RV Things

Traveling is always amazing. You get the opportunity to meet new people, visit new places, and experience new cultures. Spending quality time on the road is an adventure that is full of joy, but there are also several challenges that you have to deal with. One of the most effective ways of traveling and enjoying life on the road is by living in a recreational vehicle (RV) that offers you the possibility to move around wherever you want. You are also free to take your spouse and kids with you and bring your belongings as well.

However, things might be so tough when you are just getting started with RV travel. There is so much information that you will need to make good decisions that will make your RVing experience memorable. If you are a starter, then you are in the right place. We are here to offer you the best tips that will prepare you to hit the road and enjoy your RV camping. Read on to discover some of the top RV camping tips for beginners.

Renting vs. Buying

We can’t deny the fact that there are lots of different types of RVs out there and choosing the best can be a daunting task to accomplish. You also have to decide whether you want to buy or rent your RV. For beginners, this isn’t an easy decision to make with advantages and drawbacks for both of them. However, the moment you settle down and consider a few factors, it becomes easy to make a final decision.

If you are a starter, the best option is to rent until you decide the type of RV that suits your unique needs. Consider taking major road trips with different types of RVs and evaluate them critically to determine the best type that can satisfy your long-term camping goals and suit your style. Once you have taken several road trips and established what works for you, consider purchasing your own RV since it will save you a lot of money in the long run.

Take Time to Know Your RV

With little road experience, it is critical for RV beginners to take some time to learn how the motorhome works even if you are renting it. If something breaks unexpectedly, you should be in a good position to fix the mess and go on with your traveling and camping. This will save you a lot of money and time that you would have spent calling the mechanic.

Furthermore, when you get t know your RV well, you are less likely to make costly operational errors. For instance, if you don’t understand how many amps your primary breaker can handle, there is a high possibility that you will blow it off. This is a costly error that can easily be avoided by taking some time to understand your motorhome.

Learn to Take Advantage of the Available Resources

Ask any experienced RVer out there, and he/she will tell you that the happiest RVers are those that have perfected the skill of managing their systems well. The prospect of your first time behind the RV wheel or your first time setting up a campsite and enjoying nature can be quite intimidating. However, going in with some advanced knowledge can easily turn the many firsts into successful events.

There is a plethora of blogs and videos that share the aspect of RV camping life are incredible sources of information that will guide you through your first steps of RV camping. There is a lot that you can learn which will help you to feel much comfortable and confident. Therefore, make sure that you watch the videos and read the blogs before you get started, and you will end up making a lot fewer mistakes as a newbie.

Remember to Take a Practice RV Drive

Although driving a big vehicle for the first time might be intimidating, you need to do everything possible to get comfortable as a driver or a passenger. The best way to get rid of that fear before your camping day is by taking a practice RV drive. Keep in mind that you might appear ‘taller” and “wider” when driving an RV but that shouldn’t bother you so much. Practice driving in wide and open spaces and watch for bridges, height clearances at underpasses, low-hanging tree branches and anything else that might block your way.

You should also consider taking some driving courses that will help you drive your recreational vehicle like a pro when you finally hit the road. As mentioned earlier, you should also take some time to know your RV and understand basic things about it. It will be awkward when you realize that it’s too dark inside and you don’t know where the light switch is located. You should also remember to secure all your personal belongings so that they don’t shift while you are driving.

Bring Along All the Essential Tools and Spare Parts

Take care not to turn your RV into a moving auto parts store but don’t forget to bring along some essential tools and spare parts that will come in handy when your vehicle breaks down unexpectedly.In most cases, the RVers are getting away from the busy city life and setting camps in quieter places. However, it is good to note that the further you get away from the city services, the more self-reliant you need to be.

It’s a balance, and you need to remember the fact that each trip will always have its unique challenges, so it is critical to plan wisely before you hit the road. Some of the basic RV tools that you shouldn’t miss to pack include; the digital tire gauges, heavy gauge jumper cables, and the T-handle style lug wrenches.

We all love our recreational vehicles, the fun and memories they provide us during the warm summer camping season, but what should you do with that RV during the winter? I suppose if you are a member of the “rich and famous club” you can rent some type of building, workshop, shed or other large enclosed space to store your baby for the winter, but if you are like the rest of us you will probably have to just get by with what you have, which usually means storing the RV outside of your home or at some type of rental storage facility. And while this might sound like a tragedy waiting to happen, there are actually some things you can do right now to ensure that your RV stays in tip-top shape during the cold winter months—and ready to once again serve you when the summer rolls around.

