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smcrea's avatar
smcrea
Explorer II
Jul 19, 2013

Question on Integrated Generators and AC Loads..

We're looking to upgrade our travel trailer to a 5th Wheel Toy Hauler that includes and integrated 5.5Kw Genset.

The option exists that we can install 2 extra 13500 BTU AC's making a total of 3.

Can I ask..
a) How much current does a 13500 BTU AC draw when running?
b) How much does it draw at start up?

Also I know nothing about integrated gen sets.. so a couple of questions..
a) If you run an integrated gen set, lets say a 5.5Kw which according to my arithmetic is 45.8Amps then if I hook up to a 50 Amp shore line then do the two gang together to provide 95.8Amps?

I'm trying to understand how having 3 separate AC units, one in the master bedroom, one in the garage and one in the main room of the 5th Toy Hauler would work out as far as power requirements go. If we're in a HOT place (which we do go to) then this is an issue)

It would be nice to be able to run at least two of them because the kids would be sleeping in the garage section and we would be in the master bed..

Thanks for any info!
  • mena661's avatar
    mena661
    Explorer
    Jul 19, 2013
    smcrea wrote:
    We're looking to upgrade our travel trailer to a 5th Wheel Toy Hauler that includes and integrated 5.5Kw Genset.

    The option exists that we can install 2 extra 13500 BTU AC's making a total of 3.

    Can I ask..
    a) How much current does a 13500 BTU AC draw when running?
    b) How much does it draw at start up?

    Also I know nothing about integrated gen sets.. so a couple of questions..
    a) If you run an integrated gen set, lets say a 5.5Kw which according to my arithmetic is 45.8Amps then if I hook up to a 50 Amp shore line then do the two gang together to provide 95.8Amps?

    I'm trying to understand how having 3 separate AC units, one in the master bedroom, one in the garage and one in the main room of the 5th Toy Hauler would work out as far as power requirements go. If we're in a HOT place (which we do go to) then this is an issue)

    It would be nice to be able to run at least two of them because the kids would be sleeping in the garage section and we would be in the master bed..

    Thanks for any info!
    50 amp sure power is two legs of 120V @ 50 amps each. When on generator, that 45.8A is "split" between the two legs. Two 13.5k A/C units will run on a 5.5kW generator (I have a built in Onan 5.5kW). Both of my roof airs are on 20A circuits more than likely due to the startup draw but someone that knows this for sure can speak up about that.
  • Mandalay_Parr's avatar
    Mandalay_Parr
    Explorer
    Jul 19, 2013
    3 can run on that gen OK..probably about 10-12 amps each. They should not all start at once so probably not an issue.

    50 amp service is really 50 on each leg so equal to 100. Either you run gen or shore so they don't add together.

    I am an electrical person so call me if you wish.
  • MEXICOWANDERER's avatar
    MEXICOWANDERER
    Explorer
    Jul 19, 2013
    Are there -any- 120vac only generators out there with this KW rating? Or a genset that is reconnectable?

    I ran 3 roof airs with a Yamaha 5500 diesel but through a transformer (toroid). I changed my entry service to 60-amperes and rewired accordingly. Even then, should a pair of the A/C units try and restart together, it overloaded the generator. Thank god, the weather was so hot night and day the units never cycled.

    I sure would recommend putting -hard start- capacitor circuits on all three units.

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