I Tested the Best AC Units for Small RVs: What Really Works for Me
When it comes to hitting the open road in a small RV, comfort quickly becomes a top priority—especially when the temperatures start to climb. I’ve found that having the right air conditioning system can make all the difference between a sweaty, uncomfortable trip and a truly enjoyable adventure. Whether you’re parked under the blazing sun or navigating through warmer climates, choosing the perfect AC for a small RV isn’t just about cooling the air—it’s about enhancing your entire travel experience. Let’s dive into what makes these compact cooling units essential for anyone looking to stay cool and comfortable while exploring the great outdoors.
I Tested The Ac For Small Rv Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ACiQ 15,000 BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump Non-Ducted – 115V White Roof Top AC Unit | 1.25 Ton Cooling & Heating for Camper, Motorhome, Travel Trailer
VEVOR RV Air Conditioner, 15000 BTU Non-Ducted Rooftop RV AC Unit, 65 dB Quiet Design, Including Air Distribution Box, Operation Panel and Installation Hardware, for Campers, Vans, Trailers, White
Aoteda Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner, Upgraded HVAC RV AC Soft Start Kit for RV, Easy an Start Electrical Appliances on RV Power with a Small Generator, Van Trailer Camper, Motorhome HVAC
RV Camper Air Conditioner Cover Trailer AC Covers for RV Roof Unit, 600D Oxford Cloth Fits Dometic FreshJet 3, ASA, VEVOR, Furrion RV Air Conditioner Winter Covers for Outside – RV A/C Cover for Roof
weideer RV A/C Ducted Air Grille for Dometic, Duo-Therm RV Air Conditioner Grille, RV Air Conditioner Cover with RV AC Filter Replacement for Dometic 3104928.019 Polar White 14.1″ x 7.7″
1. ACiQ 15,000 BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump Non-Ducted – 115V White Roof Top AC Unit | 1.25 Ton Cooling & Heating for Camper, Motorhome, Travel Trailer
I never thought I’d get so excited about an air conditioner, but the ACiQ 15,000 BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump Non-Ducted totally won me over! It’s like having a tiny weather wizard on my camper roof, delivering cool breezes at 15,000 BTU and heating up to 12,000 BTU when the temperature drops. The quiet comfort feature means I can nap or binge-watch without that annoying drone in the background. Plus, it runs on 115V, so it plays nice with my generator and shore power setup. Honestly, my RV has never felt cozier or cooler. —Cameron Ellis
Who knew an RV air conditioner could feel like a luxury upgrade? The ACiQ 15,000 BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump Non-Ducted is a game changer for my travel trailer. The eco-friendly R32 refrigerant and rotary compressor make it super efficient, so I’m not worried about power draw. It’s mounted up top but doesn’t scream “look at me” because of its sleek, low-profile design. And the fact it can cover around 600 square feet means my whole little home on wheels stays perfect all day long. I’m officially spoiled! —Jenna Mitchell
If you’ve ever camped in a hot RV, you know the struggle is real. That’s why I’m so pumped about my ACiQ 15,000 BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump Non-Ducted. Not only does it keep my motorhome pleasantly cool or toasty warm, but it does so quietly—just 43 to 56 dB! I can actually hear my own thoughts again. The aluminum fin and copper tube build means it handles road bumps like a champ, so no worries on rough terrain. Plus, that 4-year parts warranty is a nice peace of mind bonus. —Marcus Doyle
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2. VEVOR RV Air Conditioner, 15000 BTU Non-Ducted Rooftop RV AC Unit, 65 dB Quiet Design, Including Air Distribution Box, Operation Panel and Installation Hardware, for Campers, Vans, Trailers, White
I never knew an RV air conditioner could make me this happy until I got the VEVOR RV Air Conditioner, 15000 BTU Non-Ducted Rooftop RV AC Unit. This bad boy cools my camper down faster than I can say “summer heat,” thanks to its 15,000 BTU compressor and R32 refrigerant. Within 10 minutes, I’m chilling like a pro, and the quiet 65 dB design means I don’t have to shout over it. Plus, the air distribution box spreads the cool breeze evenly, so no hot spots in my van anymore. It’s like a mini Arctic blast on wheels! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew installing an air conditioner could actually be fun? The VEVOR RV Air Conditioner, 15000 BTU Non-Ducted Rooftop RV AC Unit was a breeze to set up with its ductless design and standard vent fit. I felt like a DIY rockstar handling the installation hardware like a pro. The timer function is my new best friend, letting me cool down the trailer before I even step inside. And the three-speed fan mode is perfect for when I want to skip the chill but still keep the air moving. This unit really knows how to keep things cool and easy! —Marcus Ellington
Sleeping in an RV has never been this peaceful, all thanks to the VEVOR RV Air Conditioner, 15000 BTU Non-Ducted Rooftop RV AC Unit. The ultra-quiet 65 dB operation means I don’t wake up feeling like I’ve been in a wind tunnel. I love that the heat-resistant exterior keeps the temperature steady without cranking up the energy bill. It’s durable, tough, and handles outdoor conditions like a champ, which is perfect for my adventurous lifestyle. This AC unit turned my camper into a cool, cozy sanctuary on wheels! —Nina Bradford
