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Last Updated on August 23, 2024 by Paul Clayton
Table of Contents
10 Best RV Air Conditioners
With the right RV air conditioner, you can enjoy your road trips without worrying about the heat. Investing in an efficient and reliable RV air conditioner can significantly enhance your travel experience.
- RV air conditioners ensure summer comfort.
- There are two types: rooftop and portable units.
- Cooling capacity measured in British Thermal Units.
- Consider energy efficiency for cost savings.
- Regular maintenance is crucial for efficient operation.
- Use a protective cover to safeguard the unit.
Are you looking forward to using your RV for long day trips? Are you relishing the idea of a summer vacation filled with adventure and nonstop traveling? Are you dreading the thought of suffering through the midsummer heat?
Fret not because you can always get an air conditioning unit to keep your motorhome cool and comfortable even through the worst heat of summer. And luckily, this article is here to ensure you get the best unit for your needs.
To do that, first, we will brush you up on all the essential information you need to know and the little tips and tricks that may help you find the ideal choice.
We’ll even provide you with ten products we believe are the best choices and their reviews.
Of course, you don’t need to buy any of these, but we believe that if you do, you won’t regret it. At the very least, it will give you an idea of where to start looking.
This article is the beginning of a journey—your journey to having the most comfortable time in your RV, even through the hottest summers.
Say goodbye to sweaty summers and uncomfortable road trips; these products will keep you cool and comfortable.
What Makes an RV Air Conditioning Unit Perfect?
It doesn’t matter if you’re buying a computer, a phone, a couch, or lunch. There are always tiny little details that seem insignificant but will surprise you with their effect on your life. This is true when shopping for your RV’s next air conditioning unit.
Here, we will discuss the different factors and details that will ensure that your choice is the best to suit your specific needs. When it’s over, you will know enough to make the best possible purchase, and you can rest assured that it’s perfect for you.
1. Ducted VS Non-Ducted
All the air conditioning units in the world are separated into two categories, and this is true even for units that are for RV use. It’s simple: your unit is either ducted or not. There are cases where one option is better than the other, and this portion is here to help you decide which one is better for you.
Both options have pros and cons, and the only person who knows which is best for you is yourself. Depending on your needs or your situation, one option will always be better than the other.
This is why you need to evaluate your lifestyle before deciding.
First, think about how much space you have in your recreational vehicle. Is it a lot? Is your RV the big kind, with multiple rooms and enough space to fit an extensive air conditioning system? Then, most likely, a ducted air conditioning unit is what’s best for you.
Why is that? As the name implies, a ducted air conditioning unit works by having a system of passageways through which the air travels, or the ducts.
These ducts will run through the length of your motorhome, along with the ceiling, walls, and even the floor.
This system may take up more space, but it also allows for further distribution of the cold air throughout your vehicle, ensuring no space is left uncooled.
But what if your motorhome isn’t big enough to house such a system? Do you need it much less? In this scenario, you probably don’t have to worry about cooling several rooms simultaneously. For you, a ductless air conditioning unit should be a perfect choice.
This type works by simply blowing the cool air out of the air conditioning unit. It’s more suited for smaller RVs with little space to cool.
Since there isn’t much space, you don’t need a system of ducts to circulate the cool air around. Getting a ducted system wouldn’t make sense, logically or financially.
In short, the space you need to cool inside your RV is a huge factor in which type you should go for. Do consider that the ducts of a ducted system also take up space, so ensure you have enough.
2. Dual Use (Heat Pumps/Strips)
Another factor that you should most definitely consider is whether you want an air conditioning unit with heat pumps. This type of unit would provide you with not just cold air during warm weather but also heating during freezing winters.
This ability allows you to use your air conditioning unit as a heating device at any time of the year.
Understand that such a feature will increase the cost of a unit, so you must consider it carefully. If you do not go to different places with varied weather or only like traveling during the summer, then this option is probably not for you.
On the other hand, if you’re the adventurous type who travels all year round and sees yourself going to places with deadly winters, this is probably a good investment.
Long story short, you must evaluate your lifestyle and what you want to do with your RV before deciding whether you need an air conditioning unit with a heat-up.
3. BTU (British Thermal Unit)
An important term to know when shopping for a suitable air conditioning unit for your RV is the British Thermal Unit, hereafter referred to as BTU. The BTU measures the energy consumed by your air conditioning unit for every usage hour.
