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Old 08-02-2017, 10:02 PM   #1
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Portland , Arizona
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Dometic Penguin 2 install/voltage question

Hi,
So I just installed the dometic penguin 2 (with heatstrip) model #641835c, 13,500btu...I thought for sure my 3,000w briggs&stratton inverter generator would power it. But it shuts down after about a minute.

I am totally new to all this kind of airstream restoration, do I simply just need a bigger generator? Also when I plug the shore power into my house (20amp GFI circuit) it clips and the GFI shuts it off. Ugh.
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Old 08-02-2017, 10:44 PM   #2
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I have a 13500 BTU Dometic. I can run it on my 3000 watt generator or a 20A outlet in my garage.
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Old 08-02-2017, 11:07 PM   #3
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Interesting. Any thoughts on why my set up isn't working? It's been about 105 degrees lately. Do you think the system is just starting at a temp that is too hot?
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Old 08-02-2017, 11:12 PM   #4
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It should easily run on your generator. Your converter uses a fair amount of current. Try turning it off and see if the AC will run. I would check the voltage at an outlet in the trailer and make sure it is 115+
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Old 08-02-2017, 11:47 PM   #5
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Thanks!
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Old 08-03-2017, 04:45 AM   #6
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In your restoration did you replace all the writing from the panel to the air conditioner? I might be inclined to try as direct a line to the between AC and generator to eliminate "house" wiring. Cut a piece of Romex strip the ends wire nut it to the AC and plug it in generator

Otherwise, you can always install an easy start and that should take care of the initial draw enough.
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Old 08-03-2017, 05:28 AM   #7
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There may be other loads that are using the generator's capacity.

The refrigerator will switch to shore automatically, if not manually switched to LP.

Water heater may also use shore power

3000 watts is not an abundance of power, reducing all loads except the air conditioning will help.


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Old 08-03-2017, 03:43 PM   #8
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Try a MicroAir EasyStart. It will let you run your A/C on a 2,000 watt genny. It reduces start up load 70%. It also conditions the electrical input and will make the compressor last longer. I have two for my two Pengion IIs.
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Old 08-03-2017, 08:56 PM   #9
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That generator should power everything.i have the Briggs P3000 as well. Shut off the water heater or swap it over to LP. Make sure your water pump isn't running. Turn the fridge off or go to LP.
Fire up the AC allow it to run for sometime then start add the fridge. Let this run for awhile. If all goes well turn off the fridge and turn on your water heater.
Also as suggested Micro start and verify the proper wire size is powering the AC unit
Thomas
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Old 08-04-2017, 06:29 AM   #10
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That generator has a amp meter on the front so monitor that as well. There could be a issue with the generator itself and going into auto shutdown. Will it run for awhile with out the AC being powered? If so try loading it with the fridge then hot water heater. Power cord in good shape as well.
Thomas
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Old 08-04-2017, 07:08 AM   #11
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Also your convertor can be a power hog. Try disconnecting it for a trial run. I think mine can be about 1000W.
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