
Running a camper air conditioner when the battery is dead is a tricky situation. While it is possible to run an RV air conditioner on batteries, a weak battery may not provide enough voltage to trigger the AC compressor, causing the air conditioning to function poorly or not at all. In such cases, a generator may be required to power the air conditioning unit. However, a portable generator typically won't run an RV air conditioner without modifications, as it needs to be powerful enough to meet the startup demands. Additionally, the generator must be properly sized to power the RV's air conditioner effectively.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Can a generator run camper air conditioning when the battery is dead? | Yes, with the proper equipment and enough batteries. |
Can you run an RV AC unit on batteries? | Yes, with enough batteries and an inverter to convert DC battery power to AC power. |
Can you run an RV AC on a generator? | Yes, but a portable generator won't work without modifications. |
Will a weak car battery affect the functioning of an auto air conditioner? | Yes, a weak battery may not have enough voltage to trigger the AC compressor. |
What is the impact of a stuck AC clutch relay? | If the AC clutch relay is stuck closed, it will drain your battery very quickly. |
What is the rule of thumb to prevent this issue? | Always use the AC when the engine is running. |
What is the recommended generator capacity to power an RV air conditioner? | 2000-4000 watts. |
What is the impact of elevation on generator performance? | Gas engines lose about 3% of their power for every 1000 feet of elevation gain. |
What You'll Learn
Can you run a camper's air conditioning off a battery?
Yes, it is possible to run a camper's air conditioning off a battery. However, it requires the proper equipment and enough batteries to power the AC unit. In addition to lithium batteries, an inverter is also needed to convert the DC battery power to AC power, which is what most air conditioning units use.
The number of batteries needed to power an air conditioning unit depends on the size and efficiency of the unit, as well as the capacity of the batteries. A smaller, more efficient 12V air conditioning unit may only need one battery to run for a few hours, whereas a larger, less efficient unit may need a bank of eight 100 Ah batteries to run for the same amount of time. The wattage required to run an AC unit also depends on its size, with startup wattage ranging from 1,000 watts for a 5,000 BTU unit to 3,500 watts for a 15,000 BTU unit. Once the unit is running, it requires much less power, with a 5,000 BTU unit needing 300-450 watts and a 15,000 BTU unit needing about 1,500 watts.
It is also important to consider the limitations of running an AC unit off batteries. Even with a large battery bank, the high power draw of an AC unit means that it will not run for long. Additionally, running an AC unit off batteries can be expensive due to the cost of the batteries and other required equipment. For example, a typical 100 Ah lithium battery costs $800-$1000 per battery, and an inverter can cost around $1300. Therefore, it may be necessary to factor in the cost of running an AC unit when upgrading to lithium batteries.
Another consideration when running an AC unit off batteries is the impact on battery life. Running an AC unit will likely completely drain a battery bank, and if solar power is being used to charge the batteries, it may take until the next day for them to recharge. This can be an issue if the batteries are also needed to power essential devices such as residential fridges or CPAP machines overnight.
Overall, while it is possible to run a camper's air conditioning off a battery, there are several factors to consider, including the equipment and number of batteries needed, the cost, and the impact on battery life.
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Can you run a camper's air conditioning off a generator?
Yes, you can run a camper's air conditioning off a generator, but you need to ensure you have the proper setup. The power requirements of an air conditioning unit vary depending on its size and specifications. Therefore, you need to know the minimum starting wattage of your air conditioner.
For example, a typical 15,000 BTU air conditioner may only need 2,000 watts of electricity to run but may require up to 3,000 watts to start the motor. So, if your generator only puts out 2,000 watts, you won't be able to start the air conditioner.
Additionally, you need to consider the wattage of any other appliances you want to power simultaneously. You can use a generator wattage calculator to help determine the right size generator for your needs.
There are two types of RV generators: traditional open-frame or inverter generators that sit outside your RV, and built-in generators hardwired to your vehicle. Portable generators are usually the only option for small travel trailers and pop-up campers, whereas built-in generators are preferable for powering air conditioning units as they offer higher wattage and can power other appliances simultaneously.
It is also important to note that a weak car battery can cause your auto air conditioner to function poorly or not at all, as car batteries need enough voltage to trigger the AC compressor.
When choosing a generator, consider factors such as portability, run time, fuel efficiency, noise level, and inverter technology for stable power output.
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What size generator is needed to run a camper's air conditioning?
To determine the size of the generator needed to run a camper's air conditioning, it is important to consider the starting (or surge) watts and the running (or rated) watts of the air conditioning unit. The starting watts refer to the initial burst of power needed to turn on the device, while the running watts refer to the power required to keep it running.
