Any experiences with portable AC units?
I am completely off grid and currently have 2 generators (Honda 2000i and 7000i). I only want to bring out the out the big one for prolong cooling periods and also don't want put the hours on the big ...
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My rooftop unit draws around 10amp (continuous) so I'm not sure you are looking at much of an improvement unless you go really low BTU. 2000w translates to around 16.5amps at 120v.
The big issue is getting the unit to start up which is typically 2-3 times the continuous amps. Even at 8amps the 2000 will be boarderline starting the unit.
I suspect a better option would be a soft-start unit for the rooftop (after verifying the continuous amps). I believe the 2000i is rated at 1600w continuous or about 13amps. If the soft-start will get you over the hump, you can run the existing unit and not deal with complications.
We had a portable unit on our prior boat and it did a decent job but that was because it was a fraction of the cost of a new marine unit.
The big issue is getting the unit to start up which is typically 2-3 times the continuous amps. Even at 8amps the 2000 will be boarderline starting the unit.
I suspect a better option would be a soft-start unit for the rooftop (after verifying the continuous amps). I believe the 2000i is rated at 1600w continuous or about 13amps. If the soft-start will get you over the hump, you can run the existing unit and not deal with complications.
We had a portable unit on our prior boat and it did a decent job but that was because it was a fraction of the cost of a new marine unit.