You must know the exact number of BTUs needed to find your RV’s best air conditioning unit.
For example, if you buy an air conditioning unit with BTU higher than what you need, you’ll end up paying more for a unit that doesn’t give you anything more than what a cheaper unit would be able to provide.
In the long run, it will be a financial burden since a higher BTU means consuming more energy than a cheaper unit with less BTU. This excess energy will not be used or wasted.
On the flip side, if the air conditioning unit you buy can’t provide the cooling power you need, it’ll also cost you more. It must run longer before achieving your desired results if it’s too weak to cool your place.
From this alone, you can see that making the wrong decision can cause financial damage in the short and long run.
Therefore, it is of utmost importance to carefully consider your needs to ensure that you don’t waste money on extras you won’t need.
One rule of thumb that can make your life easier is to remember the so-called 13,500-line. The standard BTU for the average air conditioning unit is 13,500.
If you think you’ll spend some time in hotter-than-average places where you’ll need to use your air conditioner frequently, investing in an air conditioning unit with more than 13,500 BTUs is almost essential.
On the other hand, if you don’t like the cold too much or believe you won’t be using the aircon all that often, getting an air conditioning unit with less than 13,500 BTU should be more than sufficient for you.
4. Quality
Of course, it’s hard to get a measure of quality. Most manufacturers would love to tell you that all their products are of high quality, but understandably, you’ll find this dubious at best.
And that’s perfectly understandable. All companies have one goal: to sell their products. And sometimes, some companies are willing to be less than clean to achieve this, and the ones making air conditioning units for your RV might be one example of such a company.
It is imperative not to trust product descriptions that come with the unit or even from a salesperson.
There will often be cases where they twist their words to make it seem like their products are capable of something they aren’t. With this in mind, there are other, more foolproof ways of ensuring a product’s quality.
One such method is reading the customer reviews of others who have tried that product.
Before buying something, make it a habit to rigorously read as many customer reviews of that product as possible. Make sure that the reviews are sufficient to support the company’s claims.
Another method is to find a compilation of reviews from someone who’s done the same research as this one.
So, if you don’t have it in you to read hundreds of customer reviews, rest assured that I have, and know that the products that will be recommended are authentic to their words.
The 10 Best RV Air Conditioners
1. Airxcel’s Mach 15
Summary
Airxcel’s Mach 15 is a ducted air conditioning unit made specifically for recreational vehicles. It has numerous useful features.
First, it’s rated at 15,000 BTU, making it perfect for people who need lots of power to cool their vehicles down, such as if you’re planning to go to scorching places.
The fan also has a 1/3 HP motor, which helps make this product stand out from the competition. This addition allows the unit to have the highest CFM (cubic feet/minute) airflow rate currently in the market, with the Mach 15 rating of 320 CFM.
This is important because it means the unit can spread the cool air faster than any other air conditioning unit for RVs currently on sale.
Having this product already means getting the best possible performance you could expect from an air conditioning unit.
This product also has heating capabilities, making it suitable for use all year round.
And the best part is that even with such great features, this model still doesn’t venture into the realm of expensive air conditioning units for RVs. This unit is still relatively affordable compared to the competition.
This is ideal if you need a modestly priced RV air conditioning unit that you can use any time of the year. With such a heavy list of features, there shouldn’t be anything about the Mach 15 that will leave you wanting.
However, there is one potential problem. This air conditioning unit tends to create noise, to the degree that several reviewers said it was annoying.
However, considering the price and the bucketload of features, this is a problem that indeed many can overlook. Only you can decide if you are such a person, but if you don’t mind, this choice shouldn’t disappoint you.
Pros:
- Rated at 15,000 BTU
- Heating capabilities
- Affordable
- 1/3 Motor for the fan
- 320 CFM of airflow
- Easily installed
Cons:
- Jarring noise levels might deter potential buyers
2. Airxcel Mach 3 Plus
Summary
Another great product from Airxcel is the Mach 3 Plus, which shares several of the great qualities of the first product shown and has even more features that make it unique compared to its sibling.
One distinct feature is the 100% copper tubing and the brazed joints by Gasflux, which will surely go a long way in ensuring that this air conditioning unit will still be cooling your RV even after five or ten years.
