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Insight Horizon Media

What size generator do I need to run my RV air conditioner?

Author

Rachel Hickman

Published Feb 14, 2026

What size generator do I need to run my RV air conditioner?

To power the average RV air conditioner, the generator needs to have at least a 2000- 4000-watt capacity. There are a lot of factors involved in what size generator will work best for you, but for the most part, you will be able to use your AC and other appliances even with a 2000 watt generator.

Will a 2200 watt generator run a 13500 BTU air conditioner?

So, while a 13,500 BTU air conditioner will run on a 2,200-watt generator, you also have the option of choosing a different BTU rating. 11,000 BTU air conditioners will run better on a small generator, but your RV won’t be cooled as efficiently.

How long can you run an RV air conditioner on generator?

You can run the AC in your RV on a generator for 8 hours and not likely use more than 2 gallons of gas. And diesel-operated generators burn even less fuel than unleaded gas. If you are camping off-grid or don’t want to run your air conditioner off of electricity, you can use a portable generator.

What size generator do I need for a 13500 BTU RV air conditioner?

If you want to run 13500 btu air condition ,please use 3000 watts generator.

What size generator do I need to run my 30 amp RV?

3,000 watts
What Size Generator Is Needed for a 30 AMP RV? You will usually need a generator that can supply at least 3,000 watts. You will not be able to go over 3,600 watts. Ideally, you will find a generator somewhere in the middle or closer to 3,600 watts so that you always have enough power for different situations.

Will my RV generator run my AC?

A Portable Generator Won’t Normally Run an RV Air Conditioner. However, with no modifications, a portable generator won’t be able to run an RV air conditioner. At least, not for long. Our first RV was a 16-foot travel trailer with a small rooftop AC unit.

How big of a generator do I need for a 13500 BTU air conditioner?

How many watts does a Coleman Mach AC use?

The Coleman Mach 15 Plus 48204C869 RV Rooftop Air Conditioner – Black – 15K runs at 1560 watts, times 2.5 for startup so it comes out to 3900 watts at start up.

What size generator do I need for a 13500 BTU air conditioner?

Usually the running load of 13500 btu is near 1970 watts. It’s easily to be overload standard. If you want to run 13500 btu air condition ,please use 3000 watts generator.

Will a 3500 watt generator run a 13500 BTU air conditioner?

It requires about 3,500 watts of power to start up a typical 15,000 BTU air conditioning unit, and about 1,500 watts to keep it running. Small RVs and trailers will use a 13,500 BTU unit, which require a little bit less electricity.

Will a 3000 watt generator run a 30 amp camper?

Overall, a 3,000-watt generator will power most 30 amp RVs, including the AC unit with no problem. I ultimately decided to go with the Champion 3400-watt dual fuel portable generator as being the best for your money. This particular model is RV ready, comes with an electric start and is super quiet.

What kind of engine does a Coleman generator have?

Many of the Coleman generators are powered by Honda gas engines and they do not attempt to market diesel generators. Coleman Powermate generators are segmeted into three groupings; Premium, Premium Plus, and Professional. Each of these targets a specific customer area as follows:

Does my Coleman air conditioner need to be recharged?

Your Coleman ® -Mach ® air conditioner is a closed and sealed system and ideally should never require refrigerant recharging. Should you suspect that you have a low refrigerant charge, have the unit evaluated by a qualified service technician.

What kind of engine does a Coleman Camper Camper have?

The largest model is powered by a 4 cylinder, liquid cooled, Ford engine running at 1800 rpm for longer life and quite operation. The Coleman company has been around since 1900 and has historicly been associated with the camping and outdoor products industry.

Why choose Coleman-Mach?

Coleman-Mach – the brand you turn to for quality ACs, Heat Pumps, Thermostats and accessories for RVs, boats, off-road vehicles and specialty applications. For Coleman-Mach air conditioners and heat pumps, innovation is a process of assessing customer needs and translating those needs into products.