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Battling scorching summer heat in your RV can quickly transform an adventure into a miserable experience. Finding the best air conditioner for RV use isn’t merely a luxury—it’s essential for comfort during memorable road trips.
After comparing notes with seasoned travelers and conducting extensive research, I’ve learned that selecting the right cooling system hinges on understanding BTU requirements, power consumption, and installation constraints.
Whether you’re dry camping in remote locations or staying at full-hookup sites, your ideal RV air conditioner needs to strike a balance between cooling efficiency and energy usage.
If you’re in a hurry, the Honda EU3000IS is my top choice for the best overall generator for RV air conditioning.
Table of Contents
Best generators for RV air conditioners
| Make & Model (Paid links) | Wattage (Start/Running) | Weight (lbs.) | Volume (dB) | Price |
| Honda EU3000IS | 3000, 2800 | 134 | 58 | $$$ |
| WEN 56475 | 4750, 3750 | 112 | 67 | $ |
| Champion 4000 | 4000, 3500 | 82 | 64 | $ |
| DuroMax XP4400EH | 4400, 3500 | 128 | 69 | $ |
| Westinghouse WGen6000 | 7500, 6000 | 183 | 72 | $ |
| WEN 56380i | 3800, 3400 | 99 | 57 | $ |
Best overall generator – Honda EU3000IS
Honda has an outstanding reputation for building some of the world’s best generators. Their units are among the quietest on the market and are renowned for their ease of operation and excellent reliability.
Honda Power Equipment EU3000IS 3000W 120V Portable Home Gas Power Generator
- Powerful Performance: Delivers 3000 watts of power, perfect for home backup or camping needs
- Efficient Fuel Consumption: Runs up to 20 hours on a full 3.4-gallon tank
- Easy Start: Features an electric start for hassle-free operation
This generator is the most expensive on my list and remains the go-to choice if the price tag isn’t an issue. The cost is due to Honda being the largest and most reliable generator company, and the EU3000IS is an excellent example.
This machine can easily power a 13,500 BTU air conditioner, providing ample power to charge your batteries.
An internal microprocessor regulates a 2,800-watt power output. This ensures that your sensitive electronics are always safe, with zero chance of blowing out mobile phones, microwaves, tablets, and other devices.
Noise output is excellent, ranging from 49 to 58 decibels. This is thanks to an onboard muffler which allows little more than a quiet hum while in use.
Another strength of the Honda EU3000SI is its fuel efficiency. It can keep you powered for up to 20 hours. Its 3.4-gallon tank is enough for most RV owners.
Your RV air conditioner is in safe hands with this generator, with clean and consistent electricity. I also like that when the generator detects low oil, it automatically shuts down to avoid any issues.
Best budget generator – WEN 56475
If you’re searching for a reliable generator to power your air conditioner (and all your other devices) but are on a tight budget, I highly recommend the WEN 56475.
WEN 56475 4750-Watt Portable Generator with Electric Start and Wheel Kit, Yellow and Black
- Digital readout helps manage oil changes and maintenance schedule
- Features electric start, low-oil shutdown, an automatic voltage regulator and overload protection to…
- CARB and EPA III meet requirements for sale in all 50 states
This popular model is the most budget-friendly option on our list, yet it still provides ample power to run your AC unit while camping. It has an electrical start but runs on gasoline.
It has an impressive 4750 watts for start-up and a running rate of 3750 watts. That is ample for most of your RV needs, and you’ll also have some cash left over to purchase other RV accessories.
This WEN model features an electric starter, sturdy wheels, and a collapsible handle for easy transportation.
It’s a very fuel-efficient unit that can run for up to ten hours on a single tank of gas. The tank is enormous, at a whopping 4 gallons.
Although it may not have as many plug-in options as the Champion 3400, its spark arrestor and voltage regulator will protect your devices.
Safety is assured with a low-oil shutdown and voltage/overload protection. It also features a very cool spark arrestor, which prevents the potential ignition of any nearby flammable debris.
Thousands of satisfied customers praise the quietness of this generator, its user-friendly controls, and its reliability.
With its solid warranty, you receive two years of support from technicians in approximately 1,000 locations across the United States.
Best fuel economy generator – Champion 100302 4000
The Champion 4000 generator is a worthy contender for the best generator for RV air conditioners. With more power than the Champion 3400, it is also more fuel-efficient.
