Onan Micro Generator 2800 same as 30 amp shore power?

[rv4jimnme]

we just tried unplugging from power to run our generator for the one roof top A/c. The a/c runs but not as cold as when plugged in. The system is 30 amp and I thought it could handle that load. We understand the voltage may need checking and carburetor cleaned etc? but will it ever put out enough?to get as cold as the plug in power? I believe the formula computes to having enough to run the a/c? thanks for any help btw I cannot tell if a/c is 13,500 btu's or 15,000 does that make a difference as well?

[rv4jimnme]

Ok have printed all the good advice! I thank you very much. In case anybody is still reading this thread, here is a little tid bit. The posting says 4K Onan generator when it was advertised. I never gave much thought to it really and as you know I am not very savvy on this stuff. I have asked the seller to stand by any repairs the generator may need then I backed out of that request, because I believed she was telling me honestly what she knew, guess I still feel that way more or less, After 6 motorhomes you would think I would have had more sense? oh well am going to try all suggestions you have posted.

[2oldman]

rv4jimnme wrote:
Hey guys what does OP mean?

you

[pconroy328]

OP - Original Poster. The person who started the thread, asked the question, etc. When a conversation digresses, as they all do, it's a way to get us all back on track. As in:

"While this is all well and good, let's not forget that the OP asked..." 🙂

[rv4jimnme]

Hey guys what does OP mean? Old person? that's me..not in mountains but at san diego beach and I did read that about altitude. the manual has a chart I am putting all your questions and suggestions into next post...some folks are mentioning did I have it on auto mode or off on???hum thanks, hubbie has the volt meter dealy we just got home so will tell him what you say to do...thanks again

[PSW]

OP shows to be from San Diego. If OP is not at home and is high up in the mountains, the generator will loose substantial ability (output) with each increase in elevation of 1000 feet. The Onan manuals give the exact amount and I don't recall the amounts, but it is much larger than I would have assumed.

Just something for all of us to keep in mind. I found this out the hard way....camped for a week at 10,000 feet!

[mlts22]

Something doesn't sound right. By chance, can the OP post the model of the generator in question?

[Old-Biscuit]

OP..........

Pick up a Plugin AC Voltmeter

Plug it into an outlet where you can easily see it.

Then you will have quick convenient means of visually seeing what AC Voltage supply is........be it shore power or generator

[Snowman9000]

OP is talking about an Onan 2800 generator. It's not 240v.

OP, if you guys are DIY people, search for and download the service manual for your generator. It can be adjusted for voltage, if need be.

[naturist]

2800 watts will run the usual RV AC, but if that generator puts out 240 volts, it means that it is rated to produce 2800 watts on both halves of the windings, or 1400 watts on each 120 volt side. Some such generators can sometimes put out the full 2800 watts on one side only, but sometimes that comes at the price of low voltage or other weird behavior. For what it is worth, it is not worth the trouble of attempting to use a generator that small that way. You need a step-down transformer to convert 240 volt power to 120 volt power, thus using both sides of the windings as the generator mfg intended, or you might cause damage to either the generator or the AC, or perhaps both. Better yet, get a proper 120 volt, 2800 watt generator.

[Vulcan_Rider]

rv4jimnme wrote:

sorry not sure what a 30 amp plug in produces hubbie says 240 volts?

No, as specified in an earlier post, it is 110/120 volts.

If I have a "healthy" 30 amp service, my AC works better than on generator too.

My generator will barely procuce 105 volts with the A/C and converter running.

You NEED a meter to check the voltage. I like the "plugin" ones that you can get at any RV store......but a hand-held is good to have too.

[rv4jimnme]

The generator is supposed to put out
2,800 watts
120 volts
23.3 amperes
sorry not sure what a 30 amp plug in produces hubbie says 240 volts?
my manual for a/c does not specify load for a/c however the Onan Booklet Table says "Typical Appliance Loads" and list a/c at 1400 up to 2,000 watts and refrig at 600 to 1000. so I guess you add converter and battery charger? (not sure) I tried turning frig to gas but this model seems will not do anything but electric as primary when it has power source. So I just shut off frig for a little while...still the a/c will not cool on genset like it does plugged in. just not too technical on this heh..even when we may not be exceeding load not cool enough for me...thanks for all the help

[darsben]

It should be adequate with the caveat; You probably cannot run a lot of other draw. For example are you also running your fridge, Hot Water and microwave at the same time? Battery charging and converter with eat up a little as well.

[pianotuna]

Hi,

The generator is 2800 VA that is not the same as 30 amp-shore power.

It should be adequate to run the roof air.

What is the voltage when the generator is run?

What is the voltage when the air conditioner is being run from the generator?

What is the voltage on shore power?

What is the voltage when the air conditioner is being run on shore power?

[Old-Biscuit]

What is AC Voltage while on shore power?

What is AC Voltage while on generator power?

Shore to gen.......A/C should function same (if voltage is close)

Voltage, carb/gen functioning, ambient air temp, etc.

Same conditions.......A/C will cool same whether gen or shore