Instructions for setting up a caravan air conditioner in 2022

Phillip Rigby

Phillip Rigby

Air Conditioner expert and outdoors man.

Last updated July 16, 2022

Are you a frequent traveler? You’d be surprised at the heat when you travel in the Australian summer. Installing an air conditioner is the best option to prevent uncomfortable caravan travel.

You will be camping overnight in your caravan, so it’s important to ensure you’re comfortable. It is an excellent idea to have the best caravan air con in case you’re planning on traveling with your caravan during summer months.

Air conditioners can be expensive , therefore it is important to understand the elements before deciding to buy one for your caravan.

Air conditioner location

These are the locations you can place the air conditioner inside the caravan.

Rooftop air conditioner

These conditioners are fitted to your caravan’s roof.

An air conditioner may be positioned on the roof for effective cooling. These air conditioners can withstand vibrations from moving caravans.

Caravan air conditioners have built-in units

These air conditioners are compatible alongside camper vans and pop-top caravans. A roof conditioner will alter the air conditioner’s lifting mechanism and increase roof weight.

Built-in air conditioners are equipped with a split system, a duct unit and are placed under a bed or on a shelf. Built-in caravans are quieter than roof-mounted models. These are perfect for smaller caravans that have less space.

Air conditioner weight

It is important to check the power consumption and the weight of your caravan’s conditioner before you buy it. It is important to think about the size and weight of the conditioner. Every extra kilogram can affect the weight of the entire caravan, and also the handling of the caravan and the fuel consumption. Your caravan’s ideal air conditioner weight should be 4kgs. The air conditioner will be restricted to the maximum weight your caravan can hold. You should add all appliances to your caravan, such as televisions, washing machines and awnings to make sure that it’s legally weight-wise.

Caravan’s total weight

Two types of air conditioners work for caravans. A 2-2.5 KW air conditioner will be sufficient for caravans that are up 5 meters in length. A 3kw air conditioner is required for vehicles that have seven meters in length or more. Your budget should also determine the size of your air conditioner. It is important to be aware that a unit too small will not be able to provide sufficient air conditioning. Your installer could be able to assist you select the appropriate size air conditioner for your caravan.

The construction of an H frame to provide support for the roof air conditioners

The majority of AC units for caravans are sold as a set complete with all the parts needed to operate and install the AC. You may need to order other accessories.

To provide your roof’s air conditioner with more strength and support H-frames are erected in your caravan.

A portable air conditioner

Many people make use of portable air conditioners to cool their vehicles. Portable air coolers work in any conditions. These coolers are typically used in offices.

Portable air conditioners are able to be used in caravans. This will decrease their efficiency.

Conclusion

All air conditioners in caravans come with an entire installation guide. An air conditioner is only installed by a qualified technician.