Best Generator Size for a 30 Amp RV Air Conditioner

• A 3,000-watt portable generator is usually the right choice to run a 30 amp RV air conditioner and a few other essentials.
• Air conditioners have a higher starting wattage than running wattage, always check both numbers before picking a generator.
• Extra appliances in your RV can push your power needs higher, so it’s smart to plan for some margin.
• Not all generators are equally quiet or fuel-efficient. Pay attention to noise ratings and fuel type if you camp in tight spaces or for long periods.

If you want to run a 30 amp RV air conditioner, you’ll probably need a generator rated for at least 3,000 running watts. Some units can get by with less, but you risk tripping breakers or shutting down your AC if you underestimate power needs. Double-check your air conditioner’s starting and running wattage, add up the other essentials you plan to power, and pick a generator with some breathing room. 3,000 to 3,500 watts is the safe middle ground for most people.

Understanding RV Air Conditioner Power Needs

Every RV air conditioner has two wattage numbers you need to know: starting watts and running watts. Most 13,500 BTU units on a typical 30 amp RV need about 2,800 to 3,000 watts to start, and 1,300 to 1,700 watts to run. These numbers shift a bit based on age, efficiency, and any upgrades (like soft start devices), but this is the ballpark.

Sometimes you can check the AC’s physical sticker for these numbers, but I have seen models where you have to call the manufacturer or dig through documentation, it’s never as simple as it should be.

Starting power is always much higher. The compressor pulls a big surge at the beginning, dropping back once it kicks in. If your generator can’t handle the surge, it either stalls, overloads, or the AC never starts. That’s usually where people go wrong when they try to downsize the generator. Running power is what you’ll see once everything’s humming along.

How Many Watts Can a 30 Amp RV Plug Use?

Easy math: a 30 amp RV outlet at 120V supports up to 3,600 watts. But your AC alone, at startup, takes up to 3,000 of those. That does not leave much for a fridge, microwave, lights, or battery charger.

You should avoid overloading a 30 amp RV circuit. Over time, pushing your system too hard can wear down the wiring, trip breakers, or damage sensitive electronics.

How to Calculate Your Generator Size

1. Find the running and starting wattage for your AC (usually listed on a sticker or manual).
2. Add the running watts for the rest of your must-have RV gear: fridge, charger, TV, microwave, phone charger.
3. Add a buffer of at least 10-15 percent on top so your generator doesn’t run at 100 percent load the entire time.

Here’s a simple table:

Combine the starting watt for the biggest appliance (the AC), and add the running watts for what you expect to run at the same time (fridge, lights, maybe one more thing). Do not just add all starting watts together. Only one surge happens at a time when you start each item separately.

Recommended Generator Sizes

I know some manufacturers brag that their units will run a 13,500 BTU AC with just 2,200 watts. Maybe with a soft start kit, maybe under perfect conditions. For most people who turn on an AC and want to use a coffee maker or microwave after, around 3,000 watts is what you want.

Rushing to buy a tiny generator leads to a cranky camping experience. People who bought smaller units either regret it or end up buying a second generator to run in parallel.

Minimum Size for a 30 Amp RV AC

• 2,500 watt generator: Risky. Usually not enough for both the AC and anything else. Might work with a soft start, new AC unit, and nothing else running.
• 3,000 watt generator: Good fit. Covers the AC, fridge, and some lights with a little margin.
• 3,500 watt generator: Comfortable. Plenty of margin, can handle extra surge from a microwave or toaster oven.
• 4,000+ watt generator: For people who run everything plus extra, or if you really care about headroom and do not want to think about it.

If you expect to run multiple appliances at once, go bigger. If AC is the only big load and you manage power carefully, 3,000 watts works.

What About Soft Start Kits?

Soft start kits let your RV AC compressor ramp up more gently, lowering the starting surge down to 1,600-2,000 watts. You can see the appeal. This sometimes means you could use a 2,200 watt inverter generator, which is quiet and light. But not everyone wants to add aftermarket modules or void warranties. Also, during a heatwave, the soft start may still pull a bit extra, keep that in mind.

I have met RV owners who swear by soft start kits, but I have also seen them fail right when needed most. If reliability is your thing, over-sizing your generator feels safer than trusting extra gadgets.

Parallel Generators: A Real-World Trick

Some smaller inverter generators let you combine two same-size units to double your output. For example, two 2,200W generators linked in parallel. This is nice because you can use one for regular tasks, or both when you fire up the AC. But you will have double the maintenance and twice the storage. It’s not my favorite setup, but it is a workaround for people who already own a smaller generator.

