How Big of a Generator Do I Need with The Start Capacitor?

Question:

One of your experts says that by installing this on my Advent ACM135, I can run the unit with a 2000 watt generator and another expert says it needs a 3100/2900 generator even when using the capacitor. Its a tad bit confusing, so can someone please clarify. Will the ACM135 with the capacitor run on a 2000/1600 watt generator, or does it need 2000 running amps ie - a 2500/2000 watt generator? I know the ac will run on my Champion 1300/2800 without the capacitor as I have done that several times. I would like to be able to use a smaller actually, lighter generator as the Champion is tough to load and unload from my truck.

asked by: John H

Expert Reply:

The Start Capacitor for Advent Air RV Air Conditioners item # ACMSCKIT you referenced is designed specifically for the Advent Air RV Air Conditioners like yours. Yes, it will work with a 2,000 watt generator but you will have little extra wattage to run any of the other electronics in your camper. The start capacitor will bring down the starting amps for the air conditioner to 1800 watts. I recommend using a 3,000 watt generator with the Start Capacitor Item # ACMSCKIT.

expert reply by: Jerred H