If you’re an RV owner, then you know that keeping cool is a must during the summer months. And while there are a variety of ways to do this, one of the most popular is by using an RV air conditioner.
But if you’re not sure how many amps your AC unit needs to run properly, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. This blog post will give you all the information you need on amps and RV air conditioners, so keep reading!
What are the different types of RV air conditioners
There are two types of RV air conditioners,
- Rooftop air conditioner,
- Basement air conditioner
Rooftop air conditioners typically use between 15 and 30 amps, while basement air conditioners use between 5 and 20 amps.
Some ways to reduce the amount of amps your RV air conditioner uses include installing awnings or sunscreens over the unit, making sure the unit is properly ventilated, and using a lower setting on the thermostat. If your RV air conditioner is using too many amps, you may need to have it serviced or replaced.
Amperage Requirements for an RV Air Conditioner
How many amps does an RV AC use?
When it comes to air conditioners, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The amount of amps an air conditioner needs will vary depending on the size and power of the unit.
However, as a general rule of thumb, you can expect to need about 10 amps of power for every 1,000 BTUs of cooling capacity. So if you have an RV air conditioner with a 10,000 BTU capacity, you’ll need about 100 amps to run it.
In general, though, you can expect that running an RV air conditioner will require a fair amount of power. If you’re not sure your RV’s electrical system can handle the load, you may want to consider upgrading it before using an air conditioner. Alternatively, you may be able to use a generator to provide the extra power you need.
Electrical Requirements for an RV Air Conditioner
RV air conditioners need a dedicated electrical circuit and outlets. RV air conditioners typically have a 115-volt, 60-hertz, single-phase motor.
The RV air conditioner will have three copper wires coming from the RV:
- one is the power input wire;
- one is the ground wire;
- and the other is the RV’s common return wire.
The RV air conditioner will also have a green ground screw that must be securely attached to the RV’s frame. RV air conditioners require an electrical circuit that can handle up to 30 amps.
Most RV air conditioners will also require a 15-amp circuit for the blower motor. If your RV does not have a dedicated circuit for the RV air conditioner, you will need to install one.
In addition, you will need to install a weatherproof outlet for the RV air conditioner. The outlet should be rated for both indoor and outdoor use and should be mounted in a protected location.
RV AC Amps Chart
Have a Quick look a the RV AC Amps Chart:
| RV AC Capacity (BTU): | Max. Running Amps (A): |
| 5,000 BTU | 4.35 Amps |
| 6,000 BTU | 5.22 Amps |
| 8,000 BTU | 6.96 Amps |
| 10,000 BTU | 8.70 Amps |
| 12,000 BTU | 10.43 Amps |
| 13,5000 BTU | 11.74 Amps |
| 15,000 BTU | 13.04 Amps |
| 20,000 BTU | 17.39 Amps |
How many amps does each type of RV air conditioner use?
Rooftop air conditioners typically use between 15 and 30 amps, while basement air conditioners use between 5 and 20 amps.
Some ways to reduce the amount of amps your RV air conditioner uses include installing awnings or sunscreens over the unit, making sure the unit is properly ventilated, and using a lower setting on the thermostat.
If your RV air conditioner is using too many amps, you may need to have it serviced or replaced.
How can I reduce the number of amps my RV air conditioner uses?
There are a few ways that you can reduce the amount of amps that your RV air conditioner uses. These include installing awnings or sunscreens over the unit, making sure the unit is properly ventilated, and using a lower setting on the thermostat.
By taking these measures, you can help to ensure that your RV air conditioner uses fewer amps and runs more efficiently.
How can you tell if your RV air conditioner is using too many amps?
If your RV air conditioner is using too many amps, you may notice that the unit is running less efficiently than usual.
Additionally, you may see an increase in your electric bill. If you suspect that your RV air conditioner is using too many amps, you should have it serviced or replaced by a qualified technician.
What should you do if your RV air conditioner is using too many amps?
If your RV air conditioner is using too many amps, you should have it serviced or replaced by a qualified technician.
Additionally, you can take measures to reduce the amount of amps that your RV air conditioner uses by installing awnings or sunscreens over the unit, making sure the unit is properly ventilated, and using a lower setting on the thermostat.
Taking these steps can help to ensure that your RV air conditioner uses fewer amps and runs more efficiently.
Final Thoughts
In recent years, Most RV parks and campgrounds have been busy upgrading their electrical systems to handle the increasing amperage requirements of the rigs that fill their parking spaces.
As long as you do a little research before choosing a campground, making sure they have the right amperage hookups for your rig, you can be fairly confident that you will not have any problems running your RV air conditioner.
Hi I’m Joiel Borid Creators of RV Outsider. Wild Life’s first camping was started when I’m 8 years old, at the Home Front Yard. Moto of RV Outsider shares my experience, expertise, and knowledge that I learned, and apprises about my next journey. So stay tuned with RV Outsider.
