RVers depend on their rv cooling units to keep them comfortable and cool during their adventures. But not all RV air conditioners are created equal.

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Rooftop Air Conditioners

Whether in an RV or van, rooftop air conditioners provide powerful cooling capabilities to bring your interior temperature to a comfortable level. Designed to optimize energy efficiency, they also minimize noise to ensure your comfort while on the road.

Unlike split system AC that typically has an indoor air handler and outdoor condenser, rooftop packaged units have all the components grouped together in one cabinet on top of the roof. A fan draws air into the unit, through dampers and filters to filter it, then over evaporator coils to chill it using a standard refrigeration cycle. The cooled air is then blown through ductwork and into the space.

The rooftop location also means rooftop HVAC systems are less susceptible to damage or theft. They’re not as prone to the kinds of accidental impacts that can harm ground-level equipment, such as runaway lawn mowers or balls, as well as other risks such as territorial dogs and other outdoor pests.
Portable Air Conditioners

A small portable air conditioner is a great alternative to rooftop units for RVers who want to keep things cool and comfortable in their camper or trailer. These units are generally easy to install and offer a range of features including cooling, heating (for reverse-cycle models), dehumidifying and automatic modes.

Some of these units come with programmable timers and sleep mode, making it easier to set the unit to turn on and off at specific times. You can also select a fan speed that suits your needs as well as an energy efficiency rating to optimise power usage.

One of the best options on the market is a single hose Frigidaire portable AC that dishes out moderate cooling potential and has some good extra features, such as a sleep mode to gradually moderate the temperature and reduce energy use at night. It’s a compact and value-priced option that’s ideal for campers or smaller RVs.
Evaporative Coolers

If you want to avoid draining your RV’s battery system, an evaporative cooler can be a great alternative. These portable units cool air by blowing it through a porous wet cooling pad where water evaporates, reducing the temperature of the air. Evaporative coolers come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to know how much space you need to cool before selecting one.

Evaporative coolers also require a steady supply of clean, sanitary water. Some are manual fill, while others can be connected to a water line for continuous use. Some feature a low-water shutoff and an auto-fill system, making it easy to get the cooling power you need without worrying about running out of water.

Swamp coolers pair well with desert climates and are not effective in humid areas, so it’s essential to understand if they will work for your RV before purchasing. Some features to look for include a sleep setting that cycles through sound effects and remote controls for user-friendly experience.
Ducted Air Conditioners

If you’re after something a little more powerful than your roof unit or evaporative cooler, then look into ducted RV air conditioners. These are a system of ducts hidden in the ceiling that sends hot or cold air to each room in your RV. They’re generally the quieter and more expensive option.

The ducted AC process works through an outdoor unit with a compressor, cooling coils and electric motor that sucks the air in before blowing it back out into your RV’s ducts. These ducts then push the cool air into your living spaces, where it is controlled by a central control system.

The installation of a new ducted air conditioning unit in your RV can be quite complex, and is best done by a professional. It involves removing the existing shroud, assessing the electrical capacity, preparing the ductwork, ensuring that the wires are properly connected and that your circuit breaker can handle the load.