In this article we have provided a brief guide for storing your RV outside during the winter, with tips and tricks that have proven very successful for others just like.

Winter Storage Tips for Your RV

If you are forced to store your RV outside for the winter months, either at your home or at some type of rented storage yard, there are several strategies you can employ to ensure your recreational vehicle survives the bitter cold, rain and snow that is often associated with this season. Here we have listed just a few of these strategies:

Wash and Wax Your RV

When it’s time to put your RV out of commission for the winter, the first thing you should do is give it a good wash and a wax job. This may sound like an odd time to do this, but a coating of high-quality wax will actually help protect the paint of the RV from sun damage, and will also keep the dirt buildup to a minimum. Waxing your car for storage will also make it much easier to clean when it comes time to take it out of storage.

Check and Clean All Seals

With your car nice and clean, it will be much easier to inspect and clean all of your silicone seams, caulking and rubber seals. These seals and seams are located throughout the RV, both inside and outside, so be very thorough with your inspection. Dirty seals and seams can be cleaned with water and a mild detergent to keep them in proper working order. However, if you have any seams or seals that are cracked or in disrepair, NOW is the time to get them fixed, and failing to do so can ultimately cost you a ton of money. According to experts, water damage is the number one problem people face during winter storage, and once the damage has been done it can cost thousands of dollars to remedy.

Keep Your RV Ventilated

When moisture finds its way into the interior of an RV the end result can be a musty smell, mildew and dangerous mold, some of which is impossible to clean and get rid of. That being said, one of the best ways to keep moisture from accumulating in the interior of your vehicle is to allow for ventilation. Most recreational vehicles have rooftop vents, and leaving these vents open during the winter can prevent the buildup of moisture. But how do you go about preventing rain and other forms of moisture from entering the vehicle through these vents? The answer is specialized vent covers.

Vent covers are specially designed to allow lots of air flow while also preventing rain and snow from getting inside the vehicle. With air vents, you can equalize the temperature both outside and inside the vehicle, which prevents condensation and other forms of moisture.

Other ways to vent your RV when in storage is to leave the cabinet doors open, slide open closets, and even prop open the refrigerator door.

Let There Be Light

Mildew and mold spores can proliferate in dark, damp and dank spaces. To combat this, you will want to allow at least some sunlight to come into the RV when it is in storage. While it may “feel” more secure to pull down all the nighttime or blackout shades when your RV is outside in the winter, studies have shown that the darkness inside can actually lead to mold. Instead, just use the simple daylight curtains (to hide the contents within) and leave the windshield uncovered to allow for lots of light.

Secure Slide Outs and Treat Seals

This is perhaps a no brainer, but when storing your RV in the winter you will want to pull in all of the slide outs and securely fasten them. This way, the mechanical parts that help retract and extend these slide outs will not be exposed to the winter elements and there are fewer chances of leaks. Before you pull in the slide outs for the winter, take some time to clean and inspect all the seals. You can even apply some seal conditioner on the seals to keep them flexible all winter, and some anti-corrosion protectant on the slide rail. Some RV owners will also rub baby powder on the inner seals before closing the slide outs, which will help keep the parts dry and make the slide outs easier to open up when the storage period is over.

Screen Potential Entry Points to Keep Insects and Rodents Out

There are many potential entry points on an RV where bugs and rodents can set up shop for the winter. Some of these bugs, depending on the part of the country in which you reside, can cause some major havoc to recreational vehicles once inside the rig. To prevent this, we suggest you thoroughly inspect your RV and screen off any exterior spots that may allow bug and critter entry. Popular places include rooftop plumbing vents, exterior fridge panels, air intake piping and furnace exhaust openings.

Also, make sure you clean the interior of your RV thoroughly, and remove any traces of food from the vehicle. The last thing you want is for a family of mice or rats to move into your prized vehicle during the winter, doing untold harm to your electrical wiring and leaving little “presents” throughout your cabinets and drawers.

Shut Down All Electrical Power

If you want to be sure your RV starts when you come back to retrieve it after a long cold winter, there are a couple of things you can do. None of these tactics are completely foolproof, but they will reduce the chances of a drained RV battery. First, make sure to cut all electrical power by turning off your battery disconnect switch, which is usually located very near the battery. This will ensure zero drain on the battery bank while in storage. You should also charge your battery before storing the RV, as a fully charged battery has less chance of freezing up than one that is very weakly charged.