Of course, it doesn’t lose the good things the earlier model had. It also has the same motor for the fan, giving it the same 320 CFM that also makes the Mach 15 stand out among the rest of the competition.
This also means the Mach 3 will never struggle to ensure your recreational vehicle is cooled to your satisfaction.
It also has the same heating capability as the Mach 15, and it’s electrical. Last but not least, it’s very affordable. What else would you look for?
Unfortunately, the problem has also remained the same. This unit, like the previous one, creates noise—annoying, almost deafening noise. Once again, this isn’t necessarily a deal breaker but something you should consider.
Pros:
- 13,500 BTU
- Heating Capabilities
- Affordable
- 320 CFM airflow
- 100% Copper tubes, brazed joints by Gasflux for product longevity
Cons:
- It produces noise that some people may find intolerable
3. Atwood 15028 Ducted AC Unit
Summary
Our next unit is still ducted like the other two, but it’s by Atwood now. And this one packs several features that will satisfy the average buyer. Should you buy this, it definitely won’t disappoint.
First, this model has heating capabilities through a pump, meaning it can be used to cool on hot days and heat during cold weather.
Second, it’s rated at 15,000 BTUs (though the company claims it can reach 18,000 BTUs); this means it should have no trouble cooling your recreational vehicle even in the harshest heat, even if the 18,000 BTU claim is invalid.
This unit’s installation process is also relatively simple, which means it should be easy for you to install and use it.
Finally, if you’re sick of the fact that all the recommendations so far had the downside of being noisy, you’ll be pleased to hear that this unit is quite the silent type. There shouldn’t be any problems on that front.
Unfortunately, it does have its share of downsides. The biggest is possibly the price; it’s just expensive.
Another problem is the weight; this unit weighs more than 100 pounds. However, if you can resolve these two problems, you won’t find this product unsatisfactory.
Pros:
- Heat pump
- 15,000 BTU
- Easily installed
- Silent operation
- Energy efficient
Cons:
- Pricey
- It weighs more than 100 pounds
4. Dometic Brisk II 15K BTU White
Summary
It’s another non-ducted AC unit, but this time it’s Dometic. And just like anything else, Dometic, you can expect to be satisfied with getting this unit.
As mentioned, it’s non-ducted and has a complete ceiling kit, so you don’t have to buy additional parts. This should be good news to most people unless you enjoy shopping for the necessary parts.
Another great plus with this unit is it’s incredibly lightweight compared to its competitors and even the other products in this list. This also helps a ton when installing the unit, which is good.
In short, this is the perfect non-ducted AC unit: it has a heat strip, it’s rated at 15,000 BTUs, it is incredibly lightweight, and it can be easily installed.
Unfortunately, it does have some downsides that might not be overlooked. For one thing, it’s expensive. It’s also noisy, which can turn off a few buyers. Its quality might also not be the best.
However, if none of the downsides stated are deal breakers, you don’t have to look further than this product from Dometic.
Pros:
- 15,000 BTUs
- The package comes complete with a ceiling kit
- Heat strip
- Lightweight (79 pounds)
- Easy installation process
Cons:
- Expensive
- It can get loud when in operation
5. Atwood Non-Ducted AC Unit
Summary
This Atwood air conditioning unit is also non-ducted, and it’s worth checking out if you’re an RV owner looking for a non-ducted product. With its boatload of features, you’ll surely be satisfied with this unit.
First, it’s rated at 15,000 BTUs, enough to provide the cooling needs of anyone, anywhere. It also has dual fan motors, which allow it to be effective and help ensure it’s quiet when used.
If noise is an essential factor in your consideration, check this out.
Another helpful feature of this product is that it comes equipped with a heat pump, so you can also use it if you’re feeling cold or about to go traveling during cold weather.
This also means that you’ll always find this unit helpful regardless of the weather during that time of the year.
Atwood also packed this product to the brim with features that’ll ensure your life is as convenient as possible. Numerous reviewers have stated that the installation of this unit is effortless.
No matter how much experience you’ve had installing air conditioning units, you shouldn’t have trouble making this one work in your RV.
Another great convenience is the remote, which allows you to access the unit’s settings without having to go to it.
Such a simple addition puts this product ahead of the competition in terms of convenience.
Unfortunately, all these goodies come at a price. This unit is among the more expensive ones, and some people may be unable to afford it.
