How to Determine the Right Size of Generator for Air Conditioner

An air conditioner in your house may continue to function on a generator even if the electricity goes out; Having the right generator is essential, though. Your chosen generator must supply enough electricity to run your air conditioning system throughout power cuts. Here are a few factors that should be kept in mind if you’re considering buying a generator for air conditioner to ensure you acquire the proper size.

1. Generator Sizes 

Before investing in a generator for an air conditioner, there are numerous things to consider. But first, you must comprehend how generator sizes are determined and what size generator to run the central air conditioner. There are several sizes and types of generators. Battery generators, solar generators, and even generators that use gasoline, propane, or diesel as fuel are all options for purchase.

Electrical power handling capacity is used to rate power generators. Depending on your household’s AC demands, a 5,000–8,000-watt portable generator may be plenty to power the air conditioner and even additional appliances.

Now that you know how generators operate, let’s look at some things homeowners should consider before purchasing an AC generator.

2. Determine Power Consumption

Various air conditioner models consume various amounts of power. Central air conditioners typically utilise the most energy, averaging about 3,500 watts. Small window units can consume as low as 500 watts, while larger ones typically require over 1,400 watts.

These are only averages; your appliance may consume more or less electricity. Checking the wattage of your air conditioner and how many watt generators to run ac is the only method to know precisely how much electricity it consumes and thus will help you choose the right generator for air conditioner. This information can be found on the plate of the air conditioning unit or in the owner’s handbook.

The power consumption of the air conditioning unit may still be ascertained even if you need to get your owner’s handbook or the label needs to be conveniently located. Start by shutting off all other electrical gadgets and appliances in your home. Then, switch on your air conditioner and check how much power is used with a wattmeter and kill-a-watt gadget. Note down this number.

3. Powerhouse Generator

You may choose a generator for air conditioner that will be powerful enough after you know how much electricity your cooling system consumes.

It’s crucial to remember that you can’t simply buy any generator and have it provide the electricity your AC unit needs. Ensure the generator can provide your air conditioner with the electricity it needs to start. Up to three times as much electricity is usually needed for startup as for operation.

As a result, you must buy a generator with a minimum output of 3,000 watts if the air conditioner needs 3,000 watts to start up.

It’s usually preferable to get a generator that offers a more significant amount of energy than you need if you need clarification on how much electricity your AC unit consumes when it first starts up. It will guarantee uninterrupted, smooth operation of your air conditioner during power cuts.

4. Performance Measures

Different generators have different performance metrics, such as runtime and fuel tank capacity. Choose an inverter-powered generator over a standard generator to run AC if you want to achieve a longer runtime. 

Before you purchase, you should carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of each fuel type.

5. Additional Generator Features

It’s typical to believe that generators of the same size would operate similarly in terms of performance. However, the generator may operate more effectively if it has more characteristics. 

Examine generators with remote controls, numerous outlets, ground fault circuits, removable consoles, and fuel gauges.

6. Noise Level 

Because generators may be noisy, you should check the sound quality before purchasing one for your house. Check the decibel levels and get one with a high-quality muffler. 

Despite their high cost, inverter air conditioner generators are the quietest, making them an excellent option for household generators.

7. Low Voltage

Voltage drops can be brought about by motors starting, overheating, and short circuits. The tolerance for voltage dips varies depending on the connected device to your system. 

A generator for an air conditioner has to be big enough to accommodate the maximum voltage drop tolerance. It could be beneficial to have a more excellent grasp of how voltage dips operate and how to determine them.

Key Takeaways

For optimum efficiency, selecting the proper generator air conditioner is essential. You may make an informed choice by considering elements like the power needs of the AC unit, starter wattage, and generator capacity. Undersized generators can cause equipment damage or ineffective cooling, while oversized ones waste fuel. Spend time determining the required wattage, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions, and, if necessary, seek professional guidance. 

Finding the ideal balance guarantees that your air conditioner operates without interruption in distant areas or during power shortages. When you need cooling the most, use a reliable generator and take advantage of uninterrupted, dependable cooling. 

If you already have a generator for your air conditioner and are looking for the most professional generator repair and maintenance services, look no further than Iron Equipment. We are highly-rated repair professionals with mobile repair teams available as well.