The Best Caravan Air Conditioners in Australia for 2022

Do You Even Need A Caravan Air Conditioner?

Is it necessary for an AC specifically designed to be used in a caravan? Will a regular split AC suffice? Will this be more affordable and can be reused at home, if necessary?

Yes, you will need a caravan AC. Other models won’t work. A home-sized AC will not work in a mobile home. They have many differences, so trying to fit a split AC in your RV will cause compliance nightmares.

Are you in need of a replacement air conditioner?

Your caravan AC may not be working properly for you. These air conditioners often have the following problems:

• It doesn’t turn on or has difficulty turning on every single time
• Leaking
• Noisy
• Insufficient cold air
• Temperatures can fluctuate
• The compressor is often turned off

Ask a professional AC mechanic for a look at your machine. They might be able repair your machine by making simple repairs, such as cleaning the coil or reset the machine. If none of this works, and the technician declares that the AC must be replaced, then you have no other choice.

Although it may seem like an expensive expense, you will still be able to enjoy your RV trips with a working AC.

Which model is the best? Rooftop or built-in?

Okay, now you know that ACs for RVs should be your only choice. Which AC should you choose? The rooftop or the built in model? Each model has its own advantages and disadvantages. You should consider the size and usage of the RV, as well as the weather conditions.

Rooftop Air Conditioner

Rooftop models can be attached to your caravan by inserting into the roof opening. There are two sizes available: 360x360mm and 400x400mm. Because they don’t take up much space, rooftop models are preferred by most users. Popular brands of Roof top caravan air conditioners include Dometic and Truma Air Conditioning

Advantages

• It is easy to mount
• It takes up very little space
• Cold air flows better from the top because it is more direct.
• An adapter can be used to fit the 360x360mm model if your roof opening is 400x400mm.

Advantages

• Some models are very tall and wide, which can pose a problem in garages with low ceilings or underpasses.
• You cannot fit the 400x400mm model into a 360x360mm roof opening without removing and remodeling your RV’s roof.
• This will add weight to your caravan and could affect the lifting mechanism.
• Obstruct natural light coming from the top. This can cause the interior of an RV to become very dark if there are not enough windows.
• Hot air rises. This model is not the best for heating RVs. All the hot air from the top will heat it.

Built-In Air Conditioner

This model is ideal for caravans with only one skin roofs. You can mount it in one of the cabinets or under a bench. This is an excellent option for caravans without insulation.

Advantages

• It can cool your RV more quickly if it is placed lower than the top because the air at the bottom is cooler than the top.
• It does not add weight to your roof
• It does not increase the height of the roof and has no effect on the clearance height
• An add-on AC can be added to the original AC
• It does not block sunlight from the roof
• As a duct system is utilized, it has a large distribution
• Heating is done by hot air coming from the bottom or sides of the caravan and spreading well throughout the caravan.

Advantages

• Uses up living space

The Air Conditioner’s Shape and Size

Shape

You should consider all the different types of air conditioners on the market if you choose a rooftop model. You want one that is slim and lightweight, but not too large or bulky. This will decrease wind resistance and improve the vehicle’s performance.

Some models may add only 25 cm to your clearance height, but it won’t make much of a difference.

Note: Don’t just consider the AC’s height. You can discard it as being too high. Also, consider the roof fittings. Your RV’s height will be increased by luggage racks and handles. Your clearance will not be affected if your AC is able to fit within these dimensions.

Size

The size of your RV will impact the amount of AC or power you purchase. The AC should be more powerful the longer your RV is. The rule of thumb is:

• A 2-2.5kW power unit is ideal for vehicles up to 5mts in length
• 2.5 – 3kW for vehicles up to 6mts in length
• Vehicles up to 7mts are eligible for 3-3.5kW

You may need to buy more AC units if you bought a smaller AC for your caravan. The cooling may seem adequate at first. You may need more comfort if you are on extended trips or live in your RV for a long time.

What number of BTU’s are you able to use?

BTUs (British Thermal Units), are the measure of an AC’s heating power. This is an important factor to take into consideration for two reasons.

1. Power costs: How much?
2. How cool your AC can cool

Caravan ACs usually fall within the 13500 BTU and 15,000 BTU categories. Which AC category is your AC in?

• The manufacturer will provide you with a spec sheet that will contain all of the information you require.
• This sheet can be lost or stolen if you do not have the AC model number. You can find the details on the manufacturer’s site by checking the model number (various spare parts will have a model number; don’t confuse it with the AC model).
• You should check the amperage of your RV. Your AC should be 13.500 Btu if it is a 30amp. It must have a minimum of 15,000 BTU for 50-amp units (though exceptions are possible).
• It will usually be 15,000 BTU if the AC is ducted. If the AC isn’t ducted, it will most likely be 15,000 BTU. However, this does not necessarily mean that it cannot be reversed.

Unless you ask for a more powerful AC, the default AC will be a 13,500 BTU. You can change the AC to 15,000 BTU if you are unhappy with the cooling or airflow. It is very simple. The old one will need to be removed and the new one fitted. Most likely, only the hole size and wiring will need to be changed.

