Running AC on Genny above 6000'

[bdreinv]

Have a 15000 BTU ac will be at 7000' this summer dry camping.I don't think my 3500 inverter generator will be enough! Any suggestions or experiences Thanks!

[WinnieView]

We have never had to use our AC above 5000' during the summer months in AZ--in the shade.

[DC8Captain]

Being able to run your AC off the generator depends. Find out at what elevation the rated load is taken at. Most are from sea level but some rate them from 2500' or so. You can figure on a 3% drop in performance for every 1000' above the rated altitude. So if your generator is rated from sea level that's a 7(000)' gain in altitude x 3%. That would decrease the watts by 21% from the running watts, not the 3500 starting watts. The other variable is if your AC is equipped with a "hard start or easy start" capability. Call Jayco and ask them. My JayFlight did. So besides Jayco call the AC manufacturer and confirm how many watts/amps the AC needs to start and run.

[vcbice]

I think it will be enough, just don't run anything else at the same time.

We had a 13500 AC with a 2400 Yamaha inverter generator and it worked. We lived at 6700ft.

A trick I had to use.
1. Turn on generator and let warm up.
2. Plug into RV and let run for about 15 min (this will charge the batteries a bit)
3. Turn the fan on first (not on auto). Then turn on AC. The extra surge from the fan starting at same time as compressor would overload the generator.

PS Some generators have an adjustment for high altitude on the carb. You may or may not have to use it. I did at higher alt (˜8000ft).

[DC8Captain]

Originally Posted by vcbice

I think it will be enough, just don't run anything else at the same time.

We had a 13500 AC with a 2400 Yamaha inverter generator and it worked. We lived at 6700ft.

A trick I had to use.
1. Turn on generator and let warm up.
2. Plug into RV and let run for about 15 min (this will charge the batteries a bit)
3. Turn the fan on first (not on auto). Then turn on AC. The extra surge from the fan starting at same time as compressor would overload the generator.

PS Some generators have an adjustment for high altitude on the carb. You may or may not have to use it. I did at higher alt (˜8000ft).

X2 - All that is good procedure and advise

[bdreinv]

Thanks everyone for the feed back.Not sure I don't think Champion has an altitude adjustment.Will call Coleman to see if AC has a soft start.According to Coleman most of the newer AC units have whats called an easy start compressor.Which they are soft start vs hard.Only way to know for sure get on the roof pull the panel. And get manufacturer number.Rain and cold in Phoenix will get up there another day! Thanks