AC and generator
 

I have a portable 8500 btu AC system that I rigged up to a window in my camper. It works great at a plug-in campsite. I was thinking about concert camping in fields and getting a generator. I saw a sweet deal for a 2500 generator on CL. Would that be big enough for the AC to work? Just a yes or no please!!! I am not mechanical and don't need a long, descriptive reply:)

Don't think we can answer without knowing the wattage rating of the AC and the wattage rating of the generator.

- Jack

Yes, it should work.

Typically a reasonably efficient 8500 btu AC should be 1000 watts or less. Assuming that the '2500' in the 2500 generator refers to its wattage, you have a comfortable margin.

Yes. Sorry, but I can't just enter "yes." The answer is too short for the system. Keep in mind that it runs close to 1000 watts or so, but when the AC starts it pulls more in the neighborhood of 1500 watts. Don't load up your generator with more than it can handle. (Some of us just can't resist a lengthy answer)

If you already have the AC and generator, just try it. If the AC sounds like its struggling when the compressor tries to kick on, then it's safe to say you will need a bigger generator.

generator purchase
 

Something to consider. It this a run of the mill noisy generator? Or is this generator designed to be quiet for camping?

The inverter generators are designed to be quiet but much more expensive than a normal generator. If you are doing festival camping with people around in tents, it may still be loud enough to be a bother. Although if you are going to festivals like my brother goes to, most people just pass out and wouldn't care if there is a generator running or not. LOL. Also, if camping in close proximity to others, the exhaust fumes may be an issue. Wouldn't want to wake up to dead neighbors. That would put a serious damper on the festivities.