Taking Care of Plumbing and Tanks

In terms of plumbing, the steps you will want to take will actually depend on temperature—whether or not there is a chance of freezing. In warm temperatures, you can usually get away with just flushing the waste tanks real well before going into storage, and then filling them back up about one-quarter to one-half tank to prevent drying out. For the fresh water tanks, try filling them up all the way, adding about a half cup of bleach and running them into all the pipes as a way to disinfect your system while it’s in storage.

If there is a chance of freezing, we recommend removing all water from your tanks, including the water heater tank. You can then put antifreeze into the piping, valves, drain traps and a little in each water tank to prevent the pipes from freezing. If you plan to store your RV in severely cold temperature, we recommend you check with the manufacturer about the proper way to winterize your car.

Securing Your RV

To protect against theft, we first recommend you store your RV in a reputable RV storage lot with plenty of their own security measures. If you are storing your vehicle at home—or away from home—you can put a hitch lock on the king pin to prevent anyone from hooking up to your RV while you are away. You can also lock the wheels using a wheel lock; and be sure to ask a trusted neighbor to watch your RV if you plan to be away on vacation.

Protecting the Tires

To keep your tires looking great and prevent having them blowout or deflate while in storage, there are several things you can do to reduce that chance. Try to park it in a cool, dry area, and remove as much unnecessary weight as possible from inside of the vehicle. Fill the tires to the recommended PSI—and then add an extra 25 percent, making sure you do not surpass the manufacturer’s rim capacity. Clean the tires with soap to remove any excess dirt and oil; and move the RV to a different spot every three months to prevent cracking and flat-spotting from the cold, dry weather.

Renting an RV offers an unparalleled mode of travel and the opportunity for adventure. With the freedom of the road, you can have an unforgettable road trip while taking your home away from home right along with you.

However, if you’ve never rented an RV before, there’s a lot to think about. And that can be a little intimidating. But don’t let that stop your trip before it begins. With this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about renting an RV.

Plan the Trip

Before you even think about the RV, focus on the trip you want to take. Where do you plan to go? How long will the trip be? Who’s coming along?

All of these factors will influence every decision you make. The number, age, and interests of people traveling will influence the stops you make, your activities, and the size of RV you rent.

Budget for Your Trip

As you research your RV, you should have a budget in mind for the trip. Start with the cost involved for renting the vehicle. Then there’s a lot more to think about.

• Gas: Gas, alone, is a big cost. And RVs use a lot of it. Not to mention the fact that they get terrible gas mileage. So begin estimating how much you’re going to have to spend on gas.
• Campground Fees: The place you park your RV will come with a cost. These campgrounds and RV parks offer water and dumping station access. Plan ahead for the fees involved so you won’t have any surprises.
• It’s also worth a little effort to check with your local library for passes to State and National Parks. Sometimes you can check these out as you would a library book. This can help guide your trip and provide you with a camping spot without worrying about a fee. Plus, you get to enjoy some amazing attractions for free.
• Food: Depending on the duration of your trip, you may need to stop for groceries along the way. Plus, you’ll want to be prepared for those can’t miss restaurants. Budgeting for food will help you get your fill without stressing your wallet.
• Activities: Of course, no trip is complete without those fun outings. Whether you plan them in advance or they come spur of the moment, you need to factor in the cost of activities in your budget.

Research RV Parks and Campgrounds

You have a variety of choices when staying at an RV park or campground. The number of offerings vary. Kamgrounds of America (KOA) and ReserveAmerica have a dump station, full hookups, and on-site staff. Some state parks have these, as well as playgrounds and other attractions. They’re also less expensive than privately-owned RV communities.

The best thing to do is plan ahead to find a park or campground that provides the kind of RV experience you’re looking for.

Research Your RV Options

Committing to renting an RV is a big deal. The choice you make can significantly impact your trip, making it the best ever or memorable for all the wrong reasons. That’s why it’s a good idea to find one or more retailers near you and research their inventory in person.

By conducting on-site research, you get a feel for model sizes, amenities, and gas mileage. The dealership staff can answer questions you have and provide you with a wealth of information. And most likely, they’re RV enthusiasts who can give you the benefits of their own experiences.

Once you’ve gotten an in-person crash course in RV availability, you can supplement your research by going online. That way, you can delve deeper and begin to narrow down what’s a good fit for your group and your trip.

