Using AC while Driving

[JB newowner]

WE have a 2019 precept 31UL and would like to use the MH AC while driving. The Ford AC up front doesn't keep the area where people can sit cool. Can the inverter be used for this or do we need to use the generator, which of course will decrease my gas mileage.

[Camper_bob]

Must use generator. The inverter is not attached to the AC units at all, and it's not even close to enough power to run an AC unit, even IF you had a battery bank big enough to power it.

FWIW, we run the genny and roof top units routinely when it's hot.

We also find that if the rig starts out cool, the dash AC can hold the temp pretty well. No way if it starts out hot.

[NickM]

Camper Bob is correct. The dash AC works well up to the low 80's but after that you will need to run your generator and front AC to help cool the coach.

I have seen where some owners hang a curtain just behind the driver and passenger seats to help contain the dash air to a smaller area but DW wasn't keen on that idea.

[Pfflyer]

Originally Posted by JB newowner

WE have a 2019 precept 31UL and would like to use the MH AC while driving. The Ford AC up front doesn't keep the area where people can sit cool. Can the inverter be used for this or do we need to use the generator, which of course will decrease my gas mileage.

If the MH AC alone keeps your whole unit cool enough while driving the gas mileage may not take a hit if you can leave the Ford AC off. Mine is diesel and smaller but with the MH AC and a small fan in the back to blow some of the cool air in the cab I get a little better MPG's with this set up and the chassis AC off verses just the chassis AC alone.

[Grumpy]

Originally Posted by JB newowner

Can the inverter be used for this or do we need to use the generator, which of course will decrease my gas mileage.

AN ONAN 5500 only uses 1/2 gal per hour under 1/2 load ( so 1/2 gal in 60 miles roughly) so you won't even notice the difference in MPG.

[Pfflyer]

Originally Posted by Pfflyer

If the MH AC alone keeps your whole unit cool enough while driving the gas mileage may not take a hit if you can leave the Ford AC off. Mine is diesel and smaller but with the MH AC and a small fan in the back to blow some of the cool air in the cab I get a little better MPG's with this set up and the chassis AC off verses just the chassis AC alone.

Plus I get to exercise the generator. Two birds one stone. Just about the only time I use it.

[Foretm]

Originally Posted by Pfflyer

Plus I get to exercise the generator. Two birds one stone. Just about the only time I use it.

X2 this is what I exercise my genset..