An RV air conditioner is a must-have for any camping trip. Not only does it keep you cool, dometic cooling units but it also helps to conserve energy and lower your overall power costs, especially if you’re camping off-the-grid.
How to Choose the Right RV Air Conditioner
When you’re looking for an RV air conditioner, it’s important to find one that fits your specific RV model. There are many different types of units on the market, and they can be pretty expensive, so it’s best to shop around for the best deal on a good unit that works well for your vehicle.
What are the Differences Between Rooftop RV Air Conditioners?
There are several different types of rooftop AC units available, with ductless roof mounts being the most common and least expensive. These units use small, compact condensors and evaporators that can be noisy inside the RV, but they can be very effective at keeping you cool.
If you’re looking for a more efficient roof air conditioning solution, you can consider a ducted unit. They can be a bit more expensive, but they’re quieter and are generally more energy-efficient than ductless models.
Installation Tips
If your RV doesn’t come with a roof AC, you can install one yourself with some basic DIY skills. Just make sure that you match the new AC to your RV’s existing vent opening and wiring, and follow the instructions in the manufacturer’s manual.
It’s not uncommon for RV air conditioning units to get damaged or even completely stop working entirely, so it’s a good idea to check the system frequently for signs of trouble. These include things like a hot or cold airflow, and a high or low thermostat temperature.
A faulty air conditioner may be caused by a coolant leak or a faulty component in the unit. A faulty unit is usually a sign that you should call a professional for maintenance or repairs.
Don’t forget to change your filters regularly! Having a clogged filter can significantly affect how your air conditioner runs, making it less efficient.
To help prevent damage and to keep your RV AC running efficiently, be sure to regularly check the filter. You should do this every 6 months or so to keep your ac clean and odor-free.
Another way to keep your ac running efficiently is to close the doors and windows in your RV when you’re using it. This will help your AC recycle more of the cool air from within your RV and prevent it from escaping through those open windows or doors.
Finally, be sure to park your RV in the shade whenever possible and avoid parking near any direct source of heat. That’s especially true if you’re camping in the desert, where the sun can be very hot and harsh. It’s also a good idea to keep your windows closed when the sun is out and to be careful when you’re cooking outside. This will reduce your RV’s overall temperature by a significant amount, which will allow your ac to work more efficiently and save you money on fuel.