RV Types (Your Options)

• Class A: Ranging up to 45 feet long, Class A RVs are the largest models. They look and drive like buses. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to take a test drive to make sure you can safely handle this type of RV on the road. They often come with slide-outs that can open for additional space when parked.
• Class C: Class C RVs normally range 25-30 feet long. However, diesel models can be up to 45 feet. They rest on truck chassis and contain beds that jut out over the driver’s seat. These models are the easiest RV to drive and the most common available for rent.
• Class B: Class B RVs are vans converted into RVs, or camper vans. With a maximum length of 25 feet, these compact RVs are ideal for one or two people. It’s not very common for them to be self-contained with a bed, kitchen, and bathroom. So you may have to use your campground’s bathroom and shower facilities.
• Travel Trailers: With travel trailers, you need a truck to tow them. The advantage of these RVs is that since there’s no driving area, you get more space inside. Plus, you can select from any number of lengths ranging from 9-43 feet. The downside is that since they’re pulled behind a vehicle with a tow hitch, towing these RVs isn’t an easy task.
• Fifth Wheels: Just like travel trailers, you can tow fifth wheels. But these are easier to tow because they attached over the axle and into your truck bed. This makes for a sturdier drive. Their lengths range from 25-40 feet.

The Rental Procedure

Once you’re ready to rent the RV that works for you, there’s a procedure.

• Regardless of what service you use, the inventory that’s available will vary, depending on the dates of your trip. So look when you’re choosing from the inventory and find your travel dates first. Then select your RV.
• If your travel dates are flexible, look for those with discounts. Sometimes you get reduced rates for one-way rentals, relocations, longer, or off-season rentals.
• Check for restrictions, such as how many miles you can drive per day and how long the generator can run. Exceeding these limits will cost you extra.
• Check for how many people are allowed to fit in the RV.
• Check for what you’re responsible for before returning the RV, such as dumping the holding tanks.
• The service you choose will most likely allow you to reserve the RV online.
• Expect to pay a security deposit. Getting it back when you return the RV is determined by the rental terms.
• Be mindful of additional fees. RV rental services often offer additional amenities. But you have to pay for them. That includes, propane, generators, linens, kitchenware. That may sound like quite an add-on, but it’s often less expensive than those provided at campgrounds and RV parks.
• Understand that you need insurance with the RV. While rental services generally provide liability insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance, you should also have auto insurance. A temporary binder may be available from your insurance carrier. If not, your RV rental service can sell the needed coverage to you.
• If you’ve ever rented a car or moving van, you’re already familiar with what to expect from renting an RV. When you arrive to pick it up, the service associate walks you through the vehicle, checking for damage and showing you how to use the systems. After signing paperwork and receiving the keys, you’re on your way. When you return the RV, the service associate will inspect the vehicle again to check for damage and overages.

Prepare to Use RV Hookups

Before you head out on the road, make sure you’re comfortable using the RV Hookups. Study the instruction manual that’s included in your RV rental. Also make sure the service associate walks you through the procedure of hooking up to water, sewer, and electricity. If you still need help when you get to your campsite, ask your fellow RVers or the staff. Being uncertain about what you’re doing could damage the RV electrical system or cause water and sewer issues.

Keep in mind that dumping your RV wastewater will be the least fun part of your trip. And it’s a dirty job. You might want to consider paying extra for dump services if your RV park or rental company offers it. You might also prefer using public restrooms and showers available at your campground or RV park and foregoing the water and sewer hookups, altogether. This could save you the possibility of making a hookup error and free up some of your trip budget for other things.

With some research and planning, you’ll find that renting an RV is one of the best ways to have a memorable vacation, enjoy the countryside, and take in local flavor – all while enjoying the freedom of the road.

An RV is often used for permanent living, travel, vacations  and for camping activities. Many people use RV’s to travel to destinations with extremely varied and fluctuating temperatures such as mountains, deserts and the beach. During the summer when it is extremely hot or when traveling to very warm locations, keeping your RV windows open and using fans only results in the circulation of stifling hot air. Open windows can also allow insects to enter the RV and is a security risk especially in isolated rural areas.

For these and many other reasons it is important to understand the benefits of an AC system for your RV and to be aware of what to look for when selecting the AC system best suited for the size of your RV. These parameters include: Ensuring an adequate BTU cooling capacity, determining if a ducted or non-ducted air conditioning system is best for you, finding the most aerodynamic design of Rooftop RV Air Conditioner, looking for a top electrical rating, making sure the roof opening is adequate for your new Rooftop AC unit and finding a unit with the best warranty and spare parts availability to protect this important asset.

If you’re in a hurry, then you can check out our list of the top rooftop RV air conditioners on the market right now. Or, read our guide that covers what you need to know before shopping for one of these units. We also have some product reviews of our editor’s favorite models RV ACs at the end of this article.

