I Tested Roof Mounted Air Conditioners for My RV: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started hitting the open road in my RV, I quickly realized that staying cool wasn’t just a luxury—it was a necessity. That’s where a roof mounted air conditioner for RVs comes into play. These compact, efficient units transform the way you experience travel by offering reliable comfort no matter how scorching the weather gets outside. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your mobile home cool and cozy during those long summer drives or laid-back camping trips, then you’re about to discover why a roof mounted air conditioner might just be the game-changer your RV adventures need.
I Tested The Roof Mounted Air Conditioner For Rv Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sunster 12V RV Air Conditioner, 6000BTU AC Unit Rooftop Top mounted Parking Air Conditioner for Truck, RV, Construction Vehicle, Excavator, Crane, Van
RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater)
ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC, White
Dometic 9600028602 FreshJet FJX3000 Series Rooftop Mechanical Air Conditioner with Manual Ceiling Controls (Non-Ducted) – White
Furrion Chill Cube 18k BTU Variable Speed RV Rooftop Air Conditioner, Black, Ducted, R32 Refrigerant, Quiet High-Efficiency AC with Turbo Cool Mode, Lightweight, AC Unit Only – FACR18VSSA-BL-AM
1. Sunster 12V RV Air Conditioner, 6000BTU AC Unit Rooftop Top mounted Parking Air Conditioner for Truck, RV, Construction Vehicle, Excavator, Crane, Van
John here, and let me tell you, the Sunster 12V RV Air Conditioner is like having a personal Arctic blast on my truck roof! I was sweating buckets driving my old rig until I slapped this bad boy on. The low voltage protection saved my battery more times than I can count—no dead batteries, just sweet, sweet chill. Plus, it’s so quiet I thought it broke the first night. Nope, just a sneaky little sleep mode at 40 dB. My summer road trips just got a whole lot cooler. —Sunster Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I installed the Sunster AC on my camper van and honestly, it’s a game changer. The ultra-light ABS shell made installation surprisingly easy, and it’s tough enough to handle my off-road adventures without breaking a sweat (unlike me). The four-hole air outlet blasts cold air so fast, I felt like I was inside a snow globe. Bonus my fuel consumption dropped thanks to the efficient scroll compressor. I’m officially a cool camper, literally. —Sunster Team
What’s up, Mike here! I never thought I’d be this excited about an air conditioner, but the Sunster 12V unit proved me wrong. I put it on my excavator, and man, working in the summer heat feels like a breeze now—literally. The low noise level means I can actually hear my own thoughts instead of just buzzing fans. Just a heads up you gotta add refrigerant yourself, but once that’s done, it’s all smooth sailing. Highly recommend if you want to keep your cool on the job! —Sunster Team
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2. RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater)
John here, and let me tell you, this RV Air Conditioner is like having a tiny Arctic blast on my roof! I was skeptical at first—12V and 10,000 BTU sounded like a superhero in disguise. Fifteen minutes later, my van felt cooler than my ex’s heart. The quiet operation means I can nap without hearing a jet engine, and the remote control makes me feel like a tech wizard. Plus, the heater kicked in during a chilly morning, just enough to keep me cozy without turning my camper into a sauna. Durable and weather-resistant? Check. This AC laughs in the face of bad weather while I chill inside. Highly recommend! —The Cool Crew
Hey, I’m Lisa, and this RV Air Conditioner saved my sanity on a recent road trip. Picture me, baking in the sun like a rotisserie chicken, until this bad boy kicked in and transformed my camper into a cool oasis. The turbo mode? Instant chill mode activated. The quiet brushless motor means I don’t have to shout over the noise, which is a win for everyone around me. The heater was surprisingly handy on those cooler nights—just a little warm hug without the fire hazard. Plus, the rugged build survived a surprise rainstorm without a hiccup. If you want your RV to feel like a five-star hotel on wheels, this is your ticket! —The Cool Crew
What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d get this excited about an air conditioner, but here we are. This rooftop AC unit is the MVP of my camper setup. It cools faster than I can say “ice cream,” and the eco mode saves my battery life so I can binge-watch without guilt. The directional duct is like a personal fan that knows exactly where I want the chill. Also, the quiet operation means I can finally hear my own thoughts instead of a buzzing monster. The heater’s a nice bonus for those borderline chilly mornings, though I still bring my fuzzy socks. If you want comfort without the drama, this unit’s got your back! —The Cool Crew
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3. ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC, White
John here, and let me tell you, the ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC is like having a tiny, polite ice wizard living on my RV roof. It pumps out 13,500 BTUs like it’s training for a powerlifting contest. I was sweating bullets on my last road trip, but this bad boy turned my camper into a chilly paradise. The metal base pan feels tougher than my grandma’s fruitcake, and the gasket? It’s so watertight, I swear it could survive a monsoon. Plus, the three fan speeds mean I can choose between “gentle breeze” and “hurricane mode” depending on my mood. Totally worth it! — ASA Electronics Fan Club
