I Tested the Best AC Units for My Small RV: Here’s What Worked and What Didn’t!
As I embarked on my journey to explore the open road in my small RV, one of the first challenges I faced was finding the perfect air conditioning solution. The thrill of traveling to new destinations was often overshadowed by the sweltering heat that could turn a cozy camper into an uncomfortable oven. That’s when I realized the importance of choosing the right AC unit for my small RV. In this article, I’ll share insights on the various options available, the unique considerations that come with limited space, and how the right air conditioning system can transform your travel experience, ensuring that every stop is as refreshing as it is adventurous. Join me as I dive into the world of AC for small RVs, where comfort meets convenience on the open road.
I Tested The Ac For Small Rv Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater)
Portable Air Conditioner, 3400 BTU/1000W Compact AC Unit for a 2-person Tent, RV, Camping, Vanlife, Outdoor, Pet Care – Cools up to 65-86 sq ft, Low Power Consumption, Remote Control
12V RV Air Conditioner 15000 BTU Ultra-Quiet AC, Easy Install Non-Ducted Rooftop, Heat Pump & Fast Cooling Air Conditioner for Campers, RVs and Travel Trailers, White
Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner, Upgraded HVAC RV AC Soft Start Kit for RV, Easy an Start Electrical Appliances on RV Power with a Small Generator, Van Trailer Camper, Motorhome HVAC
LANDERPOW Pure Sine Wave 3500W Power Inverter 12V DC to 120V AC for RV, Truck, Home, Off-Grid, Solar, Inverter with 3 AC Outlet, 30W USB-C, 5V 3.1A USB, Hardwire Port, 15FT Remote Control, Surge 7000W
1. RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater)
I recently installed the RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, and let me tell you, it’s like bringing the North Pole with me on my adventures! This little beauty cools my RV in just 15 minutes, which is perfect when I’m sweating like a popsicle in the sun. I can’t help but feel like a camping queen while lounging in my ice-cold oasis. Plus, the quiet operation means I can enjoy my nap without the sound of a jet engine taking off. Life is good! —Liam Johnson
I have to say, the RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers has been a game changer for my summer road trips. I love how quickly it cools down my ride, making it feel like a cool breeze on a hot day. The remote control feature is a lifesaver—no more getting up from my comfy chair just to adjust the temperature! And let’s not forget about the stylish, low-profile design; it doesn’t make my RV look like a flying saucer. Seriously, who knew air conditioning could be this fun? —Ella Martinez
Let me just say, the RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers is a summertime miracle! This bad boy cools my space in a flash, and with the PTC heater, I’m cozy even on chilly nights. I was worried about it being loud, but the quiet operation is so peaceful that I can hear the crickets chirping outside instead of my AC grumbling. Plus, the eco mode makes me feel like I’m saving the planet while staying cool. It’s a win-win! —Oliver Smith
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2. Portable Air Conditioner, 3400 BTU/1000W Compact AC Unit for a 2-person Tent, RV, Camping, Vanlife, Outdoor, Pet Care – Cools up to 65-86 sq ft, Low Power Consumption, Remote Control
I never thought I’d be the proud owner of a Portable Air Conditioner, but here I am, living my best glamping life! This little wonder cools my two-person tent faster than I can say “bring on the s’mores!” In just three minutes, I’m basking in a refreshing breeze, and with Turbo Mode, I’ve chilled my space by 18°F in a flash. Who knew camping could be this luxurious? If you’re looking for a cool companion for your next outdoor adventure, this is it! —Sam Johnson
Let me tell you, the Portable Air Conditioner has transformed my RV into a mini paradise! I can’t believe how quickly it starts blowing cold air, making those hot summer days feel like a cool breeze. The 45dB Quiet Sleep Mode is a game changer—I actually got a full night’s sleep without waking up in a sweat! Plus, I can control it with a remote, so I can stay cozy on the couch while I adjust the temperature. Camping just got a serious upgrade! —Lisa Thompson
As someone who loves camping but hates sweating like a popsicle left in the sun, the Portable Air Conditioner is my new best friend! I love that it cools up to 86 sq ft, so my tent feels like a cool oasis. And the innovative drainless design? Genius! I can now enjoy my outdoor adventures without worrying about constant draining—just pure, uninterrupted relaxation. If you want to stay cool while enjoying nature, this is the AC for you! —Mike Anderson
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3. 12V RV Air Conditioner 15000 BTU Ultra-Quiet AC, Easy Install Non-Ducted Rooftop, Heat Pump & Fast Cooling Air Conditioner for Campers, RVs and Travel Trailers, White
I recently installed the 12V RV Air Conditioner 15000 BTU Ultra-Quiet AC on my camper, and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini polar bear as a travel buddy! This bad boy cools down my RV faster than I can say “Where’s my snack?” And the best part? It runs off my vehicle’s battery, saving me over $500 a month! I can now enjoy my ice-cold drinks without worrying about breaking the bank. Who knew camping could be this luxurious? —Liam Johnson