Best Rooftop RV Air Conditioners for the Money (2018)

Last update on 2018-12-16 at 18:09 / Affiliate disclosure / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Benefits of an AC Unit for Your RV

• An AC unit for your RV like an AC unit for your home is essential for your comfort and health especially when driving to or visiting hot places.
•  If the RV’s AC unit does not cool quickly or suddenly turns off, the temperature in your RV can rise quickly just like it would in a smaller vehicle.
• This can seriously affect you, your entire family and even your pets.
• The major difference between a home and RV AC system is that the RV system must cool the entire RV space instead of just large individual rooms.
• This requires extra cooling power.
• Since an RV is also usually constructed of a metal shell it tends to retain a significant amount of heat which makes it more difficult to cool.
• Lack of shade and driving on hot asphalt adds to the need for a powerful and efficient RV AC unit.

What to Look for & Consider

#1 – Make Sure the AC Unit has an Adequate BTU Level

• To cool a large RV it usually requires an AC unit with a capacity of at least 15,000 to 18,000 BTU’s per hour.
• BTU stands for British Thermal Units which indicates cooling efficiency or how well an air conditioner can cool a space.
•  Anything greater than 13,500 BTU’s is usually the minimal level for adequate cooling of a small RV in hot destinations.

#2 – Choose Either a Ducted or Non-Ducted Rooftop RV AC System

• A non-ducted Rooftop AC unit for a RV blows cold air down directly down from the bottom of the AC ceiling unit.
• A ducted Rooftop AC unit for a RV is very similar to a ducted unit in your home.
• Typically there are 2 ducts used each having individual thermostats for each area or ac “zone” of the RV.
• This individualizes the level of AC usage in each AC zone but can result in areas where cold and hot air mix decreasing overall cooling levels.

#3 – Aerodynamics – Find the Best Size and Shape of a Rooftop AC Unit for Your RV

• Ideally a Rooftop RV AC unit should be sleek and with a low profile with minimal air resistance and reduced wind drag.
• Low wind drag and reduced air resistance helps maintain speed and velocity and helps overall fuel economy.

#4 – Look for a Top Electrical Rating

• Electrical rating refers to the voltage at which an electrical appliance is designed to work and how much energy (amps) will be consumed at that voltage.
• This is important because usually a RV only has approximately 30 amps total of power available to use for everything.
• If the AC unit is pulling off more then half of the RV’s available power (for example 19 amps), then it leaves much less energy to operate the converter and other electrical appliances such as the hot water heater and microwave over and other electrical appliances.
• An electrical rating of 1 phase 60 hertz 120 volts is usually considered ideal for a Rooftop RV AC unit.

#5 – Determine the Roof Opening Fit

• Standard Roof Opening Fit to accommodate a Rooftop RV AC unit is usually 14 by 14 inches.

#6 – Use the Best Refrigerant Possible for Your AC Unit

• Optimum refrigerants which will cool air down quickly include the R410A refrigerant.

#7 – Determine the Colors that are Available

• Most RV Rooftop AC units come in either black or white colors with black and white shrouds.

#8 – Get the Best Type of Warranty

• The standard manufacturer’s warranty is for 2 years. Extended warranties are usually recommended.

#9 – Make Sure Spare Parts are Available

• It is important to make sure that spare parts for your Rooftop RV AC unit are readily available

Types of RV Air Conditioners

There are 4 basic types of RV Air Conditioners. These include: Rooftop AC units, Vent Free Portable AC units, Portable AC units and Window AC units.

Rooftop AC RV units

• Rooftop AC RV Units save space and are strategically placed in an appropriate spot on the roof of the RV.
• They can either be ducted or non-ducted but ducted versions tend to consume 30% of total efficiency.
• Non-ducted Rooftop AC units blow air down from the ceiling unit.
• Rooftop RV Air Conditioners are cooled by the external air and so are affected by the external ambient temperature and weather.
• Many Rooftop AC RV units can weigh more than one hundred pounds and require at least 2 experienced people for installation.
• These types of AC units also require connection of wires and installation of vents for vented units.

Rooftop AC RV units with a Heat Pump

• Rooftop AC RV units with a Heat Pump are useful for heating and cooling year around. A heat pump can be combined with your Rooftop AC RV unit.
• A heat pump that is part of a central air conditioning and heating system works by moving heat instead of creating heat and so is a more energy efficient HVAC system.
• For example, in the winter when it is cold outside, a heat pump extracts the heat (available heat is always present in cold air) from the outside cold air and transfers it inside to heat the vehicle interior.
• When it is hot outside, a heat pump moves hot air from inside to the outside cooling like an air conditioner would.

