What Size Generator Is Needed to Power a 15,000 BTU Air Conditioner

Published 11/28/2018

Question:

will the Etrailer 3200 remote start inverter generator allow a 15k btu rv air conditioner to operate? Will a surge protector allow the Etrailer 3200 Watt generator supply power? I tried to us a 3500watt champion construction generator non inverter on travel trailer but surge guard wouldn’t allow current to flow or turn on electric to travel trailer Thanks

asked by: Cal

Expert Reply:

The etrailer 3,200-Watt Portable Inverter Generator part # 333-0003 has a starting (surge) power output of 3,200 watts and a running (rated) power output of 2,900 watts. I cannot be sure as to the starting and running power requirements of your air conditioner but the Atwood Air Command Rooftop RV Air Conditioner part # AT15028-22 which has a 15,000 BTU rating requires at least 4,830 watts starting and 1,530 watts running therefore, a single 3,200 watt inverter generator would not be the best option for you. This is also likely why the Champion 3,500-Watt Generator that you have now will not allow current to flow as the air conditioner is more than likely tripping the breaker upon startup.

Instead, you would need to use the etrailer 6,000-Watt Portable Inverter Generators part # 333-0003-2-0007 which has a starting power output of 6,000 watts and a running power output of 5,500 watts. This unit also has a built-in surge protector that will stop supplying power to the connected devices if an overload is detected.

I have attached a review video for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L