Is your recreational vehicle, house, or office making you feel like you are in a hot box? Worry no more; with the best portable AC unit for RV will everything will be fine in a short while.
Their construction focuses on availing favorable weather conditions and straightforward movements.
But before the review, let me highlight our top product. May the drum rolls for the Whynter ARC 14S air conditioner. It is a 4-in-1 device that can cover up to 350sq ft. Therefore, it will cool and dehumidify, fan, and heat the air for maximum comfort.
Nonetheless, this article contains the review and every other detail that you need to purchase the best portable AC, operate, install, and experience favorable climatic conditions.
01. Black+Decker Bpact08wt Portable Air Conditioner
Do you need an air conditioner whose operations are silent? This item from the black Decker stores maintains atranquil environment and gives you an experience like no other.
You find it hard to believe? Then checkout its most outstanding features.
- Quiet and powerful
Among many other things that leave meamazed about this ACare its silent operations and sturdy power.
Imagine, despite its small size, it can cool an area of 150 sqft. Even beyond that, it has an adjustable cooling setting to ensure that you choose the range that is best for you.
To top it off is its silent operations. Candidly, I am yet to see another item of its kind.
- Compact design
If you are looking for a powerful AC that will not occupy much space, this item might impress you.
It is a floor-standing AC with a compact design for RVs or small rooms. Besides being the best for RV, it is also recommendable for offices, bedrooms, living rooms, offices, or camping sites.
- Simple operations and installations
An item that takes ages to install, and worse after a complicated procedure, it's always a no go-fo. Unless you are willing to incur extra hiring an expert, why would you when there is a reliable item with a high functionality item with simple installations?
Get this, this fantastic air conditioner for RV has the most straightforward installations. You can consider that as a bonus in conjunction with its high functionality.
- 3-in-fuctionality
Have you ever heard the famous saying,"killing two birds with a single stone?"That is precisely what you will be doing by purchasing this item. It has three main functionality to ensure that you are in a comfy environment.
Thus besides cooling the surrounding, it will ventilate and dehumidify by switching to ventilation mode or dehumidifying mode, respectively.Pros
Cons
02. Black + Decker Bpact10wt Portable Air Conditioner
Our next item to review is still from this renowned brand. It is enhanced with a higher cooling power for more ample rooms.
But what is unique about it is the ability to adjust the cooling temperature such that you can set to a level that you feel relaxed.
3-in-1 functionality
Without extra expense, you will get the room cool and all the extra moisture out of the room. Consequently, reducing the growth of mold or the bacteria's that dwell in steamy conditions.
But still, there is something more about it;
Are you asthmatic? Does the dusty and dirty air affect you? This air conditioner has air ventilating capabilities to reduce the foreign materials in the air you breathe while in the RV or your house.
Powerful
Nevertheless, this item is for everyone who values excellence because its construction ensures that it performs excellently.
What do I mean?
This is it: it has a cooling capacity of 10000BTU with a motor rating of 1150WATTS. Honestly, with that high cooling capacity and the sturdy motor, what will be the hindrance to not cool, ventilate or dehumidify the room perfectly?
Silent operations
Lastly, this item will not only ensure a fantastic ride for the campers, but also you can opt for office use.
That is because, unlike other average-level air conditioners, it operates silently to keep the place cool.Pros
Cons
03. Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
Think about this for a moment, having an air conditioner that you can change the fan speed, control the thermostat, enjoy a 24-hour programmable timer, and even get the extra moisture out of the way.
That would be cool, right? And yes, all those functionalities are found in a single whynterAC.
But that is not all;there is a lot more about it.
Features
Before I get to the features, let me be open with you, I found it hard to choose which features to list and leave. It is no wonder that it was recently crowned as the winner of the "2020 Best Overall" good in housekeeping.
Either way, we have to get the ball rolling
Large cooling capacity
How this fantastic air conditioner manages to cool a room of up to 500sq.ft with its mini-size is still a shock to many.
