- This topic has 5 replies, 3 voices, and was last updated 9 months, 1 week ago by
linda.yantis.
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- July 16, 2024 at 9:18 am #41309::
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?
- July 16, 2024 at 12:47 pm #41311::
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!
- July 16, 2024 at 2:23 pm #41312::
Thank you for the tips and for sharing your experience. Can I ask what a dual hose unit is?
- July 16, 2024 at 2:38 pm #41313::
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.
- July 16, 2024 at 2:53 pm #41314::
@ia_camper is right on the money.
I would also suggest, if you haven’t already:
- Service your AC: Have your RV air conditioner serviced at least once a year, ideally before the hot weather season begins.
- 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.
- 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:
- Use Reflective Window Covers: Invest in reflective window covers or sunshades to block out the sun’s heat.
- Park in the Shade: Whenever possible, park your RV in a shaded area to reduce direct sunlight exposure.
- Awning: Use your RV’s awning to provide shade over windows and doors.
- Start Cooling Early: Begin cooling your RV early in the day before it gets too hot.
- Use Portable Fans: Enhance airflow and provide additional cooling with portable fans.
- 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.
- July 16, 2024 at 3:46 pm #41315::
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!
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