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Surging AC when on the generator

June 02, 2021, 06:37:48 pm

I just have to wonder why our front ac surges when using it on generator power. 
It makes the volt meter wiggle about 5 volts and it's irritating. Makes a surging noise.
  Still puts out cool air.
  Still runs fine on shore power.
  The bedroom ac isn't doing the same thing.
 
At first I thought it was the generator doing the surging but outside the geny sounds just fine. As soon as I turn off the front ac everything is smooth as silk. 

 Has anyone else had this issue and what was the fix. 

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Re: Surging AC when on the generator

Reply #1 – June 06, 2021, 04:23:34 pm

Think I would start with the wire nut connections where the air conditioner wiring connects to the house wiring.

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Re: Surging AC when on the generator

Reply #2 – June 06, 2021, 05:34:39 pm

Thanks John. I'll check that out.  Are those accessed from the top or bottom ?

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Re: Surging AC when on the generator

Reply #3 – June 06, 2021, 07:31:26 pm

The connections are accessible from below. Remove the filter and look towards the front of the opening and see a metal electrical box with metal lid remove the lid or cover and the wires are inside.

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Re: Surging AC when on the generator

Reply #4 – June 07, 2021, 12:35:08 pm

If you have the front unit on and rear off is it still surging?  If the voltage is also surging I would say it is the generator when it has that load on it.  Possible fuel filter needs to be changed. 

Do you have a Hz meter to see if generator is putting out 60 Hz. and staying at 60 Hz?

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Re: Surging AC when on the generator

Reply #5 – June 07, 2021, 03:13:22 pm

I second what turbo jack says. I had the same issue before and it was the fuel filter. I believe your problem to be fuel related. It's just not getting enough fuel supply.

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