[VAC] Re: Generator for air conditioner?-help

[Matt Worner <wornmatt@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Rusty,

Just remember the code word "PIE".  Power (in Watts) = I (current in
Amperes) times E (electromotive force in Volts).  A kW is a kiloWatt or
1000 Watts.  Once you have all the figures computed, get a generator
that will carry 1.25 of the anticipated load, or figure your load at 80%
of the genset capacity; the capacity being the lower of the rated
numbers.  The higher number is just for starting surge.  Sustained load
at that level will overheat the generator and (hopefully only) blow the
over current protector on your genset.

In the example you quote below, the A/C units seriously overload the
genset (150% to 218%), and probably would stall it.  If it doesn't
stall, you could toast the A/C unit when the generator bogs down and
voltage drops to the A/C.  Since the power required is inherent in the
equipment, a drop in voltage would create a rise in current, and amps =
heat.  A lotta amps = a lotta heat.  And where heat approaches lotta,
smoke is soon to follow.  ;^)>

Matt