It can be extremely hot in Australia This is something caravanners are well-aware of. While traveling in Australia, an quality rooftop air conditioner will make an enormous difference. It is necessary to have an electric generator if you intend to camp far from the campsite.
This article will explain the most suitable generator for your needs as well as how to utilise the air conditioner in your caravan.
What type of generator do I need?
Experts suggest inverter generators. They are less noisy and efficient than traditional generators. They are therefore ideal for caravanning.
The reliability of power is crucial for electronic components of an air conditioner for caravans. Beware of the fluctuations in voltage. Inverter Generators produce electricity that is clean in three phases. They are unique in this respect among generators of their type.
Generators that inverter throttle their engine to match the power requirements of your appliances, instead of constantly running at full speed. This allows you to use your appliances at a lower fuel consumption and also saves money on gas.
Inverter generators are packaged in bags.
Which size generator should you buy?
There are various sizes of inverter generators. The best one to choose depends on a variety of elements. It is essential to take a look at the manufacturer and model of the air conditioner and how it will work for your particular application.
The maximum power output of generators is what is used to determine their ratings. A 2,000-watt generator is the most popular choice for caravanners because it lets them utilize several appliances. A generator with a maximum output of between 2,500 and 3,000 Watts is needed when you intend to run a caravan air conditioner.
If the compressor is switched on, it can draw as high as 3,300 watts. This is in comparison to a laptop that draws 200 watts and a 100-watt fridge.
You can use a battery pack to power your air conditioner?
People often inquire about caravan ACs and whether they can use batteries to power the device. Many campers are equipped with lithium battery packs, as well as an inverter or charger set up to power their ACs in their caravans.
While it’s possible to run your AC using this method, it can be very expensive to install it. It’s not economically viable as batteries are prone to draining quickly. If you really want to enjoy the cooling of your air conditioner, consider purchasing a top-quality inverter generator.
There are additional factors to keep in mind
An air conditioner in a caravan that is running from a generator should be maintained with diligence. Here’s why:
Temperature
As the temperature/humidity increases and the compressor’s efficiency decreases, it will be less efficient. When the AC is running at its maximum, the generator produces less power.
If you’re camping in an area with very high temperatures, it is recommended to cut down on the power you use. For every 5 degrees Celsius above 25degC cut the power output of 1.5%. A generator will see a loss of 6% every 45 degree day.
Extension Cords
The extension cable from the generator to the caravan should not be longer than 3-4 meters. This is especially important when temperatures rise because of the drop in amperage on long leads.
Also, you should consider how much power other appliances use when the air conditioner is in use like the fridge, TV, and battery charger. Be sure the generator you choose is the right size to avoid issues with power when multiple appliances are running simultaneously.
A caravan air conditioner is an investment worth making.