Quick Answer: For central air conditioning, you generally need a portable generator of 5,000 to 8,000 watts or more, depending on the cooling capacity. A 2,000- to 3,000-watt portable generator can power most window air conditioners, except for the largest 12,000 BTU models. Portable air conditioners require between 1,000 and 1,800 watts; a 2,000- to 3,000-watt portable generator is adequate. Always check the wattage required for your air conditioner. Choose a portable generator with a wattage that is at least 20% higher than the running wattage to account for start-up peaks.
In this blog post, we'll provide details on how to determine the ideal generator for your central air conditioner, window unit, or portable air conditioner.
How to calculate the required generator capacity?
To determine the size of generator you need, you must evaluate the power needs of your air conditioner, including running and starting power, as well as any other equipment you want to power simultaneously.
Identify the energy needs of your air conditioner
Check the manufacturer's label or manual for starting and operating power.
Consider additional devices
Make a list of other essential devices you want to power in the event of a power outage (e.g., refrigerator, lights, sump pump).
Calculate the total power
1. Add up the operating power of all devices.
2. Determine the highest starting power among them.
3. Add the operating and starting power.
Add a safety margin
Increase the total wattage by 20 to 25% to avoid overloading the generator. For example, if your air conditioner requires 4,000 running watts and 12,250 starting watts, and you have additional appliances totaling 1,000 running watts and 3,000 starting watts, the total wattage needed would be:
- Operating power: 4,000 + 1,000 = 5,000 watts
2. Starting power: 12,250 + 3,000 = 15,250 watts
3. Total power: 5,000 + 15,250 = 20,250 watts
4. With a 25% safety margin: 20,250 × 1.25 = 25,312.5 watts
Therefore, a generator of at least 25,500 watts would be recommended.
What are the characteristics of the different types of generators?
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Portable generators: These are perfect for temporarily powering certain devices. They can be easily moved, making them ideal for camping or as a short-term backup solution.
2. Backup generators: Permanently installed outside your home, they automatically turn on in the event of a power outage. They can power most, if not all, of your appliances without you having to lift a finger.
3. Inverter generators: They provide clean, stable electricity, safe for sensitive devices like laptops or televisions. They are quiet and consume less fuel, but generally produce less power than other types of generators.
What size generator for central air conditioners?
Central air conditioning systems are the largest consumers of electricity for cooling your home. These permanently installed split systems consist of an outdoor compressor and evaporator, along with indoor air handling units. Tonnage indicates cooling capacity; one ton equals 12,000 BTUs. How much portable generator power do you need for central air conditioning? Here are the detailed power recommendations:
- 1-ton central air conditioner (12,000 BTU): 2,000 to 3,000 watts. A 3,000-watt generator is recommended.
2. 5-ton central air conditioner (18,000 BTU): 2,500 to 4,000 watts. A 4,000-watt generator is recommended.
3. 2-ton central air conditioner (24,000 BTU): 4,000 to 6,000 watts. A 5,000-watt generator is ideal.
4. 5-ton central air conditioner (30,000 BTU): 5,000 to 7,000 watts. A 6,500-watt generator is recommended.
5. 3-ton central air conditioner (36,000 BTU): 6,500 to 8,500 watts. A 7,500-watt generator is ideal.
6. 4-ton central air conditioner (48,000 BTU): 8,000 to 10,500 watts. A 10,000-watt portable generator is recommended.
7. 5-ton central air conditioner (60,000 BTU): 9,500 to 12,000 watts. Opt for a 12,000-watt portable generator.
Always refer to your owner's manual for the exact power rating. Other factors, such as SEER efficiency, motor type, and fan speed, influence power consumption. Starting a central air conditioner requires a momentary peak of 3 to 5 times the operating power.
Therefore, a 10,000-watt portable generator may struggle to start a large central air conditioner, even if it has enough power once it's running. For added safety, consider a 15,000-watt or higher portable generator that's surge-resistant.