However, if you’re looking for a non-ducted system and are willing to splurge a little for good quality, you won’t find anything better than this unit from Atwood.
Pros:
- 15,000 BTU
- Dual motors for the fans
- Quiet operation
- Easily installed
- Heat pump
- Remote control for convenience
Cons:
- Pricey
6. Dometic Penguin II Rooftop Air Conditioner
Summary
Another product from Dometic is the Penguin II Rooftop Air Conditioner, and it’s sure to impress you just as much as any of the other Dometic products on this list (and there’s a reason they have a lot).
You’ll already be hard-pressed to find something to complain about in terms of construction alone.
The best is that the construction was designed to extend the product’s longevity. It comes with a shroud that will surely increase the unit’s lifespan. Anyone will appreciate the thought that went into ensuring that this air conditioner will last you a long time.
Aside from the shroud, Dometic was kind enough to offer this product with other features, such as the ability to customize your unit. That’s right, you can get this unit in different BTU ratings and colors.
You can get the 13,500 BTU one, suitable for average use. However, if you think you’ll need more power to cool your RV in a burning climate, you can always opt for the higher capacity of 15,000 BTU.
Additionally, this product model is available in black or white. If you’re sick and tired of white air conditioning units, go for the black one. It’s slick and good-looking, so you won’t be disappointed.
These options may not seem all that great, but the fact that they are present at all speaks volumes to Dometic’s commitment to ensuring that all its customers’ needs are met.
Also, this will always stay in your RV to the point that you can consider it furniture. You wouldn’t have ugly furniture, would you?
Last, this unit can be used as either ducted or non-ducted, further showing that Dometic wants to provide you with anything you need.
This means whether you’re looking for a ducted or non-ducted system, this unit will not disappoint.
Once again, the only major downside is the price. Customizability seems to have costs, and this unit costs quite a lot. If you’re not willing to splurge, this unit is not the one for you.
Pros:
- Available in both 15,000 BTU and 13,500 BTU options
- Black or Polar white model
- 2-year warranty
- It can be a ducted system or a non-ducted system
- R410A refrigerant for better dissipation of heat
- It comes with a shroud for ensuring product longevity
Cons:
- Pricey
7. Dometic Brisk II 13.5K BTU
Summary
Another product from Dometic that will surely be just as good as all the others on this list. After all, Dometic has been a manufacturer of air conditioning units for RVs for a long time, so you should expect this won’t be the last product on this list.
Once again, this product allows you to choose between the 15,000 BTU and the 13,500 BTU rating. Regardless of your needs, you’ll find an option for this product that will suit you.
If you think you won’t need much, get the 13,500 BTU one. If you think you’ll be adventuring in a hot climate some time in the future, investing in the 15,000 BTU version is probably wiser.
For example, if you plan to go to places such as Arizona, Florida, Texas, or Louisiana, you’ll probably need that 15,000 BTU to get the power that the 13,500 BTU one can’t provide.
Like the previous one, this model is versatile because it can function with or without ducts. Once again, regardless of your needs, you can easily buy this unit without worry.
Finally, Dometic again has a 2-year warranty, which will surely please most buyers. After all, accidents can happen to even the most careful person. It’s better to have ease of mind knowing that a warranty will help.
Unfortunately, you’ll need the 2-year warranty since several reviewers state that this unit is failing on them sometime during the second year of use. It’s a shame since this unit seemed like a good-quality product with all the features you’ll ever need.
Pros:
- Available in two options, 13,500 BTU and 15,000 BTU
- Available in both black as well as polar white
- 2-year warranty
- It can be used as ducted or non-ducted
- Sturdy construction
- Rigid shroud for further longevity
- Affordable
Cons:
- Issues with product longevity
8. ASA Electronics Advent Rooftop AC
Summary
The Advent Air Rooftop AC made by ASA Electronics is also packed with features to help it stand out among its competitors. One such feature is the heat strip, which you can plug in and be a good heat source during cold months.
If you plan on traveling in cold weather, having a unit with heating capabilities will be a massive help (to the point of being an absolute must). In this regard, Advent Air has you covered.
Another great feature you will love is its three different fan speed levels. There will surely be one most suited to your tastes and needs, and you can easily adjust it anytime!
