RV Appliance Code Atlas

Onan generator high-altitude derating and fewer appliances

Cummins Onan quick-start and handbook guidance warn that available generator power drops about 3.5 percent per 1000 feet of altitude, so high-elevation trips may require fewer simultaneous appliances.

Owner-safe checklist

  • Estimate campsite elevation before blaming a generator fault.
  • Reduce load by turning off air conditioning, electric heat, or other heavy appliances one at a time.
  • Let the generator stabilize after each load change.
  • Call Cummins Onan or qualified generator service if the generator still surges, stalls, or faults under a light load.

Official sources