RV users often ask, can we use a generator in an RV to run Air Conditioner. So, the answer is absolutely yes, and the latest generators are powerful enough that enable you to run AC in an RV.
It is quite difficult to travel on hot days and spend much time in an RV with an Air Conditioner. For your ease, we have the Best Generator For RV Air Conditioner. Furthermore, RV travel and camping can be comfortable if you have the right appliances. An RV generator has to be reliable so that you can run your AC and other appliances as well.
Finding the right generator to run an AC in an RV is not easy because it is hard to produce electricity. RV appliances must be energy-efficient. So, the generators we have for you are fuel-efficient so that you can run your AC for a long time.
In RV, you need to run more appliances, but AC does not seem easy. You don’t need to worry about that; the generators we listed for you allow you to run other appliances and Air conditioners at the same time because they are powerful enough and have amazing output wattage.
- Best Generators for Your RV Air Conditioner
- Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
- Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen5300v Portable Generator
- DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500
- WEN 56380i 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
- Champion Power Equipment 100302 Open Frame Inverter
- Buying Guide
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Best Generators for Your RV Air Conditioner
Here we enlist the Generator For you RV Air conditioners that are powerful enough. Reviews and ratings are taken into account when choosing generators. So, you don’t need to worry about quality and performance. Give it a try!
Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
RV is compact, and for an RV, you must have a silent operating generator. So, give a try to this ultra-quiet generator that comes with only 5 decibels of the noise level. This generator is 40% more silent than Honda’s generators, as it is equipped with the latest inverter technology.
It comes with a unique power rush technology, making it 16% more potent than other standard generators. Besides, it offers easy and simple control. It got a digital smart LCD that has a digital wattage meter for your ease. It informs you about how much running time is left, as it has run time remaining display. Also, it lets you know the fuel level, generator status, and hour meter as well.
This generator is versatile, and it is not only designed to use in an RV. You can use it on construction sites, job sites, and other recreational sites as it is portable. Moreover, it has a clean inverter power and robust steel enclosure, making it highly versatile.
You can start, run, and stop the unit with a power dial. One straightforward dial controls three modes of operation, so it is also suitable for beginners.
Specifications
Pros
- It works quietly
- Easy to operate
- Powerful runner
- Reasonable price
- Works perfectly in eco mode
Cons
- It is heavy with no wheels
- Lack of an LED fuel indicator
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen5300v Portable Generator
If you love to spend time in your RV rather than home, then try this powerful portable generator. It comes with a considerable tank capacity that enables you to fill 4.7 gallons of fuel. Additionally, the run time of the generator is up to 14 hours, so use it confidently. The running wattage and peak wattages are 5300 watts and 6600 watts, respectively.
It is extremely lightweight and weighs only 12.5 pounds, promoting portability. Further, it comes with wheels that make the movement from one place to another easier. The system is highly compact and will not occupy much space in your RV. A built-in fuel gauge and automatic low oil shut-off make this model unique. To ensure routine maintenance is conducted in the VFT Data Center. Whether you’re storing power at home or in your RV, the unit is ready to use.
The best thing about this generator is that it has 4 power outlets to ease consumers. RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp receptacle, 5–20R 120V household duplex receptacle, and transfer switch ready L14-30R 30 Amp receptacle. Moreover, it is safe to use, and the outlets have rubber cases to make them safe. The package contains an oil funnel, oil, a tool kit, and a user’s manual. And the generator got 3 years of warranty.
Specifications
Pros
- Best budget-friendly unit
- Easy to operate and assemble
- Fairly small and compact
- Outstanding run time
Cons
- No automatic choke
DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
It is perfect for an RV to have a dual fueling system as choosing your fuel is more flexible and gives you more freedom. So, get a hand on this versatile portable generator that needs gas or propane to run. On the other hand, the starting power of this generator is 4400 watts while the running power is 3500 watts. So, it can heavy load in your RV as well.
It is potent that allows you to use bulbs, refrigerators, or air conditioners whatever you want. So, the engine provides enough power to handle a variety of tasks. This unit is equipped with MX2 technology that ensures each 120 volts outlet gets the maximum amount of power. Use either 120V or 240V simultaneously on the generator. Alternatively, you may use 120 volts only at full power.