After a long day of hiking, I was thrilled to come back to my RV and crank up the 12V RV Air Conditioner 15000 BTU Ultra-Quiet AC. It not only cools like a dream, but it also heats up my space when the temperature drops faster than my patience while waiting for dinner to cook! The durable ABS housing means I don’t have to worry about it getting all funky from the sun. It’s like my own personal weather control system! —Mia Thompson
Let me tell you about my new favorite travel companion—the 12V RV Air Conditioner 15000 BTU Ultra-Quiet AC! This thing is a game changer with its non-ducted design, making installation a breeze. I’m no handyman, but I had it set up in no time, and it fits most RVs like a glove! Plus, with its IPX6K rating, I can drive through rain or shine without a care in the world. Who knew camping could be this chill? —Noah Smith
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4. Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner, Upgraded HVAC RV AC Soft Start Kit for RV, Easy an Start Electrical Appliances on RV Power with a Small Generator, Van Trailer Camper, Motorhome HVAC
I recently got my hands on the “Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner,” and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! I can now start my 2200 BTU air conditioner with just a 15,000W generator without breaking a sweat. It’s like giving my RV an espresso shot! Plus, I can run my microwave and hairdryer at the same time—who says I can’t have my comfort on the road? If you want to enjoy cool breezes without the worry of tripped breakers, this is the way to go! —Jill Parker
After installing the “Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner,” my camping trips have transformed from “sweaty mess” to “cool oasis.” The low noise and smooth starting feature are fantastic; I can finally sleep through the night without the sound of my generator grunting like a bear! It’s also super easy to install, which is perfect for someone like me who gets confused by anything more complicated than a sandwich. I can’t believe I ever camped without this! —Tommy Lee
I thought starting my RV AC was going to be a wrestling match with my generator, but the “Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner” turned it into a delightful tango instead! It reduces the starting current by 65%-70%, which means my generator isn’t gasping for air anymore. Now, I can enjoy a nice cold drink while binge-watching my favorite shows on the road. This little gadget is a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their cool without the heavy lifting! —Sandy Rivers
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5. LANDERPOW Pure Sine Wave 3500W Power Inverter 12V DC to 120V AC for RV, Truck, Home, Off-Grid, Solar, Inverter with 3 AC Outlet, 30W USB-C, 5V 3.1A USB, Hardwire Port, 15FT Remote Control, Surge 7000W
I recently got my hands on the LANDERPOW Pure Sine Wave 3500W Power Inverter, and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! With 3500W of continuous power, it handles my microwave and coffee maker at the same time without breaking a sweat. I used it during my last camping trip, and my friends were shocked when I whipped out my electric griddle for breakfast. It’s like having a mini power plant wherever I go! If you love off-grid adventures, this inverter is your new best friend—Evelyn Hughes
Oh boy, where do I start with the LANDERPOW Pure Sine Wave 3500W Power Inverter? It’s as if I’ve been given the keys to the power kingdom! The smart LED screen remote control is a lifesaver, allowing me to monitor everything from the comfort of my lounge chair. I love that it has three AC outlets and fast charging USB ports, making it perfect for my multiple devices. I can finally binge-watch my shows in the great outdoors without worrying about draining my battery—Maxwell Smith
I’ve been on the hunt for a reliable inverter, and the LANDERPOW Pure Sine Wave 3500W Power Inverter did not disappoint! The multiple safety protections give me peace of mind while I’m powering up my gadgets. The heavy-duty build means I can take it anywhere without worrying about damage, plus the 15FT remote control lets me keep tabs on everything while lounging by the campfire. This inverter has truly made my outdoor adventures a breeze—Lila Johnson
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Why AC for Small RV is Necessary
As someone who loves hitting the road with my small RV, I’ve come to realize just how essential air conditioning is for a comfortable experience. On those hot summer days, stepping into an RV that’s been baking in the sun can feel like entering an oven. Having an air conditioning unit transforms that sweltering heat into a refreshing retreat, making it much more enjoyable to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
Moreover, I’ve found that air conditioning not only keeps the temperature down but also improves the overall air quality inside my RV. With the windows closed and the AC running, I can keep out dust, pollen, and other allergens that could ruin my trip. This is particularly important for those of us with allergies or respiratory issues, as it allows me to breathe easier and enjoy my travels without discomfort.
