Will A 6500 Watt Generator Run Central Air?
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Do you need a generator to run air conditioner? A lot of people seem to think that you do, but the truth is that it depends on the size of AC unit.
Below we’ll look at Will a 6500 watt generator run central air. So, keep reading to learn more!
Will A 6500 Watt Generator Run Central Air
Yes, a 6500 watt generator will run most central air conditioners. However, if you have a large AC unit, you may need a generator with more power.
It’s always best to consult air conditioner’s manual to be sure. But generally, a 6500 watt generator should be enough to power most central air units.
What Size Generator To Run Central Air Conditioner?
What Size Generator To Run Central Air Conditioner?
The size of the generator needs to run central air conditioner will depend on the size of the AC unit.
For example, a small 5000 BTU air conditioner will only require about 1000 watts to run.
But a large 5-ton air conditioner can require up to 6000 watts. So, it just depends on the size of the AC unit.
The best way to determine how much power the air conditioner needs is to consult the manual. Generally, most central air units will require between 1000 and 6000 watts.
Follow the below table for a more specific guide:
| Generator Watts | Central Ac Size |
|---|---|
| 6000 | 1.5 Ton |
| 8000 | 2 Ton |
| 12000 | 3 Ton |
| 15000 | 4 Ton |
| 18000 | 5 Ton |
As you can see, the larger the AC unit is, the more watts it will require. And if you have a large AC unit, you may need a generator with up to 18000 watts of power.
How To Determine The Right Size Generator To Run A Central Air?
Now that you know what size generator you need to run a central air conditioner, it’s time to choose the right one.
There are a few factors you need to consider when choosing a generator.
In the below section, we’ll go over some of the things you need to remember when selecting a generator for your home.
It’s crucial to know how to measure a generator. Choosing the wrong size generator for central AC might be challenging.
- The wattage of the central air conditioning unit, starting and operating, can be obtained from the manufacturer. If you don’t know how to find this information, the local air conditioner company will be happy to help.
- Must know how long you will run the central air conditioner. If you only need to use it for a short period, then you won’t need as large of a generator. However, you’ll need a more powerful generator when you use it for an extended period, such as during a power outage.
- Another factor to consider is the start-up wattage. Some appliances have a start-up wattage greater than their average running wattage. This surge wattage is required briefly when the appliance is first turned on. This is the amount of power necessary to start a central air conditioner. It’s usually about 2-3 times the running wattage.
- It would be best if you also considered the fuel type. Generators come in different fuel types, such as gas, propane, and diesel. All the fuel types have their pros and cons.
- Finally, it would help if you considered the price. Generators can be expensive, so you must choose one that fits budget. Now that you know what to look for in a generator, it’s time to choose the right one for home.
So, there are quite a few things to consider when choosing a generator for home.
But if you keep these factors in mind, you should have no problem finding the right one for needs.
How To Calculate What Size Generator Will Need For Air Conditioner?
In order to use air conditioner and generator together, you will need to plan. You’ll need to take some preventative measures to keep home cool during a power outage.
Many have asked why their generator, which is supposed to power and operate efficiently, frequently stops running when their air conditioner is switched on.
Usually, a few inconsiderate power-drawing devices around the house create significant problems during a blackout. Such as:
Appliances
When all appliances are turned on and working at once, they can use a large amount of power.
Heavier appliances like the fridge, washing machine, and geyser will cause generator to shut down when you need it most.
We always recommend determining how much power you’ll need at the very least while selecting or looking for a generator.
Most people find out how much power they need to run their home, which can be rather revealing.
Space
Many people are shocked to learn that they can’t put their generator in the back corner of their lot.
You could have saved yourself a lot of money in fines by researching before installing the machine.
The minimum setback for a generator is usually 3m from any occupied building, but we recommend putting it further away if possible.
If you have the space, the best place for the generator is as far away from home as possible.
Air Conditioning
Once everything is measured in-house, you’ll need to figure out how the air conditioning will function. You must make sure the generator is capable of running it.
Most of the time, you will already have an air conditioner in the house that cools it. We recommend finding an air conditioner with a high EER (energy efficiency rating).
These air conditioners are less expensive to operate and will save you money monthly on your power bills.
Overall Usage
Many people forget to consider the power usage of everything in their homes. Most countries with persistent power outages have them in the winter.
But you will not require air conditioning during the summer. Besides, appliances like the fridge, oven, and lights will still need to be used.
We recommend getting a generator that is at least 50% more powerful than you think you’ll need to have some breathing room.
Most of the time, you can determine what appliances the generator will require to operate by researching when you’ll need it.
If you plan to use a generator year-round, keep in mind that you’ll need different appliances at different times of the year. In particular, you’ll need air conditioners during warm weather and heaters during cold weather.
So, those are the few things you need to keep in mind before running a central air conditioner with a generator.
When selecting a generator for your home, always remember to size it according to power needs and the amount of usage you expect.
How To Calculate How Much Power An Air Conditioner Will Use?
The best way to calculate the power an air conditioner will use is by using a bit of simple math.
To do this, you’ll need to know air conditioner’s BTU (British Thermal Units) rating.
It can be very tough to determine how much electricity an air conditioner uses at its highest point.
While not super accurate, an accepted standard for these units allows you to do quick power calculations.
You can determine how much energy an air conditioner will use by looking at the BTU and removing one zero.
At peak operation, a 5000 BTU air conditioner will consume 500W of power.
Because its adequate cooling capacity is lower than that of an 8000 BTU unit.
The unit seldom goes above this because the difference in cooling capacity between the two units is far more significant.
However, air conditioners often require more power than what is just printed on their appliance.
Using 600W of energy to try and cool everything in an ample space or with open windows is possible with a 5000 BTU air conditioner.
If the unit is constantly running to try and maintain a comfortable temperature, it will use more power than the advertised amount.
You can use this rough power consumption estimation to help determine how big of a generator you’ll need to run the air conditioner comfortably.
When you want to be safe, always choose a slightly bigger generator than what you think you need.
This will ensure that the air conditioner will have no problem running during a power outage.
If looking for an air conditioner, find one with a high EER (energy efficiency rating).
When sizing a generator for a home, remember that you’ll need different appliances at different times of the year.
In particular, you’ll need air conditioners during warm weather and heaters during cold weather.
So, when selecting a generator for your home, always remember to size it according to power needs and the amount of usage you expect.
Final Thoughts
Air conditioners are a great way to cool home during the hot summer. However, they can be a bit of a power hog.
Make sure to research before selecting an air conditioner for your home. We hope this guide has helped you better understand how to size a generator for an air conditioner.
