What Size Generator To Run Air Conditioner? [Ultimate Guide]

If you want to learn “What Size Generator To Run Air Conditioner?” I got you covered. This article contains real-life examples and suggestions to determine the actual power output of the generator for your AC unit.

As summer approaches, keeping your home cool becomes a top priority. However, power outages can happen at any time, and having a reliable generator to power your air conditioner becomes essential.

As an engineer, I know that choosing the right generator size is critical to ensure your AC unit runs smoothly and efficiently.

In this article, we will delve into the factors that impact generator size and provide information about What Size Generator to Run a 2 – 5-ton AC Unit.

What Size Generator To Run Air Conditioner? -[2 – 5 Ton]

For a 2–5-ton AC unit, you need to consider the starting current and running wattage of the unit. A 2-ton AC unit requires a generator with a minimum capacity of 5,000 watts, while a 5-ton unit needs a generator with a capacity of at least 12,500 watts.

However, it’s always best to consult with an electrician or HVAC technician to ensure you choose the right size generator for your specific AC unit.

Here is a detailed data for the question:

AC Unit Size (Ton)	Generator Size (kW)
1.5 ton	5-6 kW
2 ton	6.5-8 kW
2.5 ton	8.5-10 kW
3 ton	10.5-12 kW
3.5 ton	12.5-14 kW
4 ton	14-15 kW
5 ton	16-18 kW

Generator Required to Run a 5-Ton AC Unit?

The generator size required to run a 5-ton AC unit is typically between 16-18 kW, but that is not always the case. There are many energy-efficient Ac units available in the market.

To calculate the generator size needed to power a 5-ton AC unit, you need to consider the starting AMPS and running watts of the AC.  

A 5-ton AC unit typically requires a starting current of around 50 amps and a running wattage of around 6,000 watts.

To provide stable power to the AC unit, the generator’s capacity should be at least three times the starting current of the unit.

So, for a 5-ton AC unit with a starting current of 50 amps, the generator’s capacity should be a minimum of 150 amps. This translates to a generator size of around 16-18 kW.

However, it’s worth noting that the actual generator size needed may vary depending on the specific AC unit’s starting current and running wattage.

For example, if your 5-ton AC unit has a higher starting current or running wattage, you may need a larger generator to power it.

If you are unsure, contact an HVAC technician to determine the appropriate generator size for your specific needs.

They can also help you factor in other considerations, such as the local climate, altitude, and other electrical loads on the generator.

Here are a few examples of generator sizes recommended for 5-ton AC units:

In summary, choosing the right size generator is essential to power a 5-ton AC unit effectively.

• Here is the detailed guide about what size generator to run a 5-ton AC?

Generator Required to Run a 3-Ton AC Unit?

The generator size required to power a 3-ton AC unit typically ranges between 10.5-12 kW.

To determine the appropriate generator size to power a 3-ton AC unit, it is important to consider the unit’s starting current and running wattage.

A 3-ton AC unit typically requires a starting current of around 30-40 amps and a running wattage of around 3,600-4,800 watts.

To provide sufficient power to the AC unit, the generator capacity should be at least three times the starting current of the unit.

For a 3-ton AC unit with a starting current of 30-40 amps, the minimum generator capacity required would be around 90-120 amps, which translates to a generator size of around 10.5-12 kW.

However, it’s worth noting that the actual generator size required may vary depending on the specific AC unit’s starting current and running wattage.

Factors such as the local climate, altitude, and other electrical loads on the generator should also be taken into consideration.

Here are some examples of generator sizes recommended for 3-ton AC units:

In summary, choosing the right generator size is crucial for powering a 3-ton AC unit.

• Here is the detailed guide about what size generator to run a 3-ton AC?

Generator Required to Run a 2-Ton AC Unit?

The generator size required to power a 2-ton AC unit ranges between 7-8 kW, depending on the specific unit’s starting current and running wattage.

A 2-ton AC unit typically requires a starting current of around 20-25 amps and a running wattage of around 2,400-3,200 watts. To determine the appropriate generator size, it is important to choose a generator with a capacity of at least three times the unit’s starting current, which would be around 60-75 amps.

Here are some examples of generator sizes recommended for 2-ton AC units:

Always consult with an expert to determine the most appropriate size based on your specific needs.

• Here is the detailed guide about what size generator to run a 3-ton AC?

How to Determine the Power Requirements of a 2-5-Ton AC Unit?

1. Determine the AC’s Tonnage:

The tonnage of an AC unit refers to its cooling capacity and is typically indicated in the model number. For example, a 2-ton AC unit has a cooling capacity of 24,000 BTUs per hour.

2. Find Running Watts:

The running wattage of an AC unit is the amount of power it requires to run continuously. This information can usually be found on the unit’s data plate (Energy Labelling) or in the manufacturer’s specifications.

3. Find the Starting Current:

The starting current is the initial surge of power required to start the AC unit’s compressor. This information can also be found on the data plate or in the manufacturer’s specifications.

4. Calculate the Total Power Requirement:

To calculate the total power requirement, you’ll need to add the running wattage and starting current.

For example, if a 3-ton AC unit has a running wattage of 3,500 watts and a starting current of 30 amps, the total power requirement would be 4,100 watts (3,500 watts + 600 watts). Motor-driven appliances use a bit of an extra burst of power to overcome inertia.

5. Choose the Right Size Generator:

Based on the above-mentioned data, as a rule of thumb, the generator’s capacity should be at least three times the AC unit’s starting current. For example, a 3-ton AC unit with a starting current of 30 amps would require a generator with a capacity of at least 90 amps.

Best Generators for 2 – 5-ton AC Units?

I have prepared 3 detailed tables containing the best possible generators for 2-5 ton AC units.

Top 5 Generators for 5-Ton AC Units

Generator Brand and Model	Running Wattage	Starting Current	Surge Power	Recommended for 5-Ton AC Unit?
Generac GP15000E	15,000	45A	22,500W	Yes
DuroMax XP12000EH	9,500	39.5A	12,000W	Yes
Westinghouse WGen12000	12,000	50A	15,000W	Yes
CAT RP12000E	12,000	50A	15,000W	Yes
Champion 100891	8,000	33.3A	10,000W	Yes (for energy-efficient AC)

Top 5 Generators for 2-Ton AC Units

Generator Brand and Model	Running Wattage	Starting Current	Surge Power	Recommended for 2-Ton AC Unit?
Honda EU2200i	1,800	16.7A	2,200W	Yes
WEN 56200i	1,600	13.3A	2,000W	Yes
Westinghouse iGen2500	2,200	18.3A	2,500W	Yes
Generac GP2200i	1,700	14.1A	2,200W	Yes
Pulsar PG2000iSN	1,600	13.3A	2,000W	Yes

Top 5 Generators for 3-Ton AC Units

Generator Brand and Model	Running Wattage	Starting Current	Surge Power	Recommended for 3-Ton AC Unit?
Champion 100519	8,500	44.8A	10,625W	Yes
Generac GP5500	5,500	28.8A	8,125W	Yes (for energy-efficient AC)
Westinghouse WGen7500	7,500	31.2A	9,375W	Yes
DuroMax XP5500EH	5,500	22.9A	6,875W	Yes (for energy-efficient AC)
CAT RP6500E	6,500	27A	8,125W	Yes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)