Any way all credits to the manufacturer
Fantastic cooling capacity
Besides, cooling such a vast space, it is such a convenient and reliable item. It has an airflow capacity of 250 cubic feet per minute,making it get the RV or the room at the right temperature in a blink of an eye.
Compact design
After mentioning that this tool has such an extensive cooling capacity and airflow capacity, you are likely to confuse it for a large-sized AC.
But you know what; it is a small-sized air conditioner with a compact design. Very lightweight and occupies a minimal floor area.
Three fan speeds
As if all that is enough, you got the pleasure of setting your desirable fan speed with a simple touch.Pros
Cons
04. Serenelife 10,000 Portable Air Conditioner
Take the comfort of the recreational vehicle or your room to a whole new level using the serenelife multipurpose air conditioner.
I am not kidding! This is a tool that will not only cool but also heat and dehumidify your environment. And that is not all about it!
4-in-1 device
Yes, you read, right! It is the best portableA Cunit for RV with up to four functionalities, including cooling, heating, and fan.
To top it off, all those functionalities incorporation is of high expertise to deliver professional capabilities.
Simple installations
You will not take ages to get the AC functioning. Just hook it on a surface to install and unhook to remove it. So simple.
Lengthy exhaust hose
The functioning of its hose leaves most of its users at peace.
It is of perfect length to conveniently draw the warm air, pass it to the refrigerant and send the moisture plus the heated air out of the house.
Compact design
Additionally, its lightweight design makes it strain less to carry. The wheels rollers even enhance itif you are not ready to carry.
Still, its sleek body leaves it with an eye-appealing appearance and a small base area.
Control button
Its fantastic digital button will ensure fast-shifting between the functionalities. As a result, its operations do not require any expertise.Pros
Cons
05. LG LP0817WSR 8,000 BTU White Portable Air Conditioner
Additionally, LG AC incorporates expert crafting and the latest technology to give you the best experience.
I am not kidding! For instance, it has an auto- evaporation system that makes it bucket less. Consequently, without a bucket, it evaporates all the moisture generated while cooling the air.
Auto swing system
This fantastic feature ensures that not a single point with hot air is left.
How?
It ensures maximum air circulation for efficient cooling at every point.
LED screen
Operating this device is as simple and pretty looks asusing a smartphone. Why do I say that?
Check this: it has an extensive LED screen. Thus all its controls are by a simple touch.
Truthfully, even to navigate between the fan's speed, you will not have to deal with some cranky buttons; just select the speed displayed on the screen.
Simple installations and operations
Besides availing an LCD, the manufacturer greatly simplified the installation procedure and its operations.
Even better, they do not leave you to figure out all by yourself. They avail a detailed manual that gives concise and easy-to-understand installing and operating instructions.
Elegant body
Further, this item will not interfere with your décor; if anything, it will improve it.
Its body is very magnificent that makes it eye appealing
Powerful device
The cooling capacity of this product is 8, 000BTU making it very powerful.
Beyond that, it has a super-fast airflow; hence, the excess heating will be no more in a few seconds after powering it.Pros
Cons
06. Honeywell Mn12ces Portable Air Conditioner
Have you ever found yourself in an overheated place, maybe when camping, driving, or worse in your very house? If so, you can attest of the discomfort.
But why do you have to bear the displeasure when the cost of AC is quite affordable? Are you wondering if I am talking facts?
For information, check out the Honeywell AC; it offers high functionality and yet very affordable.
3-in-1 device
Despite it being very affordable, this exquisite air conditioner has more to offer.
Subsequently, it will not only cool the surroundings but as well as dehumidify and fan the place.
Needless to say, all three functionalities are optimized to give the best performance.
Safety and longevity assuring
In addition to ensuring you got a serene environment, the thermal overload protector also assures your security a step further.
To top it off?
Also, it has a dust filter to avoid clogging, which improves its performance and its lifetime.
Three fan speeds
The manufacturer does not limit you to a specific fan speed. You got the privilege to navigate between three fan speeds with very intuitive controls.
