The Best Portable Air Conditioner for RV

Are you looking for the best portable air conditioner for RV? This appliance is easy to move around with its deep handles and wheels, is easy to adjust and program and has a modern design. It is a valuable investment for your recreational vehicle and can be really useful especially in the scorching weather.

In the following, we’re featuring our top eight suggestions on the portable RV air conditioners at which you might want to take a look. They’re from the most popular and trusted AC brands to consider when comparing your options.

With the right one, you and your loved ones can experience the convenience of having your portable air conditioning appliance aboard your camper. If you’re ready, let us get started.

Best Portable Air Conditioners for RV

1. Honeywell Portable Air Conditioner

The Honeywell portable RV air conditioning appliance is a high quality and powerful AC unit. It can also function as a vent fan or a dehumidifier.

This unit has 9,000 BTU, which can effectively cool and ventilate areas measuring about 300 square feet to 400 square feet.

What I like about this product is that it comes with numerous features. My favorite is its dual filtration system as it’s designed to filter out and clear the air of impurities such as dust, pet, and human air.

The Honeywell portable air conditioner is also energy-efficient and comes with an energy-saving mode. This mode gradually increases the temperature at set intervals, allowing you to save on electricity. When it comes to the end of its 10-hour cycle, it lowers the temperature again to ensure you wake up in a cool room.

The Honeywell portable AC also comes with a digital thermostat system that you can adjust using its remote or built-in control panel.

The Honeywell portable AC is also stress-free because of its self-evaporation system. With this, you wouldn’t have to drain out the water as the water can just evaporate constantly.

This product is also easy to install and clean. This unit comes with a window kit, resulting in a faster and easier installation. You can also just clean its filters under the sink. It also comes with a one-year warranty.

If you are looking for a reliable and effective AC unit, then you might want to try the Honeywell portable air conditioner.

2. FRIGIDAIRE Portable Air Conditioner

The FRIGIDAIRE portable air conditioner is a powerful portable AC unit, having 8,000 BTU. This is enough to cool an area of up to 350 square feet.

What I like about the FRIGIDAIRE potable air conditioner is its 3-in-1 function. Aside from being an AC unit, it also acts as a fan and an RV dehumidifier.

Using its remote or the built-in control panel, you can change the fan’s speeds and temperature. It can also dehumidify 2.8 pints per hour.

The FRIGIDAIRE portable air conditioner also comes with an antibacterial filter. This filter purifies the air inside from impurities such as pet and human air, dust and other particles.

Another I like about the product is that it comes with a timer. This is especially useful at night when you are sleeping.

The FRIGIDAIRE portable air conditioner weighs 62.3 pounds. However, you wouldn’t have to worry about moving it around since it comes with wheels and handles.

The product is quiet, producing only -52decibels. With this, you are sure that you will get a good night’s sleep.

This product is also durable and made out of high-quality materials. It even has numerous certifications and qualifications, assuring you of its performance and durability. It also comes with a one-year warranty.

If you are looking for a powerful, efficient and durable portable AC unit, then you might want to consider the FIRDIGIDAIRE portable air conditioner.

3. Shinco Portable Air Conditioner

The Shinco portable air conditioner boasts a power of 8,000 BTU that is perfect for cooling spaces measuring 250 sq. ft. to 350 sq. ft. With this capacity, it is perfect to use in your RVs, motorhomes, campers, etc.

What I like most about the product is its versatility. For one, it has three functions- AC unit, fan and dehumidifier.

The Shinco portable air conditioner provides a superb performance as it can even cool an area of 200 sq. ft. in just 5 minutes. Fan mode offers two speed modes, high and low, which is enough to maintain the coolness of the room.

Moreover, the Shinco portable air conditioner can dehumidify 60 pints per day. With this, you will get fresher and cleaner air inside your RV.

The Shinco portable air conditioner is also equipped with a self-evaporation system. This is convenient since you don’t have to empty out the water in tank often.

Another thing I like about the product is it’s easy to use. It comes with an LED display and a simple control panel that allows you to set up the timer, the temperature and the mode. You can also change the settings using the remote.

The product is also easy to install as it comes with a window kit. You also won’t have a difficult time moving unit around since it comes with wheels and handles.

The Shinco portable air conditioner is perfect for those looking for an efficient, versatile and easy to use portable air conditioner unit in their RVs.

4. Koldfront WTC8001W Air Conditioner

Comfort is a priority whether it is in your bedroom or having a long trip via RV. In choosing air conditioner, better be looking for one that is easy to operate with all its smart features like this Koldfront WTC8001W Air Conditioner. Here comes below are the pros and cons of the portable air conditioner for camper trailer.

Koldfront WTC8001W Air Conditioner will take care of the family or guests whatever the weather is. It will keep people warm when it’s freezing cold with its 4,200 BTU heating. If summer comes and the temperature gives all sweat and hotness feeling, let this air con handle that with its 8000 BTU cooling.

You can also say goodbye to high level of humidity, unpleasant smell and molds upon turning-on this air con. Say hello to a more improved texture of air, fresher smell and clean air because this Koldfront item has a dehumidification process with 45 pints per day.