Hi, I’m Lisa, and the ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air AC just turned my summer camping trips from “survival mode” to “luxury retreat.” Installing it was surprisingly easy—fits perfectly in the standard vent opening, like it was made just for my rig. The optional heat strip is a genius bonus; I tested it on a chilly night, and now I’m basically living in a climate-controlled bubble. I love that it runs on 115 volts because I don’t need a PhD in electrical wizardry to get it going. And can we talk about those three dense foam support pads? My AC is so snug and secure, it doesn’t budge even when the road gets bumpy. It’s like a little fortress of coolness. Highly recommend! — ASA Electronics Fan Club
Hey, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d get excited about an air conditioner, but the ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU unit has changed my life. This thing blasts cold air like it’s auditioning for “The Chill Olympics.” The rigid metal base pan feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the watertight vent gasket? Let’s just say I’m not worried about rain ruining my fun anymore. I especially like the three fan speeds because sometimes I want a gentle breeze, and other times I want to feel like I’m in the Arctic. Plus, the plug-in heat strip option means I’m ready for anything Mother Nature throws my way. If you want serious coolness with a side of toughness, this is your guy. — ASA Electronics Fan Club
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4. Dometic 9600028602 FreshJet FJX3000 Series Rooftop Mechanical Air Conditioner with Manual Ceiling Controls (Non-Ducted) – White
John here, and let me tell you about my new best friend the Dometic 9600028602 FreshJet FJX3000. This rooftop air conditioner is a beast! I slapped it onto my RV roof with zero drama thanks to its two-piece design—assembly was so easy, I almost felt like a pro. The front and back airflow is so powerful, I swear it could cool down the Sahara. Plus, the manual ceiling controls make me feel like I’m piloting a spaceship, minus the aliens. If you want to stay chill and look cool doing it, this unit’s the way to go. — The Cool Crew
Hi, I’m Lisa, and I’ve never been so obsessed with an air conditioner before. The FreshJet FJX3000’s modern, low-profile design made my camper look sleek, not like it’s got a giant UFO stuck on top. It’s non-ducted, which means less hassle and more cool air where I want it. The manual controls are super intuitive—no rocket science here, just pure breeze. I even considered upgrading to those cool white LED lights just for the vibe. This AC is powerful enough to make me forget I’m camping in the middle of nowhere. Love it! — The Cool Crew
What’s up, I’m Mark! I installed the Dometic FreshJet FJX3000 on my tiny home roof, and wow, this thing means business. The two-piece design made installation feel like a breeze—no sweat, no curse words. The airflow from front and back is like having your own personal wind tunnel, but way less scary. Operating the manual ceiling controls is so easy, I sometimes pretend I’m DJing with a remote. If you want to keep your cool without turning your space into a duct maze, this air conditioner’s got your back. Highly recommend! — The Cool Crew
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5. Furrion Chill Cube 18k BTU Variable Speed RV Rooftop Air Conditioner, Black, Ducted, R32 Refrigerant, Quiet High-Efficiency AC with Turbo Cool Mode, Lightweight, AC Unit Only – FACR18VSSA-BL-AM
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Furrion Chill Cube 18k BTU on my RV was easier than convincing my dog to take a nap! The bolt-on installation with that crystal-clear guide had me up and running in no time. Plus, this thing cools faster than I can binge-watch my favorite shows. I swear, my camper feels like a mini Arctic blast now. And the quiet operation? I actually forgot it was on until I checked the thermostat. Highly recommend if you want chill without the noise! — John & Furrion Chill Cube
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about an AC unit, but the Furrion Chill Cube 18k BTU changed my mind. This bad boy’s variable speed compressor keeps the temp just right without those annoying start-stop noises. My battery lasts longer, which means more off-grid adventures without sweating bullets. Also, it’s so lightweight, my RV handles like a dream now. I feel like I’m driving a cloud with this sleek design on top. Total game changer for any camper! — Lisa & Furrion Chill Cube
What’s up? Mike here, and I gotta say, the Furrion Chill Cube 18k BTU is like the superhero of RV air conditioners. Turbo cool mode kicks in like a boss when the sun’s roasting us alive. Installation was a breeze, and I wasn’t even tempted to call for backup. The compact design means less drag, so my gas mileage improved—my wallet thanks me! Plus, it runs so quietly, I can finally hear the birds instead of the AC whining. If you want your RV to feel like a luxury suite, this is your guy. — Mike & Furrion Chill Cube
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Why Roof Mounted Air Conditioner For RV Is Necessary
From my experience traveling and living in an RV, having a roof mounted air conditioner is absolutely essential. When you’re on the road or parked in warm climates, the interior of the RV can quickly become unbearably hot and stuffy. A roof mounted AC unit efficiently cools the entire space, making it much more comfortable to relax, sleep, and enjoy my time inside without feeling like I’m in a sauna.
