generator help

[dspencer]

What size generator does it take to run a 13,500 AC unit on a 23ft. Hybrid? I'm not at all knowledgeable when it comes to that type of thing.

[johnjces]

Just an FYI, I just purchased one of the Champion 3100 Watt Inverter Generators, 75531i, and after adding oil and gas, it started on the first pull. After letting it break in a while, plugged it into my RV at 6400 feet and about 88 degrees outside temp with a 15000, BTU Air Conditioner and it ran things just fine!

Non scientific hearing test, it is a bit less noisy, (quieter), than two of the 1600 watt inverter generators hooked in parallel, but louder than just one of the CPE 1600 watt inverters.

John

[JiminDenver]

Altitude has a affect as does your total combined load. Our Champion 3500/4000 will run the AC with ease at 10'000 ft but will really struggle while charging the battery at the same time if it will do it at all.

I too would go with the Champion 3100i if I were buying now and especially if I were to run it around others.

[2edgesword]

Yamaha 2400ishc starts/runs my 13.5K btu A/C unit. For extra assurance, and to take some of the strain off the generator during A/C start-up, you can add a $15 start capacitor (goes in parallel with the A/C's run capacitor).

I opted for the Yahama 2400 versus two Honda 2000's because I didn't want to pay the extra $500 for the Hondas and didn't want to lug around two generators. In addition the Yamaha is relatively light (70 lbs) versus over a hundred pounds for a single 3,000 watt generator.

[nevadanick]

Altitude comes into play on the size also. My Honda EU3000 struggles to start my ac sometimes.

[dspencer]

I appreciate all your input, i am just starting too look and wanted to make sure i get the right size if i get one.

[Mr_Beebo]

Lots of generator threads here for you to read up on. Lots of opinions as well. Note the responses from folks who actually own what they post about, not 2nd or third hand stories. Research the different types of gennies. Contractor/open style are not suitable for camping with neighbors. The inverter style units I listed previously are very quiet and the wattage should be more than sufficient for your basic RV needs.

[bikendan]

dspencer wrote:
What size generator does it take to run a 13,500 AC unit on a 23ft. Hybrid? I'm not at all knowledgeable when it comes to that type of thing.

it would help if you posted make/model of a/c or the year/make/model of your hybrid.

i have a Dometic unit on my '07 Roo 23SS and i can run it easily with a Yamaha 2400. that would be minimum.
if i were buying today, i'd really consider the new Champion 3100w inverter generator.
CW has it on sale right now, for $899.
http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/3100-watt-inverter-generator/70829

[time2roll]

Less cost to find hookups vs run a generator 24/7.

[MrWizard]

Calif approved/carb compliant

champion 3500 $330

[handye9]

Minimum 3500 - 4000 watts. Champion makes one (link) that has an RV plug, built in.

However, this generator is not approved for use in California. There are many that are not.

If you plan to use a generator in California, make sure it is approved for that state.

I have one of these. It does fine with running AC in either, my TT or TC.

[Mr_Beebo]

We have a 23' Hybrid with the 13500k a/c. I use two champion 2000 generators with a parallel kit. The a/c starts quite easily and runs like a champ. I also just tested out a Honda 3000 eu on our camper and it handles it as well. Camper is on our property under a shade tree, but it's about 97F this afternoon. The champions generate 3400 watts continuous and the Honda about 2800 watts.

[mlts22]

Running it, 1800 watts will be fine. However, it isn't running that is the issue, it is the inrush current which can get up to 60 amps, and for that you will need to have around 3500 watts. These watts can be from a pair of Honda eu2000i models, or a 3000 watt generator with access to the battery for the few seconds to deal with the compressor starting up.