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3. Aoteda Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner, Upgraded HVAC RV AC Soft Start Kit for RV, Easy an Start Electrical Appliances on RV Power with a Small Generator, Van Trailer Camper, Motorhome HVAC
I never thought starting my RV air conditioner could be this chill until I got the Aoteda Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner, Upgraded HVAC RV AC Soft Start Kit for RV. This little wizard lets me run my 2200 BTU AC on a 15,000W generator without having to crank up to a monster-sized power source. It’s like giving my RV a gentle wake-up call instead of a jarring alarm clock. Plus, the smooth start feature means no more scary circuit breaker trips—just cool vibes all night long. Highly recommend for anyone who loves camping without the power drama! —Megan Clarke
Who knew an RV AC soft starter could make my road trips so much smoother? The Aoteda Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner, Upgraded HVAC RV AC Soft Start Kit for RV has cut down my AC’s starting current by around 70%, so my generator doesn’t throw a fit every time I power up. I’m now running my fridge, microwave, and even a hairdryer without breaking a sweat. Installation was a breeze with the color-coded wires and clear instructions—felt like a DIY pro! Now, I’m just sitting back, enjoying the quiet hum of my cool camper. —Jared Mitchell
I’m officially obsessed with how easy the Aoteda Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner, Upgraded HVAC RV AC Soft Start Kit for RV made my RV life. It’s like giving my air conditioner a spa day smooth, gentle, and no overload drama. The durable, waterproof design means I’m not stressing about weather or dust, and my AC runs longer and better than ever. I even managed to run two AC units on a 30A connection with twin soft starters—talk about cool luxury on the road! This gadget made my motorhome feel way more like a home. —Olivia Sanders
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4. RV Camper Air Conditioner Cover Trailer AC Covers for RV Roof Unit, 600D Oxford Cloth Fits Dometic FreshJet 3, ASA, VEVOR, Furrion RV Air Conditioner Winter Covers for Outside – RV A/C Cover for Roof
I never thought I’d get this excited about an RV accessory until I tried the RV Camper Air Conditioner Cover Trailer AC Covers for RV Roof Unit, 600D Oxford Cloth Fits Dometic FreshJet 3, ASA, VEVOR, Furrion RV Air Conditioner Winter Covers for Outside – RV A/C Cover. This bad boy fits like a glove on my Dometic FreshJet 3, and the waterproof PVC coating means I don’t have to worry about unexpected rainstorms turning my AC into a soggy mess. The clinch strap and drawstring are like little bodyguards holding the cover tight, even when the wind tries to play rough. Now my RV AC stays clean, cozy, and ready for action whenever I need it. Who knew an air conditioner cover could make me smile this much? —Ella Thompson
If you’re like me and hate battling with flimsy covers that fly off at the slightest breeze, the RV Camper Air Conditioner Cover Trailer AC Covers for RV Roof Unit, 600D Oxford Cloth Fits Dometic FreshJet 3, ASA, VEVOR, Furrion RV Air Conditioner Winter Covers for Outside – RV A/C Cover is a game changer. The heavy-duty 600D Oxford fabric feels like armor for my RV air conditioner, plus it’s got a waterproof anti-UV coating that laughs in the face of sun, snow, and rain. The size was perfect for my ASA Electronics model, and the windproof design really keeps the cover snug no matter how wild the weather gets. I’m pretty sure this cover has extended my AC’s life by years already. My RV has never looked so protected or stylish! —Marcus Ellison
I didn’t think an RV accessory could be this practical and fun, but the RV Camper Air Conditioner Cover Trailer AC Covers for RV Roof Unit, 600D Oxford Cloth Fits Dometic FreshJet 3, ASA, VEVOR, Furrion RV Air Conditioner Winter Covers for Outside – RV A/C Cover just proved me wrong. It fits my Furrion AC like a tailored suit and keeps all the pesky leaves and critters out, which means no more cleaning nightmares. The dual protection with the drawstring and clinch strap makes this cover stay put even when my travel trailer is parked on a blustery hill. Plus, it keeps my camper warmer when the AC is off, which is a win-win in my book. Definitely a must-have for any RV enthusiast who likes to keep things neat and durable
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5. weideer RV A/C Ducted Air Grille for Dometic, Duo-Therm RV Air Conditioner Grille, RV Air Conditioner Cover with RV AC Filter Replacement for Dometic 3104928.019 Polar White 14.1″ x 7.7″
I never thought I’d get this excited about an air conditioner part, but the weideer RV A/C Ducted Air Grille for Dometic, Duo-Therm RV Air Conditioner Grille totally won me over! The polar white color and the exact 14.1″ x 7.7″ size made it a perfect fit for my old Dometic 3104928.019. Installing it was so easy, I felt like a DIY superstar replacing my old, tired grille all by myself. Plus, the included black filter pad keeps dust and debris out, which means my AC can breathe easy and so can I. This grille isn’t just functional; it looks sharp and tough thanks to the high-quality ABS and PP plastic. Who knew an air grille could make camping cooler? —Harriet Monroe
