Small RV AC Unit Buying Guide and Top Picks

Purchasing a small RV AC unit can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available in the market.

The first thing to consider is the BTU rating, which determines the unit's cooling capacity. A 7,000 to 10,000 BTU unit is suitable for small RVs up to 1,000 square feet.

Choose a unit with a high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) for optimal performance and reduced energy consumption. A higher EER means the unit can cool more efficiently.

Look for units with a low decibel rating to minimize noise disturbance. Some units can be as quiet as 42 decibels, making them ideal for overnight camping.

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Dometic offers a wide range of RV air conditioners designed to meet the specific needs of recreational vehicle owners.

If you're looking for a reliable small RV AC unit, consider Dometic's offerings, as they provide optimal cooling performance and comfort during outdoor adventures.

Dometic's RV air conditioners are designed to meet specific needs, making them a great choice for small RV owners.

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The Coolzy is a popular choice among RV owners, known for its compact design and high cooling capacity.

It has a cooling capacity of up to 12,000 BTUs, making it suitable for small to medium-sized RVs.

This unit is Energy Star certified, which means it meets energy efficiency standards set by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

The Coolzy is also relatively quiet, with a noise level of around 50 decibels, comparable to a typical conversation.

Its compact design makes it easy to install in small spaces, and it's also relatively lightweight, weighing in at around 80 pounds.

The Coolzy has a built-in air filter, which helps to remove dust and allergens from the air, improving indoor air quality.

It also features a remote control, allowing users to adjust the temperature and fan speed from a distance.

Overall, the Coolzy is a solid choice for RV owners who need a reliable and efficient cooling solution.

The Truma Aventa Eco 13.5k is a serious contender in the RV air conditioner market, offering three efficient speeds: low 9.4 amps AC, medium 9.6 amps AC, and high 10.5 amps AC.

This German import is ultra-quiet, allowing you to hold a conversation on the phone with one running. The Aventa Eco's components are encased in a thick, noise-absorbing EPP foamcore, while the compressor is mounted on shock absorbers to avoid vibration.

The Aventa Eco comes with an easy-to-operate remote with a thermostat control to digitally set the temperature in the camper. The A/C also includes a dehumidification mode, which removes humidity from the air.

The air distributor is easy to operate, allowing the air flow to be aimed downward and to the sides. Due to the large surge generated at start-up, you'll need a Honda EU2200i along with the Microair 364 soft starter to handle the surge.

The Truma Aventa Eco 13.5 weighs 95 pounds and lists for $2,049.

Noise can be a significant factor to consider, especially if you value a peaceful and quiet environment inside your RV. Dometic offers air conditioners equipped with noise reduction technology, ensuring minimal disturbance while you relax or sleep.

These units operate quietly, and the noise reduction technology makes a big difference in the overall experience. The quiet operation allows you to enjoy conversations inside your vehicle without any distractions.

Dometic's noise reduction technology is designed to minimize disturbance, so you can focus on what matters most – your comfort and relaxation.

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Portable air conditioners are a great option for small RVs, and they're not all created equal.

The Zero Breeze Mark 2 Portable Air Conditioner is a low-power, low-profile option that won't take up valuable space on your RV's roof.

It's designed to be compact and lightweight, making it perfect for small spaces.

The Homelabs Portable Air Conditioner, on the other hand, is a bit of a beast - it's heavy duty and pumps out some serious BTUs.

It can cover spaces up to 600 square feet, but its cooling isn't particularly even.

If you're after a summer cooling unit that can handle a whole garage full of pool tables and dart boards, the Homelabs might be the one for you.

If you're looking for a quality 12-volt air conditioner for your small RV, the Nomadic Cooling X2 is a great option. It's designed for smaller RVs like truck campers and vans, with a maximum rating of 8,188 BTUs.

The Nomadic Cooling X2 is a low-amp draw unit, ranging between 22 and 45 amps depending on the setting, making it perfect for off-grid adventures. It's also relatively quiet, with a noise rating of 60 dBa.

For maximum efficiency, the unit should be used in Eco Mode, which is the default operation. The Powerful Mode should only be used for short periods of time for maximum cooling.

The unit weighs 44 pounds and measures 22.59 x 22.18 x 6.93 inches outside, presenting a low profile on the roof. It's non-polluting and highly efficient, making it a great choice for off-road adventures.

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If you're in the market for a small RV AC unit, you've got several options to choose from. The Dometic Penguin 28L is a compact unit that's perfect for small RVs, measuring just 27 inches wide and 11 inches tall.

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The Dometic Penguin 28L and the Whynter Elite are two popular options that offer similar performance. However, the Whynter Elite is slightly more powerful, with a 12,000 BTU capacity compared to the Dometic Penguin's 10,000 BTU.

In terms of noise level, the Dometic Penguin 28L is a relatively quiet option, with a noise level of around 44 decibels, while the Whynter Elite is slightly louder at 52 decibels.

