Generac 7118 Parallel Kit Review

Have we ever wished our compact inverter generator could handle just a bit more—without buying a huge, heavy unit?

What Is the Generac 7118 Parallel Kit and Who Is It For?

The Generac 7118 Parallel Kit for GP2200i and GP2500i Inverter Generators – Double Your Power – Portable and Versatile is designed for those of us who already own (or plan to own) one or two Generac GP2200i or GP2500i inverter generators. Instead of upgrading to a single, larger generator, this kit lets us link two smaller inverters together to get more power, while still keeping a portable setup.

In practical terms, this means we can bring two compact generators to the campsite, cabin, tailgate, or home, then connect them with this kit when we need extra wattage. We get flexibility, redundancy, and more power—all without a giant, heavy generator.

Key Performance Specs: How Much Power Do We Actually Get?

The headline feature here is simple: double the power. When we parallel two compatible Generac inverters using this kit, we can get:

• Up to 3,230 running watts
• Up to 4,400 starting watts
• Rated 120 VAC amperage of 28.2 amps (when paralleled)

Those numbers matter more when we translate them to real-world use. This range of power can comfortably handle many RVs, some home backup needs, and a good amount of camping or outdoor equipment.

Real-World Power: What Can We Run?

We often care less about numbers and more about “Can this run our essentials?” With up to 3,230 running watts, we can usually support:

• Many RV air conditioners (especially in the 13,500 BTU range, depending on starting load)
• Refrigerators and freezers
• Lights, fans, and electronics (laptops, phones, TV)
• Small to medium power tools
• Some sump pumps or well pumps (depending on motor size)
• Microwave + small appliances (careful not to overload)

The 4,400 starting watts give us headroom for those brief but heavy startup surges from compressors and motors. That’s where this kit truly helps—our single GP2200i or GP2500i might struggle with a big startup load, but paired and paralleled, they have the extra punch.

Compatibility: Which Generators Does It Work With?

This kit is specifically designed for:

• Generac GP2200i inverter generator
• Generac GP2500i inverter generator

If we’re already invested in these models, this kit fits right into our setup. It’s tailored so the parallel connections, power ratings, and outlets all match what the GP2200i and GP2500i can safely deliver when combined.

We should not assume it will work with non-Generac units or other Generac models outside what is specified. The safety and performance ratings are based on these two inverter types.

Outlet Options: L5-30R and TT-30R for Flexible Hookups

One of the strongest parts of this kit is the versatile receptacles. It includes two main connection types:

• L5-30R twist-lock receptacle (30A, 120V)
• TT-30R (RV-style) receptacle (30A, 120V)

These give us more direct ways to plug in our loads, especially for RVs and higher-demand circuits.

L5-30R Twist-Lock: Secure Power for Heavier Loads

The L5-30R twist-lock plug is ideal for:

• Temporary power to a manual transfer switch at home (with proper wiring and equipment)
• Heavier power tools and construction gear (via appropriate cords)
• Secure connections that are less likely to be knocked loose

We appreciate that a twist-lock outlet reduces the chance of accidentally unplugging under load, which can protect our equipment and make things more reliable during use.

TT-30R RV Receptacle: Made for RV Hookup

The TT-30R outlet is often called a “RV 30A” receptacle, and it’s tailored to plug directly into many camper and travel trailer shore power cords. For RV owners, this is huge:

• No extra bulky adapters needed in many cases
• Supports 30A 120V RV service
• Lets us run air conditioning, outlets, lights, and appliances in many RVs—within the power limits of the combined generators

For RV camping, tailgating, or boondocking, this plug is probably the one we’ll use most.

Quick Feature Breakdown Table

To make things easier to compare and understand, here’s a concise breakdown of the main aspects of the Generac 7118 Parallel Kit:

Feature	Details	Why It Matters
Compatible Generators	Generac GP2200i and GP2500i inverter generators	Ensures safe and optimized parallel operation
Running Wattage (Parallel)	Up to 3,230 running watts	Supports multiple appliances and RV systems reliably
Starting Wattage (Parallel)	Up to 4,400 starting watts	Handles motor and compressor startup surges more effectively
Output Voltage / Amperage	120 VAC, 28.2 amps rated (paralleled)	Enough current for 30A RV circuits and many home backup uses
Receptacles	L5-30R twist lock and TT-30R (RV)	Covers common heavy-duty and RV connections
Storage Compartment	Built-in rear storage for power cables	Keeps cables protected, tidy, and easy to find
Portability	Lightweight accessory that pairs with already-portable generators	Ideal for travel, camping, and small spaces
Use Cases	Camping, RVing, tailgating, outdoor work, light-to-moderate home backup	Versatile enough for daily life and emergencies

Setup and Installation: How Easy Is It to Use?

