Owner`s manual
15 16
V: Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)
Q: Can a generator charge my RV house battery?
A: Not dir
ectly. But a generator does provide power to operate your converter/
charger, which charges batteries. Many diesel generators also have an
alternator, which can charge batteries.
Q: Is it practical to power the roof air conditioner with my generator
while traveling on the road?
A: Y
es, that is what a generator is for, portable electrical power. In fact, it can help
you economize on your vehicle fuel because the generator uses less fuel. Plus,
it gives you an opportunity to exercise your generator. Any appliance that can
be run in a stationary position can also be powered while driving.
Q: Can I run my generator for extra power while I’m hooked up to
shore power at a campground?
A: Only if the R
V manufacturer has supplied a separate circuit for a second air
conditioner. However, in most RVs with two air conditioners, only one will
operate while plugged into commercial shore power. By the NFPA code you
cannot connect both power sources, generator power and commercial shore
power, together. RV electrical systems are designed to separate these two
power sources. However, with your comfort and needs in mind, your RV
manufacturer may have wired the RV to allow you to power your second air
conditioner with your RV generator. Check your vehicle’s operator manual.
Q: Why does a breaker trip and the rear air conditioner not work
when I turn it on while the generator is running?
A: R
Vs with two air conditioners typically have a 20-amp circuit breaker for the
rear air conditioner and a 30-amp breaker for all other loads (including the front
air conditioner). The RV may be wired with the two circuits reversed, causing
the breaker to trip. The generator connections and wiring should be checked
by an authorized service location.
Q: Is generator power clean enough to run a computer?
A: Y
es, with Cummins Onan generators this is no problem. The set should
be turned on and warmed up before turning on the computer. The normal
precautions for home use should be followed for RV use as well.
Q: Can I operate an air conditioner and microwave at the same
time?
A: Although this is possible in lower temperatur
es or altitudes or with high
effi ciency AC’s, Cummins Onan 2500 and 2800 watt generators will probably
be overloaded when the AC cycles off and on with the microwave running.
Load shedding devices are available that automatically turn off the AC when
the microwave starts and then restarts it when power is available again. All
other Cummins Onan generators can operate both of these appliances at the
same time.
Q: Will high effi ciency (power saver) air conditioners provide more
reserve power?
A: YES. High effi
ciency AC’s use 30% less power and are easier to start. That
means more power is available for use in the RV or for better fuel economy.
High effi ciency AC’s also have higher cooling output than comparable
standard AC’s.
Q: What happens if I “short-cycle” my air conditioner?
A: Short cycling r
efers to stopping and restarting the air conditioner compressor
before the refrigerant pressure has enough time to equalize. If this happens,
one of several things can occur: a circuit breaker may trip, either on the
generator or at the breaker panel; the generator engine may stall; the AC
compressor may trip its overload. AC compressors should remain off for at
least 3 minutes before being restarted.
Q: Will increasing the speed (accelerating the RPM) on my
generator provide more power potential?
A: No, and it may damage your generator and appliances.
Q:
Can I run an RV generator in a National Park?
A: Y
es. Cummins Onan installed generators are quieter than the National Park
sound level requirements. (During allowable hours of use.)
Q: What is carburetor icing? What conditions cause it? How can it
be prevented?
A: Carbur
etor icing occurs in damp, cool outside conditions, causing rough
operation, stalling and throttle sticking. If your generator is equipped with a
summer/winter lever, operate the generator in the “winter” position in humid
temperatures of 55°F or less. This will pre-heat the intake air so ice won’t form
in the carburetor.