How to Maintain Your RV Air Conditioner
RV air conditioners are an essential part of your RV, dometic rv fridge and they can make all the difference in how comfortable you feel on a hot summer’s day. But like any other appliance, they need to be maintained properly in order to keep working smoothly for as long as possible.
How Does an RV Air Conditioning System Work?
A RV air conditioning system uses refrigerant to remove heat from the air inside the RV. The system cycles through the refrigerant fluids on a regular basis. This requires a lot of energy, and it is this process that creates the cooled air you see inside your rig.
How to Keep Your RV Air Conditioning Unit Healthy and Efficient
If your RV is properly insulated, it can help the AC unit do its job more efficiently. This is especially true if you have windows and doors that open to the outside, which can allow in a lot of hot air.
Another important step in ensuring your RV air conditioning unit is running at its peak efficiency is to clean out the dust and debris that can get into it. This can be done through rinsing out the filter with water or by vacuuming out loose dirt and debris.
The next step in keeping your air conditioning unit operating at its best is to check for leaks around the air conditioner. Many RV air conditioners are set into a roof hole, and while the seal is designed to keep out rainwater, it can still let in other types of water. This is particularly true if the AC is in a basement or on top of a motorhome.
It’s also a good idea to check the exterior air exchangers for any buildup of debris or bugs that can reduce their effectiveness. These are sets of cooling fins that a fan blows through to reject heat, and if they become clogged they will lose their effectiveness.
This is an easy way to help your air conditioning unit run more efficiently. You can also keep the doors and windows closed whenever the AC is on to limit how much warm air is allowed into your rig.
How to Prevent Hot Air From Entering Your RV
If you have large windows or a door in the center of your RV, make sure these are covered with reflective insulation that will prevent as much heat from entering your rig. This will not only make your RV more comfortable but it will also help the air conditioner do its job faster, which saves you money in energy costs.
You can also install window awnings that will shade your windows from direct sunlight. This is especially useful if you’re planning on using solar panels to charge the battery for your RV.
Minimize the Use of Appliances and Electronics
Every appliance or electronic device in your RV gives off some heat when it’s on. This is why it is so important to minimize the amount of time you spend in the kitchen or taking a shower indoors.