Vent Free Portable AC Units

• A Vent Free Portable AC Unit which is also called a “swamp cooler” is a small unit which does not use the refrigeration process for cooling.
• Air within the RV is brought into the AC unit where it is evaporated and then cooled and released to cool the entire RV.
• One drawback of this type of cooling unit is that it takes up precious useable floor space within the RV.
• Another problem is that a Vent Free Portable AC Unit requires use of a hose to eliminate leakage of water that is drawn in from the air.
• A Vent Free Portable AC Unit for an RV can only be used in dry climates and does not function efficiently in humid climates.

Portable AC Units

• Portable AC units can also be used to cool an RV.
• They usually require the use of 1 to 2 hoses and are the least expensive option for AC cooling of an RV.
•  These hoses can allow hot air to seep back into the RV’s interior and take up a significant amount of floor space.
• A drawback is that they are not particularly energy efficient and tend to be somewhat noisy.

Window AC Units for a RV

• A Window AC Unit for an RV is usually small and takes up less floor space than other types of air conditioning units.
• These types of units are relatively quick and easy to install and can be as narrow as 14 inches wide.
• In addition, Window AC Units for an RV tend to be less noisy than portable AC units.

Can You Install it Yourself?

• If you are handy and have basic tool skills and wiring experience and have a friend who can help you, there should be no problem installing your new RV Rooftop AC Unit yourself.
• No special tools are necessary and the entire procedure should not take very long.
• The first step is to protect the area on the roof around the installation site with thick cloths to avoid denting or scratching the roof’s surface especially if it has a smooth finish.
• Then make sure the roof can support your weight and reinforce the roof with plywood if needed.
• Now remove the external AC unit shroud (covering) which is usually done by removing 4 bolts or screws.
• Then, remove the old AC unit from the rooftop by first removing four long bolts that are holding the AC unit to the roof.
• Now, remove the old AC unit and lift it off from the roof of your RV.
• Then, place the new AC unit over the 14 by 14 inch opening square ceiling hole and follow instructions to ensure the unit is properly placed.
• Now install any ducts as applicable and attach all AC electrical connections.
• Finally, put the cover over the control unit and attach the shroud over the air conditioning unit as directed.

Care and Maintenance Tips

• Proper care and maintenance of your Rooftop RV AC unit is crucial for proper functioning and longevity.
• First, take a ladder and go up onto the roof of your RV and examine the cover of your AC unit.
• Check for any cracks or breaks in the plastic AC unit cover.
• Determine if any water has entered the unit and if the gaskets are intact.
• Make sure that the cooling fins are straight and not bent.
• Also, examine the plastic shroud covering the AC unit on the inside ceiling for any defects and wash the filters per instructions.
• Be sure to also clean out the duct work as applicable.
• Finally, run the AC unit to make sure it is running effectively.

Product Comparisons – Our Top Rooftop RV Air Conditioner Reviews

#1 – Dometic B 595 16.xx 1 CO Brisk II Air Conditioner 15,000 BTU 410A

• Unit color – White
• Shroud Color – Black or white
• BTU’s – 15,000 BTU
• Ducted or Non-Ducted –  Both Ducted and Non-Ducted
• Motor and Fan – High performance motor and fan
• Electrical Rating – 115 AC, 60 Hz. 1 Phase
• Installation – Easy installation and fits into all 14- inch roof vent openings
• Maintenance – Easy maintenance
• Warranty – Manufacturer’s 2- year warranty on parts with 2- year Protection Plus Warranty available
• Weight – 74 pounds
• Product Dimensions – 29.2 inches x 27.2 inches x 12.7 inches
• Folding – No Folding

Summary of Pros and Cons

• Pros – The Dometic B 595 16.xx 1 CO Brisk II Polar Air Conditioner is a strong, reliable unit that is easy to install. It is 19% lighter than similar models with an increased air flow of 15% over older models. It is one of the smallest rooftop a/c units available and fits a standard 14 x 14 air vent. It has center discharge air delivery which increases airflow and improves the unit’s cooling capacity. It has a heavy – duty motor and a more rigid shroud then previously along with a strong and stable rib reinforced base pan. It operates on a 15,000 BTU/hour capacity.
• Cons – This unit was judged to be relatively expensive with somewhat poor packaging protection.