While not very spectacular, it should be noted that this particular unit is relatively lightweight, especially compared to the competitors, even the other ones on this list (some of them are instead on the hefty side of the scale).
But since this is a unit meant to be placed on your RV’s rooftop, such a feature is probably more of a necessity than a boon. Nevertheless, it’s there, and it’s great.
The rest of the feature list is not that dramatic but is nevertheless not to be belittled.
The unit is rated at the standard 13,500 BTU, which should be fine for most people but may not be sufficient for anyone planning to go to hotter places. If this applies to you, it’s advisable to look somewhere else.
Long story short, this unit is a rather plain product that doesn’t really impress but is nevertheless worth considering simply because it really shouldn’t fail to meet your expectations, as well as the competitive pricing.
Please note that several reviewers mentioned running into problems with ASA Electronics’ customer support service. As a potential buyer, you should consider this before pulling the trigger.
Pros:
- Cheap
- 13,500 BTU
- Heat strip (plug-in)
- Three levels of fan speed
- Relatively lightweight construction
Cons:
- Poor customer support service, according to reviewers
9. Dometic Penguin HP 15,000 BTU Air Conditioner
Summary
This air conditioning unit from Dometic is a purchase that will not give you anything special but will surely hit all the right spots properly. In short, it will give you anything you need, but don’t expect any fantastic features.
If you’re someone who knows what they need and doesn’t want any bells and whistles along with it, then this unit is perfect for you.
It’s all in the name. This unit is rated at 15,000 BTU, so you’ll never be found wanting more power, even if you go to places where the pavements sizzle in heat. When it comes to power, this unit won’t disappoint.
The heat pump is also in the name, so you can use it all year round, regardless of the weather. Are you traveling through winter? This unit has your back.
The best part is that this unit has absolutely no bad reviews. This product is for you if you want something that gets the job done.
There are no frills, bells, or whistles—just plain old cooling for hot weather and heating for cold nights. If that’s all you need, Dometic ensured this unit could provide it without any problems.
Well, it does come with one bell and whistle. Or not, since its shining feature is its silent operation. If it’s not yet apparent, air conditioning units running silently are not the norm.
If noise levels concern you, worry not; this unit will never bother you.
However, there are a couple of downsides. First, it is easily the most expensive product on this list. If you’re eyeing this, you must be ready to splurge. If the price is a significant concern for you, then this isn’t it, chief.
And even if you could afford it, another thing to consider is the weight. This unit is heavy and easily weighs over 100 pounds.
This unit is meant to be placed on your roof. Getting there can quickly end in a disaster; the best-case scenario is that it will be a significant hassle.
If your RV and wallet can handle the heavy weight of buying this product, go ahead. You’ll be hard-pressed to find anything better. If any of those are a no-go for you, it’s a shame, but that’s life.
Pros:
- 15,000 BTUs
- Heat pump
- Silent operation
- Easily Installed
- It can be ducted or non-ducted
Cons:
- Priciest product on the entire list
- It weighs more than 100 pounds
10. RecPro RV Air Conditioner
Summary
The final product is the RecPro RV Air Conditioner, which is an exceptional cooling solution for RV enthusiasts seeking comfort and efficiency on the road.
This low-profile, 9.5K BTU unit is designed for non-ducted installations, making it a versatile fit for a wide range of RV models. Its compact design enhances aerodynamics and minimizes wind resistance while traveling.
The air conditioner features a modern, sleek appearance that integrates seamlessly with most RV designs.
Its robust cooling capacity ensures a comfortable interior climate even on the hottest days, making it ideal for adventurers who love to explore in comfort.
Pros:
- Low profile design
- Powerful cooling
- Easy installation
- Sleek appearance
- Energy efficient
Cons:
- Non-ducted only
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
This section will discuss most RV owners’ other common questions about what is important when buying an air conditioning unit.
How does an air conditioning unit work?
The way air conditioning units work for RVs hasn’t changed since they were first invented. However, they used to run on alternating current (AC) power, which usually comes from generators or shore power through a 120-volt socket.
The problem is that these generators are relatively expensive, which prompts most RVers to start looking for alternative power sources.
For most of them, this came in the form of solar panel systems that they can directly attach to their RVs.
As for how air conditioning units work, most of the units made for RVs have vents placed on the RV’s roof to allow the units to offer superior cooling abilities even during long drives.