Continuous operation
The bucket design, common in most AC's is a significant hindrance if you need a continuous working fan.
But I got good news.
Above all odds, this machine has an auto-evaporation system, which makes it bucket less. It removes the moisture by all itself through evaporation. Thus, it is a long-hour working devicePros
Cons
07. Jhs 8,000 Btu Small Portable Air Conditioner
Finally, it is the JHS AC unit for every RV user. It is a perfect tool worth the money that has very high functionality.
Why do I recommend this item? Have a look at its features to get the reasons.
Two fan speeds
Did any of your past air conditioners fans feel too slow or fast? Here is a fantastic item that has two fans' speeds.
Hence you do not have to settle for the fixed fan speed but change it to what meets your satisfaction.
Multi-purpose
When I said that this item is worth the money, I wasn't in for any jokes.
This is the deal; it has up to 3 main functionalities,including cooling, dehumidifying, and fan.
Digital LED display
Still, the operations of this fantastic air conditioner are simplified like never before.
That is as a result of the digital LED display. Hence, you will operate it with a simple touch.
Portable
Frankly, handling this item feels like the manufacturer kept all the energy to have its movement as simple as possible. Why?
First is its lightweight, reducing the strains on your hands. But more considerably, it has four castors and a handle to take the mobility to a whole new level.Pros
Cons
What Should I Look For When Buying The Best Portable AC Unit For RV?
Are you in a dilemma of the best portable AC unit for RV to purchase? Relax! Here are full details on all the features that will help you get a high functionality air conditioner.
No more stories! Let get to the crux of the matter.
- Cooling capacity
Simply put, the cooling capacity of an AC is the measure of its ability to extract the excess heat in the air.
The cooling capacity is measured in British thermal unit, which is abbreviated as BTU per hour. Consequently, the higher the BTU, the more powerful is the AC.
Further, the cooling capacity limits the amount of space that the AC can cool. For instance, an AC with a cooling capacity of 12,000BTU is recommendable for a room of up to 550 sq. ft.
- Functionality
Most of the current air conditioners are multipurpose.
Some of their standard functionalities are cooling, dehumidifying, or fan functionality. Typically a 3-in-1 unit has cooling, fan, and dehumidifying functionality, while a 4-in-1 goes a step further to include the heating functionality.
What is my point?
This is it; you should identify your current problem, for instance, if it is excess moisture or high temperatures and specifically look for a unit that can offer that. Otherwise, it wouldn't be a shock if you purchase an item that does not meet your expectations.
- Size
Do you have a small or large space to set up the unit? You need to get that clear before setting your foot to purchase the air conditioner.
If you have a small space, then the unit should have a small base area to take less space.
Still, if you will be regularly changing its location, you need to check on its portability. A portable AC unit usually has a lightweight design.
- Mode of operation
With the current advancements, most of the air conditioners have a silent mode of operations. Nonetheless, you should confirm it for yourself.
But why is it necessary to check on the noise level of an air conditioner?
The big reason is that the noise may affect your activities, especially for indoor use. Will you be able to cope with the noisy AC while sleeping? But even before that, how will you concentrate in a loud house or even when riding in the RV?
If you are purchasing for outdoor use, you are likely to think that you got your way out?
But check this; most of the local authorities have noisy restrictions. Besides, while purchasing AC for RV, most camping sites have loud limits, mostly at night.
Without any doubt, a relatively silent air conditioner is highly recommendable.
The outdoor units have a noise range between 19db to 53db,while outdoor units have a noise rating ranging from 42db to 69db.
- Sleep mode
Ideally, an AC with a sleep mode is highly recommendable
Before that, what does 'sleep mode' refer to?
An air conditioner with sleep mode implies that it can regulate the airflow at night by automatically increasing the air temperature by up to 1 degree per hour, depending on its settings.
As a result, such an air conditioner ensures that you get comfy and maximum sleep. But that is not all.
To add on, an air conditioner operating in sleep mode consumes less power and energy, thus making it an energy-saving item.