RV air conditioners typically have a cooling capacity of either 15,000 or 13,500 British Thermal Units (BTU). A 15,000 BTU unit will require more power, with an average of 5,100 starting watts and 1,600 running watts, while a 13,500 BTU unit will draw less power, with around 3,800 starting watts and 1,300 running watts.
To ensure the generator can adequately power the air conditioning unit, it is recommended to have a generator that can supply at least 2,000 to 4,000 watts for most RV air conditioners. For a 15,000 BTU unit, a generator should be able to handle a minimum of 5,000 starting watts and 2,000 running watts.
It is also important to consider the power requirements of other appliances that may be used simultaneously with the air conditioner, such as refrigerators, microwaves, and televisions. The generator should be able to handle the combined wattage of all the appliances to be used.
Additionally, there are two main types of generators to choose from: portable generators and standby generators. Portable generators are less expensive and can be transported, while standby generators are more powerful, installed outside the home, and directly connected to the electrical system.
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What are the pros and cons of a portable generator?
A portable generator can be a great asset, especially in the case of an unexpected power outage. They are also useful for camping trips or for those who own an RV. Here is a list of the pros and cons of a portable generator to help you decide if it is the best option for your needs.
Pros
- Portable generators are significantly less expensive than permanently installed generators, with prices ranging from $500 to $3,000.
- They are typically small and can be moved from place to place.
- They are user-friendly and do not require complex installation.
- They can be stored away conveniently and are ideal for those with a camp or RV.
- They can power essential appliances, such as lights, a refrigerator, and a heater.
- They can be used during camping trips to run small appliances.
- They can be used as an emergency backup during small natural disaster power outages.
Cons
- They have limited usage and cannot power an entire household or luxury items such as central air conditioning.
- They require manual start-up and will not turn on automatically in the case of a power outage.
- They need to be maintained and refuelled periodically, which can be inconvenient, especially during winter.
- They produce noise, exhaust fumes, and heat, and must be kept outdoors and away from the house to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- They may not be powerful enough to run an RV air conditioner unless properly sized and with certain modifications.
- They require manual fuel changes, which can be inconvenient and messy.
- They are heavy to move and set up.
- They may be too loud for some campsites due to decibel limits.
In summary, a portable generator can be a cost-effective and convenient option for those who experience infrequent power outages or for camping trips. However, they may not be suitable for powering an entire household or for those seeking a more permanent solution.
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What are the pros and cons of a built-in generator?
A built-in generator is a device that is hardwired into your RV's electrical system and powers the vehicle's outlets, allowing you to operate various appliances. Here are some of the pros and cons of having a built-in generator in your camper:
Pros
- Convenience: Built-in generators offer the convenience of being able to generate electricity whenever you need it, whether you are camping off-grid or boondocking.
- Power on Demand: They can power heavy appliances and equipment, such as hair dryers, ovens, and air conditioners.
- Independence: With a built-in generator, you don't need to rely on an electric hook-up as you can generate your own power.
- Emergency Backup: In case of a power failure, a built-in generator provides backup power for you and your fellow campers.
- Ease of Use: You can start and operate a built-in generator from inside your camper, without having to go outside.
- Security: Built-in generators are more secure than portable generators as they are difficult for thieves to remove.
- Longevity: Built-in generators can run for days if properly maintained, making them ideal for extended trips.
- Fuel Source: Built-in generators connect directly to your RV's fuel tank, eliminating the need for manual fuel changes.
- Higher Wattage Range: They offer a higher wattage range than portable generators, making them more suitable for powering appliances with high surge watt requirements, such as air conditioners.
Cons
- Cost: Powerful and large-sized built-in generators can be quite expensive.
- Noise: They can be noisy, especially if they don't have noise-reducing enclosures, which can impact your camping experience.
- Fuel Consumption: Built-in generators that run on fuel can increase your fuel costs and require regular refuelling.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.
- Space: Built-in generators occupy space inside your RV, which may be a concern for smaller vehicles.
- Limited Portability: Unlike portable generators, built-in generators are married to the camper and cannot be used away from the vehicle.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, with the proper equipment and enough batteries, you can run your RV AC unit on batteries. You will also need an inverter to invert the DC battery power into AC power for most air conditioning units.
The generator needs to have at least a 2000-4000-watt capacity.
You can run the AC in your RV on a generator for 8 hours and not likely use more than 2 gallons of gas.
Yes, an RV generator, when plugged in and running, will charge the house batteries and power any 120-volt appliances.