To determine the appropriate size generator for a 5-ton air conditioning (AC) unit, you'll need to consider the starting (surge) and running (continuous) power requirements of the AC system. The size of the generator should be able to handle both the initial power surge when the AC compressor starts and the continuous power needed to keep the unit running.
Typically, a 5-ton AC unit has a power consumption range of approximately 5,500 to 6,500 watts during startup (surge) and around 1,800 to 2,500 watts during normal operation (running).
To accommodate the starting power surge, it is recommended to select a generator with a higher starting wattage capacity. As a general guideline, a generator with a capacity of at least 7,000 to 8,000 starting watts and a running capacity of around 2,500 to 3,000 watts should be suitable for a 5-ton AC unit.
Keep in mind that it's always best to consult the specific manufacturer's specifications for your AC unit, as power requirements can vary depending on the model and efficiency rating. Additionally, if you have other electrical loads running simultaneously, you may need to account for their power requirements when determining the generator size.