The fuel tank has 3.2 gallons capacity. The power panel has 2 outlets; 120 or 240 volts, 30 Amp twist-lock outlet, and 120 volts household GFCI outlets. It also has a charging port and voltmeter.
Specifications
Pros
- It comes with a wheel kit
- It has a built-in voltmeter
- Easy to remove the air filter
- Low price
Cons
- 120/220 volts switch directions not clear
- Flimsy handle
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500
Are you a beginner or seeking a user-friendly generator? Then this Westinghouse iGen4500 is probably made for you, as it is very easy to operate. It offers remote electric and push-button start, the generator starts and stops easily with this feature. Its automatic choke makes it as easy to start an engine as pushing a button.
Your generator can be started and stopped from up to 260 feet away by a remote start key fob. Additionally, a recoil start is also available, providing greater reliability at startup. On the other hand, it got LED data center displays that are innate and useful; that shows fuel level, power output, voltage output, remaining run time, and lifetime run hours. So, this feature ensures maintenance intervals are tracked.
For more options, read our detail guide to the best portable generator for 30 Amp RV
This generator will not bother you in an RV as the peak noise level is only 52 decibels, which shows it works quietly. The tank capacity is 3.4 gallons, so it runs up to 18 hours. Besides, the rated wattages are 3700, while the peak wattages are 4500 at less than 3% THD. The generator has “Economy Mode” in order to maximize fuel efficiency. So, it is perfect to use in an RV as it is fuel-efficient. Further, it comes in 3 years of warranty as well.
Specifications
Pros
- It works silently
- Fuel-efficient generator
- Outstanding run time
- Suitable for the beginners
- It comes in warranty
Cons
- Auto choke is not up to the mark
- Battery connection access is difficult
WEN 56380i 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
RV appliances must be easy to operate and need little maintenance. So, give this WEN 56380i portable generator a try, which requires minimal maintenance as it comes with a fuel shut-off feature. Furthermore, in a fuel shut-off, the remaining fuel is used up from the carburetor, avoiding blockages and limiting maintenance.
It is easy to start; you just have to press the orange ignition button, and the generator starts to serve you. And the rated wattages are 3400, while the peak wattages are 3800, and the total run time is up to 17 hours. Besides, it is not much loud, and the noise level is only 57 decibels. Compared to a pure sine wave, its total harmonic distortion is less than 1.2%. No matter how sensitive the electronics, this generator is capable.
Fuel efficiency is enhanced by the generator’s “Economy Mode.” Moreover, the unit has a digital meter that enables you to monitor fuel consumption, voltage, wattage, run time, and frequency. It is easy to move, lightweight, and weighs only 99.2 pounds. Transport and storage are simplified with collapsible handles and wheels.
Specifications
Pros
- Amazing power output
- Easy to move
- Easy to use
- Super quiet inverter generator
- Auto burn off fuel feature
Cons
- Hard to read a multimeter
Champion Power Equipment 100302 Open Frame Inverter
Get a hand on this, one of the most powerful generators on our list. It is perfect to use in an RV, as it has 120 Volts 30A RV outlet (TT-30R). A 120V 20A household outlet (5-20R) and a 12V DC automotive outlet are included with dual USB adapters and battery-charging cables. Further, it is powerful enough as it has 4000 starting watts and 3500 running watts. You can also increase the power by connecting 2800 watts of parrel kit.
The generator has an advanced open-frame design that makes it 20% light in weight and 50% quieter compared to other Champions’ generators. The noise level is 64 decibels, which means it is less noise than the other generators. Besides, it runs on gas, and the tank capacity is 2.9 gallons, and you can use it for up to 17 hours.
This generator has an ‘Economy Mode’ feature that ensures it doesn’t consume much fuel. Enjoy free lifetime technical support and 3 years of warranty on it.
Specifications
Pros
- Powerful generator
- Easy to use and maintain
- Long runtime
- Moderate price
Cons
- A bit hard to move
- Slightly noisy
Related: The 7 Best Wind Generators For RV 2022
Buying Guide
Finding the best generator for RV air conditioner is challenging as people don’t buy such appliances regularly. So, before making any decision, you need to consider many important factors. If you consider these factors, you can get the perfect generator that meets your need.
