As summer heat ramps up, RV travelers start hunting for ways to keep cool on the road. A solid air conditioner isn’t just a luxury—it can make your mobile home actually livable on those sticky, brutal days.
This post digs into current trends and top picks for RV air conditioners. The goal? So you can head out and enjoy your adventures without melting.
Why a Quality RV Air Conditioner is Crucial
When you’re out exploring, the last thing you want is to roast inside a stifling RV. A good air conditioner can turn a sweaty trip into something you’ll actually enjoy.
It helps keep the temperature down and cuts humidity, which is a big deal in small spaces. Plus, a decent AC can filter out dust and allergens—nobody wants to sneeze all vacation.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner
With so many models out there, picking the right RV air conditioner can feel overwhelming. You’ll want to think about cooling power, energy use, installation, and how loud it gets.
To make things easier, here’s a rundown of the best RV air conditioners you can get right now.
Top RV Air Conditioners for 2023
After digging through user reviews and research, these RV air conditioners stand out:
- Dometic Brisk II: This one’s known for being tough and reliable. It cools well and isn’t too much of a headache to install.
- Advent ACM150: If you’re watching your budget, the Advent ACM150 balances cost and decent performance. It’s efficient, too.
- Airxcel Mach 15: With a hefty 15,000 BTUs, the Mach 15 handles big RVs and blazing temps. It’s built for serious summer trips.
- Furrion Chill: Modern looks and high performance make the Furrion Chill a favorite. People like how quietly it runs and how little energy it uses.
- Atwood Air Command: Need both cooling and heating? The Atwood Air Command does both, so it’s handy for RVers chasing different climates.
Installation Tips
Installing an RV air conditioner can sound intimidating, but with the right approach, you can definitely handle it. Here are a few tips to help the process go smoother:
- Read the Manual: Start by reading the installation guide cover to cover. Each model has its own quirks and steps.
- Check Electrical Compatibility: Make sure your RV’s electrical setup can handle the new AC. Sometimes, you’ll need to upgrade your power supply or add a new circuit.
- Seal Properly: Don’t skimp on sealing—leaks kill efficiency. Use quality sealant around the unit so there aren’t any gaps.
- Test Before Use: After installing, fire up the air conditioner and check for weird noises or vibrations. Better to catch issues early than sweat it out later.
Maintenance and Care
Regular upkeep keeps your RV air conditioner running longer and better. Here are some ways to keep things in shape:
Cleaning the Filters
Filters get clogged with dust fast. Clean or swap them out often to keep the air moving and the cooling strong.
Inspecting the Coils
Evaporator and condenser coils collect dirt, which messes with heat transfer. Check and clean them every so often so your AC doesn’t have to work overtime.
Checking for Leaks
Leaky refrigerant lines zap your AC’s power. If cooling drops off, look for leaks and fix them right away.
Energy Efficiency Tips
Air conditioners use a lot of power, but you can cut down on energy use with a few tricks:
- Use Reflective Window Covers: Block out the sun’s heat with reflective covers. It’s a simple way to lighten the AC’s load.
- Park in the Shade: Whenever you can, park your RV somewhere shady. It really does make a difference.
- Ventilation: Cracking roof vents and running fans helps airflow. Sometimes, that’s enough to keep things comfortable without blasting the AC all day.
- Set the Thermostat Wisely: Don’t set your thermostat super low—just cool enough to feel good. Your power bill (and your AC) will thank you.
Picking a solid RV air conditioner can really change your travel game. Nobody wants to sweat through their summer road trip.
If you want to dive deeper, you might want to check out the best RV air conditioners on Popular Mechanics.