- Fan speed
Before I jump right ahead, get this; the air conditioner fan is the main component that affects the room's cooling or heating.
Simply put, it is the heart of every air conditioner. Resultantly, failing to inquire more about it brings in many regrets
Let's get to the main deal now.
The fans have different speeds. Typically, there are low, medium, and auto speeds. The high speed is recommendable for a very humid and hot area. However, you should note that not every air conditioner will give all the three settings; some may have two or even one.What Is A Portable AC?
A portable AC is a small-sized conditioner which has a compact design for mobility. They are standardly designed to sit on the floor or have a temporal setup kit such that the installations and removal are so simple.
Portable AC's are commonly used in offices, bedrooms, living rooms, and vehicles. In simpler terms, their design is for situations where a central AC unit is not convenient.
How Does This Portable AC Work?
Basically, the portable AC cool the room by taking in the warm air and moisture and exhausting it through the window kit. Resultantly, it has to be vented outside to provide a place to deposit the hot air.
It has a refrigerant that moves in the tubes while absorbing the excess heat of the indoor air. After absorbing the heat, the refrigerant condenses to a liquid and travels to the outdoor unit.
While on the outdoor unit, the excess heat is removed from the refrigerant, and it changes its state again to gas and travels back to the inner unit.
Types Of Portable Air Conditioner Units For RV
There are several types of portable air conditioners. They include;
- Window air conditioner
This type of AC is a single unit air conditioner usually mounted on the walls or windows. Actually, it is known to be the simplest form of an air conditioner.
It has two fan motors, which are incorporated such that one is facing the evaporator side while the other one faces the condenser side. When installing it, the evaporator side should face the room while the condenser side faces the outdoor side.
It has a drain pan that contains the water from the cooling coil, which is later drained by the use of gravity.
- Vented-air conditioner
A vented AC is an air conditioner that uses ducts. Consequently, there have been many claims that usinga duct system leads to heat loss, which decreases the heating efficiency of the air conditioner.
The ductless air conditioners are gradually replacing this type of air conditioner.
- Vent-free air conditioner
Vent-free air conditioner, also known as ductless air conditioning, is remarkably versatile. Its construction makes it possible to install it almost everywhere for cooling purposes.
Because of the bare fact that it does not use ducts, its operations are relatively silent. Consequently, unlike other types of air conditioners, you do not have to bear noise pollution.
Besides, due to its ductless nature, it is considered to be energy efficient. As air flows through the ducts, it is prone to losing some heat, thus lowering its temperature, which results in power loss.
What is the catch? Using a vent free air conditioner guarantees an optimally working device.
- Split air conditioners
Addedly, there is a split air conditioner that has two central units. That is the compressor on the outside and an air outlet on the inside part.
They use a set of pipes that connect the outdoor to the inner unit. For cooling purposes, this type of air conditioners uses a refrigerant in the copper pipes to cool or generate heat
- Self-evaporative air conditioner
This type of air conditioner was invented to do away with the need toempty the bucket manually. Consequently, it has bucket-less design.
It uses a self-evaporative mechanism such that the water is not stored but evaporates.Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner Vs. Single Hose
The hose is used to access the cooled air. Air conditioners can have a single hose or dual hose construction.
To get the main difference between the two, let's first understand the working of the hose.
The hose is functioned to remove the warm air in the room to the outside, thus creating a pressure imbalance between the room and the surrounding.
Consequently, to keep the air pressure at balance, the cold air from the outside environment gets into the room through the windows or other openings. Correspondingly, cooling the room.
As the name suggests, a single hose design has only one hose. Thus it has to work more intensively than a dual hose design to cool the room.
In contrast, the dual hose design has two functioning hoses—consequently, they cool the room much faster. Further, due to reduced work that each hose is handling, its filters' lifespan is immensely enhanced.
Dual hose design AC is recommendable for large spaces due to its quick and efficient way of cooling.
Portable Air Conditioner Vs. Window Unit
A portable air conditioner is a conditioner that has a compact design and an exhaust that connects to the window. By compact design, it implies that you can easily carry it along.
