RV AC Unit Cover: Everything You Need to Know

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A car covered with a protective sheet parked in an urban alleyway surrounded by air conditioning units.
Credit: pexels.com, A car covered with a protective sheet parked in an urban alleyway surrounded by air conditioning units.

Protecting your RV's AC unit is crucial, and a good cover is the first line of defense. A high-quality cover can extend the life of your AC unit by keeping it clean and dry.

Dust and debris are the main enemies of your RV's AC unit. In fact, a single season of neglect can lead to costly repairs.

A good RV AC unit cover should be made of durable, water-resistant materials. This will ensure that your AC unit stays protected from the elements, even in harsh weather conditions.

In the article, we'll explore the different types of RV AC unit covers available, including soft and hard covers. We'll also discuss the benefits of using a cover, and provide tips for choosing the right one for your RV.

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What is an AC Cover?

An RV AC cover is a separate product made to protect the AC unit from the elements. It's designed to wrap around the exterior AC unit on the roof of the RV.

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These covers are usually made of vinyl or similar materials and are sized for standard AC roof units. They're not the same as the plastic shroud that comes with the AC unit.

An RV AC cover is secured to the unit with elastic or a drawstring, making it easy to put on and take off.

AC Cover Definition

An RV AC cover is a separate product made of a durable, weatherproof material that wraps around the AC unit to protect it from the elements.

It's designed to provide an extra layer of protection, much like you might cover your home's central air conditioner condenser unit during the winter.

These covers are generally made of vinyl or similar materials.

They come in sizes that fit standard AC roof units.

An RV AC cover wraps around the entirety of the exterior AC unit.

They're usually secured to the unit with elastic or a drawstring.

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Best AC Covers

AC covers are designed to protect your RV air conditioner from the elements, but not all covers are created equal. Classic Accessories offers a waterproof vinyl cover that fits Dometic Brisk II units, measuring 27.5” L x 29” W x 14.5” H.

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The cover's interior features a soft, non-scratch backing material that helps prevent the fabric from scratching the AC shroud in heavy winds. This is a thoughtful design feature that shows the manufacturer cares about protecting your investment.

If you're considering purchasing a Classic Accessories cover, be aware that it's intended for storage only, not for use while driving. One reviewer noted that the cover blew off in the wind, even with the drawstring tightened.

If you have a 2011 Forest River Wildcat, you'll want to make sure you get a cover that fits. Unfortunately, the article doesn't provide specific size information for this model, but it does mention that the Classic Accessories cover fits all major manufacturer RV air conditioners.

To determine the correct size cover for your RV, it's essential to measure carefully. The article advises measuring your RV's AC unit to ensure the cover fits properly.

Here's a summary of the features to look for in an AC cover:

  • Vinyl exterior that's waterproof and easy to clean
  • Soft, non-scratch backing material for added protection

When choosing an AC cover, prioritize durability and protection. A good cover will help extend the life of your RV's air conditioner and keep it running smoothly.

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Benefits of an AC Cover

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An RV AC cover can protect your AC unit from accumulating snow and ice, which can damage the unit's housing and compromise its functioning over time.

The cover can also shield your AC from dirt, debris, dust, and UV rays from the sun, which can all take a toll on the unit's performance.

In addition to protecting the AC from the elements, a cover can also dissuade pests from establishing nests inside the housing.

Pests can cause significant damage to your AC unit, so it's essential to keep them out.

A cover can also offer some insulation benefits in very cold weather, helping to keep your AC unit warm and functioning properly.

This can be especially important if you live in an area with harsh winters.

Camco and Dometic Covers

Camco and Dometic Covers are two popular options to consider for protecting your RV air conditioner. The Camco 45392 Vinyl Air Conditioner Cover is a great choice for Dometic and Coleman AC units, and it's essential to select the correct brand when ordering.

Explore further: Rv Ac Unit Dometic

Street view of a building facade with an air conditioning unit and greenery.
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This cover provides inexpensive protection for your expensive AC unit and has a drawstring at the open end that cinches closed for a secure fit. It's also waterproof and durable, even in high winds.

Reviewers highly recommend the Camco cover, especially its waterproof quality and durability. If you have a Dometic Brisk II model, this cover is a good fit.

Here are some key features of the Camco 45392 Vinyl Air Conditioner Cover:

  • Fits Dometic Brisk II models
  • Locking draw cord ensures a perfect fit

It's worth noting that Camco suggests not operating the RV with the cover installed, and this advice applies to all RV air conditioner covers.

Unit Inspection and Removal

Before you start working on your RV AC unit, take the time to inspect it properly. Make sure the outside of your RV AC unit is free of debris.

Ensure that there is no damage to the cover, also known as the shroud. Hitting a tree branch and other accidents can cause cracks, which could lead to water leaking inside the unit. This is a common issue that can be prevented with regular inspections.

Check Unit Exterior

A technician inspects an outdoor HVAC unit for maintenance.
Credit: pexels.com, A technician inspects an outdoor HVAC unit for maintenance.

When checking the outside of your RV air conditioner unit, remember that the cover not only gives your RV a streamlined look but also protects the inner workings from weather damage.

You should always use caution when checking your rooftop AC unit.

Look for debris and weather damage, as hitting a tree branch and other accidents can cause cracks in the plastic cover, which could lead to water leaking inside the unit.

Make sure the outside of your RV AC unit is free of debris to prevent any potential issues with the unit's performance.

Check Unit Interior

Checking the interior of your RV unit is crucial for its proper functioning.

Underneath the cover of your RV air conditioner, you can get a pretty good look at the inner workings.

Spring cleaning is a great time to inspect and clean underneath the air conditioner cover, too.

Removing a Unit

Removing a unit can be a complex process, especially if it's been installed incorrectly. According to the manufacturer's guidelines, a unit can only be removed when the electrical power has been turned off at the circuit breaker or fuse box.

A couple enjoys a camping trip with their RV in a scenic grassland, surrounded by nature.
Credit: pexels.com, A couple enjoys a camping trip with their RV in a scenic grassland, surrounded by nature.

It's essential to identify the type of unit you're dealing with, as removal procedures can vary depending on the unit's design and installation. In the case of a split system air conditioner, for example, the indoor unit must be disconnected from the outdoor unit before removal.

A thorough inspection of the unit's connections and wiring is crucial to ensure safe removal. As mentioned in the "Pre-Removal Inspection" section, checking for any signs of damage or wear on the electrical connections is a must.

To avoid damaging the surrounding area, it's recommended to use a soft cloth or rubber gloves to handle the unit's components. This is particularly important when removing a unit that's been installed in a tight space, such as a closet or attic.

Removing a unit can be a time-consuming process, but taking your time and following the correct procedures can make it much safer and more efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does putting a cover over your AC unit help?

Yes, covering your AC unit helps protect it from debris, moisture, and harsh weather conditions that can cause damage and rust. This simple step can extend the life of your air conditioner and keep it running efficiently.

Roger Molenaar

Senior Writer

Roger Molenaar is a writer who loves to explore the world and write about his experiences. He has been traveling for years, having visited over 50 countries around the globe. His passion for learning about different cultures and meeting new people is evident in his writing, which often features insights into local customs and traditions.

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