Use Anker's 240V Generator Input Adapter with a 240V generator. Anker rates it at 3,300W of charging for the F3800 Plus on its own, and 6,000W once at least one BP3800 expansion battery is connected. The station keeps powering your loads while it charges.
What you need
- The adapter. Anker part A17D0111, the 240V bypass charging cable. It works with the F3800 Plus and with Anker's Home Power Panel, and Anker says it supports one F3800 Plus at a time.
- A 240V generator with clean power. Anker's FAQ calls for a clean sine-wave output with total harmonic distortion under 5%. Check your generator's spec sheet for its THD figure before you buy the adapter.
- Enough generator. Size it for the charge rate plus whatever you are running through the station at the same time, with some margin. A generator worked at its limit runs hot and loud and may sag.
Charge rates and times
| Setup | Charging power | Empty to full, best case |
|---|---|---|
| F3800 Plus alone, 240V generator + adapter | 3,300W | about 1 h 10 min |
| F3800 Plus + 1 BP3800, 240V generator + adapter | 6,000W | about 1 h 17 min (7,680Wh) |
| Standard 120V wall outlet | 1,800W | about 2 h 8 min |
| Solar, both inputs | 3,200W | about 1 h 12 min in ideal sun |
Times are capacity divided by power. Real charging runs longer, since it slows near full and a source may not hold its full rating.
What about a 120V generator?
Anker does not publish a 120V generator charge rate for the F3800 Plus, and its spec sheet lists the generator adapter as required for generator use. If you only have a 120V generator, ask us before you buy, or look at the F3000: with its 120V Generator Input Adapter, it charges at up to 3,600W from a 120V generator through its TT-30 input.
Tips
- Run the generator outdoors, well away from doors, windows and vents, and never in an RV garage or enclosed space.
- Charge first, then shut the generator off and run quietly on the battery. That is the main advantage of pairing a station with a generator.
- Per Anker, the F3800 Plus's 240V output cannot be used while it is charging from a 120V wall outlet, and its TT-30R passes through only up to 1,440W in that mode. Plan 240V loads around a 120V charge.
Shopping for an F3800 Plus?
The F3800 Plus on its own is between shipments at RV Parts Giant; the F3800 Plus Power Station & Kits page lists each option as it returns, and the F3800 Plus + Smart Home Power Kit is available now. To compare it with the F3000, see F3000 vs F3800 Plus.