Choose generators with inverter technology for stable, clean electricity. Voltage spikes can damage the control boards of air conditioning compressors. Maintain your generator properly by performing regular maintenance. Starting your central air conditioning unit before the generator is fully powered up can overload the engine. Place the portable generator near your home's electrical panel to minimize voltage drops.
What power should you choose for a portable generator for a window air conditioner?
Window air conditioners are a common way to cool a room. Installed in a window opening, these self-contained devices draw in outside air to evaporate the refrigerant and cool the space. The British thermal unit (BTU) indicates cooling power. Do you need a specific generator for a window air conditioner? Here are typical portable generator power ratings:
1. 5,000 BTU: 900 watts. A 2,000-watt portable generator is sufficient.
2. 6,000 BTU: 1,100 watts. A 2,000-watt portable generator is sufficient.
3. 8,000 BTU: 1,200-1,500 watts. Use a 3,000-watt portable generator.
4. 10,000 BTU: 1,400-1,800 watts. A 3,000-watt portable generator is sufficient.
5. 12,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner: 1,600-2,000 watts. Use a 3,000-4,500 watt portable generator.
6. 15,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner: 1,800-2,500 watts. Use a 4,500-watt portable generator.
7. 18,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner: 2,200-3,000 watts. Use a 5,000-watt portable generator.
8. 24,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner: 2,800-3,500 watts. A 6,500-watt portable generator is recommended.
Always refer to your owner's manual for the specific electrical requirements of your window air conditioner. For optimal performance, aim for a generator wattage that's 20% higher than the stated rated wattage.
The size and length of power strips affect the voltage delivered; therefore, place your generator near the window air conditioner and use sturdy cables. Turn off other devices when starting the window air conditioner to reduce the initial load.
What is the size of a generator for air conditioners?
Need to cool a single room? Portable air conditioners are easy to move and use less electricity than window air conditioners. Install them, extend the exhaust hose, and you don't even need a window. Choosing the right generator for a portable air conditioner depends on its power rating:
- 7,000 BTU: 800 watts. A 2,000-watt generator provides sufficient power.
2. 8,000 BTU: 1,000 watts. A 2,000-watt generator provides enough power.
3. 10,000 BTU: 1,200 watts. A 2,000-watt generator provides enough power.
4. 12,000 BTU: 1,500 watts. Choose a 3,000-watt generator.
5. 14,000 BTU: 1,800 watts. Choose a 3,000- to 3,500-watt generator.
6. 16,000 BTU – 2,000 watt portable air conditioner. Use a 4,000 watt portable generator.
Consult your owner's manual for the peak power required for starting. Voltage drops can impair performance; therefore, use sturdy, short extension cords. Place the portable generator near the portable air conditioner. Proper generator maintenance prevents power quality issues. With a properly sized generator, you can beat the heat in the event of a power outage.
What other factors should be considered when choosing a generator?
Fuel Type: Choose a fuel that's easy to obtain and store, such as gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas. Different fuels affect operating and maintenance costs.
Noise level: If you're looking for a quieter generator, especially in residential areas, opt for inverter models. They operate more quietly and won't disturb your neighbors.
Portability: Portable generators are flexible and easy to move, but they can be heavy and require manual setup. Make sure you're familiar with how to operate them.
Safety features: Look for surge protection and carbon monoxide detectors for your safety. These features prevent damage and the buildup of harmful gases.
Budget: Choose a generator that fits your budget while meeting your energy needs. Sometimes, paying more upfront can help prevent problems later.
Stay cool in case of a power outage. Don't let a power outage drain you this summer. Determine the power
necessary for your air conditioner and choose an appropriately sized portable generator. With central air conditioners, window units, and portable air conditioners, the generator must provide stable, clean electricity without voltage drops. Place generators close together, use sturdy cables to minimize losses, and ensure maintenance. Follow these tips to efficiently run your air conditioner with a portable generator in the event of a power outage.
