The Best Caravan Air Conditioners in Australia for 2022

Do You Even Need A Caravan Air Conditioner?

Do you need an AC specifically designed for caravan use? This AC is less expensive and can be used at home in the event of need.

Yes, you’ll need an AC for your caravan. You’ll require a caravan AC.

Do you require a new air conditioner?

It’s possible that your caravan’s AC isn’t functioning properly.

• It does not turn on or has trouble turning on each time
• Leaking
• Noisy
• Insufficient cold air
• Temperatures can fluctuate
• The compressor needs to be turned off

Contact a professional AC mechanic for a review of your machine. They might be able to fix your unit with simple repairs like cleaning the coil, or reset the unit. If none is possible, and the technician declares that the AC has to be replaced then you’re left with no choice.

Although it may seem like an expensive expense, you’ll be able to enjoy your RV trips with a running AC.

Which model is the most effective? Built-in or rooftop?

You are now aware that ACs for RVs should not be the sole option. Which AC should you choose? The roof model or the built-in one Each has its advantages and disadvantages.

Rooftop Air Conditioner

Rooftop models can be attached to your caravan by inserting into the roof opening. There are two sizes available in the form of 360x360mm or 400x400mm. Because they do not take up a lot of space, they are preferred by most users.

Advantages

• It is easy to mount
• It occupies very little space
• Cold air moves more efficiently from the top as it is more straight.
• If your roof opening is 400x400mm or larger An adapter may be used.

Advantages

• Certain models are large and tall and can be problems in garages with low ceilings or underpasses.
• You cannot put the model’s 400x400mm dimensions into a 360x360mm roof opening without removing and remodeling your RV’s roof.
• This can add the weight of your caravan and may affect the mechanism for lifting.
• Obstruct sunlight coming from above. This can cause the interior of an RV to become extremely dark, if there’s not enough windows.
• Hot air rises. This model is not the best for heating RVs. It is heated by the hot air that is coming from the top.

Built-In Air Conditioner

This model is suitable for caravans with only one roof. It is an excellent choice for caravans that do not require insulation.

Advantages

• It is able to reduce the temperature of your RV in the event that it is situated lower than the top because the lower air is cooler than the top.
• It does not add weight to your roof
• It doesn’t increase the ceiling height and has no impact on the height of clearance.
• The AC can be upgraded using an AC add-on.
• It does not interfere with sunlight coming into the roof
• When the duct system is used and has a wide distribution
• Heating takes place through the heating of hot air coming from the bottom of the caravan or on the sides before spreading it across the entire caravan.

Advantages

• Utilizes living space

The Air Conditioner’s Size and Form

Shape

It is important to consider all the different types of air conditioners available 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.

Certain models can add only 25 cm to your clearance height, however, it will not significantly alter the height.

Do not only look at the AC’s height. It is possible to discard the AC’s elevation as being too high.

Size

The size of your RV can affect the quantity of AC or power you purchase. The AC should be more powerful the longer the RV. The rule of rule of thumb is:

• The 2-2.5kW power unit is perfect for vehicles that are 5 meters long
• 2.5 – 3.5kW for vehicles with a maximum height of 6mts.
• Vehicles that have 7m or more in height can be eligible for 3-3.5kW

It is possible to require additional AC units if your caravan is equipped with an older AC unit. Comfort may be more important in the event that you travel a lot or are in your RV for lengthy periods.

What BTU’s do you have the ability to use?

The measurement of an AC’s heating power is known as the BTUs (British Thermal Units).

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

Caravan ACs are usually in the 13500 and 15,000 BTU categories. In which AC category is your AC?

• The manufacturer will provide you with a specification sheet which will include all the information you require.
• If you don’t possess the AC model number, the sheet may be lost or stolen. The information are available on the official website of the manufacturer checking the model number. (Many spare parts will have a number, but don’t confuse it with AC model number. span>
• Verify the amperage of your RV. The AC must be at least 15,000 BTU to power 50-amp units. However, exceptions may be made.
• It will usually be 15,000 BTU in the event that the AC is ducted. If the AC isn’t, it will most likely be 15,000 BTU. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean it can’t be reversed.

Unless you ask for an even more robust AC the standard AC will be a 13,500 BTU. It is possible to change the AC to 15,000 BTU if you are unhappy with the airflow or cooling. It is very simple. The old unit must be taken out before the new one is fitted. It is likely that just the dimensions of the hole as well as the wiring needs to be changed.