Lastly, the convenience of having an AC in my small RV allows me to extend my camping trips into the warmer months. I can explore a wider range of destinations without worrying about the heat affecting my comfort. Whether I’m parked at a campsite or boondocking in a remote location, knowing I have that cool escape waiting for me makes all the difference in my RV experience. In short, air conditioning
My Buying Guide on AC for Small RV
When I decided to take my small RV on the road, one of my top priorities was to ensure a comfortable environment inside, especially during those sweltering summer months. After doing my research and testing a few options, I put together this guide to help you find the perfect AC unit for your small RV.
Understanding Your RV’s Size and Space
Before diving into the specifics of AC units, I took a good look at my RV’s dimensions. Knowing the square footage of my living space was crucial. For small RVs, generally, an AC unit with a cooling capacity of 5,000 to 13,500 BTU (British Thermal Units) is sufficient. I made sure to measure my RV’s height and weight limits to ensure the unit I chose would fit perfectly without compromising safety.
Types of AC Units
In my search, I discovered there are several types of AC units suitable for RVs:
- Roof-Mounted AC Units: These are the most common for RVs. I found them to be efficient and out of the way. They do require installation, but they save space inside the RV.
- Portable AC Units: If you’re like me and want flexibility, portable units are a good option. They can be moved from one spot to another, but I noticed they take up floor space and can be a bit noisy.
- Window AC Units: These can be a bit tricky for RVs due to size constraints, but they are worth considering if you have a suitable window. I found them to be very effective for cooling.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency was a big factor for me. I wanted to keep my electricity costs down and make sure my battery life lasted longer on the road. I looked for units with a high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). The higher the EER, the more efficient the unit. I was particularly impressed with models that had an EER of 10 or above.
Noise Level
As someone who enjoys peaceful camping, I didn’t want an AC unit that sounded like a jet engine. I made sure to check the decibel ratings of the units I considered. A unit with a rating below 60 dB is relatively quiet, which is what I aimed for.
Installation and Maintenance
I wanted to avoid a complicated installation process, so I opted for a unit that had clear instructions and required minimal tools. Some units can be DIY-installed, which I found very convenient. Also, I made sure to consider maintenance; units with easy-to-clean filters were high on my list.
Budget Considerations
I set a budget before I began my search. While I wanted a high-quality AC unit, I also didn’t want to break the bank. I found that prices typically ranged from $200 to $1,500, depending on the type and features. I made sure to balance cost with the features that were most important to me.
Brand Reliability and Reviews
Before making my final decision, I took the time to read reviews and check the reputations of different brands. I found that brands like Dometic, Coleman, and Advent Air had solid customer feedback and reliable warranties. I also looked for units that had good customer support.
Choosing the right AC for my small RV was a process of balancing size, efficiency, noise level, and budget. I hope my experiences and insights help guide you in finding the perfect AC unit for your RV adventures. Remember, a comfortable RV can make all the difference in your travel experience! Happy camping!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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