You will need a generator between 2000W to 4000W to run an RV air conditioner.
However, there are so many other factors in choosing the right size of generator for your RV AC. Therefore, not every RV AC will need a generator with a capacity within the mentioned range.
So, you need to look at the AC that you have in your RV and how much power you need to run it. In this brief guide, we will look at some of the factors you need to keep in mind when choosing the best generator for your RV AC, so keep reading.
Generator types
Sizes
Generators are available in different capacities. There are low-end generators and high-end generators. You can find some units with capacities ranging from 400 to 800 watts, and on the higher end, you can go for units with up to 4000W capacity.
These generators are portable, but they come with a serious amount of energy despite their size. For your RV AC, you need to have something hefty so that a low-end generator won’t be the right choice for you. The generator size that is considered to be safe for versatile use is around 2200W.
This unit is the most frequently used one, mainly if you don’t use your RV AC much. Such a generator can covalently run a 10,000 BTU RV air conditioner with some lights in your RV and microwave. You might end up using some smaller appliances, but not when you are running your AC.
So, to run your AC more or use some other appliances, the better option is a 3000W generator or a more powerful one.
A 4000W generator can easily run a larger recreational vehicle and numerous appliances. So, if your primary concern is running your RV AC, going for a 3000W generator will suffice.
Fuel types
There are different types of generators when it comes to fuels. You can go for a diesel, gasoline, or propane-powered generator. Some units can run on two different field types as well.
Conventional vs. inverter
There are conventional and inverter generators as well. Conventional units are heavy and loud. However, they can run more appliances because they are prone to surges as well. Inverter units are better because they are not noisy. They are more power-efficient and safer to use but are costly.
Getting Most Out of Your Generator While your AC is Running
So many factors contribute to prolonging the life of your AC units and generators. It’s all about maximizing your generator and how to fit in other appliances to use while running your AC. It means you will have to turn on and off other appliances if you want to keep your AC going.
- You can start running your AC on your generator when it is most needed during the day. Just notice which part of the day you are the most in your AC or when it is hot out there. This is when you will need your AC. you can plan to run other appliances according to this time.
- Proper maintenance and cleaning are required to get the most out of your AC unit.
- Turn the fan on to spread the air throughout the room, and don’t just bring the temperature of your AC down.
- Don’t run your AC at full power, or it will consume a lot of power.
- Make sure not to use some appliances during a particular time when you are running your AC.
- If you are not using an appliance, unplug it to keep the vampire load off the generator.
- You can go for a solar panel or even solar-powered items as well to keep the load off from your generator.
Can a 3000W generator power an RV AC?
It can undoubtedly power an RV AC, but you will have to manage its power to use other appliances on it. You can either go for an additional solar panel to put some load off your generator, or you will have to use your appliances turn by turn on your generator.
But make sure that the AC’s running wattage is lower (under 2000W) than your 3000W generator.
What can I do to maximize my generator’s potential?
The first thing you need to do is notice when you are using your AC the most. At that time or when you are inside your recreational vehicle, do not use other appliances. When you’re not using your AC, you can use other appliances.
You can also go for a solar panel to power your other appliances and keep running your AC simultaneously. But that would be a costly option, and you should consider going for a more significant generator instead.
Is an inverter generator better than a conventional one?
An inverter generator is a better option if you can use it primarily to power your AC and a few other appliances. Inverter generators might be costly, but they are quieter in operation and are more energy-efficient.
Are those inbuilt RV generators any good?
Yes, inbuilt RV generators are pretty good as long as you don’t put too much load on them. They work just like any generator and will need a bit of load management from your side to perform efficiently.
Are inbuilt generators better than portable units?
Portable units are better because they produce cleaner energy and quieter. You can easily move them from one place to another, and repair and maintenance are quite easy too. These are the features that lack in those built-in generators.
Conclusion
You can run your RV air conditioner with a 3000W generator pretty conveniently. Just make sure the AC only needs starting wattage under 2000W, and you will be able to run other appliances as well.
If you have a smaller AC unit, you can run more appliances on your 3000W generator. Otherwise, you will have to manage the laundry and only use those other appliances when you are not using your air conditioner.
