Efficient RV Air Conditioners for Caravans & Campervans

Caravan Air Conditioners

What should I know before buying an RV air conditioner?

Choosing the right RV air conditioner is key to staying comfortable on the road. Whether you are driving through hot outback regions, or heading into cooler climates, we offer AC units designed for year-round comfort. Many models include built-in heating for both summer cooling and winter warmth.

How is a caravan or RV air conditioner different from a household unit?

Although household and RV air conditioners both provide heating and cooling, they are built for very different applications. Caravan split systems and RV-specific units are designed for mobile environments and travel conditions.

Why RV and caravan air conditioners are better for travel

• Built for the road: Engineered to handle constant vibration and movement without damaging components.
• Weather protection: Aerodynamic shrouds help deflect wind and rain, reducing leaks and electrical faults.
• Longer lifespan when mobile: RV units are made to last in travel conditions.
• Space-efficient design: Compact footprints tailored for caravans and motorhomes.
• Lower power draw: Many RV models are generator-friendly and suited to off-grid use.

Things to keep in mind: Due to specialised engineering and testing, RV air conditioners often cost more than standard household units. The investment delivers reliability, safety, and performance on the road.

Compact and lightweight caravan air conditioner

GREE caravan air conditioners deliver powerful cooling in a compact, lightweight design. Suitable for vans from 5 m to 8 m+, these units are among the smallest on the market without sacrificing performance. Installation is straightforward, and larger caravans can run multiple units for zoned comfort.

Comparing types of caravan and RV air conditioners

Roof-mounted air conditioners

The most popular choice, rooftop units save interior space and circulate cool air efficiently from above.

Advantages:

• Frees interior space.
• Suited to most caravans and motorhomes, easy retrofit.
• Typically quieter airflow for better sleep.
• Simple access for servicing.

Considerations:

• Lightweight vans or pop-tops may need an aluminium H-frame to distribute weight.

Under-bunk or built-in air conditioners

Popular where the roof cannot support a rooftop unit. Installed under beds or in cupboards, often with ducting.

Advantages:

• Cost-effective option for camper trailers and pop-tops without roof changes.
• Ideal for smaller spaces where roof mounting is not possible.

Considerations:

• Uses interior storage space.
• Generally less effective cooling than rooftop or split systems in larger spaces.

Split system air conditioners

Indoor unit plus a remote compressor mounted externally. Suits trailers or pop-tops where roof mounting is not viable.

Advantages:

• Works where roof strength is limited.
• Accessible units simplify maintenance.

Considerations:

• Indoor unit occupies interior space.
• Space management can be challenging.

Size makes a difference

Match cooling capacity to van length and layout. Larger vans usually need higher capacity, and vans over 8 m often use two units for zoned cooling. Cooling power is measured by nominal capacity, commonly expressed in BTU.

What is an inverter air conditioner?

Inverter technology varies compressor speed to match demand for precise temperature control and improved efficiency.

Key benefits:

• Reduced power surge: Lower inrush current, less strain on electrical systems.
• Efficiency: Uses only the power required to maintain set temperature.
• Quieter operation: Smooth modulation reduces noise.
• Longevity: Less mechanical stress can extend unit life.

Considerations:

• Higher upfront cost than non-inverter units.
• Confirm your electrical system supports inverter draw profiles.