Top 8 Best Generators for RV Air Conditioners – Rated and Reviewed
You are all settled in your favorite campsite or you are enjoying a peaceful trip on the road when your generator suddenly gives up on you and now, you’re left panting in the heat. Seems like a nightmare, doesn’t it? The right generator can help avoid this situation by providing extended hours of service along with an efficient operation.
However, finding the right generator to fulfill your power needs is not always the easiest decision. Entering the market without prior research is a mistake because you will be bombarded with a million options all claiming to be the absolute best.
For this reason, we decided to help you by carrying out extensive research and putting together a list of the top 8 best generators for RV air conditioners.
If you’re a little short on time, you can just quickly go through our top pick for the best generator for RV air conditioners.
Our first and top choice is the compact yet super powerful, Generac 7127 inverter generator. It provides a wattage of up to 3500W while working very quietly so that you can easily store it inside your RV without causing too much disturbance and its compact design ensures that it takes up minimum space.
Here’s a quick summary of all our picks for the best generator for RV air conditioners. Let’s have a look.
Top Generators for RV air conditioners
Last update on 2023-03-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Features to look for in the best generator for RV air conditioner
Even though generators are very common in the market, choosing the right generator for your RV air conditioner can surely be a daunting process. However, there is no need to worry because we have got you covered with our buying guide about things to consider when looking for a good generator for your RV. Following are the features that you need to focus on:
Power output
This one is quite apparent. If you are looking for a generator to power your RV air conditioner then you need to go for a power output of at least 2000W because this is the minimum wattage required by air conditioners.
In order to make sure that you are getting the right generator, just add up the power requirements of all the appliances you intend on operating simultaneously, and then go for a generator with a power output that is slightly greater than your final result. This is important because you also need to consider power fluctuations as well as some other appliances that you might not remember at that time.
Size and portability
If you’re looking for a generator for your RV, make sure that it is portable because you will need to move it around a lot and that can get a lot more difficult if your generator weighs a lot. Even if the unit is a little heavy, make sure it comes with some sort of moving mechanism such as wheels so that you can move it around easily.
In addition, it is better to get a generator that does not take up too much space because you are usually a little short on space inside an RV and so you need to use it conservatively.
Efficient operation
Getting a generator that has better fuel efficiency will not only save up on money for refueling again and again but it will also save up on the time and effort required for frequent refueling. This way you will not have to carry around too much fuel and you will be able to relax while your generator powers the RV air conditioner for extended hours.
Noise levels
You are keeping the generator inside your RV so noise levels are definitely an important consideration. No one would want a generator inside an RV which creates too much noise and results in a headache so make sure you keep that in mind when investing in a unit for your RV. Noise levels should ideally be around 50-60 dB for the perfect experience with little to no disturbance.
Type of fuel
It is better to go for a generator that allows you to use more than one fuel so that you have the choice of using the fuel of your choice. For example, generators that operate on both propane and gasoline give you the freedom of using propane if it is available because it provides better fuel efficiency and it is also much more affordable.
Budget
Last but definitely not least, budget is an extremely important consideration when choosing a generator. Make sure you set a budget before entering the market so that you do not overspend. Also, don’t be a cheapskate because you’ll be wasting money on a unit that won’t even last that long.
Pros
- Advanced features
- Compact design
- Portable
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Expensive
Specifications
- 3500W rated power
- ultra-quiet technology
- carrying handles
- runtimes of up to 8 hours
- multiple power outlets
- durable steel enclosure
- clean inverter power
- power rush advanced technology
- Digital smart LCD
- USB ports
- Electric start with power dial
Beginning with the best of the best, we present to you the Generac 7127 iq3500 inverter generator which delivers a powerful output of up to 3500W and can easily take a load of an RV air conditioner among other things. Let’s review this unit in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Key features
With 3500W of power, the Generac 7127 iq3500 inverter generator has the ability to power not only your RV air conditioner but also some other electrical appliances in your RV so that you are all set to go on your camping trip or road trip without having to worry about living without power. It helps provide the comfort of your own home inside your RV.
The best feature of this inverter generator is the fact that it comes with ultra-quiet technology which makes it almost 40% quieter than competing units including the Honda inverter generator. This allows you to keep the generator running inside your RV while enjoying a peaceful trip. It will keep powering your electrical appliances without causing too much disturbance.