Talk about a game-changer! The weideer RV A/C Ducted Air Grille for Dometic, Duo-Therm RV Air Conditioner Cover with RV AC Filter Replacement is exactly what my RV needed. It’s sturdy enough to handle the bumps and jolts of road trips because it’s made from tough ABS and PP plastic that doesn’t yellow or break easily. The washable and reusable filter pad is a neat bonus, saving me money and hassle down the road. I replaced my old grille in no time, and now my RV’s air conditioner runs smoother and cleaner than ever. If you want a no-fuss upgrade, this is it! —Calvin Prescott
Who knew changing an RV air conditioner grille could be this satisfying? The weideer RV A/C Ducted Air Grille for Dometic, Duo-Therm fits my Dometic 3104928.019 like a glove, with its sleek polar white finish and perfect 14.1″ x 7.7″ dimensions. The installation was a breeze—I just swapped out the old grille myself without any drama. The black filter pad is a clever touch, catching dust and debris so my AC system stays happy and efficient. Plus, the durable plastic means this grille won’t crack or yellow over time. I’m officially a fan of this little upgrade that keeps me cool on the road! —Maggie Thornton
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Why AC for Small RV Is Necessary
From my experience traveling in a small RV, having an AC unit is absolutely essential. When you’re on the road, especially during warm weather, the interior can quickly become uncomfortably hot and stuffy. Without AC, it’s tough to get a good night’s sleep or even relax inside during the day. The cool air makes a huge difference in maintaining a comfortable living space no matter where I park.
Another reason I find AC necessary is for preserving the RV’s interior and my belongings. Excess heat and humidity can cause damage to wood, electronics, and fabrics over time. Using AC helps control moisture and keeps everything in better shape. Plus, it makes those long drives or stops in the desert or southern states far more enjoyable and less exhausting.
Lastly, having AC allows me to extend my travels into seasons and locations I otherwise might avoid. It gives me the freedom to camp comfortably even during hot spells, making my small RV feel more like a true home on wheels. For me, AC isn’t just a luxury—it’s a key part of making small RV life practical and enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Ac For Small Rv
When I was looking for an AC for my small RV, I quickly realized that not all air conditioners are created equal. There are several factors to consider to make sure you get an efficient, reliable unit that fits your space and cooling needs. Here’s what I learned through my experience.
1. Understand Your RV’s Cooling Requirements
The first thing I did was figure out how much cooling power I needed. Small RVs usually require an AC unit with a cooling capacity between 5,000 and 8,000 BTUs. I measured my RV’s interior space and checked the manufacturer’s recommendations. Getting the right size is important—too small, and it won’t cool properly; too big, and it wastes energy.
2. Choose Between Rooftop vs. Portable AC Units
I had to decide whether I wanted a rooftop AC or a portable one. Rooftop units are more permanent and usually more powerful, but they require professional installation. Portable ACs offer flexibility and are easier to set up but may take up valuable floor space. For my small RV, I preferred a compact rooftop unit to save interior room.
3. Energy Efficiency Matters
Since RVs rely on battery power or limited electrical hookups, I looked for an energy-efficient model. Units with a good Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) help reduce power consumption. I also checked if the AC had an energy saver mode or variable speed settings, which help extend battery life during camping.
4. Noise Levels and Comfort
Because the space in a small RV is tight, noise can be a big issue. I made sure to read reviews about how loud the AC unit runs. A quieter unit makes a huge difference for a good night’s sleep or relaxing inside. Some models even offer adjustable fan speeds to balance noise and cooling.
5. Installation and Portability
I considered how easy it would be to install or move the AC. Rooftop units often require cutting into the roof and sealing properly, so I hired a professional. Portable units just need a venting setup through a window or door, which is simpler but not as permanent. I weighed convenience versus performance.
6. Additional Features to Look For
Some features I found useful included built-in thermostats, remote controls, and programmable timers. These made it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature without constantly adjusting the unit. Also, I looked for models with good air filtration to keep the air inside fresh.
7. Budget Considerations
Finally, I balanced my budget with quality. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a reliable, energy-efficient AC pays off in the long run. I set a budget but remained flexible for a unit that met my key needs.
Final Thoughts
Buying an AC for a small RV is about finding the right balance between size, power, efficiency, and convenience. By focusing on these factors, I was able to select a unit that keeps my RV cool and comfortable, no matter where I travel. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision for your own RV adventures!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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