When you’re traveling by motorhome, there’s nothing worse than being hot and sticky inside. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to keep yourself cool while you’re away from home.
Whether you’re planning a long road trip or just need to find a place to stay when visiting friends, a functioning RV AC system is a luxury that will help keep you comfortable while you’re on the go.
The Best Way to Cool Your RV
The following tips to keep your RV cool in the summer will help your whole family beat the heat and focus on having some fun in the sun.
- Park in the Shade.
- Create Shade.
- Go With the Flow.
- Buy a Portable Fan (or Two)
- Protect Your Windows.
- Close Your Windows Each Morning.
- Use Reflective Insulation.
- Use an RV Air Conditioner
Best Air Conditioners for RVs
Coleman Mach 15+ : Best Overall.
The Coleman Mach 15 Air Conditioner is the world’s most powerful RV air conditioner with the highest cooling output you can buy. With an airflow so strong, it’s a sure bet for ducted systems. The Mach 15 is equipped with a 1/3 hp fan motor, the largest used in an RV air conditioner, delivering cool air at an incredible 320 CFM. Plus the Mach 15 features the same streamlined shape that enhances the airflow and cooling efficiency of every model in the Coleman-Mach line of RV air conditioners. All copper tubing and gas-flux brazed joints ensure long life and dependability. Large evaporator and condenser coils with raised lance fins enhance the system’s ability to dissipate heat.
Dometic Brisk II : Best Value for a Smaller RV.
The Dometic Brisk II Air Conditioner’s smart design and improved materials combine to maximize air flow and performance. It is best-in-class of any standard RV rooftop air conditioner for weight, air flow, and capacity. Tested for use in extreme conditions.
Large air openings promote superior air flow and cooling capacity, while the EPP foam housing both reduces weight and also contributes to improved cooling. The Brisk is incredibly robust; components such as its carbon steel base have proven their durability by coming through vibration tests lasting for 30 hours and more. The optional heater function is ideal for use on cool evenings, with a multispeed blower for users to adjust according to their cooling or heating needs. Great care has also been taken to reduce operating noise – with the motor, compressor, and evaporator bracketed together for vibration-free, quiet operation. Long copper lines and dual rubber bushings are also responsible for minimizing noise and vibration, allowing you to enjoy comfortable temperatures in peace and quiet.
Dometic Brisk II (B59516.XX1J0) : Best Value for a Larger RV.
Dometic Duo Therm Brisk II Air line is powerful enough to cool even the largest coaches. Its reliability, economical price, efficient performance and long life make it the first choice of more than a million RVers today. Duo Therm Brisk II Air low amp power models draw means you can run other appliances and still have power to spare. Quiet 3-speed blowers deliver the volume of air you desire. That’s the right amount of cooling with no noise intrusion. The contoured shroud reduces draft and helps keep the unit operating at peak efficiency.
Coleman Mach 3+ : Best If You Need a Heater on a Budget.
The Coleman-Mach 3 PLUS air conditioner features a large evaporator and condenser coils with raised lance fins to dissipate heat.
It has a solid 13,500 nominal BTU cooling capacity. The Mach 3 PLUS delivers 320 CFM (cubic feet per minute) airflow. Featuring all-copper tubing and gas-flux brazed joints to ensure durability and long life. With the optional Heater Assembly (sold separately), you’ll have 5,600 BTUs of heat that’s perfect for cool-weather outings.
RecPro RP-AC2801 : Best Low-Profile Model.
Available in both black and white, this non-ducted air conditioner fits in nicely with any RV design scheme. In addition to being attractive, durable, and space-efficient, it also comes with removable screen filters for easy cleaning and replacement, which helps to extend the life of the unit.
The AC unit has several functions, including cooling, dehumidifying, fan, auto, clock and timer, sleep, and lock. These can be accessed from the remote control mainly, however, the inner plenum unit has a touch screen display for using the basic AC features. The LED displays are easy to read and understand, with an increased functionality to add to the convenience. The filters are accessed through this plenum unit, making maintenance simple and easy.
Types Of RV Air Conditioners
The main types of RV AC units installed on most rigs are either ducted and ductless, but don’t forget about modern technology — the portable AC unit is a small RV air conditioner creeping into the RV scene as a viable option for some rigs.
RV Air Conditioner Installation
How much is a AC unit for RV?
RV air conditioner prices vary on the style and type of unit. Most begin in the $200 range and go up to $1,000 depending on the BTU’s, profile and whether they use a heat pump or are just cold air.
Can I add an AC to my RV?
While you can certainly get one for your RV or camper, there are a lot of considerations to keep in mind. The energy load that the second AC unit requires is among your biggest concerns. If you’re using shore power, you might have to live minimally or use a generator to power both air conditioners at once.
What size RV AC do I need?
For the most popular RV sizes – length, widths and heights, you need 60 to 80 BTUs per square foot. What’s the best AC for RV? That’s two to four times more than needed for indoor air conditioners – room ACs, central air, etc., which usually need 20-30 BTUs per square foot depending on the climate and house specs.
How Can I Improve RV AC Air Flow?
The RV Airflow System optimizes the airflow of your RV A/C system, increasing airflow by an average of 40%, improving performance, speeding cooling times and reducing noise – https://rvairflow.com/