Champion Power Equipment 4000-Watt RV Ready Open Frame Inverter
- Advanced Open Frame Inverter Design: 50% quieter and 20% lighter than a traditional Champion…
- Quiet Technology and Extended Run Time: 64 dBA is great for RVs, tailgating, your next project or…
- Clean electricity for sensitive electronics: RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A…
This generator provides 4000 watts at start-up and 3500 watts while running, ensuring your electrical devices operate safely. This means that even more powerful air conditioners will have enough juice, with plenty left over for all other gadgets in your recreational vehicle.
Champion claims up to 17 hours of use on one fuel tank (at a 25% capacity), allowing you and your family to enjoy worry-free camping trips, regardless of your plans.
In addition to improved fuel efficiency and a larger capacity, this generator has more features than its younger brother, the Champion 3400. These include a useful USB adapter, quieter operation levels, and an impressive eco mode, which improves fuel economy. Considering all this, it’s arguably the most technologically advanced generator on my list.
Fans of this model argue that it meets all of the average RV’s power needs for a very modest purchase price.
One drawback (which keeps the price down) is that the Champion 4000 features a manual pull-start instead of a push-button starter. Don’t let this deter you; getting started with a simple cord pull is still manageable.
Another reason for the low price is that the wheels are sold separately. You can get some if needed, but many owners prefer to save a few bucks by not buying them.
This one produces a maximum of 64dB, about the same volume as people speaking at a distance of 23 feet.
Overall, the Champion 4000 generator is difficult to beat in terms of fuel economy. It has over 4,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.6-star rating (as of the time of writing).
Best dual fuel generator – DuroMax XP4400EH
For RV owners interested only in dual-fuel generators, the DuroMax XP4400EH could be the ideal choice, as it can run on both propane and gasoline.
DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator-4400 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Electric…
- Plenty of Power – With 4,400 starting watts and 3,500 running watts, this unit can handle heavy…
- Dual Fuel Technology – This generator runs on gasoline or propane, giving you the freedom and…
- Powerful Engine – The DuroMax 210cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty of power to…
This generator is priced very competitively, considering that it comes with an electric starter and wheels for easy transportation.
DuroMax claims that in gas mode, users can enjoy approximately nine hours of runtime, and in propane mode, it will go even longer.
Startup power is rated at 4,400 watts, then reduces to 3,500 running watts. It is adequate for running RV AC systems and other electrical appliances.
Another significant benefit of DuroMax is the option to attach up to 20 gallons of propane. This fuel source is cheaper and more convenient, and, in my opinion, is the future of RV generators.
Noise levels are reasonable but may be too loud for some RV owners. It has been described as having the same volume as a modern lawn mower. If noise is your primary concern, consider the WEN 56380i featured later in this article.
Best high-wattage generator – Westinghouse WGen6000
Do you have enough power to run your AC unit with the generators mentioned above? Would you also like to use your generator to power your home in case of a blackout or power outage?
If capacity concerns you, you should consider the Westinghouse WGen6000. This fantastic generator has the highest wattage of all the machines on my list.
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 7500 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator, Transfer Switch…
- 6000 Running Watts and 7500 Peak Watts; Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 13 Hours of Run Time on a…
- Features Two GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) 5–20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle and…
- Plug-and-Play Comes With Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started…
With this powerful generator, your AC unit will undoubtedly run smoothly alongside your other electrical devices. This model has a start-up wattage of 7,500 watts and operates at 6,000 watts under regular use.
Considering it is a gasoline generator, the powerful 420cc 4-stroke engine has a decent running time of approximately 13 hours on a single 25-liter fuel tank.
Fans of the Westinghouse appreciate the smooth electric start-up and the rugged wheels, which perform well on virtually any surface.
On a negative note, this generator isn’t the quietest on my list, but considering its power, it’s a small price to pay for such a powerful machine.
Despite its wattage, the Westinghouse generator remains very portable and doesn’t occupy much space. It is, however, quite heavy at 174 pounds.
At the time of writing, Westinghouse generators come with a 3-year limited service, labor, and parts coverage with lifetime technical support from their nationwide customer service and support network.
Best quiet generator – WEN 56380i
WEN has an excellent reputation among RV owners and makes some of the most budget-friendly generators on the market. Many outstanding reviews from happy customers demonstrate that you don’t need to spend $ 3,000 to power your RV gadgets.
Sale
WEN 3800-Watt Inverter Generator, Electric Start, RV-Ready, Portable and Super Quiet with Fuel…
- Extremely quiet operation minimizes noise; EPA III and CARB Compliant
- 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts with a half-load runtime of…
- Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor…
The WEN 56380i’s power output is very respectable, at 3800 peak watts and 3400 rated watts. This is adequate to power your RV appliances, including a 13,500 BTU air conditioning unit. The WEN 56380i is also a great option, offering approximately 8.5 hours of runtime at half load.
