Activating Air Conditioning In Your Camper: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you're looking to turn on the AC in your camper, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, check that you have enough power—your AC will need a consistent energy source to function properly. Make sure you're either plugged into a 30 or 50-amp outlet or have a generator running. Once you've confirmed your power source, locate the internal AC unit. Here, you'll find two knobs: one for the fan and one for the thermostat (the heat and cold settings). Turn both dials to your preferred setting, and you should be good to go! It's important to note that extreme temperatures can affect the lifespan of your unit, so try to avoid cranking the settings too high. Additionally, keeping your AC well-maintained by regularly cleaning the filters and covering windows to block out sunlight can help improve its performance.

Ensure a consistent power source

Ensuring a consistent power source is key to keeping your RV's air conditioning running efficiently. Here are some tips to achieve that:

Battery Power

Lithium batteries are a popular choice for powering RV air conditioners as they are more powerful than standard lead-acid batteries. A single 100 Ah lithium battery can power a typical 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner for about 30 minutes. However, a bank of eight 100 Ah batteries could run it for about four hours, which may be enough to get through the hottest part of the day.

Solar Power

Solar panels can be a great way to keep your batteries charged and your air conditioner running, but they have limitations. The amount of power generated by solar panels depends on their size and the amount of sunlight they receive. On a typical day, 900 watts of solar panels might be enough to recharge your batteries, but running an air conditioner will deplete them quickly.

Shore Power

When plugged into shore power, your RV's electrical system will be able to handle most appliances, including the air conditioner. Shore power is typically available at RV parks and campgrounds, and it is usually either 30-amp or 50-amp.

Generators

Generators are another option for powering your RV's air conditioner when shore power is not available. They are rated in watts, and a 3500-watt generator is usually sufficient for most RVs. However, generators have their limitations and may not be able to power all appliances simultaneously.

Hybrid Systems

Combining multiple power sources, such as solar and generator power, can help prolong the runtime of your air conditioner. This approach can be especially useful if you plan to run your air conditioner for extended periods.

Soft Start Kits

When your air conditioner's compressor first kicks on, it draws a significant amount of power, known as "surge current." A soft start kit or an EasyStart device can help improve the startup efficiency and reduce the power draw on your batteries.

Efficient Alternatives

If you're looking for a more efficient way to keep your RV cool, consider a 12V air conditioner or a custom mini-split system. These options tend to be much more efficient than traditional RV roof-mounted units and can run for longer periods on battery power.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your air conditioner and electrical system is essential. Keep your filters clean, especially if you're running the air conditioner frequently. Also, be mindful of other power-hungry appliances and try to use them sparingly when relying solely on battery power.

Safety

Finally, always prioritize safety when dealing with electrical systems. Understand the basics of your RV's electrical setup and be cautious when connecting to power sources or performing maintenance.

Turn AC on early in the day

Turning your AC on early in the day is a great way to get a jump on controlling hot temperatures in your camper. If you are plugged into an outdoor outlet (at least 30-50 amps) or have enough energy from your generator, you can leave your AC unit on during the day while you are out and about. This will allow your camper more time to cool down and maintain a comfortable temperature.

Turning your AC on early in the morning is also more efficient than waiting until the sun has heated up your camper. Your AC unit will use much less energy keeping the rig cool if it starts off at a cooler temperature. It will also prevent the inside of your rig from getting too warm, which will take longer to cool off later.

If you want to go the extra mile, turn the AC unit on at night as well. This will keep the cold air circulating in your camper more consistently, saving more energy. Overall, your unit won't have to work as hard defeating the sun, and by the time you get back to your camper after a long day, it will be refreshing.

Another way to utilise the fans is to do the "blast the AC trick" by turning the fan on high and the temperature to the coldest setting for a while. You can even leave a door or window open to give the air a good kick start. Just don't leave it on the whole time as it burns a lot of energy. Once you start feeling the camper cool down, turn down the fan and the temperature.

Clean your filters

A dirty air filter can cause your camper's AC to malfunction, so it's important to keep it clean. The first step is to identify what type of filter you have. Most stock filters are maintained the same way, but aftermarket filters are often single-use and need to be replaced, not cleaned. The two most common types of stock filter are foam and mesh. Foam filters are usually black or grey, spongy, and effective at trapping larger particles. Mesh filters are more durable, less likely to need cleaning, and designed to handle a wider range of particle sizes.

Once you've identified the type of filter you have, you can start the cleaning process. First, turn off the AC unit and disconnect its power source. Then, remove the vent cover from the AC unit, which is typically in the ceiling of your RV, and take out the filter. Be cautious when removing the vent cover and filter to avoid damage.

If your filter is only slightly dirty, you may be able to clean it by vacuuming it gently. Be careful not to damage the screen with too much suction. However, if your filter is very dirty, you will need to soak it in warm water and mild detergent for at least 10-15 minutes. You can use a soft brush, such as a toothbrush, to remove stubborn dirt and grime. After soaking and scrubbing, rinse the filter thoroughly to remove any remaining soap.

To sanitise the filter and prevent bacteria growth, spray it with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. Allow the filter to dry completely before putting it back in place. Airing the filter in sunlight can help speed up the drying process and kill bacteria.

It's important to clean your RV air conditioner filter regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer. Some manufacturers suggest cleaning the filter as often as every two weeks, while others recommend doing it every month. People with allergies or other health conditions may need to clean their filters more frequently.

Keep doors and windows closed

Keeping the doors and windows closed is essential when using an air conditioner in a camper. This is because the AC unit works by sucking the heat and moisture out of the air to cool down the cabin. If the doors and windows are open, the unit will be pulling in the hot air from outside instead of the cabin air, making it less effective at cooling the interior.

Closing the doors and windows also helps to trap the cool air inside, keeping the temperature down. This is especially important in a small space like a camper, where it is crucial to keep the cool air from escaping. Additionally, keeping the doors and windows closed can help reduce the strain on the AC unit, potentially extending its lifespan and reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.

It is worth noting that, contrary to popular belief, closing interior doors in a camper with a central air conditioning system can actually increase energy consumption and disrupt the system's operation. This is because closing a door can create pressure imbalances, forcing the system to work harder and potentially damaging it. Therefore, it is recommended to keep interior doors open to allow for better airflow and minimise pressure problems.

To further enhance the cooling effect of the AC unit, you can try parking your camper in the shade or using reflective sun shades on the windows to keep the sun out. These simple measures can reduce the amount of heat entering the camper, making it easier for the AC unit to maintain a comfortable temperature inside.

Park in the shade

Parking your campervan in the shade is one of the most effective ways to keep your vehicle cool. The sun is at its most intense in the afternoon, so if possible, park your campervan in a location that will be shaded during the hottest part of the day. If you're in a forested area, position any trees on the western side of your vehicle.

If you're camping in a location without natural shade, you can create your own. Use your awning to provide shade in the morning, and in the afternoon, set up a sunshade or a tarp tied to the top of your campervan and secured to the ground with stakes. This will create a triangular shaded area for you to relax in.

If you're able to choose your campsite in advance, opt for one with a high elevation rating and water features such as a lake or stream. Higher elevations have thinner, colder air and lower air pressure, which keeps the temperature low. You can take a dip in the lake to cool down and then enjoy a cosy night's sleep.

Frequently asked questions