One of the biggest concerns many of us have with parallel kits is whether the setup process is confusing. With the Generac 7118 kit, Generac has done a good job aiming for practicality and straightforward use.

Basic Connection Steps

While we always refer to the official manual for exact instructions, the general process normally looks like this:

1. Position the generators close together on a flat, stable surface, with adequate ventilation.
2. Turn both generators off and make sure they are cooled down if they’ve been running.
3. Plug the parallel cables from the kit into the corresponding ports on each GP2200i or GP2500i.
4. Connect our loads to the kit’s L5-30R or TT-30R receptacle, as appropriate.
5. Start each generator according to its own instructions.
6. Allow the system to stabilize briefly, then turn on our connected appliances or RV circuits gradually.

The nice thing is that the kit handles the parallel function; we’re not doing any complex manual wiring. The cabling and receptacles are engineered to safely combine and distribute the generated power.

Safety Considerations During Setup

We do want to be mindful of:

• Keeping both generators outdoors, away from doors, windows, and vents (to avoid carbon monoxide buildup).
• Not overloading the combined output—remember, the ceiling is around 3,230 running watts.
• Using properly rated extension cords and RV cables (30A cables where appropriate).
• Not trying to feed our home’s wiring without a proper transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician.

As long as we follow the manual and standard generator safety practices, the kit integrates smoothly into everyday use.

Convenient Built-In Storage: A Small Feature That Matters

The storage compartment at the back of the parallel kit might seem like a minor detail at first, but in practice it’s surprisingly useful. We know how often cords and accessories end up in random bins or get misplaced between trips.

With this kit, we can:

• Store the power cables inside the unit when not in use.
• Keep everything in one place so we’re not hunting for the parallel leads.
• Protect the cables from damage during transport and storage.

For those of us who like tidy setups and fewer loose parts, this built-in storage adds a meaningful benefit. It also means we’re more likely to have the parallel cables on hand when we need them most—like during a sudden power outage.

Portability: Matching the Generators’ Lightweight Design

One of the reasons many of us pick GP2200i or GP2500i inverter generators is their compact, portable design. A parallel kit that’s bulky or awkward would defeat the point, but the Generac 7118 aligns nicely with that portable philosophy.

The kit is:

• Lightweight enough for easy transport alongside our generators.
• Compact enough to tuck into RV storage bays, garage shelves, or truck beds.
• Simple to set up and break down quickly, which we appreciate during travel or emergencies.

This makes the combined system—two small generators plus the parallel kit—far easier to move and handle than a single large, heavy generator with similar power output.

Noise, Fuel Efficiency, and Why Pairing Inverters Makes Sense

While the parallel kit itself doesn’t make noise or burn fuel, the way we use it with our inverter generators can influence how we experience sound levels and runtime.

Noise Levels: Quieter Than Big Conventional Generators

Inverter generators like the GP2200i and GP2500i are already designed to be quieter than many traditional open-frame units. By using two of them instead of one large conventional generator, we often get:

• Lower sound levels at partial load
• The flexibility to run just one generator when demand is light, further reducing noise
• More pleasant campsite or backyard environments

When we parallel them, the noise increases compared to running just one, but typically it’s still more comfortable than a single, heavy-duty open-frame generator of similar capacity.

Fuel Efficiency: Use Only What We Need

Having two smaller generators paired through this kit gives us options:

• We can run one generator for lighter loads, conserving fuel.
• We can start the second generator only when needed, for AC units or power tools.
• We can distribute wear and tear between the two, which may help overall longevity.

The parallel kit itself doesn’t alter the fuel consumption, but it does enable a modular approach to power. We don’t always have to bring both generators online if our loads are modest.

Use Cases: Where This Parallel Kit Really Shines

Different users will appreciate the Generac 7118 kit for different reasons. We find that a few main scenarios stand out.

