Forum Discussion

Jerry_Amerson1's avatar
Jul 08, 2015

Question about running the Cabin AC while traveling

I'm rather new with my RV and this might be a dumb question, but is it alright to run the coach AC while driving or will that run down the batteries?

I know the alternator charges the batteries while you are driving but I'm concerned that the AC will discharge them faster than the alternator can keep up with.

Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Jake

23 Replies

  • Other than low voltage items like lights, fridge, water pump you will need to run your generator for the AC or microwave.
  • Jerry_Amerson wrote:
    I'm rather new with my RV and this might be a dumb question, but is it alright to run the coach AC while driving or will that run down the batteries?

    I know the alternator charges the batteries while you are driving but I'm concerned that the AC will discharge them faster than the alternator can keep up with.

    Any help will be greatly appreciated.
    Thanks,
    Jake


    So most A/C and heat pump units run off your 110V system, meaning you will need to run your generator while driving. To answer your question, yes it is ok, no it will not 'kill' your battery. Now it will increase fuel consumption of course, if it is a gas genset, or run down your propane, if it is a propane genset.

    I guess if you had a big enough inverter you could run it that way... If that is the case I do not know...