Air conditioning is a must-have for campers and rv ac units that are on the road, as it makes the ride more comfortable. There are several different types of RV air conditioners, and choosing the best one for your rig depends on what you need it for and how much you want to spend.
Rooftop ACs
A rooftop air conditioning system sits on top of your RV and blows cool air through a set of vents. It’s usually the most powerful air conditioner, but can be less efficient than a window or ductless unit.
Ductless units don’t require a vent, and can be mounted in any position that’s convenient. Some ductless models also work as heat pumps, which can help keep your RV warm during winter.
Most RVs on the market today come with an overhead air conditioning unit that’s mounted to the roof of your camper. This can be high profile or low profile, depending on the model of your RV.
Larger RVs like motorhomes, 5th wheels, and long travel trailers may come with two AC units – one in the living area and one in the bedroom area.
The thermostat in the AC unit will likely have multiple zones, and you’ll need to adjust the temperature to get a comfortable setting. Try to run it on a warmer setting (75 deg) and only turn it on when you’re actually using it, and avoid running it more than 2-3 times per day.
It’s also important to clean your air filters regularly, as they can become clogged with dust and debris very quickly while on the road. The more frequently you clean your air filter, the more efficiently your RV air conditioner will run.
When it’s not in use, make sure to cover your RV air conditioning unit with a weatherproof cover. This will protect it from rain, snow, sun UV rays, and debris.
You’ll want to check your exterior air exchangers once a year or every time you have an extended stay with the AC. If these get clogged with bugs or debris, they’ll affect your RV air conditioner’s ability to reject heat from outside and cause it to work less effectively.
If you’re a fulltime RVer, solar power is a great way to run your AC and save on electricity. However, it’s a big up-front investment and can be complicated to install, so do some research first before you commit.
Getting your RV’s air conditioner to work properly is crucial to keeping your rig and yourself cool on hot days. It can be tempting to turn it on all the time, but this can waste energy and put your rig at risk of overheating.
The best way to get your RV’s AC working efficiently is to make sure it’s always properly sized for the space in your rig. This means looking for an air conditioner that has a BTU rating that’s at least 20 BTUs per square foot of space in your rig.