A functioning RV camper ac is a necessary part of traveling in your RV. If you don’t have one, your RV will be uncomfortable and you won’t be able to enjoy the outdoors as much as you could.
There are several types of air conditioners available for RVs, including rooftop and window units. The type you choose depends on your preference and the layout of your RV.
Rooftop AC Units
The most common option for RVers is a roof-mounted air conditioning unit. These can be installed on any sized RV and come in both standard models and low profile versions to reduce height.
Those with longer rigs may prefer to install ducted air conditioning systems, which allow the cool air produced by the unit to flow through the ceiling. This system can be more expensive, but it’s quieter and provides more consistent cooling throughout your rig.
Ductless AC Units
Some ductless models use a “dump” feature to pump cool air directly into the living space. These units are less efficient than ducted models, but they’re also much more affordable.
Basement AC Units
Another popular option is a basement AC unit, which is mounted in the floor of a motorcoach. These AC units don’t obstruct window views and can be more energy efficient than rooftop units because they pull the heat down before putting it out through the vents.
The Dometic Penguin II and the Coleman Mach 15 are two good options for these units. They have a 15,000 BTU capacity, so they can adequately cool spaces up to 750 square feet.
They’re also relatively lightweight, which makes them easier to move around. While the Penguin II is a bit noisy, many buyers don’t find it to be bothersome at all.
Minimize Appliances and Electronics
You’ll save money on your energy bills by minimizing the number of appliances you use in your RV. A fridge, a microwave, and a dishwasher can all be a big source of extra heat, so you should try to limit their use as much as possible.
Consider Using Solar Power
You can purchase a battery pack to charge your RV’s solar panels. These can be a great way to extend your RV’s range while traveling, but you should check the manufacturer’s specifications to make sure they meet your specific needs.
Lastly, you should consider installing LED lights in your RV’s interior to save even more money on electricity. They can be a bit more expensive, but they do not emit as much heat and are much more environmentally friendly than other forms of lighting.
What to Know About Running Your RV Air Conditioner
The first thing you need to understand about an RV air conditioner is that it is very powerful and requires a lot of power to run. This power is used during startup to get the compressor up and running, so if your RV doesn’t have enough power for your AC unit, it will not function correctly.