Answer
Jul 17, 2025 - 03:02 AM
When you're picking an RV air conditioner, there are four main things you want to look at:
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BTU Rating (Cooling Power)
The most common size is 13,500 BTUs, which works for smaller rigs or 30 amp power setup. If you’ve got a bigger RV or you're camping in really hot, humid areas, go with a 15,000 BTU unit. More BTUs = more cooling power. -
Ducted vs Non-Ducted
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Ducted systems push air through ceiling ducts great for larger RVs with multiple rooms.
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Non-ducted units blow air straight down from the unit perfect for smaller trailers or vans.
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Power Source and Amperage
Most rooftop units run on 120V AC, and a 13.5K or 15K BTU unit will usually pull 12–15 amps. Make sure your RV’s electrical system or generator can handle it especially if you're running other appliances. -
Features
Want heat too? Look for one with a heat pump or an optional heat strip. Also, newer models have soft start built in, which helps reduce that power surge when the unit kicks on makes it easier to run off a generator or inverter
Brands like Dometic, Coleman-Mach, and RecPro are solid. Make sure whatever you choose fits your existing rooftop cutout and mounting bracket or be ready to do some retrofitting.
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