Portable AC unit in my RV?

Viewing 3 reply threads
  • Author
    Posts
    • #41309
      linda.yantis
      Participant
          • Joined: Jun 2024
          • Posts: 15
          • Likes: 0
          Like
          Up
          0
          ::

          My RV’s AC unit is struggling to keep up in these HOT temps! Can I use a portable AC unit to help? If so, is there one you recommend?

        • #41311
          IA_Camper
          Participant
              • Joined: Jan 2024
              • Posts: 176
              • Likes: 191
              Like
              Up
              2
              ::

              Yep, you can use a portable AC unit. I used to run a 7,000 BTU Whynter Portable AC in mine. I have a 50 amp RV so power wasn’t an issue, but somethign to keep in mind depending on your setup. Also, you’ll want a dual hose unit (and you’ll need somewhere to vent the hoses to the outside. mine came with a window kit). And you’ll have to continually drain the pan if it doesn’t have a pump that drains it out the window.

              It was a little noisy. And the fan runs whether its cooling or not, so it always makes noise.

              All that said, it worked really well!

              • #41312
                linda.yantis
                Participant
                    • Joined: Jun 2024
                    • Posts: 15
                    • Likes: 0
                    Like
                    Up
                    0
                    ::

                    Thank you for the tips and for sharing your experience. Can I ask what a dual hose unit is?

                  • #41313
                    IA_Camper
                    Participant
                        • Joined: Jan 2024
                        • Posts: 176
                        • Likes: 191
                        Like
                        Up
                        2
                        ::

                        A dual-hose setup has one hose for intake (bringing in air from outside to cool the unit) and another for exhaust (expelling hot air outside). Single-hose units can create negative pressure inside the RV, causing warm outside air to seep in through cracks and gaps. A dual-hose system minimizes this effect by balancing the air pressure. Essentially, they lead to faster cooling and improved efficiency.

                    • #41314
                      Tory Jon
                      Keymaster
                          • Joined: Nov 2019
                          • Posts: 458
                          • Likes: 528
                          Like
                          Up
                          2
                          ::

                          @ia_camper is right on the money.

                          I would also suggest, if you haven’t already:

                          1. Service your AC: Have your RV air conditioner serviced at least once a year, ideally before the hot weather season begins.
                          2. Regularly inspect the unit: Routinely check your A/C unit for any pests, nests, or debris build-up, and clean away any that you find. Check all the bolts and tighten them as necessary to prevent rattling & potential damage.
                          3. Clean the filters regularly: Maintain adequate airflow and improve efficiency by cleaning your air filters regularly, ideally every month during peak season or every few months otherwise.

                          It could just be your existing AC unit needs a little TLC.

                          Beyond your AC, here are a few tips to help keep your RV cool:

                          1. Use Reflective Window Covers: Invest in reflective window covers or sunshades to block out the sun’s heat.
                          2. Park in the Shade: Whenever possible, park your RV in a shaded area to reduce direct sunlight exposure.
                          3. Awning: Use your RV’s awning to provide shade over windows and doors.
                          4. Start Cooling Early: Begin cooling your RV early in the day before it gets too hot.
                          5. Use Portable Fans: Enhance airflow and provide additional cooling with portable fans.
                          6. Cook Outside: Use an outdoor grill or camp stove to avoid increasing the indoor temperature.

                          RVs are notoriously hard to keep cool in extreme heat, but maybe these tips will help save you hundreds on buying a portable unit.

                        • #41315
                          linda.yantis
                          Participant
                              • Joined: Jun 2024
                              • Posts: 15
                              • Likes: 0
                              Like
                              Up
                              0
                              ::

                              Wow… I just learned more from these two replies than I did trying to read through 375 comments on a similar post in a Facebook group. I really appreciate the help!

                          Viewing 3 reply threads
                          • You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
                          Don't have an account? Signup now
                          Lost your password? Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.