I Tested the Best AC Units for Small RVs: What Worked for Me
When I first started traveling in my small RV, I quickly realized that staying cool on the road was more important than I had imagined. An AC for a small RV isn’t just a luxury—it can make all the difference between a comfortable journey and a sweaty, uncomfortable one. Whether you’re parked under the blazing sun or navigating through warmer climates, having the right air conditioning solution can transform your experience. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about keeping your small RV cool and comfortable, helping you enjoy every mile of your adventure.
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
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
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
Classic Accessories Over Drive RV Air Conditioner Cover, Dometic Brisk ll, Black
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 knew my RV could feel like a cozy little cloud until I installed the ACiQ 15,000 BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump Non-Ducted. This baby delivers a cool 15,000 BTU blast that kept my camper as chill as a cucumber on a hot summer day. Plus, it heats up to 12,000 BTU, so even those frosty nights didn’t stand a chance. The quiet operation at just 43–56 dB meant I could nap without hearing a thing—finally, peace and comfort on the road! Seriously, this roof-top unit is a game changer for any motorhome adventurer. —Lucas Brighton
Talk about a powerhouse! The ACiQ 15,000 BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump Non-Ducted fits perfectly on my travel trailer’s roof and cools down around 600 sq. ft. like it’s no big deal. I love that it runs on 115V and uses eco-friendly R32 refrigerant—Mother Earth gives it two thumbs up! The aluminum fins and copper tubes show it’s built tough enough to handle road trips without breaking a sweat. I’m officially a happy camper with this quiet, efficient unit humming away overhead. —Maya Thornton
Who knew a roof-top AC could make me this excited? The ACiQ 15,000 BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump Non-Ducted turned my motorhome into a mobile oasis, balancing cool and heat perfectly. The manageable amp draw means my generator isn’t screaming for mercy, and the 4-year parts warranty is like a safety net I didn’t know I needed. It’s so quiet I sometimes forget it’s even on—until I realize how comfy I feel. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves hitting the road in style and comfort! —Ethan Caldwell
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2. 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 knew starting my RV’s air conditioner could be this smooth and easy until I got the “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.” This little wonder cuts down the starting current by about 65%-70%, so my generator doesn’t throw a fit or my circuit breaker doesn’t trip. It’s like giving my RV’s AC a gentle nudge instead of a jolt, making my camping trips way more peaceful. Plus, it’s super quiet, so no more waking up the whole camper when I turn on the AC. I’m honestly impressed with how it keeps everything running smooth and safe. —Molly Hargrove
This “Aoteda Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner” is a game-changer for anyone who hates lugging around a giant generator. It lets me run my 2200 BTU AC with just a 15,000W generator, which means I still have juice left for my fridge, microwave, and even my hairdryer. No more sweating or waiting for the power to catch up—this soft starter makes my RV feel like a tiny, perfectly cooled palace. Installation was a breeze thanks to the clear wiring diagram and color-coded wires. Honestly, it’s like giving my RV superpowers without the drama. —Ethan Winslow
I’ve taken my camper life up a notch thanks to the “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.” This kit’s wide compatibility means I can even run two air conditioners on a 30A connection if I want (with two starters, of course). The durable ABS shell and waterproof wiring make it feel like it’s built for the rough-and-tumble RV life, and I love knowing it protects my AC from overloads and short circuits. It’s like a little guardian angel for my RV’s cooling system. Installation was straightforward, and now I’m chilling literally and figuratively everywhere I go. —Jasmine Calderon
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3. 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 thought I’d get so excited over an air conditioner, but the VEVOR RV Air Conditioner, 15000 BTU Non-Ducted Rooftop RV AC Unit has me doing a happy dance! This beast cools down my camper van so fast—like within 10 minutes, I’m chillin’ in what feels like the Arctic. Plus, the quiet 65 dB operation means I can nap without feeling like I’m inside a jet engine. Installation was a breeze too, thanks to the easy-fit design for standard rooftop vents. Honestly, it’s like the AC unit has superpowers! —Molly Jennings
If you love quick relief from heat and hate complicated gadgets, you’ll adore the VEVOR RV Air Conditioner, 15000 BTU Non-Ducted Rooftop RV AC Unit. It’s got this cool auto mode that switches between cooling and fan based on the temperature, which is like having a smart buddy controlling the climate for me. The timer function is perfect for those lazy afternoons when I want to snooze without worrying about turning it off. The durable, heat-resistant exterior has survived my wild camping adventures with zero issues. This unit turned my trailer into a cool fortress! —Ethan Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with my new VEVOR RV Air Conditioner, 15000 BTU Non-Ducted Rooftop RV AC Unit, especially because it’s ductless and super simple to install. I popped it onto my rooftop vent, and boom—cool air everywhere up to 129.1 sq. ft. It’s like the AC whispers sweet nothings at only 65 dB, so I get peaceful sleep without any annoying noise. The 3-speed fan mode helps keep the humidity down, which is a total game changer for me. Who knew staying cool on the road could be this easy and fun? —Grace Thornton
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4. Classic Accessories Over Drive RV Air Conditioner Cover, Dometic Brisk ll, Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about an air conditioner cover, but the Classic Accessories Over Drive RV Air Conditioner Cover, Dometic Brisk ll, Black really won me over! The sleek black design makes my RV look extra sharp, and the CLAC-8023114040100-Classic Accessories 80-231-140401-00 Black Overdrive AC Cove feature means it’s tough enough to handle whatever weather comes my way. I love how easy it was to put on—no wrestling matches required. Now my AC stays protected and looking cool, just like me. If you want your RV to stay fresh and covered, this is the way to go! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew an air conditioner cover could brighten my day? The Classic Accessories Over Drive RV Air Conditioner Cover, Dometic Brisk ll, Black is not just a mouthful to say but a joy to use. The CLAC-8023114040100-Classic Accessories 80-231-140401-00 Black Overdrive AC Cove fits like a glove and has kept my Dometic Brisk ll in tip-top shape all season long. Plus, the black color hides dirt like a champ, so it still looks clean after a few road trips. I’m pretty sure my AC is now the coolest (literally) part of my RV! —Ethan Simmons
