Generator Power Requirements to Operate RV Air Conditioner
Question:
can i run a rooftop ac on a 16ft enclosed trailer off a generator
asked by: Jerry C
Expert Reply:
Most RV air conditioners, like any air conditioner, will draw considerable power. Start-up power requirements can be high enough that a starting capacitor is needed for the initial power surge when the unit is first turned on. Once in operation the power demand drops.
The Atwood 15,000-BTU Air Command Rooftop RV Air Conditioner # AT15028-22, which operates on AC-power, draws 4830 watts at startup! Once running the power requirement drops to 1530 watts. This unit needs its own dedicated 20-amp AC-power circuit for proper operation.
You'll want to check the specs for your specific air conditioner and generator combination to ensure they are compatible. The linked article on generator power requirements will be helpful.