If the AC is started without other equipment such as a 15,000 BTU unit, it will be able to work with a 30amp. The start-up needs a large amount of power. It will be difficult to begin an AC in the event that other equipment is in use. After the AC has been started then you can switch on the appliance and allow them to run for a couple of minutes.

Energy Consumption

Think about how much power your AC is using to keep you cool. It could consume between 1000 to 2000W. Your refrigerator could use 50 to 100 watts. This is a huge amount of energy!

The power consumption of an AC generator can be comparable to those mentioned earlier. This can put a strain on your pocket. The cost of charging your AC at a park for caravans might be lower than you think, as they don’t charge by the kilowatt.

Generator powered

It’s not enough to just rely on charging sites. Having a generator makes it easy to turn on your AC when you need it.

1. The AC’s efficiency is increased by electronic throttle
2. Emissions are lower
3. Operational noises are extremely low so you won’t be disturbed at night, when your AC runs on the generator.
4. These products are extremely affordable
5. Though small in terms of dimensions however, the caravan AC is powerful and can be operated with just one battery.

Before you purchase an electric generator to power your AC unit in your caravan There are some considerations you should consider:

• You can choose the generator type that best suits your needs (inverter or portable).
• An AC requires power to turn on and off (starting up is a long time).
• The generator’s electricity

These are the main factors to consider when turning your generator on by your AC.

Outdoor Temperature

Your AC’s performance is directly affected by the temperature. The AC will require more power in order to turn on if it is too hot or humid. The power needed to power the AC will be less when the temperature is extremely low.

Length of Extension

The power will be greater when the extension lead is shorter. The amperage will drop if the lead is longer. Keep the lead at a distance of less than 4 meters.

There are many appliances

It’s not enough just to think about the load on your AC. It’s better to think about all the devices. Take into consideration how much power each piece of equipment will need. Generators can be used to power only your AC or the entire equipment. It will require a significant amount of space.

There’s a huge selection of air conditioners

What is the cooling procedure of an air conditioner for caravans? What kind of system is it using?

There’s three types of air conditioners to choose from: heating systems, reverse cycle and inverter.

Reverse Cycle

A compressor is employed in reverse cycle models. Reverse cycle air conditioners draw out cool air while hot air is moved out. This creates a consistent temperature within the caravan.

Pros

• The system transfers heat efficiently from the inside to the outside, and then cools you quickly.
• There isn’t a high-power heating element which consumes the most energy.
• There’s no need to worry about the loss of oxygen in smaller areas, as the ventilation is excellent

Cons

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

Heating Element Systems

Heating systems warm an area using a specific heating element. This is great if you plan to travel in colder weather. The heating and cooling systems can be separated. They may not be able to heat your caravan completely if it is big. One may not be enough.

Pros

• It’s great for ambient temperatures. The caravan can be efficiently heated.

Cons

• This AC type requires a lot more power which can result in higher costs.

Inverter Air Con

Inverter models employ soft-start technology. It won’t draw too much power to start up, like the heating and Reverse cycles. It’s a good choice for ACs that are powered by generators.

Pros

• It is not necessary to purchase a bigger generator or shut off other appliances in order to have enough power to start-up.
• The compressor stops pulling every time it is cut off, and restarts. This will reduce your power consumption which can be a huge relief for your wallet.
• It’s able to cool the area more quickly than the other models.
• It’s not loud

Cons

• If the insulation isn’t good the model will draw less power.
• This is a cutting-edge technology, so repairs are more expensive.
• This model could be more expensive than the others.

How do you install an air conditioner inside the caravan

Once you’ve bought your AC now is the time to put it in place. You can install an AC yourself if you’re handy using tools and experience.

It could require extra help to lift a roof model. Turn off the AC.

Here’s how to install an AC yourself:

These steps will help you tear down the model on your roof.

1. The first step is to check the roof.
2. Take off the AC cover or shroud. You will be required to disengage the bolts holding the shroud in place.
3. Bolts serve to join AC to ceiling. Use a screwdriver or wrench to take out the bolts.
4. Next, you must remove the bolts that support the AC.
5. The AC gasket will seal the roof securely. Use a putty knife or a sharp object to take it off.
6. It is important to disconnect all wires. You’ll be able save time and effort by paying close attention to the source of every wire.
7. After separating the roof coating as well as any sealants, you are able to take them out. You must remove all rubber, debris and putty prior installing the AC.
8. To get the machine, give it to someone below. Gravitation can make the machine heavier if it is too weighty. To help them get over, you can even solicit the help of another pair of hands.

