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Generator

Rocksolid
Explorer
Explorer
Hi yall! I'm stomped. I purchased a 5500 watt generator to run my 13000 btu roof top AC but it struggles then trips the breaker. When plugged in to 120v from my home all is good.
I've tried dropping all breakers inside the RV but the problem continues!
Any suggestions! Thanks to all in advance
12 REPLIES 12

2112
Explorer II
Explorer II
Measure the output voltage of the generator to assure proper voltage. Voltage may be low.

What is your altitude?

Plug a 1500w space heater into the generator, or similar load, and see how it operates on other loads.

I suspect the generator is lacking either voltage, fuel or air.

On Edit: if your camper has an electric water heater, use that as a load. Assure it has water in it. Plug your meter into an outlet inside the camper, start the generator. If voltage is not between 120 and 127VAC, Stop.

If voltage is in range, turn on the water heater.what's the voltage?
2011 Ford F-150 EcoBoost SuperCab Max Tow, 2084# Payload, 11,300# Tow,
Timbrens
2013 KZ Durango 2857

time2roll
Nomad
Nomad
The 6500/5500 looks like it should supply 20 amps 120 volts and should start just the air conditioner at least in cool weather and low elevation.

I am thinking more on other loads. Converter, Fridge, Water heater or some combination is causing the overload.

To the OP, turn all breakers off except the main and the A/C to give it another go.

gbopp
Explorer
Explorer
2oldman wrote:
stickdog wrote:
Harbor freight brand.
Yes, but not in a 5500 watt version.

The HF Predator 6500 is rated for 5500 continuous watts . Maybe that is what the OP is talking about?

2oldman
Explorer II
Explorer II
stickdog wrote:
Harbor freight brand.
Yes, but not in a 5500 watt version.
"If I'm wearing long pants, I'm too far north" - 2oldman

stickdog
Explorer
Explorer
2oldman wrote:
Rocksolid wrote:
Tks. It's a Predator 5500
I can't find that generator online.


Harbor freight brand.
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2oldman
Explorer II
Explorer II
Rocksolid wrote:
Tks. It's a Predator 5500
I can't find that generator online.
"If I'm wearing long pants, I'm too far north" - 2oldman

Rocksolid
Explorer
Explorer
Tks. It's a Predator 5500

KD4UPL
Explorer
Explorer
2oldman wrote:
Although rated at that wattage, it probably doesn't output all the necessary amps from one outlet. Gotcha.

I bet that's a loud one.

I agree with this assumpiton. You can likely only draw 2,750 watts from each 120v outlet. That's if 5,500 is the continuous rating which it probably isn't. 5,500 is likely the surge rating. The continuous rating is probably 5,000 or less so you can only draw 2,500 or less from one 120v outlet.
Giving the brand and model number would get you a lot more useful advice. Everyone here is just guessing.

gbopp
Explorer
Explorer
What is the make/model of your generator?
Maybe someone owns one and had similar problems.

time2roll
Nomad
Nomad
Does this 5500 have a 4 pin outlet for 240v appliances?
Yes the converter and possibly the electric water heater are drawing a lot of power.

jdc1
Explorer II
Explorer II
Unplug or turn off your Converter. That's drawing a lot of power. Maybe turn off the fridge too.

2oldman
Explorer II
Explorer II
Although rated at that wattage, it probably doesn't output all the necessary amps from one outlet. Gotcha.

I bet that's a loud one.
"If I'm wearing long pants, I'm too far north" - 2oldman