I am a big fan of the fuel shutoff feature, which maximizes the generator’s lifespan by utilizing the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down.
It is specially designed for RVers and has a dedicated output for plugging it into your travel trailer. Like all of the “gennies” on this list, it’s an inverter model that can be trusted to charge sensitive electronic devices.
Peace lovers will gravitate to the WEN as it is very quiet. At just 57dB, you can camp without annoying your nature-loving neighbors. If you didn’t know, the US national park and campsite noise regulation is 65 dB.
The unit has two three-prong 120V receptacles, one AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, one 5V USB port, and a digital load/fuel display.
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Things to Consider When Buying a Generator for Your RV Air Conditioner.
- Choosing between a conventional and an inverter generator
- Power output
- Portable vs. Permanent
- Noise levels
- Fuel consumption
- Price
Conventional vs. Inverter Generator
Generators can power all appliances and devices in RVs when grid electricity isn’t available.
My RV fanatic friend John has been through a few generators in his travels, so he says choosing the right one is critical to trouble-free RV traveling.
The two main generator options are inverter and standard models.
More recently, inverter generators have gained popularity. Let’s have a quick look at the differences.
Inverter generators are usually smaller, lighter, and quieter than conventional ones. They are quite simply generators with built-in inverters.
They can convert DC power into AC power at high frequencies, thereby preventing power fluctuations, which makes them superior to standard generators.
Both generator types are available in various configurations with different power outputs and fuel sources.
The main difference between them is efficiency. Conventional generators operate at a constant speed, making them reliable; however, they are unfortunately non-adjustable. This means that they make more noise and consume more fuel.
Inverter generators allow you to adjust their speed depending on the amount of power you need. This means they are quieter, more fuel-efficient, and have a smaller carbon footprint.
Power Output
One of your primary considerations should be the power your generator needs to produce.
For example, to power a 15,000-BTU air conditioner, you must ensure your generator can produce enough power.
Devices such as microwave ovens and air conditioning units require a substantial amount of power. If you want to run them regularly, check that the generator has a sufficient wattage output.
Portable vs. Permanent Generators
All of the generators reviewed in this article are portable. Portable generators are the best for camping, tailgating, or general RV use.
If, after your research, you prefer a permanent generator, I recommend the Generac 70432 Home Generator (Paid link).
A permanent generator is installed directly onto an RV and connected to an onboard fuel source or backup battery. Professionals must fit these devices, and they are more expensive.
Noise
If noise is one of your primary considerations when choosing a generator, you’ll be pleased that this was one of our main factors in this article.
Many RV parks have regulations regarding the amount of noise that is tolerated. Most RV owners prefer not to have their peace disturbed by a roaring generator.
All the generators here take noise regulations into account and are quiet enough for any RV park. RV park noise regulations are based on decibel levels at a set distance.
Fuel Consumption
Another primary consideration when choosing the perfect generator is the type of fuel it requires to operate.
Fuel consumption will depend on the load you place on the device. Running multiple devices will deplete the fuel faster.
Price
Value for money is another factor I considered when compiling this list of generators. If you’re in a hurry, the most affordable generator for powering your air conditioner is the WEN 56475 (Paid link). Of course, cheaper isn’t always better, so I have not included some of the low-quality Chinese models.
FAQ
What size generator is needed to run an RV air conditioner?
Most RV air conditioners require a generator with a 2,000- to 3,500-watt capacity. A typical 13,500 BTU unit requires approximately 1,500-2,000 watts to start up and around 600-1,000 watts to maintain operation.
I’ve found that a 3,000-watt generator strikes the sweet spot—enough power to kick-start your AC and run a few other essentials, such as lights or a coffee maker. If you’re planning to boondock regularly, don’t skimp here. My neighbor tried running his 15,000 BTU unit on a smaller generator last summer and kept tripping the breaker during those scorching afternoon heat waves.
What power output is required to run an RV air conditioner?
Your RV air conditioner requires two distinct power levels: starting watts and running watts. Most 13,500 BTU units (the standard size) draw around 1,500-2,000 watts during startup but only 600-1,000 watts once running. This surge at startup is why many campers face frustrating generator shutdowns.
From my experience testing various setups last season, you’ll want at least 2,000 running watts for a single AC unit. Remember that hot days require more power than cooler ones, and older units are less efficient. I’ve found that adding about a 20% buffer to your calculated needs saves a lot of headaches when temperatures climb above 90°F.
What type of generator is best for an RV air conditioner?
Inverter generators are hands-down the best choice for RV air conditioners. After trying both conventional and inverter models, I’ve found that inverters like the Honda EU3000IS or WEN 56380i provide the clean, stable power your AC needs without the noise complaints from neighboring campers.
