There are many methods to power your caravan air conditioner but the best options are solar and from batteries. These two options will keep you cool traveling and makes it affordable. The two methods have been combined in one blog to help you decide which one suits you best and falls within your budget.
The power needed
The most energy-consuming appliance is the air conditioning. It’s not a secret that this is a great feature. However, the AC unit will use between 1000 to 2000 watts based the method of starting. If it’s running for 4 hours it is estimated that the AC unit will draw between 2000-3000 watts. This is an enormous power consumption considering that the fridge and laptop will use only one-tenth.
Air Conditioners are able to operated using the battery
While it’s technically feasible, using lithium batteries for air conditioner systems is challenging. When traveling for longer distances caravans could charge their air conditioners using inverters or battery packs. It will cost a lot and require a lot more battery power.
A 7,000 BTU RV air conditioner will require 1,700 watts of power to begin and 600 watts to run the compressor. A caravan air conditioner having a 10,000 BTU capacity will require 2,000 watts of power to begin and 700 watts to function. 3500 watts are needed to get started and 1,500 watts are needed to run a larger machine, such as one with 15,000 BTU air conditioner.
Can a caravan air conditioner operate on solar power?
The air conditioning in your caravan could theoretically be powered through solar power. In reality, this means that you will need to upgrade the electrical system and add more solar panels. A lot of RV owners don’t want to use solar panels to power their air conditioner.
You’ll need 750 AH in your caravan’s batteries in the event that you plan to run your air conditioning for at least 5 hours every day. This is only for the air conditioner to run. It is possible to use 100 amps to power other appliances on a sunny day. The requirements are more stringent when it is cloudy. For an air conditioner to run 13500 BTU it is required at least 1500 watts sunshine
Solar Energy The Cons and Pros
There are pros & cons to going completely off-grid, and running your campervan on solar power.
The pros
- It’s renewable and is not dependent on artificial sources.
- This can dramatically cut your electricity costs
- There are many applications for the energy generated
- It is extremely simple to maintain
Cons
- Procuring can be expensive. Consider the costs of inverter, batteries, wiring, and installation.
- It is weather dependent.
- Solar panels occupy large amounts of space
Is there an generator?
Generators that invert power have become the most sought-after option for caravan campers across Europe. The air conditioning requires the power of a reliable source.
Generators’ cons and pros
There are advantages and disadvantages to the use of a generator to power your caravan’s air conditioner.
Pros
- Generators that invert consume less fuel than other generators.
- You have the choice to choose how many appliances you would like to have to have in your RV.
- They can bear many pounds without losing their faith
- They are usually housed in a small casing and are smaller in footprint.
Cons
Inverter generators are not recommended to be used in situations where you are not connected to mains power. Inverter generators aren’t advised to be used while you are not connected to mains power.
Calculating the size of generator
Contact your AC manufacturer for the recommended wattage needed to turn on and run your AC. The information isn’t usually found included on the product labels. The majority of ACs require 2400 watts in order to be turned on, and 3000 to operate.
Other considerations when using generators
- Temperature The outside temperature and humidity directly impact the compressor‘s power needs .
- It is recommended to keep the distance between the generator & the van no greater than four meters. This is because the further you expand the more amperage you will receive while traveling.
- Simultaneous use of other appliances When battery chargers and televisions are all working simultaneously, the energy derived from the air conditioner may not be enough to kick it up.
Conclusion
An essential caravan air conditioner is essential. Without an air conditioner, it’s difficult to imagine a comfortable and enjoyable motorhome trip throughout Australian summers. You can still use the power facilities at caravan parks as long as you are there. You should think about how you’ll use your air conditioner when you are not at the park.