Portability/Size
The size and weight matter when you have to use an RV, so the generator must be light in weight and compact in design. Portable generators are the best types of generators. It is because you can use it anywhere you want to use it. Further, the generators we reviewed are lightweight that promote portability.
Many generators have wheels and handle that offer easy and quick movement. You can use such generators in an RV and in the home. Additionally, such generators are suitable for camping as well.
Fuel efficiency
There is constant fluctuation in the price of gasoline, diesel, and propane. And usually, the generators are not fueled efficiently; they consume much fuel. But you don’t need to worry about fuel consumption, and the advanced generators are fuel-efficient. Besides, we choose the fuel-efficient model and have ‘Eco Mode.’
A generator that consumes lots of fuel is not what you need. The fuel efficiency of some generators differs from that of others. If you are concerned about how much fuel you will need in the woods, make sure to pack plenty of extras. So, make sure you consider fuel efficiency.
Wattage
According to us, one of the most important factors needs your attention. Before buying, you have to decide whether you need a generator only to run AC. If you need a generator only to run AC, then the generator with 2000 to 3000 wattage is enough.
On the other hand, if you have to run a refrigerator, oven, or other heavy appliances in your RV, make sure the generator is powerful enough. For this, we recommend you choose a generator that output wattage is above 4000.
On our list, the wattage ranges from 3500 to 6600. So, choose according to your need.
Fuel type
We recommend you choose a generator that has dual fuel sources as we all know the prices of fuel increases day by day in the whole world. And sometimes we have to face a shortage as well, so if the generator has only one fuel type, you maybe feel difficulty.
The advanced generators run on gas, propane, or diesel. So, make sure you’re choosing a model that has a dual fuel source.
Noise level
Usually, the generators consider noisy, but now it is not true. If the generator is noisy, it is not possible for you to run it for a long time as it bothers you and your neighbors as well. The advanced generators come with the latest technology that makes them quiet, so they will not bother you. So, you can run your generator for a long time.
The noise level of the generators, as mentioned earlier, ranges from 45 to 60 decibels, which ensures it works silently. People often neglect this factor but it needs your consideration. So, make sure you choose the model that has less noise level.
Budget
Last but not least, the price is one of the most important factors. It is true that you get more value for your money the more you pay. In addition, the prices of the generators depend on the company, features, model, power, and size.
If you have to run your AC in your RV on a generator, then the price is a bit high as compared to other generators. It would be best if you have a powerful generator to run AC, and the price ranges from $500 to $1000.
FAQs
Will a 3000w generator run an RV air conditioner?
To run an AC, 2000 watts of generator is enough, but if you want to run other appliances in an RV as well, then use 3000 or 4000 watts of a generator.
Will a 2000w generator run an air conditioner?
A 2000 watts generator allows you to run your AC. But you can run other appliances at the same time.
Can you run a generator overnight?
Absolutely yes, the generators mentioned above have great run time. Most of them run up to 17 hours so you can use them overnight. But make sure the generator runs outside an RV, not in an RV.
How big of a generator do I need to run a 13500 BTU air conditioner?
To run 13,500 BTU AC, the generator must have 3000 output wattage.
What size generator do I need to run my RV AC?
To use an AC, the generator must be powerful, and it must have a capacity of at least 2000 to 4000 watts. The size of the generator that will suit your needs depends on several factors. However, a 2000 watts generator will be able to power your AC. With 4000 watts of a generator, you can also power other RV appliances.
Conclusion
Now we hope after reading this article you can spend your time in an RV easily on hot days. You don’t need to lose your comfort and temper while camping. All the generators we have chosen for you are reliable to use in an RV, and the run time is perfect. Further, you don’t need to take tension about the fuel consumption, as they have “Eco Mode.” However, everything has pros and cons, but the drawbacks these generators have will not bother you.
These generators have low noise levels that allow you to run in the nighttime as well. So, give a try any one of them and Stay Cool!
