RV air conditioners are a great way to keep your rig cool on hot summer days. norcold refrigerator parts They can make your travels more enjoyable, and they’re often included as standard equipment in many motorhomes.
The Air Conditioning Process
An RV air conditioner operates much like a window unit in an apartment or house. It removes heat by circulating and compressing refrigerant vapors, then cooling them back down into liquid form in the condenser. This cooled refrigerant is then blown into the evaporator, where it absorbs the heat from the warm RV air and makes it even cooler.
The Best Air Conditioners for RVs
When looking for an RV air conditioner, you’ll want to consider the size of your rig and what it’s used for. Smaller recreational vehicles and pop-up campers are often ideal for an under-bench air conditioner, while larger RVs and motorhomes typically require a ducted unit that’s installed in the roof of the vehicle.
Choosing an AC For Your RV
There are a few things that you can do to help your RV air conditioner work its best, including:
Keeping your doors and windows closed is the most effective way to keep heat out of your RV. Be sure to install window curtains and sunshades if you plan on spending any time outdoors in the summertime.
Be aware of the direction of the sun, too; if it’s directly hitting your awning or windows during peak hours, that can quickly heat up the inside of your rig and force your air conditioner to work harder. You can also use Reflectix material to protect your awning or RV’s windows from direct sun light.
It’s always a good idea to check and clean the filter on your RV air conditioner before every trip, especially if you’ll be traveling long distances or staying in remote locations. Having a clean filter can make your unit more efficient and cut down on energy costs.
Another important part of ensuring your RV air conditioner’s operation is to regularly check and clean the shroud, which covers the ac unit outside. This cover helps protect the ac unit from dirt and other debris, as well as extending its life.
You can purchase replacement RV air conditioner shrouds and other ac parts at most camping stores or online. You can also contact a company that specializes in RV air conditioning parts and see what they have to offer.
Taking Care of Your RV’s Air Conditioning System
The best way to extend the lifespan of your RV air conditioner is to keep it well-maintained and use it sparingly. Having a clean air filter, keeping the ac unit well-ventilated, and not overworking it are all easy ways to keep your ac working at its best.
Having a few extra RV accessories on hand, such as a ceiling fan or a portable air conditioner can really help your AC do its job better. A ceiling fan can draw cooler air from the ceiling, dispersing it throughout your rig, while a portable air conditioner can be carried in a backpack or mounted on the roof of your rig.