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Running Caravan Air Conditioners: Generator Sizing & Setup

For running a caravan air conditioner, an inverter generator is the recommended choice. Unlike conventional generators, inverters provide "clean" power (a pure sine wave) that is safe for sensitive electronic components found in modern air conditioning units and other appliances. When selecting a generator, prioritize the following: Sizing (Wattage): Air conditioners have high "starting" (surge) watts when the compressor kicks in, which is often 3–6 times their running wattage. A generator in the 2.0kW to 4.5kW range is typically required to handle this surge comfortably. Always check your specific AC unit’s label for its starting and running requirements. Noise Levels: Since you will be using this at campsites, look for low-noise ratings. Modern inverter generators are designed to be significantly quieter than traditional open-frame models. Portability & Features: Features like wheels, handles, and remote or electric start can make daily use much easier. When selecting a generator for your caravan air conditioner, performance can be affected by more than just raw wattage. Here are the critical environmental and operational factors to keep in mind to ensure you have enough power when you need it most. Environmental Performance (De-rating) Generators produce less power in high heat, humidity, or at high altitudes. Heat Impact: As ambient temperatures rise, engine performance decreases. A good rule of thumb is to allow for a 1.5% decrease in output for every 5°C above 25°C. For example, on a 45°C day, your generator may output 6% less power than its rated capacity. Altitude: Operating at high elevations will further de-rate your generator’s output, meaning you should account for these drops when sizing your unit. Extension Lead Length In extreme heat, the length of your power cable matters. It is recommended to use a short lead (3–4 meters maximum) from the generator to your caravan. Using a longer cord can cause voltage drop, which may lead to issues starting your air conditioner's compressor. Factoring in Other Appliances Your generator needs to handle more than just the air conditioner. You must account for the total load of every device running simultaneously, such as: Battery chargers Refrigerators Lights and TVs If your generator is sized only for the air conditioner's surge, it will likely overload if you try to run your battery charger or other appliances at the same time. Recommendation Because of these variables, it is always a smart investment to opt for a generator with extra capacity beyond the peak draw of your air conditioner. This "headroom" ensures your system remains reliable, even on the hottest days or when you have multiple devices connected.

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Can I run a generator indoors?

No, you should never operate a generator indoors. Operating a generator inside your home, garage, basement, crawl space, or even near open windows and doors is extremely dangerous. Fuel-burning generators produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be fatal in minutes. Why It Is Unsafe CO Buildup: Carbon monoxide accumulates rapidly in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces. Because it is undetectable by human senses, it can overcome you before you realize there is a problem. Insufficient Ventilation: Standard home ventilation systems are not designed to exhaust the high volume of toxic fumes produced by a generator engine. Fire Hazard: Generators require significant airflow for cooling. Placing them in a confined area can lead to overheating and pose a serious fire risk. Safe Practices Outdoor Use Only: Always place your generator at least 6 meters (20 feet) away from your home, directed away from windows, doors, and air intakes. Install CO Detectors: If you use a generator, ensure you have battery-operated carbon monoxide alarms installed in your home. Keep It Dry: While generators must be outside, they should be placed on a dry surface and protected from rain or flooding using a specialized generator tent or canopy—never use an improvised cover that restricts airflow. If you are worried about power reliability and need a safe, indoor-friendly solution, have you considered looking into portable power stations (battery-based power banks)? These do not produce fumes and can be used safely indoors. We at the Generator Store offer a full range of generators and portable power stations.

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What is the difference between running and starting watts?

Understanding the difference between running watts and starting watts is key to choosing the right size generator for your application. Running Watts (Rated Watts) Running watts is the continuous power needed to keep an appliance or tool operating normally once it is already running. This is the figure you should look at for devices like lights, fans, or heaters that maintain a steady power draw while in use. Starting Watts (Surge Watts) Starting watts is the temporary, extra "burst" of power required for a few seconds to get motor-driven products moving from a standstill. Devices like refrigerators, air conditioners, water pumps, and power tools often require 3 to 6 times their running wattage to overcome inertia and reach operating speed. Why the Distinction Matters When selecting a generator, you must ensure it can handle the total combined running watts of all devices you intend to power simultaneously, plus the highest single starting wattage of any one of those devices. Example: If your refrigerator uses 200 running watts but requires 800 starting watts, your generator must be able to handle that 800-watt surge to prevent an overload shutdown.

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Is an inverter generator worth the extra money.?