It delivers runtimes of up to 8 hours on one full fuel tank which is quite efficient as it gives you the peace of mind of not having to worry about refueling frequently. One full tank allows you to relax for the next 8 hours and now what could be better than that?
The compact design is another advantage that makes it easier to carry around in your RV. In addition, the convenient carrying handles also make it a little easier to carry the unit around. It features multiple power outlets which allow you to power several electrical appliances at the same time which is a necessity in an RV.
Westinghouse iGen2200 inverter generator
Best light weighted and Quiet Inverter Generator
Pros
- compact design
- lightweight
- parallel compatible
- long runtimes
Cons
- fuel gauge not included
Specifications
- 52 dB noise levels
- 1.2-gallon fuel tank
- runtimes of up to 12 hours
- 46 lbs weight
- THD of less than 3%
- 2 120V outlets along with 2 USB ports
- parallel compatible
- easy-to-use control panel
- auto-shutoff function
If you’re looking for a small and portable inverter generator that ensures a quiet operation then we have got exactly the right unit for you. The Westinghouse iGen2200 achieves this and so much more at an affordable price. Let’s learn more about this product.
Key features
With noise levels as low as 52 dB, this inverter generator ensures a peaceful atmosphere inside the RV so that you can have a good trip. Low noise levels mean that you can easily run your air conditioner without having to worry about the noise.
Despite having a small fuel tank, this unit offers an efficient operation where it can provide runtimes of up to 12 hours which means you can easily run your appliances without having to worry about running out of fuel. It is also quite lightweight at just 46 lbs. which makes it so much more portable. You can easily carry it in and out of your RV and move it as per your requirement.
With a THD of less than 3%, this generator can easily be used for charging sensitive devices such as mobile phones and laptops without damaging them. There are 2 120V outlets along with 2 USB ports that allow you to power different devices at the same time.
It is also parallel compatible so if the power output from one unit is not enough for you then you can get two units and run them in parallel to produce double the power output. It comes with an easy-to-use control panel that allows you to adjust settings as per your requirement. The auto-shut-off function protects the unit by automatically shutting down the system when fuel levels are extremely low.
Final verdict
Being lightweight and quiet, we believe the Westinghouse iGen2200 deserves a place among the best generators for RV air conditioners.
Champion 4000-Watt Ready Inverter Generator
Best Inverter Generator for RV air conditioners
Pros
- Parallel compatible
- Fuel efficient
- Long runtimes
- Durable
Cons
- Doesn’t come with wheels
Specifications
- 3500W running watts
- 4000W peak watts
- noise levels of about 64 dB
- weighs about 81 pounds
- 2.9-gallon fuel tank
- runtimes of up to 17 hours
- economy mode
- parallel compatible
- 3-year warranty
Next up, we present to you another strong contender for the title of the best generator for RV air conditioners, the Champion 4000-Watt Ready Inverter Generator. Let’s look into its features and specifications.
Key features
Having 3500W running watts and a starting power of about 4000W, this unit is perfect for running an air conditioner on board. It perfectly matches the power ratings of most RV air conditioners and allows you to stay comfortable for long hours.
With noise levels of about 64 dB, it is almost 50% quieter than traditional generators with similar power output. This means it will not bother the people inside the RV or anyone around your vehicle. It weighs about 81 pounds which makes it about 20% lighter than similar models on the market which makes it quite portable.
The 2.9-gallon fuel tank allows for runtimes of up to 17 hours while running on gasoline. This is one of the longest runtimes that we have seen till now. This long runtime can also be attributed to the economy mode which helps extend runtimes by optimizing fuel usage according to the power requirements of the devices being charged.
It is also parallel compatible which is a great feature if you are not satisfied with the power output of a single unit. You can hook up two similar models in order to produce double the power and it will surely help you save up on space as well as money. Finally, a 3-year warranty ensures that this unit is quite durable.
Pros
- Affordable
- Multiple power outlets
- Low THD
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Plastic finishing
Specifications
- 3400W running power
- 3800W starting power
- two 120V receptacles
- one 12V DC receptacle
- low THD
- NEMA TT-30R output for RV
- one USB port
- Noise levels rated at 57 dB
- 8.5 hours runtime
The next product on our list is specifically for those who are a little short on budget. Who says you cannot achieve efficiency on a low budget? The WEN 56200i 3800-Watt Generator helps prove our claim. Let’s learn more about it.
