When planning to power an RV air conditioner, many owners wonder if a compact generator can handle the demand. The Honda 2200 generator is a popular choice for its reliability and portability, but will it efficiently run an RV air conditioner? This article explores the power requirements of typical RV air conditioners, the capabilities of the Honda 2200 generator, and what RV owners need to consider before relying on this generator for cooling.
| Generator Model | Rated Watts | Surge Watts | Typical RV A/C Wattage | Suitable for RV A/C? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda 2200 | 1800 Watts (running) | 2200 Watts (starting) | 1350-1800 Watts (running) | Depends on A/C unit size |
Understanding RV Air Conditioner Power Requirements
RV air conditioners require significant power, especially during start-up. Typical 13,500 BTU RV A/C units draw roughly 1350 to 1800 watts while running and may surge up to 2200-3000 watts when the compressor starts. This surge demand is crucial to consider because it can exceed a generator’s starting wattage rating, causing it to shut down or fail to power the unit.
Smaller RV A/C units, like 11,000 BTU models, typically pull lower watts (1000-1400 running, 1600-2000 surge), making them easier to run on smaller generators. Larger or dual A/C units require higher wattage, often beyond the Honda 2200’s capacity.
Honda 2200 Generator Specifications and Capabilities
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Running Watts | 1800 watts |
| Starting (Surge) Watts | 2200 watts |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Run Time at 50% Load | Up to 8.1 hours |
| Noise Level | 53 dB at 25% load |
The Honda 2200 is engineered as a versatile, portable generator delivering reliable power for camping, tailgating, and small appliances. Its maximum starting wattage of 2200 watts matches the surge power needed for smaller RV A/C units, but it is at the limit for many 13,500 BTU units. This means it might start the air conditioner but could struggle under additional load or higher ambient temperatures.
Can the Honda 2200 Run an RV Air Conditioner?
Whether the Honda 2200 generator can run an RV A/C depends on the model of the air conditioner and the conditions:
- Smaller A/C Units (11,000 BTUs or less): These typically run on 1000-1400 watts and require less surge wattage, well within the Honda 2200’s limits. Users report successful operation, especially if no other significant loads run simultaneously.
- Standard 13,500 BTU A/C Units: These need around 1800 running watts and can surge as high as 2200-3000 watts. The Honda 2200 offers just enough starting watts for the lower end of this surge but may fail if the startup surge exceeds 2200 watts or if additional appliances run concurrently.
- Dual A/C Units: Most dual air conditioners far exceed the Honda 2200’s capacity and will not start or run properly on this generator.
Practical considerations: To use a Honda 2200 reliably for an RV A/C, it is recommended to reduce startup current by using soft start devices, avoid running other appliances simultaneously, and monitor generator load closely.
Tips for Running an RV Air Conditioner with a Honda 2200 Generator
- Check Your A/C’s Power Ratings: Review manufacturer specs for both running and starting watts.
- Use a Soft Start Kit: These kits reduce the inrush current during compressor start, easing the power surge and making the A/C startup gentler on the generator.
- Minimize Additional Loads: Turn off non-essential devices to free up generator capacity for the air conditioner.
- Keep the Generator Well-Ventilated and Maintained: Ensure optimal generator efficiency to support higher loads.
- Consider Fuel and Run-time Needs: Honda 2200’s gasoline fuel capacity supports about 8 hours at half load, sufficient for short-term A/C use.
Alternative Generators for RV Air Conditioners
For those with larger or multiple air conditioners, or who want headroom for other appliances, a generator with higher wattage is advised:
| Generator Model | Running Watts | Starting Watts | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda EU3000iS | 2800 Watts | 3000 Watts | 13,500 BTU A/C, multiple appliances |
| Yamaha EF3000iSEB | 2800 Watts | 3000 Watts | Medium RV A/C, quiet operation |
| Generac GP3500 | 3500 Watts | 4500 Watts | Large RV A/C, heavy loads |
These models provide more reliable starting and running power for typical RV air conditioning units.
Why Running an RV A/C on the Honda 2200 May Not Always Be Ideal
Despite positive reports on running small RV air conditioners with a Honda 2200, certain factors may reduce reliability:
- Startup Power Surges: Some A/C models have surge requirements exceeding 2200 watts, leading to generator overload or shutdown.
- Ambient Temperature Effects: Hot temperatures increase compressor load, possibly pushing power demand beyond what the generator can supply.
- Simultaneous Appliance Use: Additional RV appliances draw power and reduce available wattage for the A/C.
- Generator Maintenance: Older or poorly maintained units may fail to deliver peak wattage.
Therefore, while the Honda 2200 may start and run certain small air conditioners, it is considered borderline for standard 13,500 BTU models and generally insufficient for larger cooling needs.