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jfkbunkie's avatar
jfkbunkie
Explorer
Jul 10, 2018

6kW Generator

With two air conditioners and an Onan 6000 generator, does everyone typically run both A/C units simultaneously without issues?

7 Replies

  • If I start my 6,000 watt quiet diesel with both AC's set to come on they both come on at the same time, bogging down the generator tripping breakers sooner or later. There are 3 breakers in the circuit so I have to search the coach to figure out which one(s) tripped. Once I get one started I can enable the other and have run extended periods without any issues. It is a real pain and I can't believe that the coach left the factory that way. I have discussed it with factory engineers and they acknowledge the problem but all they say is that I should have bought the more expensive coaches with active power management systems which cannot be retrofitted to my coach.
  • IMHO, the issue is amperage. My Marquis Gold 7000 produces 54 amps of current, and the AC compressors need about 25 amps each to engage (then less at steady state). Once running, my genny can handle both roof AC units and a small TV for the grandchildren. If the system is overloaded it will pop circuit breakers on the genny (1-30 amp and 1-20 amp), but hopefully not brown-out any components.
    BTW - the shore power needs for motor coaches are slightly different, as, for example, my rig was designed as a 30-amp connection to shore power. Working around 30-amp limits requires its own approach to the wiring of AC connections to get them both to work from camp power panels.
  • Our 7.5kw will run both A/C, microwave, electric hot water heater, charge the batteries and other misc loads without shedding any loads. You should be fine.

    Bill
  • I'll confirm Wildtoad's post. A 6kw generator will run both and other items with no problem.