Easy Start on A/C RPod 196 - Event Date: 17 Apr 2021

Thanks Offgrid, I have ordered a bonding plug from Amazon, trying to solve this problem has been like a scavenger hunt.  Although I do not have any special knowledge of air conditioning systems, I do have a basic understanding of electricity and can hopefully think things through, especially with some outside help. 

I agree that a 2.2kw generator isn't adequate to start a 13.5btuh a/c. Therefore I did install an easy start kit and verified that it works on shore power.  In fact, I also tested the unit with my surge protector, which displays a readout of consumption.  With the a/c unit on and connected to shore power, the surge protector shows a reading of 8-amps, then 9-amps, and then eventually 10-amps.  This sequence occurs within a 3-5-minute time span.  When connected to the 2.2kw generator, the a/c unit will not come on, not even the fan motor, which pulls very little amps.  If you are in the rv when you turn-on the a/c, you will hear a very faint click, but nothing activates.  That is why I am wondering if this unit has a front-end device, or maybe software modification which reads the source of  incoming power and will not allow the unit to activate unless it reads a full 20-amp power source.

.

I found my Honda 2k to be only slightly less powerful on propane. That generator has to be pretty much at it's full continuous rating (1600VA) to run the a/c. If it was losing even 10% it wouldn't be able to run it.

I use the Century Fuels kit which has an adjustable demand regulator, and I do need to readjust it at higher altitudes.

YMMV depending on which propane conversion kit you get. If you're concerned about losing power it would be a good idea to check into people's results with the kit you're considering.