Honestly, the long story short is that their workings are not very different from the extended version. They work like refrigerators, where the machine merely takes the heat inside and pushes it outside.
And, of course, the process is much more complicated than that, but this simple explanation should be all you’ll need.
In short, its only purpose is to keep the heat inside and force it outside to keep the insides of your motorhome cool during the blazing summer days, making your life much more comfortable.
If your air conditioning unit is of a good enough quality, expect to find your summer days without any hint of discomfort. There’s a chance that you’ll find yourself enjoying them.
What are the possible reasons for getting an air conditioning unit for my RV?
One word: summer. If you’re a true RV enthusiast, you’ll probably often find yourself traveling all the time. And if you’ve experienced a long drive during the summer, you’ll know that the sensation is far from pleasant.
It makes your RV feel like some dreaded sweatbox instead of a comfortable home.
Enter the air conditioning units. If these weren’t invented, how people could survive hot summer nights is highly questionable.
Luckily, they were invented, and they do a great job of ensuring that your next trips in your RV are as pleasant as can be, regardless of the weather or the place.
You might think an air conditioning unit is the same everywhere, whether in a conference room, your house, or an RV.
And you would be wrong. You see, customary units won’t be able to survive vibrations caused by bumpy drives. This is why products are specifically designed to be used on RVs.
This specificity is also why air conditioning units for household use shouldn’t be used in RVs.
And don’t try it to save money; you’ll end up breaking it and needing to buy another two: a special one made for RVs and one to replace your home’s now broken unit.
If the unit in your RV is of good quality, it will also help ensure the air inside is clean. This can be a great help if you have allergies.
But the truth is, the most significant reason you would ever want an air conditioning unit inside your RV is that you don’t want your summer days to drive you and your family crazy.
Are there different types of air conditioning units for RVs?
Regarding the ones made for RVs, the air conditioning units come in two different types, each with pros and cons: those that use ducts (ducted) and those that don’t (non-ducted).
These two types will have different features that will appeal to other people.
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Ducted Air Conditioning Units
This is the more complicated of the two. Ducted units will have a part that gets bolted on the vehicle’s roof, which should contain a condenser, a compressor, and a blower.
In addition, ducted units have a system of ducts that snake through the length of your motorhome. This type works by passing the cooled air through these ducts.
This system is better because it allows you to control the temperature of several rooms at once through a centralized panel.
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Non-ducted Air Conditioning Units
The more straightforward type, non-ducted AC units are installed via a hole through your recreational vehicle’s roof (usually, there are already explicitly made roof vents).
A non-ducted unit will also have the same parts as the ducted unit. This part will also have the compressor, a condenser, and a blower.
The difference is that there is no system of ducts, so the air is sent through the vents and to the place inside your recreational vehicle where it is needed.
This also means that the vent decides the direction of the airflow, and it can only be adjusted to point to the front or the back of your motorhome, giving you limited control.
In short, if your RV is composed only of a single long room, this is the best option. Since these units are also cheaper, it isn’t brilliant to get a ducted one if you don’t have several rooms that need cooling.
What are some good brands that make air conditioning units for RVs?
Several brands in this list kept showing up, and these are easy to recommend (otherwise, they wouldn’t be there in the first place). To summarize, here are the companies we mentioned that are sufficiently trustworthy.
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Dometic
This company has been selling its products since 1919, and the fact that it’s still in business is all the proof it needs to show that it is trustworthy and that its products are of high quality.
If you like having the peace of mind of knowing that your unit is from the best, then you don’t have to look further than Dometic.
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Atwood
The brothers Seth and James Atwood founded this brand in 1909. Their company has survived the test of time, and their products have been proven worthy of consideration if not admiration.
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Airxcel
Airxcel comprises several quality brands that have joined together into one holding company. While its history is not yet as impressive as the first two, its products are no less worthy of your consideration.
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ASA Electronics
This company has been producing electronics since 1977 and is still going strong. Their products are fantastic; there is bound to be one that perfectly fits your wants and needs, and it will surely not disappoint in attaining both.
How big should my RV AC unit be?
Only you can answer this question and get the correct answer by knowing the British Thermal Unit (BTU), which measures energy your unit will consume per hour.
That means a unit’s BTU directly affects its size. You need to know the exact BTU to ensure you won’t run out of power soon.