If the AC starts up with no other appliances, a 15,000 BTU will work with a 30amp. The start-up requires a lot of power. It will be difficult to start an AC if any other equipment is being used. After the AC has been started, you can turn on the appliances and allow them to run for a few minutes.

Energy Consumption

You should consider how much power the AC will consume to keep you comfortable. The AC consumes approximately 1000 to 2000 watts. Your fridge may consume 50 to 100 watts. This is a lot of power!

The power consumption of an AC generator can be comparable to the ones mentioned above. This can put a strain on your wallet. The cost of charging your AC at a caravan park may be lower than you think, as they don’t charge by the kilowatt.

Generator powered

It is not enough to rely on the charging sites. A generator would make it easier to run your AC in an emergency. A generator is a great investment when buying an RV AC.

1. The electronic throttle, which can be controlled in accordance with the request, improves the AC’s efficiency
2. Emissions are lower
3. Operational noise is very low so you won’t be disturbed at night, when your AC runs on a generator.
4. These items are extremely affordable
5. Although small in size, the caravan AC is powerful and can be run on a single battery.

Before buying a generator to power your caravan AC, here are some things you should consider:

• You can choose the type of generator that best suits your needs (inverter, portable).
• Your AC requires power to start up and run (startup takes a lot of energy).
• The generator’s power

These are the factors to consider when your generator is turned on by the AC.

Outdoor Temperature

Your AC’s performance is directly affected by the temperature outside. The AC will require more power to turn on if it is too hot or too humid. The power needed to turn on the AC will be lower if the temperature is very low.

Length of Extension

The power will be greater if the extension lead is shorter. The amperage will drop if the lead is longer. Keep the lead under 4 meters.

There are many appliances

It’s not enough to just consider the AC’s load. It is better to consider all equipment. Consider how much power each piece will require. A generator can be used for only your AC or one for all of your equipment. This will take up a lot space.

There are many types of air conditioners

What is the cooling process of an air conditioner for caravans? What kind of system does it use?

There are three main types of air conditioners: reverse cycle, heating systems, and inverter.

Reverse Cycle

A compressor is used in reverse cycle models. Reverse cycle air conditioners pull in cool air while hot air is moved out. This effectively maintains a uniform temperature inside the caravan. This system is more effective for cooling than heating.

Pros

• This system transfers heat efficiently from the inside to the outside, and then cools you down quickly.
• There are no high-power heating elements that consume a lot of power.
• You don’t need to worry about oxygen depletion in smaller areas because the ventilation is excellent

Cons

• This system may not work well if the outside temperature is too low. It may not heat your RV correctly. You can find out the temperature ranges that this model will be affected by outside temperatures by consulting the specifications of the manufacturer.

Heating Element Systems

Heating systems heat an area with a particular heating element. This is a great option if you are planning to travel in cold temperatures. The cooling and heating systems can be separated. It may not heat your caravan completely if it is large. One may not be enough.

Pros

• It works well with ambient temperatures. The caravan can be heated efficiently.

Cons

• This type of AC requires a lot of power, which can lead to higher expenses.

Inverter Air Con

Soft start technology is used in Inverter models. This means that it won’t pull too much power when it starts up like the Heating or Reverse cycles. It is a great option for ACs that run on generators.

Pros

• It won’t be necessary to buy a larger generator or turn off other appliances in order to have enough power for start-up.
• The compressor will stop pulling every time it cuts off and starts again. This will reduce your power consumption which can be a huge relief for your wallet.
• It is able to cool the area more quickly than other models.
• It’s not loud

Cons

• This model will draw more power if the insulation is poor.
• This technology is advanced, so repairs will be more costly
• It may be more costly than other models.

How to install an air conditioner in a caravan

After you’ve purchased your AC, it’s time to install it. You can install an AC yourself if you are handy with tools and have some experience.

You might need extra hands to lift a rooftop model. Don’t forget to turn off the AC.

Here’s how to install an AC yourself:

These steps will allow you to take down the roof model.

1. Check the roof first. Check the roof to see if it can support your weight. They are usually light and will give way to your weight. To support your weight, planks can be used. You won’t be placing your foot directly on a spot.
2. Take off the AC cover or shroud. You will need to remove the bolts that hold the shroud together.
3. Bolts will be used to attach the AC to the ceiling. A rubber seal is used to secure the bolts. All of these bolts must be removed along with the rubber seal. To remove all bolts, use a wrench or a screwdriver.
4. Next, take out the flange bolts which hold the AC.
5. The AC gasket and the roof will be sealed tightly. It is impossible to stand on the roof and try to remove it with all your might. You can use a putty knife to pry it off one by one.
6. All wires should be disconnected. This should be done carefully. Pay attention to where each wire came from. This will save you time and effort when trying to push all the wires back into your AC.
7. After separating the roof coating, as well as any sealants, you can remove them. You must remove all rubber, debris, and putty before installing the AC.
8. To receive the machine, pass it to someone below. Gravitation can make the machine heavier if it is too heavy. To help them get over, you can even ask for another pair of hands.

