Quick answer: For central air conditioning, you typically need a portable generator that is 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 1,000 to 1,800 watts, so a 2,000 to 3,000-watt portable generator is adequate. Always check the wattage requirements of your air conditioner. Choose a portable generator that is 20% higher than the operating wattage to account for startup surges.
In this blog post, we will 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 need to assess the power requirements of your air conditioner, including running and starting power, as well as any other equipment you want to power simultaneously.
Identify your air conditioner's energy needs
Check the manufacturer's label or manual for starting and running power.
Consider additional devices
List other essential appliances you want to power in the event of an outage (e.g., refrigerator, lights, sump pump).
Calculate the total power
1. Add up the operating power of all appliances.
2. Determine the highest starting power among them.
3. Add the running and starting powers.
Add a Safety Margin
Increase the total wattage by 20-25% 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 required would be:
- Operating power: 4,000 + 1,000 = 5,000 watts
3. 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 with a power of at least 25,500 watts would be advisable.
What are the characteristics of the different types of generators?
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Portable generators: These are ideal for temporarily powering a few appliances. 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 turn on automatically in the event of a power outage. They can power most, if not all, of your household appliances without you having to lift a finger.
3. Inverter generators: They provide clean, stable electricity that's safe for sensitive devices like laptops or TVs. They're quiet and use less fuel, but they generally produce less power than other types of generators.
How Big of a Generator for Central Air Conditioners?
Central air conditioning systems use the most electricity to cool your home. These permanently installed split systems consist of an outdoor compressor and evaporator, combined with indoor air handling units. Tonnage indicates cooling capacity, with one ton being equivalent to 12,000 BTUs. How much portable generator power do you need for central air conditioning? Here are the detailed power recommendations:
- 1-ton (12,000 BTU) central air conditioning: 2,000 to 3,000 watts. A 3,000-watt generator is recommended.
2. 5-ton central air conditioning (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 consult your owner's manual for the exact power rating. Other factors, such as SEER efficiency, motor type, and fan speed, affect power consumption. Starting a central air conditioner requires a momentary surge of 3 to 5 times the operating power.
For example, a 10,000-watt portable generator may struggle to start a large central air conditioner, even if it has sufficient power once it's running. For added safety, consider a surge-resistant portable generator over 15,000 watts.
Choose inverter generators for stable, clean electricity. Voltage spikes can damage air conditioning compressor control boards. Properly maintain your generator with regular maintenance. Starting your central air conditioner before the generator is fully powered can overload the motor. Place the portable generator near your home's electrical panel to minimize voltage drops.
What power should I 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 units draw in outside air to evaporate the refrigerant and cool the space. The British Thermal Unit (BTU) indicates the cooling power. Do you need a specific generator for a window air conditioner? Here are the typical wattages of a portable generator:
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 consult your owner's manual for the specific electrical requirements of your window air conditioner. For optimal performance, aim for a generator wattage 20% higher than the stated power rating.
The size and length of extension cords affect the voltage output, so place your generator near the window air conditioner and use sturdy cords. Turn off other appliances when starting the window air conditioner to reduce the initial load.
What size is a generator for air conditioners?
Need to cool just one room? Portable air conditioners are easy to move and use less electricity than window air conditioners. Just set them up, extend the exhaust hose, and they 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 ample power.
2. 8,000 BTU: 1,000 watts. A 2,000-watt generator provides sufficient power.
3. 10,000 BTU: 1,200 watts. A 2,000-watt generator provides sufficient power.
4. 12,000 BTU: 1,500 watts. Choose a 3,000-watt generator.
5. 14,000 BTUs: 1,800 watts. Choose a generator between 3,000 and 3,500 watts.
6. 16,000 BTU portable air conditioner – 2,000 watts. Use a 4,000 watt portable generator.
Consult your owner's manual for the required surge power for startup. Voltage drops can affect performance, so use sturdy, short extension cords. Place the portable generator near the portable air conditioner. Proper generator maintenance helps prevent power quality issues. With the right-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 is 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 a residential area, consider inverter models. They operate more quietly and won't disturb your neighbors.
Portability: Portable generators are flexible and easy to move, but can be heavy and require manual setup. Make sure you're comfortable handling them.
Safety features: Look for overload 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 avoid problems later.
Stay cool during a power outage
Don't let a power outage drain you this summer. Determine the power
necessary for your air conditioner and choose a portable generator that is the right size. With central air conditioners, window units, and portable air conditioners, the generator must provide stable, clean electricity without voltage drops. Place generators nearby, use sturdy cords to minimize losses, and ensure proper maintenance. Follow these tips to efficiently run your air conditioner with a portable generator in the event of a power outage.
