RVing is all about adventure, freedom, and escaping the mundane. However, dealing with sweltering heat and humidity while on the road can really dampen the fun. Portable air conditioners are the perfect solution for cooling your RV and making sure you stay refreshed during summer travels.
In this blog, we’ll cover the benefits of portable ACs for RVs, what to look for when purchasing a unit, installation tips, and how to optimize their use.
Benefits of Portable ACs for RVs
Unlike the centralized roof AC systems in most RVs, portable air conditioners offer a range of advantages that enhance your RVing experience:
Compact and Flexible
Smaller portable units can efficiently cool spaces ranging from 150 to 350 square feet, making them perfect for small travel trailers. For larger motorhomes, there are more powerful portable AC units available. What sets them apart is their flexibility. You can easily roll portable units to where you need them and even take them outside for patio cooling. In contrast, central ACs are fixed installations, limiting your cooling options.
Energy Efficiency and Control
Newer portable ACs are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They utilize eco-friendly refrigerants and offer energy-saving modes to prevent power spikes. This not only keeps you comfortable but also saves on battery power or generator fuel during your travels. Additionally, portable units give you complete control over your environment. You can set your desired temperature and cool only the rooms you’re using, avoiding wasting energy on cooling unoccupied spaces.
Cost-Effective and Quiet
One of the most significant advantages of portable ACs is their affordability. Installing a new roof AC system in your RV can be a costly and time-consuming endeavor. Portable units offer a budget-friendly alternative with easy DIY installation. Moreover, newer models operate at low decibel levels, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep in your RV.
Additional Features
Many portable AC units come with added features, such as dehumidifier modes to reduce mugginess in humid climates, fan modes for air circulation, and even heating functions for year-round comfort. These features add to the versatility and functionality of portable air conditioners in your RV.
For versatility, budget-friendly cooling, and refreshing comfort in your RV, a portable AC is just what you need for incredible off-grid adventures.
What to Look for When Buying
Selecting the right portable AC for your RV involves considering several key factors:
BTUs (British Thermal Units)
BTUs indicate the cooling capacity of the unit. Higher BTU units (ranging from 7,000 to 14,000) can effectively cool larger RV spaces. To determine the appropriate BTU rating for your RV, consider the square footage you need to cool.
Multiple Fan Speeds
Adjustable fan speeds allow you to control the airflow within your RV. This flexibility is essential for efficient cooling, as it enables you to adapt the AC’s performance to different conditions.
Dehumidifier Mode
In humid climates, excess moisture in the air can be uncomfortable. Look for a portable AC with a dehumidifier mode that removes moisture, making your RV more pleasant.
Installation Kits
Check if the portable AC comes with window and wall installation kits. These kits are crucial for securely mounting the unit in your RV window and venting hot air outside, ensuring efficient cooling.
Automatic Restart
Automatic restart functionality is crucial for off-grid use. In the event of a power outage, the unit will restart with the previous settings, maintaining your desired temperature and comfort.
Remote Control and Programmable Timer
Convenience matters when it comes to portable AC units. Units with remote controls allow you to adjust settings from across the room, while programmable timers enable you to set the AC to turn on or off at specific times, helping you save energy.
Washable Air Filters
Clean air filters are essential for maximizing airflow and cooling capacity. Look for units with easily removable and washable air filters, as they are more convenient to maintain.
Condensation Recycling
Some portable ACs have a feature that utilizes condensed water from the cooling process to help humidify the room’s airflow, improving overall comfort.
Weight and Dimensions
Consider the weight and dimensions of the portable AC unit to ensure it fits comfortably within your RV’s available space. Wheels can also be a handy feature for easy room-to-room mobility.
Choosing an energy-efficient portable AC with the right BTUs, features, and size allows you to stay cool wherever your RV adventures take you.
Installation Tips
Proper installation of your portable AC is crucial to ensure efficient cooling and optimal performance. Here are some essential installation tips to keep in mind:
Mount Near a Window
Venting the hot exhaust air outside is essential for effective cooling. Therefore, it’s advisable to mount the portable AC unit near a window. This positioning allows the exhaust hose to easily reach the exterior, facilitating the removal of hot air.
Seal Openings
To prevent hot outdoor air from entering your RV, use caulk or weatherstripping to seal any gaps around the window mount and exhaust hose where they connect to the outside. This airtight seal enhances the cooling efficiency of your portable AC.