One possible huge blunder you can make when choosing an air conditioning unit for your RV is getting the wrong capacity for your needs.
While it’s true that the standard for RV-use air conditioning units is 13,500 BTU, this doesn’t immediately mean that this is the perfect one for you.
First, you need to consider the places you’ll be going shortly to ensure that your unit’s BTU is perfect for you. Are you planning on going to places with hotter climates?
If yes, a BTU of 13,500 will probably not be enough for you. To ensure absolute comfort for you and your family during long trips through hot weather, you should get an air conditioning unit with a higher capacity.
Meanwhile, getting a 13,500 BTU unit should be sufficient if you don’t see such hot places shortly.
While it seems tempting to get units rated higher, remember that getting a unit rated lower will save you the cost of the unit itself and help you save energy.
So unless you plan on going to places like Arizona or Florida, get a 13,500 BTU unit.
In short, consider your daily routine. If you think you’ll need it, go for the units that are rated higher. Otherwise, save yourself some money and settle for a 13,500 BTU one. The decision is simple, so there is no need to overthink it.
How do I charge my RV’s air conditioning unit?
Air conditioning units run on refrigerant, which is necessary for maximum efficiency.
Usually, it would help if you were refilling the refrigerant constantly, but it is possible that it will run out. In that case, you will have to recharge your unit.
While it does sound unnecessary and complicated, if you follow these steps correctly, you should be successful.
- Buy the refrigerant that’s compatible with your unit. You can confirm this by checking the information on the side of the unit.
- Access the breaker in your panel box and turn off the supply of power to your AC
- Remove the lid of the unit. Remove the screws of the shroud with a socket first, then remove the lid. Make sure that no other parts get hit.
- Once the lid has been lifted, check your unit’s refrigerant gauge.
- Use a wretch to remove the port’s screw and start adding the refrigerant until you have the right amount. Make sure you add the refrigerant carefully and slowly, and notice the difference in the temperature of the air inside the AC unit and the RV all the time.
- Once enough refrigerant has been added, the air within the AC unit and inside your RV should be different by close to 20 degrees.
- Place everything back and turn the power back on. Constantly check the temperature to make sure that the unit is working properly.
How do I install an RV air conditioning unit on my RV?
It will depend on the unit you have and its type. Nevertheless, the process should be relatively simple and quickly completed. All you need to do is follow this guide, and you shouldn’t have any problems.
However, note that if you aren’t confident, you can always call a professional to do it for you.
- Shut down the power by flipping the right switch in your breaker box.
- Determine the location where you want your air conditioning unit. Ensure no obstructions and that the area has enough support to hold the unit comfortably. The spot should be 8 inches away from the edge.
- Make a hole through the roof of your vehicle. Measure once and cut twice, meaning you must ensure that your measurements are correct and that the hole you made is sufficiently big to fit everything. Finally, make sure that the locations of the bolts are marked as well.
- Mount the portion of the unit that goes on the vehicle’s roof right on top of the hole. Once placed correctly, secure it using the bolts on the marked spots.
- Inside the vehicle, place the bolts and screw them in. Once they’re safely installed, mount the ceiling portion of the unit on them and secure it.
- Use a sealant on the hole’s edge where the roof meets the air conditioning unit. This will add stability to the set-up.
- Set up the wiring of the ceiling portion of the unit properly. A good rule of thumb is to match the wires’ colors.
- Plug the part on the ceiling to the one on the roof and turn on the power source. At this point, your air conditioning unit should be safely installed and working properly.
Cleaning your RV AC Unit
Cleaning is essential to ensure that it’s always running at maximum efficiency. However, cleaning your filter is only one step of the way. To make sure that your unit is running at its best, you need to follow these steps:
- Turn off the supply of power.
- (Safely) climb onto the roof and start removing the bolts holding the shroud of your air conditioning unit in place.
- Use plastic bags to cover any electrical connections to protect them.
- Apply the cleaner to the coils and leave it soaking for 15-20 minutes.
- Spray with a hose until all the debris is gone.
- Ensure the coils have been dried; then, you can return the power and use your unit again.
How do I maintain my air conditioning unit?
There is no list of the things you must always take care of to maintain your unit. It should be fine as long as you regularly clean it and are always wary of its current state.
Be mindful of rain and storms, strong winds, debris, and UV rays, all of which can damage your air conditioning unit.
