How to determine the wattage usage on my a/c

[djpierce]

From what I can see I have an 11k domestic duo thern 600 series. I think the model is 3101121. I need to find out the power requirements as I want to buy a generator. The manual states 2.5k watts but I saw someone on the forums that he was able to run the a/c with a 2000 watt generator. Am I reading the manual wrong? The 2000 is such a nice size but it seems like I would need a 3000. Watt unit if I want to run other things like a reefer.

[murreywalker]

A Honda 2000 or a Yamaha 2400 would handle you needs with ease.

[DKB_SATX]

You answered your own question, to a degree. If you want to run the refrigerator on electricity, or some other large AC load, you'll probably overload a 2k generator. Your starting load may make a 2k generator unhappy as well, and it'll likely be working hard the entire time. The Yamaha 2400 mentioned above is rumored to do pretty well with smaller air conditioners when load is managed carefully, but I have no personal experience with that.

[djpierce]

We are looking into getting the Honda 3000i Handi. It is a bit pricey but it is light and quiet. Still not sure if I will put in the Airstream or the TV during travel. We have two dogs so it takes up lots of room in the back of our Tahoe. Is there problems with putting in the Airstream? Maybe the bouncing around could damage over time? I know I will need to tie down pretty tight. That may be the challenge.

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by djpierce

We are looking into getting the Honda 3000i Handi. It is a bit pricey but it is light and quiet. Still not sure if I will put in the Airstream or the TV during travel. We have two dogs so it takes up lots of room in the back of our Tahoe. Is there problems with putting in the Airstream? Maybe the bouncing around could damage over time? I know I will need to tie down pretty tight. That may be the challenge.

A generator should never be loaded for more than 80 percent of it's rating.

Keep in mind, that there are other things that also draw 120 volts AC power, besides the AC.

The univolt always runs, and the reefer may be on electricity as well.

Then you may turn some lights on.

A 3000 watt generator, would do a great job for you.

Less than that becomes "IFFY", as well as over loaded.

Andy

[djpierce]

I think you are right. We want to be comfortable when we boondock.
Last thing to do is have a vendor fire one up so we are not surprised by the noise level when running full tilt.

[idroba]

Originally Posted by djpierce

I think you are right. We want to be comfortable when we boondock.
Last thing to do is have a vendor fire one up so we are not surprised by the noise level when running full tilt.

As I recall, the Honda 3000 handi has considerably fewer sound reduction systems than the regular Honda 3000, so do be careful. It is lighter and cheaper, but not as quiet.

[matthorr]

I have a newer Dometic Penguin II - 15k BTU, I think (maybe 13.5). My Yamaha 2400 starts and runs the air conditioner no problem. But, I can't run anything else - if the fridge or water heater are on it will overload the generator.

The 2400 is small, lightweight and quiet. I got mine from US Carb so it runs off gas or propane. No regrets.

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by matthorr

I have a newer Dometic Penguin II - 15k BTU, I think (maybe 13.5). My Yamaha 2400 starts and runs the air conditioner no problem. But, I can't run anything else - if the fridge or water heater are on it will overload the generator.

The 2400 is small, lightweight and quiet. I got mine from US Carb so it runs off gas or propane. No regrets.

The Univolt is always on, unless you shut it off.

Andy

[matthorr]

True, I haven't had any issues with running the a/c with the univolt on, though. But I also haven't tried with batteries that were run down and would require a high current from the univolt.