The answer depends on the specific type of RV air conditioner you have installed. RV air conditioners can operate in two primary ways:
Shore power: Most RV air conditioners require a connection to an external power source, typically referred to as "shore power." Shore power is when your RV is connected to a power pedestal at a campsite or RV park, or using a generator. In this case, the air conditioner can run using the electrical power from the external source, providing cooling to the RV.
Generator power: Some RVs are equipped with built-in generators that can supply electricity to power the air conditioner and other appliances when shore power is not available. These generators can be started within the RV itself, allowing the air conditioner to run even when not connected to an external power source.
It's worth noting that RV air conditioners that require an external power source, whether shore power or a generator, cannot run solely on battery power. RV batteries typically supply power to other components in the RV, such as lights, water pumps, and electronics, but they are usually not sufficient to run the air conditioner due to its high power consumption.
Therefore, if your RV air conditioner falls into the first category and requires an external power source, it will only work when the unit is plugged into shore power or when the generator is running. If you have a generator-equipped RV, you have the flexibility to run the air conditioner even when not connected to shore power.
It's essential to consult the specific user manual or documentation for your RV air conditioner to understand its power requirements and operation to ensure proper usage and compatibility with your RV's electrical system.