Air Conditioner Powered by Honda EU2200i Generator while boondocking?

B11

Is it possible to power the AC unit in a 2022 400bd using a Honda EU2200i generator if a soft start is installed?
Is there a specific soft start that should be purchased to allow this to occur? I've seen varying price levels of soft start devices. Not too keen on lifting a 110 lb 3500w generator in and out of the TV if I don't have to. I don't plan to use the AC often but if the need arises, I'd like the option. Honda EU2200i claims it will run the rest of the devices in our 2022 400bd. 
I'm also not interested(due to money constraints) in parallel generators.
Any experience with this setup and use advice is greatly appreciated.

dragonsdofly

@B11 while I don't have a 400, there has been enough commentary to confirm that your EU2200i will run all systems in your t@b. I believe that generator will start and operate your A/C system without the soft start, but the soft start makes it easier on the genny. Use the search function on the upper right corner, type a few key words and a lot of threads will come up. 

In the meantime, I bow to our experts.....

Good luck, much success, and most of all, happy Tabbing!

dlb

We have used our Honda EU2200i to run the AC in our Tab400 Boondock.  I do not have or see the need for Soft Start.  Just remember to realize that it will struggle to start up the AC at times if you are running the EU2200i in Eco mode.

We converted the EU2200i to run on propane.

N7SHG_Ham

I have a 2019 400 and a Honda 2200i with propane conversion. It will start and run the CoolCat at 3000 feet elevation, but struggles a bit with locked rotor start. I added a microAir softstart and much better both with generator and shore power 

justdoit70

We have a 21 boodock 400 and have run the ac with the Honda 2200 .No soft start needed. When it starts the red overload lights just lets you know it is there. Less than a second Works fine using just the AC.Stay 😎 

2021 boondock 400 solo / 16 Taco sport 4x4 V6

[Deleted User]

I've also confirmed a soft start is not necessary.  I have a different brand 2200 watt inverter generator and it will power the AC. 

NorthIsUp

I lived at just over 6000' elevation in the Sierras and eventually added a Micro-air EasyStart 364 using a Honda eu2200i for our 2019 400 BL. Originally, on a very hot day the Honda would struggle at altitude, but it only shut down one time before I added the EasyStart. Remember, every time the a/c cycles and turns back on, there is a strain on the system. Originally, the noise of the Honda struggling to the "give it all you got" power mode was quite loud and unnerving. The EasyStart was one of my better purchases. The CoolCat run so smoothly now that you can barely hear it cycling. Great for sleeping. Anyhow, bottom line is that the combination that you're planning to purchase works great for me and runs everything in the Tab. 

N7SHG_Ham

@NorthIsUp I agree. Also some reports that non Honda 2k class generators struggle more (my guess is because the Honda has 50% more displacement 120cc vs 80cc for most if not all competitors) nonetheless even Honda is better with the EasyStart.

manyman297

Another vote here for the easy start. Seems expensive but it’s a buy once cry once situation. I’m able to use my 2500 watt Westinghouse generator ($450) at 6k+ feet altitude with ease. 

marchule

I just purchased a Genmax 3300i.  It has a displacement of 145cc which is larger than the Honda.  It powers the a/c in a 400 without an easy start.  It ran flawlessly at 8000+ elevation.  It weighs 45 lbs.  Price was $650 delivered to my home from Lowes.  Started on first pull out of the box (after adding fuel).  I had used a Westinghouse 2500i for my 320S but it was too small for the 400.  My family is considering abandoning their 110 lb 3500W existing generators.  Maybe time will tell a different story on reliability.  I'm happy now.