Most RV parks have noise restrictions around 60dB, making bulky construction-style generators impractical. From my experience, a 3,000-watt inverter generator hits the sweet spot—powerful enough to handle your air conditioner’s startup surge while still being quiet enough for campground use.
If budget is tight, the Champion 100302 offers excellent fuel economy, while the WEN 56380i is remarkably quiet at just 57 dB. For those seeking dual-fuel flexibility, the DuroMax XP4400EH allows you to switch between gas and propane, depending on what’s available during your travels.
What type of fuel is best for recreational vehicle generators?
From my years of RV travel, I’ve found that gasoline generators, such as the Honda EU3000IS and WEN models, offer the best combination of availability and performance for most weekend trips. They’re easy to fuel up anywhere and provide reliable power for your AC. For longer adventures, the DuroMax XP4400EH’s dual-fuel capability is worth considering, as it allows you to switch to propane when needed.
Propane burns cleaner than gas and doesn’t go stale in your tank, making it ideal for less frequent travelers or those storing their RV between trips. While diesel provides the highest efficiency at 138,700 BTUs per gallon, none of the portable generators I recommend use it. Your camping style should guide your choice—opt for gas for convenience, propane for storage stability, or dual-fuel for the best of both worlds.
How do I connect a portable generator to my RV?
Connecting your generator to your RV is typically a straightforward process. Like the Champion models, most units have an RV-ready outlet that directly accepts your power cord. For generators without this connection (like some WEN models), you’ll need a “dogbone” adapter that converts between plug types. I always place my generator on level ground, approximately 10 feet from my RV, with the exhaust pointing away from the RV. Start the generator first and let it run for 2-3 minutes to stabilize. Then, plug in your RV power cord. If you’re at a crowded campground, consider using a generator-specific grounding rod for added safety; however, most modern units with built-in GFCI protection work fine without one.
How do I maintain an RV Generator?
Regular maintenance keeps your RV generator running for years, not just months. I always check oil levels before each use, run the generator monthly for 20-30 minutes with a load (even during storage), and use the fuel shutoff feature on models like the WEN 56380i to prevent gas from sitting in the carburetor. This simple routine prevented the fuel system issues that caused my first generator to fail.
Seasonal maintenance makes a huge difference, too. I change the oil every 50-100 hours (roughly once per camping season), clean or replace the air filter when it becomes visibly dirty, and swap the spark plugs annually. Storage position matters—after watching my camping buddy’s generator leak oil from being transported on its side, I built a simple stabilizing box in my RV’s compartment. Most manufacturers, such as Honda and Champion, recommend storing generators upright in a dry, ventilated space to prevent fuel and oil from contaminating parts that shouldn’t be touched.
How long will my generator last?
With proper maintenance, most quality generators, such as the Honda EU3000IS or the Champion models I’ve recommended, will deliver 10,000 to 30,000 hours of reliable service. Practically, that’s about 15-20 years of weekend camping trips or 7-10 years of full-time RV living. The Honda units consistently outlast the competition—I’ve met several full-timers still running their EU models after 12+ years, which explains their higher price tag.
Your maintenance habits dramatically affect longevity. The budget-friendly WEN models typically last 5-8 years with regular care, while the DuroMax and Westinghouse units fall in between. Running your generator at 50-75% capacity (rather than maxed out) significantly extends engine life. I’ve found that performing oil changes every 50 hours, rather than the recommended 100 hours, can add years to a generator’s lifespan, regardless of the brand.
For perspective, my neighbor’s neglected Champion died after just 3 years, while mine is still purring along after 7 years of regular oil changes and careful storage.
What outlets are required for RV generators?
Most RV-ready generators, such as the Champion 100302 and WEN 56380i, have a TT-30R outlet that matches your RV’s power cord. This 30-amp, 120-volt connection accommodates most standard RV electrical systems without the need for adapters. For the other models I’ve recommended, you’ll likely need what RVers call a “dogbone” adapter—I keep two in my storage compartment just in case.
The Honda EU3000IS features a 30-amp locking outlet (NEMA L5-30R), which requires a simple adapter to connect to your RV’s plug. The Westinghouse WGen6000, designed for home backup, has a 4-prong 30-amp outlet (NEMA L14-30R) with a different RV adapter. A small collection of adapters—particularly a standard 15-amp household to 30-amp RV adapter—saves headaches when your preferred campsite only has standard outlets. Remember that smaller outlets limit your available power, so you might need to run fewer appliances simultaneously.
If you’re looking for a quiet whole-house generator, consider checking out this article.