Why would you choose a portable air conditioner?
First is the mere fact that their movements are easy. Also, the installation process is very straightforward. And lastly, due to the compact design, it will cover a small space
And as fate has it, portable air conditioners have its demerits too. To begin, you will need extra space for the vent on the window.
Also, despite all the manufacturers' efforts to provide silent operations, the humming sound of the AC is likely to be audible.
On the other hand, a window unit is a type of air conditioner with a single box design. They are a good alternative when looking for a permanent central cooling system.
The main advantage of a window unit is that it does not use a vent, and most of its noise is directed to the outside. However, most people dislike the fact that they take ages to install and likely block the window.
Which is the best for RV? Portable or window unit AC
Personally, I would recommend a portable AC for RV. Why?
Generally, it is due to its mobility. They are quite simple to install as well as remove. Even further, portable AV has quite simplified operations.Evaporative Air Cooler Vs. Portable Air Conditioner
A portable air conditioner is a mobile system that works to remove excess heat and moisture from the air using a refrigerant.
The refrigerant, also known as a coolant, is a special fluid that removes the excess heat or moisture from the air. This fluid moves through the copper coils and cooling tubes, which connect the outside unit to the internal units.
The fluid absorbs the heat from the indoor air and condenses to a liquid. It travels back to the outdoor unit, disperses the extra warmth, and evaporates back to gas.
An evaporative cooler, also known as swamp or desert cooler, is a device that cools the air by use of water evaporation.
Unlike the air conditioner, an evaporative air conditioner cools the air by vapor compression by a water-soaked medium.
When the air gets into the medium, it comes into contact with the cold water, which absorbs the extra heat in the air molecules—resultantly cooling the air.
When should you consider an evaporative cooler?
Evaporative air coolers are recommendable outdoor due to the need for plenty of fresh air. Also, they are recommendable when you are not ready to incur a high maintenance budget. That is because they are relatively cheap to maintain.
Which is the best for RV users?
Portable air conditioners are recommendable for RV users over evaporative coolers.How To Calculate The AC Size Or BTU
Air conditioners have different sizes, which determine their cooling capacity. Typically, an AC size will not refer to its dimensions, but rather the amount of space it can cool.
The cooling capacity is measured in British thermal units abbreviated as BTU.
But how will you know the right size or BTU efficient for your RV or house? That will need you to perform a mathematical calculation.
Don't freak out! I am here to guide you on how to perform the calculations. And if you are not ready for some calculations, I will offer a table to guide you. Let's dive in
Before jumping right ahead, the calculations are dependent on some factors.Hence, some adjustments are recommendable on certain conditions such as;
- For a heavily shaded room, increase the capacity by 10%
- In scorching areas, increase the capacity by 10%
- A room with more than two regular occupants add 600BTU for each extra person.
- For kitchen use, increase the BTU by 4,000btus
To the calculation;
Step1; get the room or RV measurement
To get the room area, measure its length and width. After, multiply the two measurements.
Note; the measurements should be in feet units. If you are using any other units such as meters, you will have to convert them.
Step 2; get the BTU
The BTU of the air conditioner should be minimally 25 times the room area.
Thus, multiply the area of your room from the first step with 25.
For example
Assume that you have a room whose length is 12 feet and the width 10 feet.
Hence the area will be;
12x10= 120sq.ft
The BTU for the air conditioner;
120x25= 3000BTU
Cooling Capacity Chart |
---|
Size of Area | Capacity Needed |
---|---|
100 to 150 square feet | 5,000 BTUs per hour |
150 to 250 square feet | 6,000 BTUs per hour |
250 to 300 square feet | 7,000 BTUs per hour |
300 to 350 square feet | 8,000 BTUs per hour |
350 to 400 square feet | 9,000 BTUs per hour |
400 to 450 square feet | 10,000 BTUs per hour |
450 to 550 square feet | 12,000 BTUs per hour |
550 to 700 square feet | 14,000 BTUs per hour |
700 to 1,000 square feet | 18,000 BTUs per hour |
1,000 to 12,00 square feet | 21,000 BTUs per hour |
12,00 to 14,00 square feet | 23,000 BTUs per hour |
14,00 to 1,500 square feet | 24,000 BTUs per hour |
15,00 to 2,000 square feet | 30,000 BTUs per hour |
2,000 to 2,500 square feet | 34,000 BTUs per hour |
Which Are The Factors Considered To Calculate The Size Of A Portable AC?
