Powering a generator to run a caravan air conditioner in 2022

Phillip Rigby

Phillip Rigby

Air Conditioner expert and outdoors man.

Last updated July 16, 2022

Caravanners are very aware that it can be very hot down in Australia. When touring Australia using a high-quality rooftop air conditioner will make all the difference. It is essential to have a generator if you plan to stay away from your camping location.

This article will review the best generator for you and also how you can use the air conditioner in your caravan.

What kind of generator do you require?

Experts advise inverter generators. They are more quiet and more efficient than conventional generators. This makes them ideal for caravanning.

Reliable power is essential for electronic components within a caravan air conditioner. Make sure you are protected from voltage fluctuations. Inverter Generators generate electricity that is clean in three phases. They’re unique in this regard among generators of their type.

Inverter Generators alter the speed of their engines to meet your power requirements. This saves fuel and also money.

Inverter generators are packaged in bags.

What size generator do you need to buy?

There are a variety of sizes for inverter generators. There are many options when it comes to selecting the best inverter generator.

The power output of generators is what is used to determine their ratings. A 2,000-watt generator is a popular option for those who travel because it permits them to use multiple appliances. A generator that has a maximum power output of about 2,500-3,000 in watts is necessary if you plan on running an air conditioner in your caravan.

The compressor draws up to 3,000 watts when an A/C is turned on the first time. A caravan air conditioner consumes between 1,000 and 2,000 watts at maximum speed. Comparing that with a laptop running 200 watts or a 100-watt refrigerator it will likely to be the largest energy-intensive item you have.

You can use a battery pack to power your A/C?

Campers are often confused regarding caravan ACs. They may also require an inverter or charger to power their caravan ACs.

While it’s feasible to run your conditioner using this method however, it is expensive to install it. It’s not economically feasible as the batteries will quickly deplete. If you would like to have the cooling of your air conditioner, it’s worth buying a good inverter generator.

There are other factors to consider

A caravan air conditioner that is running off of a generator must be maintained with care. Here’s why:

Temperature

The compressor’s efficiency will decrease as ambient temperature/humidity rises. Higher temperatures can trigger ignition problems for the engine of the generator. The generator produces less power when the air conditioner is at full speed.

Campers who live in extreme temperatures should cut down their power consumption by The generator will lose 6 percent for every 45-degree day.

Extension Cords

The extension cable from the generator to the caravan must not be longer than 3-4 meters. This is especially important when temperatures rise because of the drop in amperage over long leads.

Additionally, you be able to assess the power that other appliances will draw when the A/C unit is in use like the refrigerator, TV, fridge, or battery charger. A lot of users make the error of using an A/C system that does not meet the specifications for engine start-up. They end up having problems with their battery charger. Ensure that the generator you pick is of the proper size to prevent power issues when several appliances are operating simultaneously.

An investment in a caravan air conditioner is that is worth making.