AC Question

[Naper]

How much power is needed for a 15,000 BTU AC unite?
Would a 3000 watt generator / inverter do the job. I know 2 2000 watt Honda's work, but would prefer to carry just one. Generators over 3000 watts start to get heavy.

[jdalrymple]

I have used the Honda 3 kw units with no problem. The AC will start and run with no problem. The electric start EU3000IS is very quiet and the electric start is great, but it is HEAVY to handle.

Best Regards,

[Naper]

Originally Posted by jdalrymple

I have used the Honda 3 kw units with no problem. The AC will start and run with no problem. The electric start EU3000IS is very quiet and the electric start is great, but it is HEAVY to handle.

Best Regards,

Is your AC a 13,000 btu or 15,000?
I understand 3 kw units operate the 13,000 btu AC but not sure about the 15,000
Does anyone have the specs for the 15,000 btu AC units?

[bwoodtx]

To determine generator load: AMPS X VOLTS = WATTS

[Aviator]

The amperage requirement for the above formula should be in your owners manual for the A/C unit.

[lewster]

Originally Posted by bwoodtx

To determine generator load: AMPS X VOLTS = WATTS

Unfortunately it's not that simple, as a compressor on a roof A/C unit will draw as much as 50 amps momentarily at start-up (surge). A 'typical' 15K roof air will draw, depending on the ambient temperature outside, between 13 and 20 amps running and 3-4 for the blower motor. The amp draw of the compressor changes with the ambient temperature. There is a formula to calculate this, and I can look it up for you if you need it.

If the ambient temps are in the 80's, you can expect between a 15-20 amp running load. If we use the 20 amp figure at 120VAC, you get 2400 watts of power draw. IIRC, the Honda 3000 will handle this easily. Be sure to have the ECO setting off when you start the A/C so it can handle the start-up surge.

[azflycaster]

It is going to depend on the draw of the AC unit and the others draws in your trailer. Your converter will draw a few amps when you apply power to the trailer and your refrigerator may switch to shore power as well.

If your AC pulls 20 amps, you have 5 to spare for other devices.
3000 watts = 25 amps

[Rawn77]

I'm presently using a Honda 3000 inverter with the electric start. I have a 15k heat pump on my '10 30'. It works like a charm!
I leave the gen in economy mode and it adjusts automatically to the load.
I leave it in the bed of the pickup all season and I use storage tension bars to keep it from moving.