Trystan Casey
RV air conditioners are known to be the largest power consumers in modern RVs. They can draw between 700 watts to 1500 watts when running, and even more at startup. The power source for an RV air conditioner can vary, with some running on electricity, batteries, solar power, or a combination of these. The type of power source and the wattage required will depend on the specific model and size of the RV air conditioner, as well as the electrical demands of the RV itself.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| RV air conditioners run on electricity | Yes |
| RV air conditioners run on propane | No |
| RV air conditioners run on batteries | Yes, with the proper equipment and enough batteries |
| RV air conditioners run on solar power | Yes, with a large enough solar system |
| RV air conditioners run on a generator | Yes, with a minimum 3000-watt continuous generator |
| RV air conditioners run on inverter generator | Yes |
| RV air conditioners run on lithium batteries | Yes |
| RV air conditioners run on lead-acid batteries | No |
| RV air conditioners run on 12V DC power | Yes, but these are much smaller units |
| RV air conditioners run on 110VAC | Yes |
| RV air conditioners run on 120V AC | Yes, with an inverter |
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What You'll Learn
RV air conditioners can be powered by solar energy
RV air conditioners are known for being the largest power consumers in modern RVs. They can draw between 700 watts (for a 10,000 BTU unit) and 1,500 watts (for a 15,000 BTU unit) when running, and even more at startup. This high power consumption poses a challenge for those seeking energy independence and looking to power their RV air conditioners with solar energy.
However, with advancements in battery and solar technology, it is now possible to run an RV air conditioner on solar power. The key components needed for a solar-powered RV air conditioner are batteries, solar panels, and inverters, which need to be sized appropriately. The larger the battery, the more energy storage is available to power the RV air conditioner. Lithium batteries are ideal for this purpose as they are lightweight, have a higher energy density, and can discharge deeper than lead-acid batteries. It is recommended to string together several lithium-ion batteries to ensure sufficient power.
The size of the solar array required will depend on the RV's power consumption and the amount of sunlight available. A general rule of thumb is to have enough solar panels to generate at least 50% more energy than the average daily consumption. It is also essential to angle the panels correctly and keep them free of dirt and debris to maximize their efficiency. Additionally, the inverter ratings and output must be compatible with the air conditioner's rated input, providing the required wattage and considering the initial startup surge.
To maximize the runtime of the air conditioner, it is recommended to always install a solar generator with a capacity above the daily consumption. This allows for extended use and accounts for any reduction in power output. Monitoring power output and battery capacity is crucial, and it is beneficial to avoid completely depleting the battery to maintain its health.
While powering an RV air conditioner with solar energy is possible, it requires thoughtful planning and high-powered solar equipment. It can also be challenging and costly due to the high power requirements of air conditioners. However, with the right setup, RV enthusiasts can achieve energy independence and enjoy the benefits of solar power for their air conditioning needs.
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RV air conditioners can be powered by lithium batteries
RV air conditioners are the largest power consumers in modern RVs. They can draw between 700 watts (for a 10,000 BTU unit) and 1,500 watts (for a 15,000 BTU unit) while running, and even more during startup. Therefore, powering them with lithium batteries can be challenging.
The first step in determining whether lithium batteries can power your RV air conditioner is to calculate the power requirements of your air conditioner. You need to know the surge and running watts of your unit, as larger units will draw more wattage. For example, a 10,000 BTU unit will require 700 watts, while a 15,000 BTU unit will need 1,500 watts.
If you decide to power your RV air conditioner with lithium batteries, you will need to consider the following:
- Battery capacity: Lithium batteries can provide enough power to run an RV air conditioner, but they will likely be completely drained after a few hours. A 100 Ah lithium battery can power a 15,000 BTU RV AC unit for about 30 minutes. To run the unit for about four hours, you would need a bank of eight 100 Ah batteries.
- Battery cost: The batteries themselves can be expensive, typically costing $800-$1000 per battery.
- Inverter: In addition to the batteries, you will need an inverter to convert the DC battery power into AC power, which is required by most air conditioning units. A popular option is the Victron Multiplus inverter and charger combination, which costs around $1300.
- Solar panels: To keep your batteries charged, you may consider adding solar panels to your setup. Solar panels can recharge your batteries during the day, but they need to generate enough electricity to power the air conditioner and charge the batteries simultaneously.
By considering these factors and consulting with electrical experts, it is possible to design a lithium battery system that can successfully power an RV air conditioner.
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RV air conditioners can be powered by generators
Once you know the wattage requirements of your AC unit, you can choose a generator that meets or exceeds these demands. You will also need to consider the wattage requirements of any other appliances you want to power. You can use a generator wattage calculator to help you determine the right size generator for your needs.
There are two main types of RV generators: traditional open-frame or inverter generators that sit outside your RV, and built-in generators that are hardwired to your RV. Built-in generators have a higher wattage range than portable units, which is beneficial for powering AC units. They are also preferred for powering AC units as they require no manual setup and will run automatically. However, portable generators are a more affordable option and will also work if your power needs are basic.
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RV air conditioners can be powered by shore power
The advantage of shore power is that it can handle high-power appliances like air conditioners, microwaves, and televisions without draining your RV's batteries. It also eliminates the need for a loud and expensive generator, which requires frequent refuelling. With shore power, you can run multiple appliances simultaneously, such as air conditioning, refrigerators, TVs, and lights, although it is important to be mindful of electric usage to avoid overloading the system and tripping the circuit breaker.
When using shore power for your RV air conditioner, it is recommended to know the exact amperage required by your unit. While 15-amp power is typically sufficient for an average air conditioner, larger models may require more wattage, potentially limiting the use of other appliances. To avoid overloading, consider the combined power draw of multiple appliances, such as the air conditioner, refrigerator, and electric water heater. Additionally, be aware of the difference between surge watts (startup power draw) and running watts to prevent tripping the breaker.
For those seeking a more sustainable and ecological solution, a properly designed RV solar power system can provide on-demand electricity without the noise, emissions, or frequent shore power hookups. This option enhances the RVing experience by minimising disturbance to the environment.
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RV air conditioners can be powered by propane
While most RV air conditioners run on electricity, some people opt to power their units with propane instead. This is because electricity can be expensive, and people are looking for cheaper alternatives.
It is possible to run an RV air conditioner on propane, but it would require a lot of mechanical knowledge to set up the system. In the past, gas-powered home air conditioners were more common, but today, the majority of manufacturers have stopped producing them. As a result, it is difficult to find an RV that comes with a propane-powered AC unit. This means that you would have to be innovative and have a lot of DIY experience to change from electric power to propane power.
The cost of propane AC units can range from $700 to $7,000. However, switching to propane may not save you money. While propane is cheaper to buy than electricity, it would take a lot of propane to effectively cool your RV's interior. For example, when the temperatures hit 100+, one owner spent $20 a day to keep their propane tank filled. Over 7 days, they burned 57 gallons of propane, costing them $132.
Propane is also a volatile gas that comes with risks that electricity does not. For example, propane can spring a leak and spread throughout your RV before it is ignited, and it also contains carbon monoxide. To use propane safely, you would need to spend money on special venting to ensure your RV's interior air remained healthy to breathe.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, RV air conditioners run on electricity. They are the largest power consumers in modern RVs, drawing between 700 watts to 1,500 watts when running and even more at startup.
There are several ways to power an RV air conditioner. You can use electricity from a generator, lithium batteries, or solar power.
The duration depends on the battery's power and the air conditioner's wattage. For example, a 100 Ah lithium battery will power a 15,000 BTU RV AC unit for about 30 minutes. A bank of eight 100 Ah batteries will run the same AC unit for about four hours.
