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RV air conditioners: an overview of options and considerations

Keep cool on the open road with RV air conditioners.

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RV air conditioners keep you cool. Photo by ...-Wink-... on Flickr.Whether you're a summertime vacationer or a full-time road warrior, keeping your RV at a comfortable temperature is essential. There are lots of RV air conditioners on the market, but some are definitely better for your RV than others.

With all the available RV products to choose from, you should do your research and compare air conditioner prices before you buy. Air conditioners for RVs have made advancements in recent years, so read on to learn about the options available to you and the considerations you should make.

RVs typically use roof-mounted air conditioning units, although other options are available. First, you need to determine if your RV is ducted or not. RVs that are not ducted require air conditioners that blow cold air directly through the unit. Ducted RVs send air throughout the interior space of the unit through channels in the floor or roof.

Ask about RV air conditioners and installation estimates from quality HVAC contractors!

Most air conditioners that lack ducting have controls on the unit itself. While the ducted types have remotely located control panels. Some air conditioners for RVs come with an option for electric heating. Since many RVs burn liquid petroleum gas for heat, an AC/heater combo can provide a good alternative when electricity is available.

You will need to decide whether you want bedroom air conditioning or air conditioning throughout the unit. If you can do with only bedroom air conditioning, you could save money by just investing in an RV window air conditioner.

The prices of RV air conditioners vary greatly depending on the type of mobile home cooling you choose. You can obtain a small air conditioning unit for less than $200, Units that heat larger spaces can cost nearly $700.

To install air conditioner, first you must obtain an air conditioner estimate from a professional contractor. When consulting an HVAC/AC professional, make sure to discuss the air conditioner's warranty and any additional equipment that may be needed for installation.

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If you're handy, you may be able to install RV air conditioners yourself. To do so, you need screwdrivers, wrenches, electrical wiring tools, a metal cutting saw, wire nuts, outdoor-rated caulk and a drill with appropriate bits for the mounting bolts. Try to do the installation work on a mild day. Have another person available to assist you.

While the RV air conditioning options available to you are dependent upon your RV type, there are many considerations that you should take into account before buying RV air conditioners. Stop into a reputable RV store to discuss the best options for your RV with a sales professional. Review online forums for tips and the right questions to ask when you are ready to buy an AC unit.

Get your 4 free cooling estimates!

 Photo credit: ...-Wink-... via Compfight CC.