How many watts does an RV rooftop AC use?
Updated
Running watts
1,300 W
Starting watts
2,800 W
Energy per day
10.4 kWh
An RV rooftop AC typically draws about 1,300 watts while running and up to 2,800 watts for a second or two when the motor starts. At about 8 h of use a day, that is roughly 10.4 kWh per day. These are typical values from generator wattage charts: the label on your own appliance (or its EnergyGuide sticker) gives the exact figure.
What size generator do I need for an RV rooftop AC?
Plan for at least 3,360 W: 2,800 W to get through the start-up surge, plus a 20% margin so the generator never runs flat out. Of the common sizes, a 3,500 W generator is the smallest that fits.
| Generator | Can it run an RV rooftop AC? |
|---|---|
| 2,000 W | No |
| 3,500 W | Yes |
| 5,000 W | Yes |
| 7,500 W | Yes |
| 10,000 W | Yes |
| 15,000 W | Yes |
How long will a power station run an RV rooftop AC?
Running continuously at 1,300 W, assuming 85% of the battery is usable. The station's AC output must also handle the 2,800 W start-up surge.
| Battery capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Wh | about 39 min |
| 2,000 Wh | about 1 h |
| 3,600 Wh | about 2 h |
Running more than one appliance?
Starting surges don't add up the way running watts do. Pick everything you want to power to get your real number.
Open the RV Generator & Battery Size CalculatorFrequently asked questions
What size generator do I need to run an RV rooftop AC?
At least 3,360 W: 2,800 W to cover the start-up surge, plus a 20% safety margin.
Can a 2,000 watt generator run an RV rooftop AC?
No. It needs about 2,800 W for a second or two when it starts, more than 2,000 W.
Can a 3,500 watt generator run an RV rooftop AC?
Yes. 3,500 W covers its 2,800 W starting surge with room to spare.
How long will a 1,000 Wh power station run an RV rooftop AC?
About 39 min, assuming 85% usable capacity, as long as the station's AC output is rated for 2,800 W of surge.
Never run a generator indoors or in a garage: see the CPSC safety guide.