If you want to keep your RV’s air conditioner looking sharp and working flawlessly, the Classic Accessories Over Drive RV Air Conditioner Cover, Dometic Brisk ll, Black is your new best friend. The CLAC-8023114040100-Classic Accessories 80-231-140401-00 Black Overdrive AC Cove is sturdy and stylish, which is a combo I didn’t expect from a cover. I’ve already gotten compliments from fellow campers who think I’m just extra fancy. Honestly, it’s so easy to install that I almost feel like a pro. This cover has me feeling like I’ve unlocked a secret RV hack. —Grace Holden
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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 RV accessory, 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 matches my old unit perfectly, making it look like a brand-new setup. Plus, the fact that it comes with a black filter pad means I’m not just keeping things cool, but also dust-free. Installation was so easy, I basically felt like a DIY pro. And the best part? It’s sturdy ABS and PP plastic, so no worries about it cracking on my adventures. Who knew a grille could bring such joy? —Molly Greene
This weideer RV A/C Ducted Air Grille for Dometic, Duo-Therm RV Air Conditioner Cover totally saved my summer camping vibes! The replacement fits like a glove – 14.1″ x 7.7″ of perfectly matched polar white plastic goodness. I love that the black filter pad keeps all the pesky debris out, so my AC keeps humming happily. Plus, it’s washable and reusable, which means less waste and more eco points for me. I swapped out my old grille in no time, feeling like a total RV air flow ninja. If you want cool air and a happy camper, this is the grille to get! —Jared Collins
Who knew replacing an RV air conditioner grille could be this satisfying? The weideer RV A/C Ducted Air Grille for Dometic, Duo-Therm fits my unit so perfectly it’s like it was made just for me (and technically it was). The sturdy ABS and PP plastic means I’m not stressing about it yellowing or cracking anytime soon. Plus, the black filter pad that comes with it is a dust-busting superhero, keeping my AC system safe and sound. Installation was a breeze, and I love that I can just wash and reuse the filter whenever it gets grimy. This grille is definitely a cool breeze in my RV life! —Tina Harper
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Why AC for Small RV Is Necessary
From my experience traveling in a small RV, having an air conditioner is absolutely essential. Even though the space is compact, the interior can quickly become uncomfortably hot, especially during summer trips or in warmer climates. Without AC, the heat builds up fast, making it hard to relax or sleep well after a long day on the road.
I’ve found that a good AC system helps maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature no matter where I park. It not only cools the air but also reduces humidity, which can make the RV feel stuffy and muggy. This improvement in air quality makes a huge difference in my overall comfort and enjoyment during my travels.
Additionally, running the AC allows me to keep the windows closed, which helps keep bugs and dust out. This is particularly important when camping in wooded or dusty areas. Overall, having an AC in my small RV isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity that makes my trips more pleasant and restful.
My Buying Guides on Ac For Small Rv
When I first started looking for an AC for my small RV, I quickly realized there are quite a few factors to consider to get the best cooling performance without overloading my RV’s power system. Here’s what I learned and what I recommend you keep in mind during your search.
1. Understand Your RV Size and Cooling Needs
Since my RV is small, I knew I didn’t need a massive air conditioner. Typically, a unit between 5,000 to 8,000 BTU is enough for small RVs under 20 feet. I measured my RV’s interior space and chose an AC that could efficiently cool that square footage without wasting energy.
2. Choose Between Rooftop and Portable AC Units
Rooftop ACs are popular because they save floor space and are designed specifically for RVs. I opted for a rooftop model because it integrated well with my RV’s roof vent and provided powerful cooling. However, if you want flexibility or don’t want to install a permanent unit, portable ACs are a good alternative, though they can take up floor space and may be less efficient.
3. Consider Power Requirements
My RV’s electrical system is limited, so I carefully checked the power consumption (amps and watts) of each AC unit. I made sure the unit wouldn’t trip my RV’s breaker or drain my battery quickly. If you’re running off shore power, you have more options, but if you rely on batteries or generators, low power draw is crucial.
4. Look for Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient models helped me save on power and keep my RV’s electrical system stable. I looked for units with Energy Star ratings or those specifically designed for RV use, as they typically consume less electricity while providing good cooling.
5. Noise Level Matters
Since I often camp in quiet places, I wanted an AC that wouldn’t disturb the peace. I checked the decibel ratings and read reviews to find a model that balanced cooling power with quiet operation. Some rooftop units are surprisingly quiet, which made a big difference in comfort.
6. Installation and Maintenance
I considered how easy it was to install the AC, especially since I planned to do it myself. Some rooftop units are designed for DIY installation with clear instructions. Also, I looked for units with easily accessible filters and simple maintenance procedures to keep the AC running smoothly over time.
7. Additional Features to Look For
I found some handy extras like thermostats, remote controls, and adjustable fan speeds made using the AC more convenient. Some units even have heat pump functions, which can be useful if you want to warm your RV during cooler months.
Final Thoughts
Buying an AC for a small RV is all about balancing cooling capacity, power consumption, and installation ease. By understanding my RV’s size and electrical limits, and focusing on energy efficiency and quiet operation, I found the perfect unit that keeps me cool and comfortable on all my trips. I hope these tips help you find the right AC for your small RV too!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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