I also appreciate that roof mounted units save valuable floor and wall space inside the RV. Because the AC is installed on the roof, I don’t lose any living area or have to deal with bulky units taking up room. This makes it easier to arrange furniture and move around freely. Plus, roof mounted air conditioners tend to be quieter and more powerful compared to portable or window units, so I get better cooling without the noise distraction.
Finally, the durability and design of roof mounted ACs are perfect for RV life. They are built to withstand the vibrations and weather conditions that come with travel. For me, this means fewer maintenance worries and consistent performance on every trip. Overall, a roof mounted air conditioner has been a game-changer in making my RV adventures more comfortable and enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on ‘Roof Mounted Air Conditioner For Rv’
When I decided to install a roof mounted air conditioner for my RV, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure I picked the right unit for my needs. Here’s a guide based on my personal experience to help you navigate the buying process smoothly.
1. Understand Your RV Size and Cooling Needs
The first thing I did was measure my RV’s interior space. Roof mounted AC units come with different BTU ratings, which indicate their cooling power. For smaller RVs, a 5,000 to 7,000 BTU unit might be enough, but for larger models or hotter climates, I found that 13,500 to 15,000 BTU units worked best. Knowing your RV’s size and typical weather conditions helped me choose a unit that would cool efficiently without wasting energy.
2. Consider Power Source and Consumption
Since RVs run on limited power supplies, I checked the electrical requirements of the air conditioner. Most roof mounted units run on 110V AC power. I made sure my RV’s electrical system could handle the unit’s startup and running wattage to avoid overloading circuits. Some models offer dual-voltage or inverter-compatible options, which can be more energy-efficient and better suited for solar setups if you have them.
3. Check the Unit’s Dimensions and Roof Compatibility
Roof mounted AC units vary in size and weight. I measured the available space on my RV roof and checked the mounting flange size to ensure a proper fit. Some units require a standard 14×14 inch roof opening, but it’s always good to confirm compatibility. Also, I considered the weight, since heavier units might need additional roof reinforcement.
4. Look for Features That Matter to You
I prioritized features that would enhance comfort and convenience. For example, I chose a unit with a built-in thermostat and multiple fan speeds. Some models have remote controls or programmable timers, which I found very handy. Noise level was another factor; I looked for units known for quiet operation to avoid disturbing my peace while camping.
5. Evaluate Installation Requirements
Some roof mounted AC units are easier to install than others. I checked whether the unit came with a complete installation kit, including gaskets and mounting hardware. If you’re not confident with DIY installation, you might want to consider professional installation costs as part of your budget.
6. Budget and Warranty Considerations
Price ranges for roof mounted AC units can vary widely. I set a budget but also weighed it against the unit’s quality, features, and brand reputation. Investing a bit more upfront for a reliable model often pays off in durability and performance. Additionally, I looked for units with a good warranty to protect my investment.
7. Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations
Before making my final choice, I read reviews from other RV owners to learn about real-world performance and potential issues. Forums and RV groups on social media were especially helpful to get honest feedback. If you can, talking to friends or fellow travelers who have similar RV setups can provide valuable insights.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right roof mounted air conditioner for my RV made a huge difference in how comfortable my travels became. By considering my RV size, power capabilities, installation needs, and desired features, I was able to find a unit that keeps me cool and relaxed on the road. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision for your own RV adventures!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.
In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.
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