RV and Camper Owners

For RV owners with GP2200i or GP2500i generators, this kit can transform our electrical setup:

• Plug our RV’s 30A shore power cord directly into the TT-30R receptacle.
• Run our air conditioner, microwave, and outlets (within limits).
• Keep electronics safer thanks to the clean power of inverter generators.
• Enjoy quieter, more flexible power than many built-in or big portable generators.

On hot days, those extra starting watts and amps from the paralleled setup are often what make the difference between a struggling AC and a comfortable interior.

Camping and Outdoor Adventures

For camping setups without an RV, we still gain a lot:

• Power for electric coolers or small refrigerators, lights, fans, and devices.
• Ability to bring two small generators instead of one big, heavy one.
• Option to run only one generator during the night to reduce noise and fuel use, then pair both during peak activity times.

The portability of both the generators and the kit suits tent camping, overlanding, and extended outdoor trips.

Tailgating and Outdoor Events

Events and tailgates tend to need:

• Power for TVs, speakers, small appliances, grills (electric or pellet).
• Sometimes a good bit of power for multiple users or stations.

Having the ability to double our power gives us confidence that we can handle more coolers, more gear, and a few extra gadgets without tripping breakers—again, staying within that 3,230 running watt limit.

Home Backup and Emergency Use

For home emergency power, the parallel kit gives us:

• Enough capacity for essential loads like a refrigerator, some lights, electronics, and maybe a small window AC or sump pump, depending on priorities.
• Flexibility to place the generators outside at a safe distance, while running a 30A cord to a transfer switch or essential load center (installed by an electrician).
• The ability to keep using and transporting the same generators for camping or work when not in emergency use.

We want to be clear that this isn’t meant to run entire households with central air and electric ranges, but for thoughtful, essential backup, it can be a very effective part of our preparedness plan.

Build Quality and Design: How Does It Feel in Actual Use?

Generac has a solid reputation for backup power products, and this kit generally reflects that legacy. From our perspective, the fit and finish feel in line with what we expect from a mainstream, reputable brand.

The design focuses on:

• Durable housing that can handle normal bumps and travel.
• Clearly labeled outlets and connections, which reduces confusion.
• Secure parallel connections engineered specifically for the supported inverters.

We appreciate that the kit is not overloaded with unnecessary features or confusing controls. It aims to be a simple bridge between two compatible generators and our higher-demand loads, and it succeeds in that straightforward role.

Ease of Use: Everyday Practicality

In regular use, convenience matters. We don’t want an accessory so fiddly that we dread setting it up. With this parallel kit, our experience is that it remains user-friendly once we’ve gone through the setup a time or two.

We like that:

• Connections are intuitive: cables from the kit to the generators, then our main load to the kit.
• The storage compartment keeps the cables together, so there’s less messing around.
• We can visually check connections quickly, which is helpful during busy situations like setting up camp or responding to a power outage.

After the initial familiarity phase, most of us can get things up and running in just a few minutes.

Reliability and Consistent Output

The product details highlight that, when paralleled, the kit maintains a rated 120 VAC amperage of 28.2 amps. This is more than a spec sheet note; it’s central to how reliable and consistent our power feels.

What we gain from this:

• Stable voltage at 120V for power-sensitive equipment, thanks to inverter technology plus the kit’s proper parallel distribution.
• Enough current to support many 30A circuits without constant breaker trips, assuming loads are within limits.
• Confidence that when both generators are running properly, the kit will deliver the power we planned for.

For laptops, TVs, and sensitive electronics, inverter generators plus a properly rated parallel kit form a much safer pairing than older, unregulated generators.

Pros and Cons: Our Balanced Take

No product is perfect for every scenario, so we find it helpful to lay out what we see as the main strengths and trade-offs of the Generac 7118 Parallel Kit.

Advantages

• Doubles power output from compatible Generac inverters, up to 3,230 running and 4,400 starting watts.
• Provides RV-friendly TT-30R receptacle, ideal for many campers and trailers.
• Includes an L5-30R twist-lock outlet for secure, heavier-duty connections.
• Rated 28.2A at 120 VAC, fitting well with 30A use cases.
• Built-in rear storage for power cables helps organization and protection.
• Maintains portability: lighter and easier to move than a single large generator of similar power.
• Supports flexible usage: camping, RVing, tailgating, light home backup, jobsite tools.