Regularly checking for any leaks or water intrusion is also a good idea.
If you’re aware of all these things, you should never be caught off-guard by your air conditioning unit when it starts malfunctioning due to some issue. This will also help ensure a long lifetime for your unit.
Other Recommendations – RV AC Covers
If you have an air conditioning unit installed on your RV, you probably want to make it last as long as possible. In that case, you should check out these two products, which will help protect your unit from environmental factors that could damage it.
Classic Accessories Brisk II
Summary
This one is the Classic Accessories Brisk II, a high-quality cover that will surely not disappoint potential buyers. If you want extra protection for your unit, this cover will meet all your needs.
First, this cover is made from waterproof material, which makes it good at defending against any environmental hazards that could severely damage your unit. This characteristic also makes it easy to clean.
This cover also fits on pretty much any air conditioning unit on the market. To install it, slip it on, and that’s it. It is already designed to stay tightly snug on your unit.
If you’re worried about appearances, don’t be. This cover is also available in white and gray.
And finally, its affordable price. For everything this cover delivers, it wouldn’t be surprising to find out it costs a king’s ransom. Luckily, it doesn’t, so you’re left with more money for a better air conditioning unit.
One problem, however, is the fit. Because of how it’s designed, there are some cases where it won’t fit on your unit.
However, if it does fit, do yourself a favor and get one or two because you’ll have difficulty getting a better value.
Pros:
- Two color options
- Waterproof
- Easy to clean
- Slip-on design
- Cheap
- One-year warranty
Cons:
- Possible issues with the fit
ADCO 3021 White RV Air Conditioner Cover
Summary
If you’re worried about environmental hazards damaging your unit, get this cover and prop it open on top of it. You’ll find nothing to worry about.
This cover is made from sturdy vinyl material, so there should be no issues with it protecting your unit from whatever tries to damage it.
Its design also helps reduce the cold drafts that could come into your RV through your air conditioning unit.
It has no mind-blowing features, but it does get the job done efficiently and effectively. You won’t find yourself wanting with this cover.
You might find yourself wanting even more, considering how good this unit is. After all, accidents can happen, which may rip or tear this cover.
Indeed, you’d want to have one or two extra on hand for easy replacement.
And if you’re wondering if the price is eye-watering, stop. The price is very affordable to the point of mysticism. In the worst-case scenario, you can even buy them in packs of four if you want extras.
Seriously, this cover covers all the necessary areas. Solid and reliable, it will surely not disappoint any buyer. Combined with its low price, you’ll have difficulty finding a better deal.
Pros:
- Can be bought individually or in packs of four
- Made with heavy-duty material (vinyl), which works wonders in protecting against any potential hazards
- Reduces cold draft
- Lightweight
- Cheap
Cons:
- None whatsoever.
When Should I Replace My RV Air Conditioner?
Knowing when to replace your RV air conditioner can be critical for maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment.
Key indicators include poor cooling performance, unusual noises, frequent breakdowns, and high energy bills. If your unit is more than ten years old and requires frequent repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than continuously repair it.
Also, if you notice a significant increase in your energy bills, it could be a sign that your AC is losing efficiency.
Recognizing these signs early can save you from discomfort and high repair costs, as it will help you know when to replace your RV air conditioner.
Wrapping Up
RV air conditioners are pivotal for ensuring comfort during the sweltering summer months. These cooling systems come in two primary forms: rooftop units, installed on the RV roof for optimal air circulation, and portable units, offering flexibility in positioning and usage.
The cooling capacity of RV air conditioners is measured in British Thermal Units (BTU), with higher BTU numbers indicating better cooling abilities.
When choosing an RV air conditioner, it’s advisable to consider the unit’s energy efficiency. A more energy-efficient unit can lead to significant cost savings over time, reducing the overall operating expense.
Regular maintenance is another crucial factor for efficiently operating these air conditioners. This includes cleaning and replacing filters, checking for refrigerant leaks, and ensuring the unit is debris-free.
Furthermore, a protective cover can help safeguard your RV air conditioner from harsh weather conditions and prolong its lifespan.
Covers prevent dust accumulation, protect from UV rays, and reduce exposure to rain or snow.
In conclusion, selecting an efficient RV air conditioner and conducting regular maintenance can provide optimal cooling performance while minimizing operating costs.
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