Before I jump right ahead to the factors to consider, I need to clear up something.
By now, you are aware that a lower BTU isn't recommendable for obvious reasons of inefficiency. But the same applies to a higher BTU. You may think that getting a higher Btu will quicken the process but not at all.
Here is the explanation.
A too high BTU makes the unit cool faster and causes a continuous cycle to maintain the temperature that you have set. The repetitive cycling leads to inefficient moisture removal as expected.
You can now guess the results, a humid environment perfect breeding of bacteria and mold, and a significantly stretched energy bill.
To the critical matter now;
Considering that no room has the same structures, the cooling capacity for every room varies. Some of the things to consider are;
- Number of occupants
In a room with more than two regular occupants, the AC's standard cooling capacity should be increased by 600BTU.
For the RV, check on its capacity and multiply by 600 BTU. For instance, if it is a 14-seater, there are ten extra persons. Thus you should increase the cooling capacity with 6000BTU.
- Room shading
In a place with heavy shading such that most of the sunlight is blocked, the cooling capacity should be increased by 10%.
- Application
This factor is to be considered when purchasing an air conditioner for home use. When setting it on kitchens with quite heavy appliances, or any other extremely warm room such as a server room, the BTU should be increased by 4,000BTU.
- Natural climatic condition
Keeping all other factors constant, how would you describe the area's natural climatic conditions, too hot or cold? For extremely sunny areas, then the BTU should be increased by 10%
- The ceiling
How far is the ceiling or the upper part of the RV located? If it is beyond 8 feet, then increase the BTU by 10 percent for each foot.
For example, if the space left is 10 feet, there are two more feet. Hence you should increase the BTU by 20%What Makes A Portable AC Great For RV?
A portable AC is an excellent option for maintaining a cozy environment in a recreational vehicle. In fact, most of these devices will cool the air and remove excess moisture, which is the leading cause of mold and mildew.
Nonetheless, there are things that you should regard to ensure that you get an excellent AC for an RV. The factors include;
- AC type: There are several AC types, including vented AC, evaporative, window unit, and portable AC. Most RV-ers opt for a portable ventless AC. That is to avoid the need for regularly draining the tank.
- Size- most portable ACs have a mini-sized to ensure they take less space in your vehicle
- Cooling capacity- the cooling capacity of an AC is measured in BTU. You should ensure that the cooling capacity of the AC will cool all the parts of the RV effectively
- Installations- portable AC for RV should have straightforward and fast installations and removal.
Benefits Of Investing In A Portable Air Conditioner
Portable air conditioners are indispensable devices for every RVer. Or are you ready to let the sunny day ruin your trip? I guess not.
Portable AC ensures that you enjoy a favorable condition while traveling to your destination. Even better, if you are going camping, you can remove it and use it at the camping site.
But wait-there are more reasons as to why you will never regret investing in a portable AC.
- Easy installations
Unlike the window unit AC, the portable AC has temporal installations. Thus making it quite simple to install it or remove it. Therefore, you can easily use it across many rooms or recreational vehicles.
Actually, in most cases, you will only be needed to hook or unhook the AC. Or even better, just place it on a surface.
- Noiseless
Over the recent past, most portable AC manufactures are incorporating a silent mode of operation.
Do you get what that implies?
You no longer have to bear with the humming sound of an air conditioner.
- Mobility
And above all, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend a portable AC to an RVer, because of its enhanced mobility.