Potential Limitations

• Only works with GP2200i and GP2500i inverter generators; not universal.
• Maximum power, while substantial, won’t run very large homes or heavy 240V loads.
• Requires a separate, properly installed transfer switch if we intend to power home circuits safely.
• Adds one more component to pack and manage, above and beyond the generators themselves.

For most portable power users focused on RVs, camping, and light-duty backup, the pros clearly outweigh the limitations, provided we stay aware of the power ceiling and compatibility.

How It Compares to Buying a Larger Single Generator

We often face a classic choice: buy one big generator or two smaller ones plus a parallel kit. The Generac 7118 is essentially a way to choose the second path. Let’s think through the trade-offs.

Two Inverters + Parallel Kit

• Pros

  • More portable: we can carry each generator separately.
  • More flexible: run one generator for light loads, both when needed.
  • Quieter and cleaner power from inverter technology.
  • Redundancy: if one generator has an issue, we still have the other.

• Cons

  • More components (two generators plus kit).
  • Potentially higher total cost than one mid-size conventional generator.
  • Requires us to store and maintain two engines.

Single Large Conventional Generator

• Pros

  • One unit, possibly cheaper for the same wattage.
  • Simplified setup: just plug and go.

• Cons

  • Heavier and less portable.
  • Often louder, sometimes less fuel efficient at partial loads.
  • Generally not as “clean” for sensitive electronics unless it’s an inverter model.

If we already own a GP2200i or GP2500i, the parallel kit often becomes the smarter expansion path. Instead of replacing our current generator with something larger (and possibly bulkier), we add this kit and either purchase a second matching inverter or simply gain flexibility for a generator we already plan to buy.

Practical Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Kit

To maximize value and keep things running smoothly, we can follow a few practical habits.

Plan Our Loads Beforehand

Before we start plugging everything in, it helps to:

• List our essential items (RV AC, fridge, lights, electronics).
• Note each item’s running and starting wattage if available.
• Ensure the total stays under the 3,230 running watt capacity and within 30A at 120V.

This prevents overloads and breaker trips and keeps both generators and the kit within comfortable operating limits.

Stagger Startups for Heavy Loads

For items with large startup surges, such as air conditioners or pumps:

• Start the generators first, allow them to stabilize.
• Turn on heavy loads one at a time, rather than all at once.
• Once big loads are running, we can add lighter devices like chargers and lights.

This approach smooths out those intense surges and makes life easier on the entire system.

Maintain Our Generators Regularly

The kit can only do its best work when the generators themselves are in good shape:

• Follow the oil change schedule in the GP2200i or GP2500i manual.
• Use fresh fuel, and consider fuel stabilizer for storage.
• Run the generators periodically so they remain reliable for emergencies.

The kit is largely plug-and-play, so our main ongoing responsibility is to ensure both generators are healthy.

Who Will Benefit Most from the Generac 7118 Parallel Kit?

We find that this kit best serves a few groups:

• RV owners who want a flexible, modular power system that can handle AC and other onboard appliances.
• Campers and outdoor enthusiasts who already favor portable, quiet inverter generators.
• Homeowners looking for a portable backup solution that can handle essential loads without committing to a huge, stationary generator.
• Small jobsite or DIY users needing quiet, mobile power where utility electricity is unavailable.

If we’re in one of these categories and already own a GP2200i or GP2500i—or plan to—this kit becomes a strongly recommended accessory.

Our Overall Impression and Recommendation

The Generac 7118 Parallel Kit for GP2200i and GP2500i Inverter Generators – Double Your Power – Portable and Versatile delivers on what it promises: a reliable, portable, and user-friendly way to double the usable power of two compatible Generac inverter generators.

We appreciate the combination of:

• Solid power capacity (up to 3,230 running and 4,400 starting watts).
• RV-optimized connections with TT-30R and L5-30R receptacles.
• Thoughtful storage built into the kit.
• A design that fits nicely with the portable, quiet nature of inverter generators.

As long as we stay aware of its compatibility limitations (GP2200i and GP2500i only) and respect the output ratings, this kit is a practical and smart way to boost our power capacity without losing the convenience of smaller, easy-to-carry generators.

For RVers, campers, outdoor event hosts, and homeowners wanting a flexible backup power setup, we see the Generac 7118 parallel kit as a well-rounded and worthwhile addition to our gear.

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