Key features
WEN is a brand appreciated by users worldwide for its efficient designs and affordable prices. The WEN 56200i 3800-Watt Generator costs a lot less than other similar models on the market. This makes it more attractive to users and a great choice for powering RV air conditioners. The power output of this unit is rated at 3400W running power and 3800W starting power. This is more than enough for starting and operating RV air conditioners.
Along with an RV air conditioner, it also has the ability to power some other appliances using its two 120V receptacles in addition to its one 12V DC receptacle. Being an inverter generator, it offers low THD which means it can safely power and charge mobile phones and laptops.
Designed specifically for RVs, the WEN 56200i 3800-Watt Generator has one specific NEMA TT-30R output which allows you to directly provide power to the travel trailer. It also has one USB port which can be used for charging small devices.
Noise levels of this unit are rated at 57 dB which is similar to background music so it will not cause a lot of disturbance while operating in your RV. It is also quite fuel-efficient as runtimes can last as long as 8 and a half hours when operating at half load.
Final verdict
The affordable price and the effective operation of the WEN 56200i 3800-Watt Generator make it an amazing choice for RV users. r conditioner.
Champion 3400-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Best Dual fuel Inverter Generator
Pros
- Dual fuel operation
- Easy and safe wireless ignition
- Advanced touch panel
- Efficient operation
- High-power output
Cons
- Heavy
Specifications
- dual fuel operation
- wireless remote ignition
- several receptacles
- 59 dB noise levels
- 3400W peak power output
- running power output of about 3100W
- low oil shut-off sensor
- Quick Touch Panel
- 7.5 hours run time on gasoline
- Includes a 3-year limited warranty
If you have a hybrid RV that can operate on both electricity and gasoline, then the Champion 3400-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is going to be a great choice for you. It is a dual fuel 3400W inverter generator that can operate on both gasoline and propane so you can use the fuel of your choice.
Key features
This unit operates on both gasoline and propane. This dual fuel operation gives you the option of going with the fuel of your own choice. Propane is a more efficient as well as more affordable fuel so you can use that instead of gasoline in order to save up on fuel costs.
Unlike other generators on the market which come with a manual start, this unit comes with a wireless remote ignition which is not only easier but also much safer for users. New users might have some difficulty learning to manually start a generator therefore this alternative will be much better for them. You can easily use a key fob from up to 80 feet away in order to start or stop this generator.
It features several receptacles which means that using multiple electrical appliances at the same time will be no issue at all. You can run your RV air conditioner while also charging your phone or playing some calming music on the speakers. Now, doesn’t that feel like the perfect calming experience?
Noise levels are rated at a mere 59 dB which is not too much when you consider the power output of this unit. With 3400W peak power output and a running power output of about 3100W, this unit can easily power multiple appliances in your vehicle so that you have the perfect RV experience.
Final verdict
The Champion 3400-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is a great choice for powering RV air conditioners due to its efficient operation as well as an easy start-up.
YAMAHA EF3000iS portable generator
Best Portable Inverter Generator for Low Noise Level
Pros
- ergonomic design
- easy controls
- portable
- high power output
Cons
- slightly heavier
Specifications
- 19 hours runtime
- the engine automatically optimizes power output according to the load
- 3,500W of power
- boost control unit
- 100 pounds weight
- built-in wheels
- Sound absorbing material
- eliminates stale gas in the carb
The next product on our list is from another well-known brand which produces nothing but quality products. The YAMAHA EF3000iS portable generator offers low noise levels and amazing fuel efficiency all in one package.
Key features
You can easily run this portable generator at a quarter load for a full 19 hours. This truly makes it the best and most long-lasting generator for RV air conditioners on the market. This unit’s engine automatically optimizes power output according to the load that has been applied to it. This gives it the best fuel economy possible.
In addition, it has the ability to put out almost 3,500W of power. This generator also comes with one boost control unit which has been designed to give peak power for more than 10 seconds. With a power output of 3,500W, you can easily count on this unit Yamaha to easily run a 13,500 BTU air conditioner in the RV.
This quality puts it among the most powerful and best generators that we have reviewed till now. The best part is though it produces so much extra power and also runs for extended hours, this generator is not very loud as compared to the other generators that we have tested.
It weighs only 100 pounds which makes it slightly heavier than some other generators with similar features. However, it comes with high-quality built-in wheels which makes it easier to move this unit from one location to another.
