Why It Matters (A Lot More Than You Think)
Imagine this: it’s 38 degrees outside. You’re parked somewhere remote, flies are dive-bombing your sausage sizzle, and your caravan feels like a portable oven.
You go to switch on the air conditioner. But instead of a blast of cool air… nothing. Your generator can’t handle the load.
That’s not just annoying. That’s the kind of heatstroke-inducing frustration that ruins trips.
So if you’re running an air conditioner in your caravan, choosing the right generator isn’t optional — it’s survival.
Caravan Air Conditioners: Power-Hungry Beasts
Air conditioners are notoriously greedy when it comes to power. Even the newer, energy-efficient models still need a decent hit of juice to get going.
There are two types of power you need to understand:
- Running Watts – The power it takes to keep your A/C running.
- Starting Watts – The short burst of power it needs to start up, especially to kick the compressor into gear.
Starting watts can be double or even triple the running watts. That’s why you can’t just look at the “normal” power usage. It’s the surge that catches people out.
Step 1: Know Your Air Conditioner’s Needs
Let’s break down some popular caravan A/C units and their typical power demands:
| Model | Running Watts | Starting Watts |
| Dometic Harrier Inverter | 1500W | 2000W |
| Air Command Ibis 4 | 1600W | 2600W |
| Truma Aventa Comfort | 1700W | 2800W |
| Older Non-Inverter Models | 1800W | 3000–3500W |
If you’re unsure about your model, check the sticker on the unit or dig out the manual. Don’t guess. Guessing is how generators get fried.
What Size Camping Generator Do I Need?
Step 2: Choose a Generator That Can Handle the Load
Now that you know what your air conditioner needs, it’s time to match it with a generator.
Here’s the golden rule: Always go bigger than you think.
If your A/C needs 2000W to run and 2800W to start, don’t buy a 2200W generator. It’ll be running flat-out all the time, and it may still choke when the compressor kicks in.
Aim for a generator with at least 20% more capacity than your starting watts.
Recommended Generator Sizes
| Air Conditioner Type | Recommended Generator Size |
| Inverter A/C (e.g. Harrier) | 2000–2400W inverter generator |
| Medium Demand (e.g. Ibis 4) | 2400–3000W inverter generator |
| High Demand (older models) | 3000–3500W inverter generator |
Step 3: Don’t Forget Your Other Appliances
It’s not just the air con, is it?
You might be running:
- A fridge
- Microwave
- Coffee machine
- TV
- Lights
- Charging your devices
All of these nibble at your power budget. Some — like a microwave — take a big bite.
So factor in your total expected load, not just the air conditioner. You might need to stagger usage or size up your generator.
Why Inverter Generators Are the Smart Choice
Could you just buy a cheaper, open-frame 3500W genny from your local hardware store?
Technically yes. But you’ll regret it.
Here’s why inverter generators are better:
- Clean power: Essential for electronics. Inverters produce smooth, stable electricity.
- Fuel-efficient: They only run as hard as needed.
- Quiet: You won’t sound like you’re running a construction site.
- Compact: Easier to store, move, and set up.
Yes, they cost more. But if you want to keep your A/C running and not blow up your TV, inverter is the way to go.
What Is a Soft Start Device — And Should You Use One?
A soft start is a small device that reduces the startup surge needed by your A/C. It’s like giving your generator a helping hand.
Pros:
- Lets you use a smaller generator
- Protects the A/C compressor
- Reduces risk of overloading
If you’re trying to run your A/C on a 2000W generator, adding a soft start might make the difference.
It’s not magic — but it’s close.
Popular Generator Brands That Can Handle the Job
Here’s a shortlist of top-rated generators that are caravan A/C-ready:
Honda EU22i
- 2200W max output
- Whisper-quiet
- Proven reliability
- Can run many inverter A/Cs with soft start
Yamaha EF2400iS
- 2400W continuous
- Slightly heavier
- Powerful and solid
Cromtech Outback 2400
- Budget-friendly
- Reliable performer
- Great for A/C with soft start
Gentrax 3500W Inverter
- Bang-for-buck option
- Enough power for most air conditioners
- Slightly louder but affordable
Can You Run an A/C Off a Battery + Inverter Setup?
Short answer: not really, unless you have a seriously high-end lithium setup with big inverters and massive capacity.
Running an A/C unit off batteries might work for 30–60 minutes, but it’s not practical for full-day cooling.
For now, petrol or dual-fuel generators remain king when it comes to caravan air conditioning.
Other Features Worth Considering
When shopping for a generator, don’t just look at the wattage. Check for:
- Noise level (below 60 dB is ideal)
- Fuel tank size & runtime
- Weight & portability
- Remote start (luxury, but nice)
- Parallel connection support (combine two smaller units)
These little things make a big difference on the road.
Using Your Generator Safely
A few quick reminders for safe use:
- Never run a generator indoors or inside your annex — carbon monoxide kills.
- Place on a flat, well-ventilated surface
- Keep fuel away from ignition sources
- Turn off appliances before starting or stopping the generator
- Use a good quality extension lead rated for the load
Tips for Efficient Power Use
- Pre-cool your caravan in the morning before the heat hits.
- Shut curtains and windows during the day.
- Use fans to circulate air – they draw minimal power.
- Only run high-power devices one at a time
Remember: even with a big generator, smart power habits help you stretch fuel, reduce noise, and stay comfortable.
Real World Scenarios
Scenario 1: The Minimalist Traveller
- A/C: Dometic Harrier
- Generator: Honda EU22i
- Outcome: Smooth sailing, thanks to low startup surge and soft start support.
Scenario 2: The Overloaded Weekend Warrior
- A/C: Ibis 4
- Generator: 2000W cheapie
- Outcome: Generator overloads every time the compressor kicks in. Microwave use impossible. Frustration guaranteed.
Scenario 3: The Smart Setup
- A/C: Ibis 4 with soft start
- Generator: Cromtech 2400
- Outcome: Everything works. Occasional load juggling needed, but totally manageable.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Cut Corners
Your generator is the beating heart of your caravan’s cooling system.
Go too small, too cheap, or too noisy, and your road trips will be hotter, louder, and more stressful than they need to be.
Buy quality. Size up a little. Learn your A/C’s needs. And you’ll stay cool, comfortable, and caravan-happy — wherever the road takes you.
Preparing Your Camping Generator For Storage
Dometic Harrier Caravan Air Conditioner
