When it comes to choosing the best RV air conditioner, there are a few things you need to take into account.
The size of your RV, the climate you live in, and your personal preferences will all play a role in deciding which AC unit is right for you.
Here are 5 of the best RV air conditioners on the market
5 Best RV Air Conditioners
1. Coleman Mach 15+
Pros
- High 15,000 BTU rating
- Can be installed in a ducted system
- This will accept an optional heating unit
Cons
- More expensive than other models here
- Kit doesn’t include a thermostat
The Coleman 48204C866 Mach 15+ A/C Unit is the perfect choice for those who want reliable cooling and heating power.
With a cool/heat capacity of 15,000 BTUs, this Unit can easily handle even the most extreme temperatures.
Additionally, the 1/3 HP fan motor ensures that your space will always be comfortable, no matter how hot or cold it is outside.
Best of all, the exterior shroud dimensions are only 13.8″ H x 26.1″ W x 38″ L, so this Unit will take up minimal space in your home or office.
2. Dometic Brisk II
Pros
- One of the most expensive models we researched
- Its light weight helps make installation easier
Cons
- Not as powerful as some larger units
This tough and efficient AC unit pumps out 15000 BTUs of cool air, making it perfect for even the hottest days.
And thanks to its smart design and improved materials, it delivers maximum airflow and performance. Its dampening brackets reduce noise and vibration for a peaceful RVing experience.
3. Coleman Mach 3+
Pros
- Low price
- Can be used with a ducted or non-ducted ventilation system
Cons
- It is a little heavy
The Coleman Mach 3+ A/C Unit is perfect for those who want the best of both worlds. You can cool your home in the summer and heat it in the winter, all with one easy-to-use Unit.
With a cool/heat capacity of 13,500 and an electric heat element capacity of 5,600, this Unit will keep your home comfortable all year. The electrical rating is 115 VAC, 60HZ, and the cooling amps are 13.1. The airflow is 320 CFM.
4. RecPro RP-AC2801
Pros
- A low-profile design gives you extra clearance on top of the
- RV Users say it’s quieter than competitive models
Cons
- Not designed for use with ducted systems
This tough and durable Unit is made from high-quality plastic, and its small size means it won’t sacrifice too much roof or interior ceiling space.
Plus, with a maximum power input of 1590 watts and an energy efficiency rating of 5.97 watts per BTU, this Unit will keep you cool and comfortable all summer.
5. Furrion CHILL
Pros
- 2 RV fans instead of 1
- Energy efficient
Cons
- Little Heavy
This 15,500 BTU unit is designed for RVs, trailers, and campers and features two fans for faster and more efficient cooling.
The Furrion Chill is also highly energy efficient, up to 25% more efficient than leading competitive models.
Plus, its VibrationSmart technology helps resist vibration, and ClimateSmart technology allows it to function in extreme climates.
What is an RV AC?
An RV AC is a roof-mounted air conditioner that helps keep an RV’s interior cool and comfortable.
Most RV ACs are powered by electricity, and they work by taking in warm air from inside the RV and circulating it over a refrigerant-filled coil.
This cools the air, and the cooled air is then blown back into the RV. Many RV ACs also have a heater function, which can be used to keep the interior of the RV warm in colder weather.
In addition, some RV ACs come with a built-in fan, which can be used to circulate air even when the air conditioner is turned off.
How Does An RV AC Work?
AC in RVs works the same way as regular home air conditioners. The RV AC has a compressor that removes heat from the air and cools it before circulating it back into the RV.
The compressor is powered by electricity from the RV’s batteries or a shore power connection. How much power an RV AC uses depends on the size of the Unit and the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the RV.
The larger the Unit and the greater the temperature difference, the more power it will use. How well an RV AC works depends on how well-insulated the RV is.
If there are gaps or leaks in the insulation, the cold air will escape, and the AC will have to work harder to keep the inside of the RV cool.
What Size AC Do I Need For My RV
When shopping for a new RV, one of the most important questions is what size AC unit you need.
This will vary depending on the size and type of RV you purchase and how you plan to use it. For example,
if you plan to take your RV out in the middle of summer, you will need a larger AC unit than if you only plan to use it in the spring and fall.
It would help to consider how many people will be using the RV simultaneously. If you plan to have a lot of people in your RV, you will need a larger AC unit to keep everyone cool.
FAQ
How long does an RV air conditioner last?
The lifespan of an RV air conditioner varies depending on the make and model. However, most air conditioners last for around 5 to 10 years before they need to be replaced.