Positioning of the AC

1. Once the area has been cleaned and cleared, you can inspect it for any dirt. You may require a second pair of hands in order to lift up the AC to the roof.
2. Set the AC unit exactly where it was prior to. To make the AC unit fit, you will need to use additional materials.
3. Align the gasket properly to the opening in the ceiling. For instructions on how to turn the flanges of the ceiling unit, refer to the AC manual.
4. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to insert the AC into the opening. Next, tighten all bolts according to manufacturer instructions.

Electric Connections

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

Congratulations! Congratulations!

Let’s look at how we can put those wires back into their place.

1. The wire nuts are used to connect the electric wires to the unit.
2. Following installation, there shouldn’t be any wiring exposed. Tape can be used to seal the joints, if needed.
3. Cover the filter using the cover. Attach the filter cover to the AC by sliding it carefully onto.
4. Switch on the AC and plug in the power cable. If there is any issue, it is possible to determine it right away.

Additional Factors to Consider when purchasing a Caravan Air Conditioner

These are just some of the aspects you have to take into consideration in addition to those mentioned previously:

Warranty

Make sure you choose the model that has a long warranty. The warranty will be valid if the company believes in the quality of its product. For a few years, you don’t have to think about maintenance and repairs.

Service

It’s going to take a lot of work.

Spare Parts

Sometimes, you can fix the problem yourself. You will only need the parts. It’s a good idea to have spare parts shipped from other states, in the same way as services. Even if a professional is needed to repair something during your holiday, they’ll be capable of locating the part quickly. This can save you much time.

Customer Reviews

Read reviews from customers to discover which brands consistently perform exceptionally.

Variety

Be sure to choose an organization that has all kinds of models. You may opt to choose the best manufacturer of rooftop ACs as well as the best built-in ACs. If you have to replace your AC, or you want to keep it running buying from the same brand could prove advantageous. Everything will be identical, including parts and warranty.

Air Purifier

An air purifier is required if you plan to travel in areas where there is high pollution or dust.

All-In-One

A system that is all-in-one is the best choice if your main requirement is cooling, not heating. It can be used both as an AC and heater in winter. If you travel frequently, even in cooler climates, it might not be enough to warm your entire RV.

Outlets

There are numerous outlets to choose from, depending on the dimensions of your vehicle. Comfort is assured no matter where you are.

Generator

Choose the correct generator. It is important to choose the correct size generator and power for the model of your air conditioner. ACs need more power to switch on as opposed to when they are constantly running. Pay attention to the generator’s design. The design of the suitcase can help keep the sound in and does not interfere with your travel.

Insulation

How well your caravan’s insulation works will affect the performance of your AC. This is why you should choose an AC that is well-insulated. Modern caravans have insulation that can keep the temperature inside.

If you own an older model, be sure you check the insulation. Insufficient insulation could cause the AC to fail to keep the temperature steady and could require a larger or more robust AC.

Tips To Keep Your Caravan Cool

It is not uncommon for weather to be unpredictable. Your AC might not function effectively enough, regardless of the size or power. Your AC may have had its most productive days and your AC might need extra support. The heat isn’t something you should have to endure. It is best to take action however, don’t let the heat damage your finances.

These are some ways to cool down your Caravan.

Insulation

An older vehicle might have inadequate insulation or is damaged. For better temperature retention, you should replace it.

Replace lights

Switch to LED lights. LED lights create a fraction of the heat of other lighting. This will ensure that your RV’s interior stays cooler.

Paint color

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

Fans

Portable fans can be worth the cost. More air won’t cause excessive heat or cause loss of cool.

Windows

While it is nice to get natural light into your RV, heat could be an issue. You can cover windows if it gets too hot.

Cook Outside

Cook your meals outside whenever possible.

Shade

Cover your vehicle with an shade.

Clean Ventilation

Clean the refrigerator vent If it is possible. This will help in removing heat.

A caravan trip can be very relaxing if everything goes according to plan. This should not be taken lightly.