Final verdict
The YAMAHA EF3000iS portable generator is a great option for powering your RV air conditioner and we would definitely recommend it to you.
DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator for RV Air Conditioners
Pros
- Long runtimes with propane
- Dual-fuel operation
- Multiple power outlets
- High-power output
Cons
- Slightly loud operation
Specifications
- peak power of about 4400W
- running power of 3500W
- operate on both propane and gasoline
- DuroMax 210cc OHV engine
- MX2 technology
- operating at both 120V and 240V
- one 120V/240V twist block outlet, two 120V household GFCI outlets, and 12V charging points
- 9 hours of operation using gasoline
- 20 hours with propane
We present to you another dual fuel generator, the DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator which provides the efficiency and power required for powering RV air conditioners. Let’s learn more about this product by taking a deep dive into its features and specifications.
Key features
This unit produces a peak power of about 4400W along with a running power of 3500W. This power output is more than enough for running an RV air conditioner along with some other appliances as well. You can power various different appliances including lights, refrigerators, toasters as well as some other small appliances.
It can operate on both propane and gasoline which gives you the freedom of choosing the fuel of your own choice based on your own convenience. Propane provides better fuel efficiency and is much more affordable as compared to gasoline which means you can save up on some bucks if you opt for propane as the fuel for your generator.
DuroMax 210cc OHV engine has been incorporated into this unit which allows you to handle heavy duty appliances and power them efficiently. The MX2 technology allows you to achieve the maximum power from the receptacles so that your devices can work properly. You have the option of operating at both 120V and 240V at the same time or at just 120V with full power.
The power panel of this unit includes one 120V/240V twist block outlet, two 120V household GFCI outlets and 12V charging points for charging small batteries of devices. One full tank of fuel can provide up to 9 hours of operation using gasoline and more than 20 hours with propane.
Final verdict
We are quite satisfied with the operation of this unit and so we would definitely recommend it to you. This is great for RVs and surely worth the price.
Pros
- Parallel compatible
- Quiet operation
- USB outlets
- Convenient to start and stop
Cons
- Doesn’t come with the parallel kit
Specifications
- integrated dial
- two included USB outlets
- Parallel capability
- starting power of 3500W
- 3000W running power
- PowerRUSH Technology
- True power technology
Next up we present to you another simple option, the Generac GP3500iO 3500-Watt RV Inverter Generator which will surely work perfectly in an RV. Let’s look into its details so that you can decide for yourself if this product is worth your time and money.
Key features
A generator’s operation should be easy so that people new to RVs or generators do not have any issues while using it. The ease of this product comes from its extremely convenient integrated dial. This unique feature allows users to switch between start, run, and stop without having to put in a lot of effort. This feature has been specifically pointed out as a favorite by multiple users.
We believe that consumers will also find its two included USB outlets to be extremely useful as these particular outlets can easily be used to charge several small-sized appliances, such as phones, laptops, smartwatches, or tablets. This ensures that this unit will not have any problem meeting the expectations of users while camping.
The parallel capability of this unit is another amazing feature of this generator. Users can easily add an extra inverter generator to this one in order to generate twice the power when required. However, it should be noted that the parallel kit for this unit is sold separately and does not come with the package.
Other notable features of this generator include a starting power of 3500W, 3000W running power, a very quiet operation in addition to a compact design which makes it perfect for use in an RV. You can easily store it in a small space and it won’t even create much noise.
Final verdict
This is a great generator for anyone who wants to power multiple appliances in an RV including an air conditioner. We would surely recommend it.
(FAQs)
Frequently Asked Questions
For an RV air conditioner, you need an air conditioner with at least a 20
Answer: This largely depends on how much you use your generator and how frequently you maintain it. However, most generators are designed to last for up to 10 years.
Answer: You can drive while your generator is running. However, make sure that it is securely set in place so that it does not slide around and it has proper ventilation as well.
This varies a lot between different generators. Check the specified runtime of your unit to find out how long it will run.
Conclusion
You can ensure your comfort while traveling in an RV by investing in a generator that powers your air conditioner along with some other appliances. Now that you have gone through all the options that we provided you with, make sure you pick an option that truly fulfills your power requirements and lies within your budget.
Set some space in your RV for your generator as well as some spare fuel. Make sure you properly read the user manual before operating the unit and be very safe about it because a generator produces a huge power output which can be quite dangerous if not handled properly. Good luck!