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Comparing Coolzy to other RVs, I've found that camping portable air conditioners can be quite pricey, ranging from $999 to $1499.

The Zero Breeze and EcoFlow Wave are two examples of these machines, but they're not exactly efficient, with a CoP (coefficient of performance) of 2.3 to 3.

Coolzy, on the other hand, has a unique design that focuses cool air directly at the user's face and upper body, rather than mixing it with room air.

This approach is similar to how a kitchen refrigerator or freezer works, sending warm air to the ceiling.

I've also noticed that Coolzy doesn't pump lots of heat like other camping portable air conditioners, making it a more appealing option for those looking for a more efficient cooling solution.

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The Whynter Elite Dual Hose and MIDEA Window are two popular options for portable air conditioners. The Whynter Elite Dual Hose has a higher BTU rating, at 14,000, compared to the MIDEA Window's 12,000 BTU.

The Whynter Elite Dual Hose is designed for larger spaces, covering up to 600 square feet, while the MIDEA Window is better suited for smaller rooms, covering up to 250 square feet.

The Whynter Elite Dual Hose has a more efficient cooling system, with a 24-hour timer and a remote control, making it easier to manage temperature and stay cool. The MIDEA Window, on the other hand, has a more straightforward design, with a simple on/off switch.

The Whynter Elite Dual Hose is also more energy-efficient, with a higher EER rating of 12.8, compared to the MIDEA Window's 10.5 EER.

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If you're in the market for a small RV AC unit, you'll want to consider the Dometic Penguin II 641816, which boasts 15,000 BTUs and a rooftop style.

This unit is a popular choice among RV owners, but it's worth noting that rooftop air conditioners may not be the best option if your budget is tight or your roof is thin.

Here are some key specs to consider:

Ultimately, the best RV AC unit for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, so be sure to do your research and choose a unit that fits your lifestyle.

If you're looking for a rooftop air conditioner for your RV, consider the Dometic Penguin II 641816, which has a 15,000 BTU capacity and a 2-year warranty.

Rooftop air conditioners are the most popular style for most consumers with RVs, but they might not be the best choice if your budget is tight or your roof is thin.

The Dometic Penguin II 641816 measures 40”W x 11 ¼”H x 29”D and weighs 90 lbs.

Another option is the RecPro AC3400, which has a 13,500 BTU capacity and a 2-year warranty.

It's worth noting that rooftop air conditioners are the most popular style for most consumers with RVs.

The RecPro AC3400 measures 26.7”W x 39”L x 13”H and weighs 98 lbs.

If you're looking for a more portable option, consider the RecPro AC3400 or the Dometic Penguin II 641816, which both have a lower BTU capacity (8,000 and 7,000, respectively).

Portable air conditioners are a good option if you're looking for a more compact and lightweight solution.

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The Whynter brand is a great choice for RV air conditioning needs. Their portable AC units are compact and quiet, making them perfect for tight spaces like RV closets.

One of the standout features of Whynter's portable AC units is their ability to double as dehumidifiers. The Whynter Elite ARC-122DS, for example, can remove up to 76 pints of moisture each day. This is especially useful for RV owners who want to control humidity levels.

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The Whynter Elite ARC-122DS measures 17 inches wide by 29.5 inches tall with a depth of 16 inches, making it small enough to fit into most RV closets. It's also a great choice for larger RVs and campers.

This portable AC unit has a cooling capacity of 6,775 BTU, which is impressive considering its smaller size. It can cool a space of up to 400 square feet, making it perfect for smaller hangout spaces or RVs.

The Whynter Elite ARC-122DS also comes with a range of useful features, including a remote control, fan mode, and three fan speeds. It's packed full of useful features and performs as advertised, but it's worth considering an extended warranty given the price.

Frigidaire offers a range of portable AC units perfect for RVs and smaller workspaces. One of its most notable models is the FHPC082AC1.

This unit stands out for its compact design, measuring only 27 inches high. It's also surprisingly quiet, with a noise level ranging from 50dBA to 58dBA. The FHPC082AC1 is a great option for RVs and trailers due to its caster wheels, making it easy to move around.

The FHPC082AC1 delivers moderate cooling potential, covering up to 350 square feet with 5500 BTUs of power. It also features a sleep mode that gradually moderates the temperature and energy usage while you sleep.

The small RV AC unit is a compact and efficient cooling solution for your home on wheels. It typically weighs around 20-30 pounds, making it easy to install and transport.

One of the key features of a small RV AC unit is its ability to cool a small space, such as a single room or a small trailer. They usually have a cooling capacity of around 5,000 to 10,000 BTUs, which is perfect for spaces up to 150 square feet.

In terms of power consumption, most small RV AC units operate on 115V power and use around 1-2 amps of electricity. This makes them a great option for boondocking or dry camping.

BTU Ratings are the key to measuring cooling power in air conditioners, with larger numbers indicating more cooling power.

