Top Things You Need to Know About RV AC Units
If you live in an RV, whether full time or part time, you know the importance of keeping it cool. With a hot summer in full swing, it is the perfect time to get your RV’s air conditioning ready for the season ahead. Whether you are in the market for an upgrade or just need a few tips to keep your current unit working well, this article will help. From understanding how an RV AC works to extending its life expectancy, here are the top things you need to know about rv ac units.
The Process Behind an RV Air Conditioner
An RV air conditioner consists of an outdoor compressor unit and an indoor evaporator unit. The compressor unit heats and compresses refrigerant vapors to a high temperature, which causes them to give off heat. Then, the refrigerant vapors are cooled and turned back into a cool liquid inside the condenser. The cool liquid then flows to the evaporator, where it absorbs heat from the hot RV air and blows the cool air back into your RV.
To extend the life of your RV air conditioner, it is important to clean your evaporator coils regularly. Using a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment is an easy way to remove any dust, dirt, or debris from the coils without damaging them. If you’re more comfortable with chemicals, you can also use a coil cleaner spray according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Another way to keep your RV air conditioner running smoothly is by minimizing how much you heat it. Limiting your cooking to outdoor BBQs, taking a refreshing shower outdoors, and parking in the shade are all great ways to cut down on how much heat your RV is heating up. If you are able to, you can even open the awning and let in some fresh air to circulate through your RV and help cool it down.
If your RV’s air conditioning isn’t cooling as efficiently as it used to, you might want to consider adding a second air conditioner unit. Depending on the size of your RV, you might be able to fit a small portable AC unit in a space where a vent would normally go, such as a living room or bedroom. Adding a second air conditioner will help cool your entire RV and reduce how much the main air conditioner is forced to run.
Before installing a new portable RV air conditioner, turn off the main RV air conditioner and unplug any electrical or ducting connections to it. Once the old air conditioner is removed, install the new one by removing the shroud, placing it over the empty duct hole with the gaskets lined up correctly, and bolting the ceiling assembly down to the metal retaining flange. You can then wire the new RV air conditioner to your existing electrical and ducting, and test it to make sure it’s working properly.