"Geoman" wrote in message
...


Hi Brad,

I read somewhere on the internet what you want to do is to have 1.25
times the AMPACITY of the HVAC unit. .

http://www.mbinet.org/Magazine/comfort07_02.aspx

Personally, I would not feel comfortable with the generator sized even
that close. Inrush amps for starting can be up to ten times the normal
amount of power required to start an air conditioner. I'm not saying to
get a generator that is ten times larger than what the amperage labled on
the AC, but I would at least consider a unit at least 1.5 bigger.

Also, I would make sure the unit has the proper start components, NOT THE
ELECTRONIC hard start kits but a REAL relay and a REAL start capacitor
that is specific to this unit. To be sure get the one from the factory who
made air conditioner. I would also make sure you have a time delay start
component, your thermostat may have that built in.

Rich

PS, the start relay is a black plastic and probably has a small bleed
resistor across the terminals.



It makes me nervous to run a/c on a generator unless it is a commercial
facility installation that can run elevators and life safety equipment,
backed up by some mechanical engineer's liability insurance and license.

Too much potential for equipment damage from low voltage, phase conditions,
incorrect hertz, etc. Particularly with any electronic control circuits.

You'll be stressing the windings of the compressor and possibly frying those
pesky *non-PCB* components... ;-)