RV AC Unit Dometic Buying Guide and Maintenance Tips

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If you're in the market for a new RV AC unit, chances are you've heard of Dometic. Dometic is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of RV air conditioning units, from compact and portable to large and powerful.

Dometic's RV AC units are designed to provide efficient cooling in small spaces, and they're a popular choice among RV owners. In fact, Dometic's units are known for their high energy efficiency, which can help reduce your energy costs on the road.

Dometic's RV AC units are also designed to be easy to install and maintain, with many models featuring a simple plug-and-play design. This makes it easy to get your AC up and running quickly, even if you're not a seasoned RV mechanic.

Dometic AC Units

Dometic AC Units are known for their high-performance motors and fans, which reduce wind resistance and save you money on gasoline and fuel efficiency.

One example is the Dometic CoolAir RTX 2000 12V, a parking cooler that packs 1700 W of power at 12 V.

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If you're looking for a low-profile RV air conditioner, Dometic has got you covered. Their sleek and aerodynamically designed roof top air conditioners are perfect for reducing wind drag while driving at high speed.

The Dometic FreshJet FJX4 1700 is a great option, featuring electronic controls and a slim design that's easy on the eyes.

Dometic CoolAir RTX 2000

The Dometic CoolAir RTX 2000 is a powerful parking cooler that runs on 12 volts. It's a reliable choice for keeping your vehicle's interior cool while parked.

This unit has a high power output of 1700 W, making it capable of efficiently cooling your vehicle's interior.

The Dometic CoolAir RTX 2000 is designed to be easy to use, with a simple and straightforward operation that doesn't require a lot of technical knowledge.

Dometic FreshJet FJX4

The Dometic FreshJet FJX4 1700 is a roof air conditioner designed for RVs. It has a power of 1700 W and comes with electronic controls.

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This air conditioner has a low profile design, making it a great option for those who want to reduce wind resistance while driving. By reducing wind drag, you can also save on gasoline and fuel efficiency.

The FreshJet FJX4 1700 is a high-performance motor and fan combination that helps to minimize wind resistance.

T 2500H

The Dometic T 2500H is a roof air conditioner that packs a punch with its 1700 W power.

This model comes with electronic controls, making it easy to adjust the temperature and settings.

The T 2500H is available in a sleek black finish.

Freshwell AC Units

Freshwell AC Units are a popular choice for RV owners, and for good reason. They offer a range of models to fit different RV sizes and budgets.

One key feature of Freshwell AC units is their high energy efficiency, which can help reduce energy consumption and lower cooling costs. Freshwell AC units are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them ideal for smaller RVs.

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Their compact design also makes them easy to install and maintain, a major advantage for RV owners who may not have extensive DIY experience. Freshwell AC units come with a range of features, including adjustable fan speeds and remote control capabilities.

Some Freshwell AC models also feature a built-in humidistat, which helps to regulate humidity levels and prevent mold growth. Freshwell AC units are also known for their quiet operation, making them a great choice for RV owners who value a peaceful travel experience.

Freshjet AC Units

The FreshJet AC units are a popular choice among RV owners. They offer a range of features and options to suit different needs.

Dometic FreshJet FJX ADBD comes with an air distribution box and electronic controls, while the manual controls version is also available. The FreshJet FJX4 1500M and FJX4 1700 models are roof air conditioners with manual and electronic controls respectively.

The FreshJet AC units are available in different power ratings, with the FJX4 1700 model boasting a 1700 W power rating.

FreshJet FJX ADBD

White and Gray Camper Trailer
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The FreshJet FJX ADBD is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable air distribution box. It comes with electronic controls.

One notable feature of this model is the LED light, which adds a touch of convenience. You can easily see what's going on, even in low-light conditions.

The FreshJet FJX ADBD also has a manual controls option, which is great for those who prefer a more hands-on approach.

FreshJet FJX4 1500M

The FreshJet FJX4 1500M is a roof air conditioner that packs a punch with its 1500 W power output.

It's worth noting that this unit has manual controls.

The FreshJet FJX4 1500M comes in a classic White color.

This unit is a great option for those who want a reliable and straightforward air conditioning solution.

Product Information

The Dometic Penguin II is a sleek and efficient RV air conditioning unit. It's designed for class A motorhomes and RVs, and is available in various part numbers, including Newmar part number 118897.

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This unit is a heat pump, which means it can both heat and cool your RV. It's a great option for those who want a single unit to handle all their heating and cooling needs.

The Penguin II has a high performance motor and fan, and uses eco-friendly R410A refrigerant. This makes it a more environmentally friendly option compared to other units on the market.

The unit measures 12 inches in height, 40 1/2 inches in length, and 29 inches in width. It weighs 130 pounds, and is shipped in a package that measures 48" x 42" x 17.5" on a pallet.

