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bcircus's avatar
bcircus
Explorer
Jul 22, 2014

Generators for 5th wheel power

I searched and read several posts about the generators but none directly answered what size. I have 13500 btu A/C unit need to run while parked on road. What type/size would I need to have for temporary power on the road and at rest areas in order to sleep in hot weather?

30 Replies

  • Thanks, that answers that. Still undecided on one 3000w or the paralleled 2000w. Experiences and opinions appreciated
  • bcircus wrote:
    Just read some reviews about generators not working at higher elevations. Planning a trip to west coast next summer and WILL be spending time at altitude in Montana and Colorado. Is it a problem with carb models or fuel injected? In Glacier we will be at about 8000 ft.
    Looking at Kipor generators too. Got really good reviews and very quiet like Honda but not as pricey.


    It's going to be a problem with anything that's not turbocharged, and I've yet to hear of a generator that is. Normally aspirated engines just don't produce the power at higher elevations -- less oxygen. At sea level some might be able to run a 13.5 AC with a 2000 watt genny, but at 8,000 it'll take at least 3000 watts.

    The bright side is, at 8,000 feet elevation you probably won't need to run the AC. We usually camp at about that elevation and have never wanted AC -- just heat at night. In July. And in August. ;)
  • I think a parallel kit and two 2000 (red or blue) generators is preferable. Plenty of power to do what you want to do, and easy for one person to move.
  • Just read some reviews about generators not working at higher elevations. Planning a trip to west coast next summer and WILL be spending time at altitude in Montana and Colorado. Is it a problem with carb models or fuel injected? In Glacier we will be at about 8000 ft.
    Looking at Kipor generators too. Got really good reviews and very quiet like Honda but not as pricey.
  • You'll need at least a 3000 watt genny to run your AC effectively at most elevations. Honda, Yamaha, and Champion all have quiet inverter generators that are popular choices among members of this forum. You can go with a single 3K unit but many will pair a couple of 2K gennies, that way they just bring a single unit when AC is not required.
  • X2 Honda 3000.... if you search you can find them with a remote start added.
  • I have a Champion 3500/4000 genny that will run my 15K A/C. It's not Honda or Yamaha quiet, but for the price and durability, it works for me. We don't run it at camp grounds, but rest stops, Wal Marts, & truck stops are fine.
  • Just AirCond around 2800watt continuous rating. Add something like a microwave at same time then 3500watt continuous minimum. Generally speaking.