Aircon & Genset

[Ken13559]

I've a 12000BTU Cruiseair Zephyr ZF12K aircon. Borrowed a friend's Elemax SHX2000 genset just for try out expecting no joy. Surprisingly, I've no problem running the aircon with this 1500W rated genset. I didn't even have the Supco SPP6 Hard Start Kit install yet.
The Elemax uses same Honda engine as the EU2000i. Engine noise is acceptable in exchange for cool cabin when out anchoring. :dance:

 

[Benny17441]

It has been my experience that a Honda 2000 or equivalent can run most air conditioner units up to 13K BTU. That is with the ECO throtle Off to allow for compressor startup during normal cycling. Installing the hard start capacitor may allow you to use the ECO throtle mode for reduced fuel consumption an noise.

 

[Ken13559]

Benny, I like eco throttle but the Elemax doesn't have one unfortunately. The Honda EU20i cost US$500 more than Elemax SHX2000. Wish it were cheaper.

 

[Ken13559]

Re: Aircon & Genset - Test Results

I installed the Supco Hard Start Kit (SPP6) across the Run Capacitor of a 9000BTU Wabasto look-alike, Cruiseair 12,000BTU ZF12K and a Dometic 16,000BTU aircon(stock Hunter Marine). Run the Elemax SHX2000 Genset and results as follows:
1. Wabasto look-alike - runs fine without SPP6. Couldn't start compressor with SPP6 in place.
2. Cruiseair ZF12K - runs fine without SPP6. Genset goes overlaod with SPP6 in place.
3. Dometic 16,000BTU - display blinks erratically. Unable to start even fan.
I've 2 conclusions.
A) SPP6 does nothing good for the aircon. Maybe it should be connected to Start Cap i.s.o. Run Cap.
B) Elemax SHX2000 produces Square Sine Wave which probably is a problem for the Dometic aircon (which has more sophisticated electronics?) but no issue for the Wabasto look-alike and Cruisair with very basic temperature controller.
*PS: Supco actually said to connect the SPP6 across the Run Cap. Perhaps I should try the Start Cap instead. Anyone any idea?