This unit can be used in both ducted and non-ducted applications. In ducted applications, the heat pump is thermostatically controlled by the Comfort Control Center II (CCC2).

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Maintenance on your RV's air conditioner is essential to ensure it operates properly. Exterior maintenance requires climbing onto the roof of the RV to access the A/C unit.

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To clean the A/C coils, start by confirming all power and breakers are off to the unit. Then, remove the shroud and spray A/C coil cleaner on the coils, allowing it to break down dirt and debris.

Rinse the coils with low-pressure water, avoiding high-pressure jets or power options that can damage the coils. Repeat the process as necessary to ensure proper airflow.

If the fans are bent or damaged, you can purchase a fin comb to straighten out the fins. However, if the fins stay bent, it will impede air circulation and affect the unit's operation.

Here are some common issues to diagnose and troubleshoot:

  • A/C not cooling
  • Fan not coming on
  • Thermostat will not come on

Maintenance

To keep your RV's air conditioner running smoothly, exterior maintenance is a must. This involves climbing onto the roof of your RV to access the unit.

First, confirm that all power and breakers are off to the A/C unit to ensure your safety. You'll then need to remove the A/C shroud, taking care not to damage the coils on the back of the unit.

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Next, spray A/C coil cleaner on the coils and allow it to break down any dirt and debris in the coils. Rinse with low-pressure water, but avoid using a jet or power option, as this can damage the coils.

Repeat the process as necessary to remove dirt and debris from the coils and ensure proper airflow through the unit. If any of the fans are bent or damaged, you can use a fin comb to straighten out the fins.

Diagnostics

Diagnostics is a crucial step in maintenance and troubleshooting. It helps you identify the root cause of the problem, which saves time and effort in the long run.

If your air conditioning system is not cooling properly, the first thing to check is the thermostat. Make sure it's set to the correct temperature and that it's receiving power.

Here are some common issues to look out for:

  • A/C not cooling
  • Fan not coming on
  • Thermostat will not come on

A faulty thermostat can prevent the air conditioning system from cooling, so it's essential to check it first.

A/C Operation Expectation

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When you first turn on your RV's air conditioning, it's normal for the air coming out to be 20 degrees lower than the actual room temperature air being sucked into the return vents. This is because the A/C is designed to cool the air by 20 degrees.

For example, if it's 100 degrees in the unit when you first turn it on, the air coming out will be 80 degrees. It will take some time for the RV to begin cooling to the point where the room temperature is 80 degrees and the air output is 60 degrees.

This process can take several hours, depending on how high the temperature is in the unit or outside the unit. This is not a sign that the A/C is not working properly, but rather a normal part of the cooling process.

Here's a rough estimate of how long it may take for your RV to cool down:

  • High temperatures (above 100 degrees): 3-4 hours
  • Medium temperatures (80-100 degrees): 1-2 hours
  • Low temperatures (below 80 degrees): 30 minutes to 1 hour

Air Conditioner Options

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When choosing an RV air conditioner, it's essential to consider the type of AC unit that suits your needs. There are several options available, including the Dometic Coolmatic, which is a popular choice among RV owners.

The Dometic Coolmatic is a high-performance AC unit that can cool a space up to 350 square feet. It features a sleek design and is relatively quiet compared to other AC units on the market.

Some RV owners prefer the Dometic Brisk II, which is a more budget-friendly option that still provides effective cooling. However, it may not be as efficient as the Coolmatic and can be noisier in operation.

Air Outlet Options

You can choose to have two or four air outlets, giving you flexibility in how you want to circulate the cool air.

Having multiple air outlets allows you to direct the airflow to different areas of a room, which can be especially useful in larger spaces.

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The air distribution boxes are designed to be flexible, so you can position the vents where you need them most.

You can even rotate the vents to adjust the airflow direction, giving you even more control over the cooling experience.

Consider where and when you'll be using the air conditioner most, and plan your air outlet placement accordingly.

Air Conditioners

Dometic RV air conditioners are a great option for keeping your camper cool and comfortable, especially on long trips in hot climates.

They come in different sizes, including the Penguin Low profile Dometic Brisk Air conditioner, which is only 9 inches tall, perfect for areas with low clearance.

The regular Dometic air conditioner is 12.5 inches tall.

If you want to feel a drop in temperature as quickly as possible, look for an air conditioner with a high cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h).

Ella Paolini

Writer

Ella Paolini is a seasoned writer and blogger with a passion for sharing her expertise on various topics, from lifestyle to travel. With over five years of experience in the industry, she has honed her writing skills and developed a unique voice that resonates with readers. As an avid traveler, Ella has explored many parts of the world, immersing herself in new cultures and experiences.

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