A BTU rating of 13,500 to 15,000 is typical for rooftop RV air conditioners, with some models falling slightly above or below that mark.

Rooftop RV air conditioners usually require one unit for vehicles under 32 feet, but anything over that length may need two rooftop systems.

If you're purchasing a portable air conditioner, you'll likely see two numbers, which is due to a change in testing standards after June 1, 2016.

Bigger numbers still mean more power, but the ratings are now more accurate compared to other types of AC units.

Energy efficiency is crucial for RV owners, as it not only reduces carbon footprint but also maximizes the life of RV batteries.

Look for air conditioners with variable speed compressors, which optimize energy consumption without compromising cooling performance.

A smart thermostat can also help minimize energy costs by regulating the cooling system.

Variable speed compressors can save up to 30% of energy compared to traditional compressors.

Energy-saving features like these can make a big difference in your RV's energy efficiency and your wallet.

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Dometic's split air conditioners offer a flexible cooling option for RVs and vans, consisting of two components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, connected by refrigerant lines.

Split air conditioners provide zoned cooling, allowing you to adjust the temperature independently in different areas of your RV or van.

The bulkier components of a split system are placed outside the vehicle, freeing up valuable interior space.

Dometic's split air conditioners are designed to be energy-efficient, helping you save on power consumption and reducing your carbon footprint.

These units incorporate noise-reduction features, ensuring quiet operation and minimal disturbance.

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Rooftop air conditioners for RVs are installed on the roof and can distribute air throughout your motorhome, depending on the type. They require access through the roof and can be an investment, often requiring more than just the unit itself for a complete installation.

You'll need to purchase additional accessories like thermostats, control panels, and air distribution boxes, which can add to the overall cost. If you're not comfortable dealing with wiring or climbing on the roof of your RV, you'll need to factor in the cost of a professional installation.

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Ducted and non-ducted models are available for rooftop systems, but both require roof access. If you don't have a window that can be used, you'll need to cut through the top of your camper to install these systems.

Rooftop air conditioners can be a worthwhile investment for RV owners, but it's essential to consider the additional costs and installation requirements.

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Under-Bench air conditioners are a popular choice for RV owners looking for a discreet and space-saving cooling solution.

These units are installed under the bench or in a storage compartment, making them virtually invisible while providing efficient cooling.

The compact size of under-bench air conditioners allows for seamless integration into your RV's interior, without compromising on cooling capacity.

Dometic offers various installation options to accommodate different RV layouts and configurations, ensuring a customized fit.

Under-bench air conditioners are engineered to operate quietly, creating a peaceful and comfortable environment inside your RV.

Dometic's under-bench air conditioners deliver effective cooling performance, maintaining an ideal temperature inside your vehicle even on hot summer days.

Split air conditioners offer a flexible cooling option for RVs and vans. They're a great choice for those who want to stay cool on the go.

With a split air conditioner, you get zoned cooling, which means you can adjust the temperature independently in different areas of your RV or van. This is super convenient for when you're traveling with others and want to set your own comfort level.

The outdoor unit is the bulkier part of the system, but it's placed outside the vehicle, freeing up valuable interior space. This is especially useful for smaller RVs or vans where every inch counts.

Split air conditioners are designed to be quiet, with noise-reduction features that ensure minimal disturbance. I've seen friends use these in their RVs and they're barely noticeable.

These units are also energy-efficient, helping you save on power consumption and reduce your carbon footprint. By choosing a split air conditioner, you're not only staying cool, but also being kind to the environment.

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Windows are a crucial component of an AC unit, allowing warm air to enter and cool air to escape. Typically, windows are single-hung or double-hung, with the single-hung type being the most common.

A single-hung window has a top sash that is fixed in place, while the bottom sash can be opened for ventilation. This design is often used in older homes.

Double-hung windows have both the top and bottom sashes operable, allowing for easier cleaning and ventilation. This design is often used in newer homes.

The size and type of window can affect the overall efficiency of the AC unit. For example, a larger window can let in more warm air, reducing the unit's effectiveness.

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Domestic SmartStart is a soft starter accessory designed specifically for RV air conditioning systems. It's a great option for RV owners who want to upgrade their air conditioning experience.

The Domestic SmartStart is compatible with Penguin II electronic air conditioner models. This means that if you have a Penguin II model, you can easily integrate the Domestic SmartStart into your system.

Soft starters like Domestic SmartStart are designed to provide a smoother start-up experience for your air conditioner. This can be especially helpful on hot days when you need your AC to kick in quickly.

The Domestic CT Thermostat Kit is a versatile solution for small RV owners. It's available in two colors: White and Black.

You can choose from a Cool/Furnace option, which is perfect for temperature control in your RV's single zone. This kit includes a thermostat and control panel for easy operation.

The Domestic CT Thermostat Kit is compatible with specific RV models, including the Penguin II, which requires an Air Distribution Box (ADB) for installation.