Whether you live in your RV full time or use it for weekend getaways, you’ll want to keep it cool and comfortable throughout the summer. A well-maintained rv ac unit can save you money and stress over the course of your vacation. The best way to do that is to know all about your RV’s AC unit and how it works.
The cooling process starts with your air conditioner’s compressor, which circulates, heats, and compresses refrigerant vapors until they are at a high enough pressure. The hot air is then blown over the evaporator coils, which absorbs the heat and lowers the temperature of the air — cooling it and you down as it does so. This cool air is then blown back into your RV through the vents, making you feel more comfortable.
As with most mechanical appliances, an RV air conditioning unit will wear out over time. However, there are a few small things you can do to help your RV’s air conditioning unit last longer and perform better. These include changing the filter regularly, ensuring it’s clean and free from debris, and using it only when necessary to prevent overworking it. In addition to these maintenance tips, you can also reduce your RV’s energy consumption by cooking outdoors or taking cool showers rather than heating up the inside of your RV.
When shopping for a new RV AC unit, you’ll need to consider factors like its BTU rating, ducting requirements, and power consumption. You’ll also need to decide if you prefer a rooftop or portable unit, as there are advantages and disadvantages to both.
A good place to start is with a manufacturer’s warranty, which will provide you with protection against defects and other issues that may arise during the lifetime of your unit. In addition, you should check whether the unit has been certified by Energy Star, which means it meets energy efficiency standards. Finally, you should look for a model that has an automatic timer function that helps conserve energy by allowing you to set specific operating periods for your RV’s air conditioner.
Depending on your needs, you might also consider an RV AC unit with multiple modes that can be used for various purposes. Coleman Mach 15 is a popular choice because it provides up to 15,000 BTUs of cooling power, as well as a heat mode for year-round comfort. It is easy to install, has a compact design, and comes with an air filter that is washable and reusable.
RV air conditioners can be powered via a generator, shore power, or direct from your RV’s battery. However, it is best to only use the latter option when you’re able to plug your RV into shore power, as a portable RV air conditioner can quickly drain your battery. You can also reduce your RV’s electricity usage by limiting your cooking to outdoor BBQs and taking cool showers instead of hot ones. In addition, you can try to stay in the shade as much as possible to avoid overworking your RV’s AC. rv ac units