#2 – Coleman 48204C866 Mach 15+ A/C Unit

• Unit color – White
• Shroud Color – Black or white
• BTU’s – 15,000 BTU
• Ducted or Non-Ducted –  Ducted
• Motor and Fan – High performance motor and fan
• Electrical Rating – 120 volts, 1800 watts
• Installation – Easy installation
• Maintenance – Easy maintenance
• Warranty – Manufacturer’s 2- year warranty on parts
• Weight – 90 pounds
• Product Dimensions – 42 inches x 28 inches x 16 inches
• Folding – No Folding

Summary of Pros and Cons

• Pros – The Coleman 48204C866 Mach 15+ A/C unit has a strong, heavy duty motor with a one third horsepower fan. This is the largest motor used for RV’s. it has a high cooling output and provides cool air at 320 cubic feet per meter (CFM). It has a streamlined shape and is durable and sturdy. It contains all copper tubing and gas-fluxed brazed joints. It has a large evaporator that dissipates heat efficiently in conjunction with  condenser coils with raised lanced fins. It also has built in condenser coil protection.
• Cons – The most common complaint about the Coleman 48204C86 a/c unit was that it only blows cold air in a single, straight down direction and has no up and down adjustment available.

#3 – Coleman 48205C966 Mach 3+ AC Unit

• Unit Color – White
• Shroud Color – Black or White
• Ducted or Non-Ducted – Both Ducted and Non-Ducted units are available
• Motor and Fan – Heavy duty 1/3 horse power fan motor
• Electrical Rating  120 volts
• Installation – Easy installation
• Maintenance – Easy maintenance
• Warranty – 2 Year warranty on parts
• Weight – 90 pounds
• Product Dimensions – 41.2 inches x 28.5 inches x 15.8 inches
• Folding – No Folding

Summary of Pros and Cons

• Pros – The Coleman 48208C966 Mach 3+ RV Air Conditioner Unit has a 13,500 BTU capacity but uses less power and provides more cooling then a typical 13,500 BTU unit. It is extremely reliable and has all-copper tubing and gas-flexed brazed joints. This unit has a one third horse power fan motor which starts easily. It also has a plastic drain pan that prevents and eliminates corrosion. This unit has better heat dissipation due to a large evaporator and condenser coils. It is structured to prevent angle distortion of the blower heel and has a sealed shaft to prevent harmful effects from the elements.
• Cons – The only reported complaints for this unit was that it tended to be relatively noisy.

#4 – Dometic 640315C Penguin II 410 Amp Low profile Rooftop Air Conditioner

• Unit Color – White
• Shroud Color – Black or White
• Ducted or Non-Ducted – Both Ducted and Non-Ducted units are available
• Motor and Fan – Heavy duty fan motor
• Refrigerant – R410A refrigerant which releases heat more efficiently
• Electrical Rating  120 volts AC. 60 Hz, 1 PH, 410 Amps, 3000 Watts
• Installation – Easy installation
• Maintenance – Easy maintenance
• Warranty – 2 Year warranty on parts
• Weight – 99 pounds
• Exterior – Smooth
• Product Dimensions – 29 inches x 40 inches x 9.5inches Tits standard 14 X 14-inch roof opening
• Folding – No Folding

Summary of Pros and Cons

• Pros – The Dometic 640315CXXIJO  Penguin II 410 Amp Low Profile Rooftop Air Conditioner is ideal for either ducted or non-ducted AC systems. It has a very low profile and a streamlined design which decrease air resistance and drag. It has a high-quality fan and uses environmentally acceptable R410A refrigerant. It is light weight but sturdy and durable.
• Cons – This unit tends to produce various sounds during operation which can be annoying.

Conclusion

One of the most important decisions to ensure comfort and safety in your RV travels is to select a RV Rooftop Air Conditioner Unit that is energy, cost and space efficient. By placing the AC unit on the roof in an aerodynamic manner, air resistance and drag is decreased while precious space within the RV is freed up to provide increased room for normal activities. Vented Rooftop RV AC units can circulate cool air directly into vents eliminating the need for a ceiling control panel that decreases headroom. Adequate BTU levels of from 15,000 to 18,000 BTUs per hour are usually necessary for effective cooling of large RV’s. By carefully considering the foregoing information you can purchase the very best Rooftop RV AC unit with the best value and warranty that will provide years of reliable cooling function to ensure RV travelling comfort in all types of conditions for you and your family.

You love the freedom of hitting the open road with your house on wheels. RVing is a great way to travel. But just because you want to get away doesn’t mean you want to be completely off the grid. After all, we’re in the Internet age, which means that staying connected, even in your RV, has become a basic need.

Regardless of whether you enjoy weekend outings, taking advantage of summer vacation, or spending all or most of your time RVing, staying online is important. After all, staying apprised of the weather, binging your favorite shows, and staying in touch by email can mean a lot. And you can’t forget to upload those fun pictures and videos from your trip.