Do you remember that we said that its installations and removal are effortless? Good. But to add on-
After removing the unit, it will not take you tons of energy to get it to the other RV or room. That is as a result of the usual compact design in most portable AC. Consequently, they are lightweight or even with carrying handle fitted.
- Multipurpose functionality
Beyond, that most of the portable ACs have up to 3 or four functionalities.
That is, cooling, fan, heating, and dehumidifying. Standardly, the AC will cool as well as remove the excess moisture.
Purely, portable ACis focused on ensuring that you get maximum comfort while traveling.
- Affordable
In contrast to the window unit or evaporative cooler, portable ACs are quite affordable.
Honestly, checking on its price, you got no reason to be a victim of humidity or a hot day.
To sum up, getting the best portable AC for RV will never be anun-regrettable investment. That is because it will negligibly affect your budget and guarantee maximum comfort for every traveler.
Further, with the easy installations and portability, you can easily use it across many recreational vehicles or rooms.
And if you are wondering where you will place it, note that it occupies a small floor space. Check on how to install it in the next partHow To Install A Portable AC In An RV
Did you just purchase your portable AC for RV? Perfect, only in a few, we will help you get it installed? If not, I wonder what is keeping you from purchasing it.
To begin, you can install the portable AC in an RV either on the rooftop, sidewall, or just place it on a surface.
If you are not placing the AC on the floor, follow the following steps
Step1; get the tools
The first step is to have all the needed tools nearby. They include;
- The air conditioning unit
- Manual,I.e.,RVand AC unit manual
- Gloves
- Screwdriver
- Bolts
- Wirecutter
- Sealant
- Knife
Step 2; switch off the power
While installing the unit, you will be in contact with live wires.
Thus you should switch the power off to avoid electric shocks, which may even lead to death.
Step 3; identify the installing point
Now, it is time to identify the appropriate point to install the AC.
The location should be sturdy to ensure that it can hold the unit securely. It should also not be directed to a source of heat, especially when installing in the kitchen.
Step4; makes holes
The holes are to place the wires from the ceiling to the air conditioner. That is why you should have identified the installation location priory.
You should drill the holes carefully to provide a secure fit. You can use this chance also to identify the points where you will insert the bolts.
Step 6; insert the bolts
The bolts are to hold the conditioner on the wall.
After drilling the holes, take the conditioner and place over the wall, and secure it by inserting the bolts.
Step7; seal the holes
The AC needs to be held securely on the surface
How?
Take a sealant, and apply it to the points the AC is in contact with the wall
Step8; make the necessary connections
Now with the AC on its location, you need to make the necessary wire connections to get it set for functioning. No physics is required here! Don't freak out!
The wires are usually coded with colors. For example, the blue wire is likely to connect with the other blue wire.
Else, you can seek more information on the user's manual.
Step 9; hurray! Get it functioning!
You are such a brilliant person if you have managed up to this far. Congrats! Now all is left is getting the AC functioning and you beating the road. How do you do that?
Connect the AC to the power supply and switch it on. If you have done everything else correctly, the AC should be functioning.Where To Place The Portable AC In The RV
The location point of an AC unit affects its functionality. Ideally, you should place it near outlets
You can install the AC on the wall, rooftop, or just place it on the floor.
While placing the AC on the floor, the ground surface should be quite hard and at least 8 feet away from obstructions.
Some of the places that you can place the AC unit in the RV are the rooftop or the wall. All you should ensure is that the unit is at a place with minimal shading or obstructions.
How To Clean A Portable Air Conditioner
It is recommendable that you clean the AC at least once a month and at the beginning and end of every summer season. But even before that, why is it necessary to clean the AC regularly?
- Staying with a clogged filter may result in odor. Filters are constructed to filter away all the debris from getting to the cooling unit. If left there for long, they are likely to decompose and result in odor.
- Growth of mildew and mold- when the AC is left un-cleaned for a long time, dust accumulates in the unit. Such an environment becomes perfect breeding for bacteria, mold, and mildew.