Slope the Exhaust Hose
Ensure that the exhaust hose slopes slightly downward when venting outside. This slope prevents water condensation from dripping back into the AC unit, potentially causing damage.
Use Blackout Curtains
For portable AC units mounted in windows, installing blackout curtains on each side can significantly improve performance. Blackout curtains block sunlight, helping to keep the cold air inside your RV and reducing the load on the AC.
Allow Proper Ventilation
To ensure smooth airflow and efficient cooling, avoid obstructing the intake and outlet vents of the portable AC unit. Adequate ventilation is essential for the unit to function optimally.
Check Power Supply
Portable AC units can consume a significant amount of power. It’s advisable to use a surge protector to safeguard the unit and other electrical devices in your RV. Additionally, verify that the electrical circuit can handle the AC’s power demands, especially when running other appliances simultaneously.
Level the Unit
To ensure proper operation and condensate drainage, make sure that the portable AC unit sits level within your RV. A level unit functions more efficiently and prevents potential water accumulation issues.
Taking the time to correctly install your RV’s portable AC unit ensures that you’ll enjoy efficient off-grid cooling during your travels.
Optimizing Use Off-Grid
When you’re boondocking or camping off-grid, managing your portable AC efficiently becomes essential to conserve power and extend your off-grid adventures:
Minimize Run Time
To conserve energy, run the portable AC unit only when absolutely necessary. During cooler weather, consider using fans and opening windows to maintain comfort without relying solely on the AC.
Regular Maintenance
Proper maintenance is key to maximizing your AC’s efficiency. Clean air filters regularly to ensure optimal airflow. Additionally, keep the condenser coils free of debris to allow for efficient ventilation.
Temperature Adjustment
Avoid overcooling your RV. Opt for a higher temperature setting, such as 78°F, to conserve battery or generator power. This slight adjustment can significantly extend your off-grid stay.
Limit Blower Use
Running the AC’s blower fan consumes additional energy. Minimize blower use by opting for ceiling fans to circulate air within your RV. This not only reduces energy consumption but also helps maintain a comfortable temperature.
Close Windows and Vents
To prevent cooled air from escaping, close windows, roof vents, and non-essential AC units when running the portable AC. This ensures that the cooled air remains inside your RV.
Choose a Small Portable AC
For cooling specific rooms or zones within your RV, consider using a compact portable AC unit that requires less power. This selective approach can help you focus cooling where it’s needed most.
Precool at Night
During the cooler nighttime hours, run the portable AC to precool your RV. This allows you to start the day with a comfortable temperature inside. During the daytime, switch to fan mode or turn off the AC to conserve energy.
Supplement with Fans
Floor or ceiling fans can be effective in spreading cool air throughout your RV. Using fans strategically can reduce your reliance on the AC, particularly during mild weather.
Additional Information and Tips
Before you set off on your RV adventures, here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
- Generator Considerations: If you plan to use a generator to power your portable AC, ensure it has the capacity to handle the AC’s power requirements. Consult your RV’s manual for generator guidelines.
- Solar Power: For eco-conscious RVers, consider adding solar panels to your RV’s roof to help power your portable AC. Solar panels can provide a sustainable source of electricity, especially during sunny days.
- Weather Conditions: Be mindful of extreme weather conditions. During excessively hot weather, it may be challenging for a portable AC to maintain very low indoor temperatures. Seek shade and park strategically to minimize exposure to direct sunlight.
- Regular Checkups: Periodically inspect your portable AC unit for any signs of wear or damage. Routine maintenance and servicing can prolong its lifespan and ensure efficient operation.
Conclusion
Don’t let sweltering heat ruin your RVing adventures. Portable air conditioners are a convenient, affordable way to add cooling to any RV. Units, some as compact as a piece of luggage, can efficiently cool up to 350 square feet of living space. When purchasing a portable AC, look for adequate BTUs, features like remote control and dehumidifier modes, and proper installation accessories.
Carefully install the unit with adequate ventilation and air sealing to ensure efficient cooling. By managing your portable AC wisely during boondocking, including minimizing run time, maintaining the unit, adjusting temperatures sensibly, and using fans, you can extend your off-grid adventures comfortably.
With the freedom, flexibility, and refreshing relief a portable air conditioner provides, you can explore the open road this summer while avoiding the frustrations of hot, humid conditions in your RV living space. Stay cool and happy camping!