Whether you’re driving a fifth-wheel, camper ac travel trailer or motorhome, air conditioning is one of the most luxurious amenities to have in your RV. The heat of summer can get pretty oppressive, and it’s no fun to be stuck inside without cool air to keep you comfortable.
AC units are the main way to cool your RV and make camping more comfortable, and there are a lot of different types available on the market. Regardless of the type of RV you have, it’s important to understand the basics so that you can choose an air conditioner that works for your needs.
The process of cooling requires energy, so you want to pick an AC unit with a high BTU rating that will adequately cool your space. This will save you money on electricity bills in the long run.
A unit with a higher BTU rating will also be less likely to overheat your RV. A typical RV with 100 square feet of space can get by with a unit with 5,000 to 7,000 BTUs.
Many of these units can also work as a heat pump, which can help to warm your RV on cold nights. Some of these units come with air filtration systems to improve indoor air quality and reduce the amount of smoke, dust, CFCs, and other harmful elements that can circulate in your RV’s air.
Rooftop units are the most common type of AC on the market, and they’re often the best choice for RVs that don’t have a space to install a ductless unit. They usually feature a ceiling-mounted control panel or wire directly to the thermostat in your RV, which can be convenient if you prefer to set and forget your ideal temperature.
Low-profile units are slimmer and lighter than full-height designs, which can save you fuel economy in the long run. However, these units can be noisy, so if you’re concerned about being bugged by your RV park neighbors, a full-height unit might be a better option for you.
Portable and ventless air conditioners are another popular choice for RV owners who don’t have the space for a rooftop unit. They’re a little more expensive than the rooftop models, but they can be powerful and offer some added features.
They can be installed on a roof-mounted or non-ducted ventilation system, and they can even be mounted under a bench in your rig. They’re a great choice for vintage rigs that don’t come with a rooftop unit already pre-installed, but they won’t work with all RVs because most RVs have a ceiling-mounted thermostat.
Some of these units can also be connected to a generator, so you can power your air conditioner even when your rig is off-the-grid. They also typically use a smaller power supply, so they’re less prone to overheating.
The best RV ac units will be able to efficiently cool your space and help you have a more enjoyable trip in the summer months. They should also be easy to operate, have low energy consumption, and be quiet.