- Reduced efficiency- how would you expect the filter to function well with a lump of debris? Still, the unit's dust is likely to reduce its efficiency, leading to a low running unit.
With that now, let's look at the cleaning procedure of an AC.
Step1; unplug the unit
To begin, switch off the power source and unplug the unit from the socket.
Step2; drain the tank
One of the functions of the AC is dehumidifying the air. Thus, it collects excess water and stores it in a tank.
The next step is to drain this water to set it ready for cleaning.
Step 4; switch to fan mode
The fan mode helps to dry the inner components of the AC altogether.
Subsequently, run the AC in the fan mode and leave it for approximately 2 hours
Step 5; empty the filters
The filters ensure that no debris or dust particles get into the cooling unit.
To empty it, carefully remove it from the unit and shake off the dust. However, in some cases, the filter may require replacement.
Step 6; vacuum the vents
The vents are the main air pathways. Thus they also need regular vacuuming.
To do that, you can use a vacuum or the hose.
Step 7; clean the coils
Cleaning of the coils requires a weak acid. You can purchase it or use a homemade acid from lemon or vinegar.
Pour the solution into the coils and leave it for a few minutes. Later you can rinse with some clean water.
Step 8; clean the external housing unit
Lastly, the external casings of the AC also need to be cleaned.
Use a soft damp cloth to wipe the entire surfaceConclusion
To sum things up, a portable AC for RVs is here to ensure comfort for every traveler. It has quite simple installations, affordable and intuitive controls.
Even a step further, this article simplifies everything for you. It highlights the review of the best portable AC unit for RV and every other detail that you need to enjoy favorable weather despite the unfavorable climatic conditions.
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FAQs
Is Portable Air Conditioners Safe in an RV?
Short answer; yes
Portable air conditioners' construction keeps them efficient and safe for RVing. They have a lightweight body for mobility as well as take less space. They have no track record of affecting the vehicle functionality
Can you use a portable AC unit in an RV?
Portable ACis efficient in putting the cold air right where you need it and absorbing the excess moisture. Thus they are a perfect tool for RV ersliving in hot or extremely humid areas.
How Much Power Does a Portable Air Conditioner Use?
The amount of power consumed by an AC is usually noted in the manual. However, you can still calculate it by using the following formula;
Power(in watts)= amps x volts
Standard outlets have a voltage outlet of 240 volts. The amperes are indicated on the AC body or the manual.
How Often Do You Have to Drain a Portable Air Conditioner?
Ideally, a portable AC should be drained after 8 hours. However, that is dependent on several conditions, such as the regional climate and the number of occupants.
How to Vent a Portable Air Conditioner Without a Window
There are several alternatives to vent the air conditioner without a window. They include;
- Venting through the door
- Venting through the wall
- Venting via the ceiling
- Venting via the dryer vent
What happens if you don’t vent a portable air conditioner?
It is quite dangerous to fail to vent an air conditioner.
In such a situation, the hot air remains locked up in the unit. Thus the moisture continues to build up in the room, which results in the growth of mold. Worse, it will not even cool the air.
What is the smallest portable air conditioner on the market?
When this article was written, the smallest available portable AC is the Edge star AP10002BL air conditioner, rated to have the smallest base area. Its dimensions are 13" x15" with a cooling capacity of 350sq.Ft.
Can I use a portable air conditioner in a room without a window?
Yes, you can use a portable AC in a room without a window.
However, you will need to find an alternative option on how to vent the unit. You can use the door, wall, or ceiling to vent it.
Do All Portable Air Conditioners Have to be Vented Out a Window?
No, not every portable AC that must be vented through the window.
Essentially, you should just have a venting alternative; you can drill the wall or find a space in the doors to vent.
Though, window venting remains to be the best way to vent a portable AC.
How much is a Portable Air Conditioner?
A portable air conditioner can cost as low as below $50 and as high as over $400.
The pricing depends on the number of functionalities it offers, and it's quality. Standardly, the higher the number of functionalities, the expensive is the unit.
You can check on the buyer's guide on how to get the best portable AC unit