Positioning the AC

1. After the area has been cleaned and cleared, you can inspect for any traces of debris. Make sure the area is clean. Add another pair of hands to lift the AC up to the roof.
2. Place the AC unit where it was before. It will work perfectly if the new AC is the same size and shape as the older one. You will need additional materials and a skilled professional to make it fit.
3. Align the gasket properly with the ceiling opening. For instructions on how to turn the flanges on the ceiling unit, refer to the AC manual.
4. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to fit the AC into the opening. Then, tighten all bolts and screws according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You may need to replace the AC with one of the ones you have just removed.

Electric Connections

If you’re not sure what to do or the law requires you to hire an electrician, you might need one.

Congratulations! Congratulations!

Let’s now see how to put those wires in their place.

1. All the wires should be connected to the unit. It will be easier to remember how to remove those wires as well as the instructions manual. These wires will also be colored. Match the colors on both ends and you are done. Connect the electrical wires using the wire nuts
2. After installation, there should not be any exposed wiring. Tape can be used to seal the joints if necessary.
3. Cover the filter with the cover. Attach the filter cover to the AC by sliding it carefully on.
4. Plug the power cord and turn it on. To check if your AC turns on smoothly, make sure you have checked all of the settings. You can immediately identify a problem if it is present.

Additional Factors to Consider When Buying a Caravan Air Conditioner

These are just a few of the factors you should consider, in addition to those already mentioned:

Warranty

Make sure you choose a model with a long warranty. The warranty will stand if the company is confident in its products. For a few years, you don’t have to worry about maintenance and repairs.

Service

You’ll be moving. It is not worth it if your AC needs to be repaired at home. You will drive around with an AC that is not working properly if this happens. Look for national service. Many companies have partnerships and are able to offer services in other states.

Spare Parts

Sometimes you can repair the problem yourself. You will only need the parts. It can be convenient to have spare parts shipped from other states, similar to service. Even if a mechanic is needed to repair something while you are on vacation, they will be able to locate the parts quickly. This will save you lots of time.

Caravan Air Conditioner Reviews

To find out which brands are consistently performing well, read customer reviews. These reviews will reveal the problems customers experienced and the solutions they received. Check out the following Australian caravan air conditioner guide to find the best caravan air conditioners.

Variety

Make sure you choose a company that stocks all models. You may choose to go with the top brand for rooftop ACs and the best built-in ACs. If you need to replace the AC or want to keep it running, purchasing from the same manufacturer might prove beneficial. Everything will be the same, including spares and warranty.

Air Purifier

If you are going to be travelling in areas with high levels of pollution or dust, an air purifier is necessary. It will ensure that you get clean, fresh air to inhale. Some AC models include an air purifier. This model is available.

All-In-One

An all-in-one system is best if your primary need is cooling and not heating. It can be used as both an AC and heater in winter. If you travel often, even in colder climates, it may not be sufficient to heat your entire RV.

Outlets

You can choose from more outlets depending on how big your caravan is and how many people are using it. You can make everyone feel comfortable. Even if you’re just two, there are more vents that can be optimally placed to provide comfort no matter where you are in the van.

Generator

Select the right generator. It is important to select the right size generator and power for your particular air conditioner model. ACs need more power to turn on than they do when they are running continuously. Pay attention to the generator’s design. The design of the suitcase helps to keep the sound in and doesn’t disturb your journey.

Insulation

Your AC’s performance is directly affected by how well the insulation in your caravan works. This is why you should choose an AC that has good insulation. Recent caravan models have insulation that can keep the temperature inside.

If you have an older model, make sure to check the insulation. Insufficient insulation can cause the AC to not keep the temperature stable and may require a larger or more powerful AC.

Tips To Keep Your Caravan Cool

Weather can sometimes be extremely unpredictable. Your AC may not work well enough, no matter how powerful or large. Your AC may have had its best days, and your AC might need extra support. The heat is not something you should be enduring. It is best to do something about it, but not let the heat ruin your finances.

These are some tips to increase the cooling of your Caravan.

Insulation

An older car may have insufficient insulation or has spoiled insulation. For better temperature retention, replace it.

Replace lights

Switch to LED lights. LED lights produce a fraction the heat of other lights. This will keep your RV’s interior cooler.

Paint color

Check your roof and exterior. Replace any peeling paint with reflective paint. This will keep heat out and your home cooler.

Fans

Portable fans are worth the investment. Portable fans don’t have to be expensive or large. You won’t feel heat or loss of cooling if you have more air blowing at you.

Windows

Although it can be pleasant to have some natural light in the RV, the heat is also a problem. To reduce heat, you can cover windows when it’s too hot.

Cook Outside

When possible, cook your meals outdoors. The heat from cooking can be very hot, so it is best to cook outdoors.

Shade

Place your vehicle under a shade. This will help keep your vehicle cool. If that is impossible, you can use tarps to cover your RV.

Clean Ventilation

If possible, clean the refrigerator vent. This will make it easier to remove the heat.

If everything is in order, traveling in a caravan can be very enjoyable. Comfort is everything. It should not be taken lightly. The AC system in your RV will make or break your caravan experience. Make sure to consider all aspects and make the right choice. It may seem expensive at times, but consider the benefits it will bring you and your family.