Whether an inverter generator is worth the extra cost depends primarily on how you intend to use it. In short, if you are powering sensitive electronics (like laptops, smartphones, or medical equipment) or need to operate in noise-sensitive environments (such as camping sites or residential areas), the investment is generally considered worth it. If your primary need is powering heavy-duty tools or machinery on a work site where noise is less of a concern, a conventional generator may be more cost-effective. Why Inverter Generators Cost More The higher price reflects more advanced internal technology: Clean Power Output: Inverters convert energy into a stable, "pure sine wave" current, which is safer for delicate electronics than the "dirty" power produced by standard generators. Variable Engine Speed: They automatically adjust their engine speed to match the electrical load. This makes them significantly more fuel-efficient and quieter than conventional models, which typically run at a fixed, high RPM. Portability & Design: They are usually built with enclosed sound-dampening housing, making them much lighter and more compact. Key Considerations The "Clean Power" Factor: While some claim that modern conventional generators are safe for most devices, inverter generators guarantee low harmonic distortion (THD), which is critical for protecting expensive or sensitive digital equipment. Long-Term Savings: While the upfront cost is higher, the fuel savings and reduced wear on the engine (due to variable speed control) can offset the initial investment over time, especially with frequent use. Power Capacity: Conventional generators are often available in much higher power outputs for industrial needs. If you require massive wattage for a whole-house setup or large-scale construction, a high-capacity conventional generator is usually more practical. If you are leaning toward an inverter, we can help with our huge range of models based on your required wattage or intended use case (e.g., camping vs. home backup). Top-Rated Inverter Generator Brands Honda: Widely considered the "gold standard" for reliability and longevity. While often at a higher price point, their generators (like the EU series) are renowned for being ultra-quiet, fuel-efficient, and easy to maintain. They are a frequent choice for those who want a "forever" generator. Westinghouse: A very popular choice offering a balance of performance and value. Their iGen series is well-regarded for its clean power output (suitable for sensitive electronics), quiet operation, and intuitive features like digital displays. They offer a diverse range of power capacities, making them versatile for everything from camping to emergency home backup. Briggs & Stratton: Known for solid build quality and practical features, such as carbon monoxide safety sensors. Their models are often praised for being easy to start and offering good, stable power for standard household or recreational needs. Cromtech: A strong contender, particularly in the Australian market, for providing reliable equipment with excellent local customer support. Their Outback series is frequently recommended for caravanning and camping due to its durability and performance. Important Considerations Power Capacity: Before choosing a brand, ensure you calculate your total required wattage. Smaller, lighter units (1kVA–2kVA) are perfect for charging devices and running lights, while larger units (3kVA+) are necessary for items like caravan air conditioners or heavy-duty appliances. Service & Support: Because you are investing in a machine that requires maintenance, choosing a brand with a strong Australian service network (like Honda or Cromtech) can save time and money if you ever need repairs or parts.    

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New Westinghouse Auto Start Models

The Westinghouse portable generator range is expanding with some new exciting inverter generators, these include two new Auto Start Series models with intelligent 2-wire control. 

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Camping This Christmas? Our Top Three Camping Generator Models

Christmas is a great time to get away and head to some of Australia’s great camping spots. The perfect addition to any caping trip is a reliable portable generator so you have portable power when needed. We have put together our top 3 portable camping generator list, to help make your section easier, as there [...]

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The New Yamaha EF2200iS Inverter Generator

Announcing the all new EF2200iS 2.2 kVA Portable GeneratorYamaha Australia are proud to announce a brand new model in our range of portable generators. The EF2200iS is a 2.2 kVA portable inverter generator packed with power & features that makes it perfect for campers, caravanners and outdoor enthusiasts.The all new EF2200iS strikes the perfect balance [...]

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Honda Inverter Generators - Portable Power Anywhere, Anytime

Honda Generators - Anywhere, Anytime. Portable power is integral when far from home, and this summer is a great opportunity to experience Honda’s extensive range of quality generators.Portable power is integral when far from home, and this summer is a great opportunity to experience Honda’s extensive range of quality generators. When it comes to exploring, Honda’s [...]

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The benefits of buying a Honda Inverter Generator

When weighing up the benefits of buying a Honda Inverter Generator over  the many other brands of inverter generators on the market today, here are some major benefits of the Honda rangeHigh quality power outputThe precision of Honda's inverter technology ensures its power is closer to "line power" more than any other generator design. Our [...]

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Australian Summer Blackouts - Having a Back Up Generator Will Be Essential

A backup generator is essential to have during a power outage, to power lights, heating, cooling, water pumps, and more. Powering a water pump is particularly important in areas at risk of fires during hot weather, to protect your property, family, and pets. Power outages are increasingly becoming a concern for Australian's during this [...]

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How to Parallel Two Portable Inverter Generators

Today demands for more power is increasing, and generators large enough to power large appliances like air conditioners etc are sometimes not very portable due to their size and weight, thankfully, by running two smaller portable inverter generators in parallel, you can start and run larger appliances with ease.A lot of big appliances like the [...]

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