Tired of waking up to a muggy RV? We get it—nobody wants to be sweating it out in their RV during those sweltering hot days. Adding an RV air conditioner is one of the easiest ways to customize your RV. But what do you look for first? Let’s take a closer look into what you need for your RV air conditioner this summer.
Can I Put a Portable Air Conditioner in My RV?
The short answer is yes! But there are a few things to consider to keep your cool. Portable air conditioners can work in RVs as long as you find one that fits and is compatible with your RV’s power setup. Portable AC units are designed to be flexible and can work in an RV if you check a few key things. First off, make sure the unit fits in your RV’s space.
Unlike RV-specific air conditioners built into the roof or mounted on the side, portable units can be placed anywhere you have room. However, you’ll need to ensure the AC can be connected to a power source, whether it’s shore power, a generator, or another compatible setup.
RV air conditioners are specifically designed to handle the unique challenges of RV living, such as compact spaces and varying power sources. While portable RV air conditioners are versatile, they might not be as efficient as the built-in options. However, they are often more affordable and easy to move around. A quality portable RV air conditioner can cost anywhere from $700 to $1500, depending on your RV’s size and cooling capacity.
Can a Portable Generator Power an RV Air Conditioner?
Considering using a portable generator to power your RV air conditioner? It’s totally doable, but you need to pick the right generator to match your AC’s requirements. If you’re using a portable generator, it should have enough wattage to handle your AC unit’s startup and running needs.
For larger RV air conditioning units, you’ll likely need a generator that can provide between 3000 and 4000 watts. Smaller generators might need help to keep up with your air conditioner’s demands. If you’re running the AC on batteries, you’ll need an inverter to convert the DC power from the batteries into the AC power the AC unit uses. Inverters ensure your power supply is stable and reliable so your AC can run smoothly.
While built-in RV generators are ideal for consistent power, a portable generator is a flexible option if you’re camping off-grid or need an extra power source. Just remember, you’ll need to keep an eye on fuel levels to ensure your generator keeps chugging along throughout your trip. If you want to upgrade your RV’s generator, check out our RV parts store!
How Many Watts are Needed to Run an RV Air Conditioner?
Power requirements for RV air conditioners can vary based on the size of the unit. When considering how many watts you need, start with the startup wattage, which can range from 1000 watts for a smaller 5000 BTU unit to around 3500 watts for a larger 15,000 BTU unit. Running wattage is generally lower, with smaller units using around 300-500 watts and larger ones needing up to 1500 watts.
7 Things to Look For in an RV Air Conditioner
- Cooling Capacity: Ensure it matches the size of your RV for optimal performance. Keep in mind that larger RVs require more powerful units.
- Power Consumption: Look for units with high energy efficiency ratings to manage power usage and reduce energy costs.
- Energy Efficiency Rating: Choose units with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating for better cooling with less energy.
- Noise Level: If noise is a concern for you, check the decibel rating to ensure the unit operates quietly.
- Warranty Coverage: A good warranty provides peace of mind and protects against potential issues.
- Installation Options: Consider ease of installation. Some units may require professional installation, while others can be set up by yourself.
- Maintenance Needs: Regular maintenance is essential. Look for units with easy-to-clean filters and check for any maintenance requirements to prevent issues.
Did you know all our RVs and travel trailers have built-in air conditioning? If you are looking for recommendations or have it on your wishlist for your next RV or travel trailer upgrade, come see our team at Grove RV or check out our selection online!
