Generator size

[Scoutman]

What size generator do most of ya'll run (if any)? I know this is a general question that can be complicated with variables but I'm talking about the average pop up camper that only has a few 110v accessories like AC, and battery charging. I have no other 110v items unless something is plugged into an outlet.

The reason I ask is I have my father's 5550 generator at my disposal but it is about 2' cubed and is very heavy for the little power I think it will take to run the AC. It's also really loud.

Oh and running a fan in the south in the summer isn't an option. :sombrero:

 

[mhiscox]

. . . but I'm talking about the average pop up camper that only has a few 110v accessories like AC, and battery charging.

For the same cooling BTUs, energy efficient window units will use less power than roof top RV ACs. You didn't mention which type you were using nor the rating of the unit. Regardless, though, find the wattage (or the amperage, which you multiply by 120) on the information plate and use that with some extra built in to decide.

You'll likely find the giant AC to be overkill. A 2000 watt Honda EU2000i will run many window-type units or a Coleman Polar Cub rooftop air (under most conditions) but it will not run a regular RV rooftop air by itself.

 

[Scoutman]

Sorry, I should have mentioned that our TC has a roof mounted AC. I'll have to check on the amps. Just curious to see what others were doing.

 

[mhiscox]

Sorry, I should have mentioned that our TC has a roof mounted AC. I'll have to check on the amps. Just curious to see what others were doing.

If it's one of the standard Penguin/Carrier/DuoTherm RV-type rooftop air units, the general requirement is a 3KW or larger unit, or if you want something easier to move around, there is a kit (maybe $150) to let you connect two Honda EU2000i generators in parallel to provide the power. One 2KW generator won't work and the 3KW generators are too large and heavy to move easily, but the silver lining is that 3KW up gensets commonly can be remote started, which is not the case for smaller gensets like the EU2000i.

 

[Scoutman]

Good to know thanks.

 

[peekay]

it's going to depend on how large the a/c is. I can run my 11k BTU Dometic rooftop a/c with my Yamaha 2400 watt inverter generator. It will not run on the 2000 watt Honda/Yamaha/knockoffs.

If you do not need to run the A/C, then 2000 watts or even 1000 watts is a good size. The 1000 watt model is very lightweight and easy to store. But I am not sure if it can power a microwave.

 

[Scoutman]

it's going to depend on how large the a/c is. I can run my 11k BTU Dometic rooftop a/c with my Yamaha 2400 watt inverter generator. It will not run on the 2000 watt Honda/Yamaha/knockoffs.

If you do not need to run the A/C, then 2000 watts or even 1000 watts is a good size. The 1000 watt model is very lightweight and easy to store. But I am not sure if it can power a microwave.

I have a Cobra 1500w inverter (3000 peak) mounted under the seat of the truck wired into the truck. I can use it for some things but I think the AC in the camper is my biggest concern. I think the AC is a Dometic and again I forgot to look at the amps.