if you need more specifics, just grab the owner’s manual for your portable generator.

Here are Some Great Portable Generators to Check Out for Your RV

How to Start an RV Generator – Conclusion

Now you know how to start an RV generator, whether it is an onboard RV generator or a portable generator you use for your RV.

The one thing I know is that it’s super helpful having the power from a generator if the storms knock out the shore power, so I hope you find the perfect generator for you.

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Jessica Lauren Vine

Head RV Idiot at RV Idiots

Jessica Lauren Vine is a second-generation full-time RVer, entrepreneur, and content creator who first hit the road at just five years old. For seven years, she and her parents crisscrossed the U.S. in multiple RVs, learning firsthand the joys (and chaos) of RV life.

Years later, she carried on the tradition with her own family, spending 2.5 years living full-time in both an 18-foot and 28-foot pull-behind RV. They explored 27 states together — facing down fires, floods, wild windstorms, and even a tumbleweed attack in Texas. Yes, that’s a real thing.

Jessica shares her experience to help other families navigate RV life, simplify their lifestyles, and make unforgettable memories. Her work has been featured on popular travel blogs, RV-focused communities, and social media where she offers practical tips on full-time RV living, budgeting on the road, and family-friendly adventures.

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