Fortunately, you can stay connected in an RV. You just have to give it a little thought. Consider how important being connect is for you. If you work while traveling and using the Internet is part of that, of course connectivity is a priority. Even then, think about whether you have a flexible work schedule or need to be connected during a certain time of the day. That will influence when and how you connect.

If you’re traveling with your family, you may want to be strategic with your connectivity. Sure, letting the kids use their devices keeps them occupied on the road. But going off grid lets them get the full experience of the trip.

If you’re retired and road-tripping, you may only want to connect occasionally to check email or post trip pictures online. So staying connected 24/7 isn’t a big deal to you.

By thinking about when and how often you need Internet, you can better research your choices. Those choices include cellular data, WiFi, and satellite.

Cellular Data

An easy way to stay connected no matter where you go is with cellular data. It also comes with several advantages:

• Because you need a password, it’s much more secure than public WiFi.
• The speed is faster than a cable modem.
• It’s reliable, enabling you to connect to the Internet wherever you can get a carrier signal.
• It’s mobile. Cellular data doesn’t need wires or electrical hookups to operate.

There are a variety of carriers out there offering cellular data. Just make sure you choose one that you know will be accessible where you travel.

Also, keep in mind how much data you’ll need and purchase accordingly. Will you be just using your cell phone or will you need your other devices? Will you be using your cell phone as a hot spot for your other devices? The cost of data plans varies by company. So do your research to make sure you get what works best for you.

WiFi

Although you can’t use WiFi while driving down the road, it is readily available in many places. It’s also free, which is about as easy on your budget as you can get.

Most libraries and coffee shops have free public WiFi. So do many fast-food restaurants, such as McDonald’s. But other than libraries, it’s common courtesy to make a purchase when taking advantage of this service.

The problem with free public WiFi is that the networks can easily overload. That means your connectivity can be spotty and you can easily get disconnected again and again.

These days, many RV parks and campground offer WiFi access, too. Some are free, others charge an extra fee. But this isn’t always worth it because the metal construction of RVs causes them to block WiFi signals. So you could pay for a service you pretty much can’t get. On the other hand, you can always sit outside the vehicle and hope for access. Then again, you could find yourself faced with the same problem as those you might have in those coffee shops and eateries. So it might be best to forego WiFi altogether and bank on cellular data.

Satellite

Satellite Internet comes from a signal beamed from space to a satellite dish that’s mounted on your RV roof or on a tripod. It then sends that signal to a modem in your RV. They measure 3 feet tall when in use and up to 5 feet when flattened and stored. This option is widely available, reliable, and lets you connect anywhere. As mentioned, you have two choices for mounting the dish:

• Roof-Mounted: Just like at home, a roof-mounted RV satellite attaches to the RV roof. It’s easy to use, too. To operate the satellite and enable the dish to rotate to find a signal in less than 10 minutes, you just click a button. Since an RV satellite dish is permanently mounted to your vehicle’s roof, it doesn’t use storage space in the RV.

A disadvantage of this option is that installation and set-up costs up to four times more than a tripod-mounted dish. So this option would be ill-suited if you don’t plan to go RVing often.

If you do decide this option is for you, you only have a few companies to choose from. They include Winegard, AVL Technologies, and C-Com. As part of your research, contact a company that specializes in this technology, such as Mobile Satellite Technologies, which has trained technicians who can help you find the right fit for your needs.

• Tripod-Mounted: A tripod-mounted RV satellite attaches to a three-legged stand, which you can put anywhere near your RV. It’s a good option if you have a small RV or one with solar panels and can’t accommodate a rooftop satellite.

An advantage of a tripod-mounted satellite is that the equipment is significantly cheaper than mounted models. Plus, there’s no installation to pay for. Another is that you’ll always have Internet access, no matter how remote your location.

The downside is that the equipment takes up storage space in the RV when you’re traveling. Plus, you have to install it, which takes about 30 minutes, every time you set up camp.

You also need to be award that you need to be precise when aiming the satellite on a signal. But online tutorials can help you with this (Print them out beforehand.) If you’re familiar with a GPS system, though, it should be pretty easy.

Quite a few services provide tripod-mounted satellite Internet for RVs. The most notable include Directway and HughesNet, which offer equipment and monthly service plans.

Satellite is a great way to ensure you’re connected to the Internet, wherever you travel. If you have a larger RV and relocate more often, a mounted dish is worth considering. But If your vehicle is smaller and you stay in one spot, a tripod-mounted satellite could be your best option. Either way, both of these choices keep you connected.