Fuel Type Choices

Most portable RV generators run on gasoline, with a few dual-fuel units that also run on propane. Here are the main differences:

I personally like dual-fuel generators for RVs, especially if you camp off-grid often, but pure gas models are still more common and sometimes cheaper.

Noise: The Feature Most People Overlook

The loudness of portable generators is easy to miss when shopping online. Most inverter models run 50-60 dB at a 25 percent load, about normal conversation. Traditional open-frame models can get much louder, up to 70-80 dB, which is about as loud as standing near a busy road. In some parks or campgrounds, loud generators are not allowed after dark or even during the day.

Campers who annoy neighbors with a loud generator get dirty looks, sometimes actual complaints. Do everyone a favor and pick a quiet machine if you can.

If you want peace and quiet, pick an inverter-style generator under 60 decibels at moderate loads. This also means you have to go up in price, usually, but it is worth it for a better experience. Read the specs for the “quietest” in the range you need.

My Take on Best Units Right Now

I don’t have sponsorships, so this is just from market research. These generators work well for powering most 30 amp RV air conditioners (13,500 or 15,000 BTU):

• Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter: Reliable and quiet. Runs on both gas and propane. 3,400 starting, 3,100 running watts. Around 60 dB. Compact, low hassle. Not super cheap but solid value.
• Yamaha EF3000iSEB: Ultra-reliable, low noise (53-60 dB), 3,000 running watts with a 3,500-watt boost for AC starting. Fuel efficient for longer boondocking trips.
• Westinghouse iGen4500: A bit bulkier but lots of power: 4,500 peak, 3,700 running watts, quiet (52 dB), remote electric start, and nice digital readout. Wheels for easy moving. Extra margin lets you run more appliances at once if needed.
• Honda EU3000iS: Pricey, but famous for quiet operation (50 dB), long lifespan, and rarely missing a beat. 3,000 watts starting and running. Probably overkill for a solo RVer, but if you intend to keep it for 10+ years, the upfront cost may pay off.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a 2,000 watt generator for my 30 amp RV AC?

Sometimes, but it is not ideal. A few smaller AC units (11,000 BTUs or less) with a soft start may work, but 2,000 watts is right at the margin for standard 30 amp rigs. I would only try it if you already own the generator and are prepared to be careful with your loads.

Will using a generator that is too small hurt my AC?

Repeated low voltage or brownouts can damage your AC’s compressor. If the generator is undersized and voltage drops while the compressor is running, you could reduce lifespan or cause early failure. You also risk damaging sensitive electronics elsewhere in the RV.

How much fuel does a 3,000 watt generator burn per hour?

An inverter generator under moderate load (like running an AC and a fridge) often burns about 0.2-0.3 gallons of gas per hour, less if the load drops, more if you push it hard, or if it is an older model. If you’re camping boondock style for a few days, expect to use 1-2 gallons a day if you don’t run it all night.

Should I worry about altitude or hot weather?

Yes. Generators lose some power at higher altitudes and on hot days. A generator that barely covers your needs at sea level may stumble at 6,000 feet or on a hot July weekend. Always give yourself extra margin.

Ways to Reduce Air Conditioner Power Needs

If you want to keep generator size, and weight, down, there are a few tweaks:

• Install a soft start module (some require pro installation).
• Add thermal window covers or insulated curtains to keep temps down.
• Try running the AC early to bring temps down before the real heat.
• Limit use of other big appliances while the AC compressor is running.
• Upgrade to LED lights and efficient electronics everywhere else.

Quick Generator Feature Checklist

• Rated for at least 3,000 running watts
• Handles surge to 3,500+ watts
• Has a TT-30R or L5-30R plug for direct RV connection, or use a dogbone adapter from 120V outlets if needed
• Inverter model for quiet operation and stable power (protects sensitive electronics)
• Dual fuel benefits if you camp in remote areas
• Noise rating under 60 dB at 25-50 percent load
• Wheels or handles for easier moving

I like to keep things simple: don’t cheap out, get the right size the first time, and always add a little room for growth or very hot weather. Even if you travel alone and think “I only need the AC and fridge,” unexpected situations happen. The goal is reliable comfort, not frustration.

I have camped with people who brought underpowered generators, and the constant juggling gets old fast, flip this off, turn that on, check the meter, worry if you forgot something. It is worth paying a little more for peace of mind.

Final Word on Sizing for 30 Amp RV AC

If you want a simple answer for “what generator do I need for a 30 amp RV air conditioner?” pick a solid 3,000-3,500 watt inverter generator. You’ll get your AC running every time, plus room to power a few extras. If you want to future-proof, or add a microwave or toaster oven, consider the 4,500-watt range. Save the tiny units for fleet foot travelers or backup only.