For a single piece of Koldfront WTC8001W Air Conditioner, it can already accommodate in as wide as 350 square feet when cooling and 100 square feet when heating. By the way, it is a digital thermostat that takes care of the switch in temperature.

While this machine provides comfort as you sleep and all, you will find relief to know that it has a power saving mode. Therefore, your electricity doesn’t jump higher or the RV’s reserve energy is safe for a long travel. It has a sleep mode and its fan works in a cycle of 2 minutes on and 10 minutes intervals so the compressor begin to perform once it determines that the temperature goes up.

It is also easy to mount to the wall as weather seals and hardware are incorporated in the package. By the time it is assembled, to operate it using a remote control is less effort. You can choose among its four operating modes. In case, you feel unsatisfied for any reason about this item, you can coordinate with Koldfront as they offer 2-year warranty.

5. LG LW1016ER Air Conditioner

Another best pick when it comes to air conditioner is the LG LW1016ER Air conditioner. It won’t let you down if you want to maintain coolness inside the RV, motorhome or bedroom. Learn more about its advantages as well as its disadvantages as follows.

One of the remarkable features of this air conditioner is its larger area of coverage. Compared to other unit, it can serve as wide as 450 square feet. That is cost saving already because no need to buy another air conditioner or a more expensive item for higher capacity as it can do what said items can.

When it comes to being energy-efficient, no doubt this one is a smart choice. First thing you can observe is that this machine has the standard 115V electrical outlet so it does not consume too much power. A saver mode is also built in it as the user set it on for 24-hour on and off timer. It is even marked as 2016 energy star with energy efficiency ratio of 12.1.

At 10,000 BTU cooling capacity, expect a more comfortable feeling while you are sleeping or doing your favorite activities inside the RV or at home. Get ready to impress your visitors as you invite them in your place because surely they will complement how accommodating your place.

Its three cooling speeds accompanied by three fan speeds are impressive, too, because these are the responsible for a maximum performance of this air con. Aside from the default-cooling feature, it also has a dehumidification factor so the temperature is more dry and fresh in smell.

In addition, this unit is easy to mount at the window and easier to operate after through a remote control. Further, the sturdiness of this item is also competitive. It has a nice coating that LG called as patented gold fin so this machine can have a longer life span as it is corrosion resistant.

6. Frigidaire Air conditioner

If you are searching for a compact air conditioner that you can bring in all your RV travels or suitable for small spaced apartments and houses, stop wasting your time looking around because Frigidaire Air conditioner could be the one for you. Discover its amazing features below.

It is small but terrible in a good way. This is the bragging rights of Frigidaire Air conditioner. It only measures 16 inches wide so it won’t eat too much space. While the size is slim and portable, the performance does not compromise.

This mini Air conditioner will totally blow you away with its 5,000 BTU cooling capacity. During summer season, it could be everybody’s closest best friend to keep warm bodies cool and comfortable. It can make a room cool faster and can cover a whole 150 square feet area.

It won’t also disturb people when sleeping as it works silently. Operating it is also an easy breezy task through a remote control. Further, it allows the user to move the direction of the air in two ways.

In terms of fighting germs and bacteria, Frigidaire Air conditioner has two might features to appreciate. First, it has a dehumidifier for up to 1.1 pints each day that can control molds as it dries the surrounding airflow and keeps the air clean. Another is its washable filter to improve air quality and lessen unwanted bacteria.

Moreover, user will celebrate its efficiency in conserving energy. It applies 115V electrical standard of outlet and start at low power.

By the way, the customers may also enjoy a one year limited warranty in case they encounter any problem about the product.

7. Ontel Arctic Air Ultra

What will you do if electric fan is no longer enough for you and air conditioner is out of the question? The best option is to try an air cooler to make your day and night comfortable.

The Arctic Air Ultra by Ontel is a must-buy portable air cooler that works great for cooling, humidifying, and purifying air for your personal comfort.

This portable air-cooler is made of hydro chill technology that evaporates water through its filter and turns it to a cool and refreshing air. This kind of appliance is best recommended for RVs since it is compact-made and could fit anywhere without occupying too much space.

This appliance is very easy to use and operate. You just have to fill the reservoir with water for better cooling. The cooler the water is the better. You can also put the filter in the freezer or add ice cubes in the water for better result.

What is good about this product is that it can be use anywhere. Be it in your bedroom, in the office, in the car or any place you want it set up.

What’s more? The water in the reservoir could last up to 8- 10 hours of continued use. It also has a built-in LED light that you can leave on during the night instead of a lampshade. It is like hitting two birds in one stone.

8. Whynter ARC-14S Portable Air Conditioner

If you are living in a place where window type air conditioner is not allowed, you should settle for portable air conditioner for your home. Portable air conditioner may not cool the whole room like an air con do but it is better than a regular fan. This product works to keep any small place cool and comfortable.

The WhynterARC-14S is a good portable air conditioning for RV in the market. It is made of high-quality materials that guarantee that you can use it for a long time.

The Whynter ARC-14S portable air conditioner is designed to keep small places cool and refreshing. It can cool up to 500 sq. m. And it not only works as air conditioner alone. It also functions as fan and dehumidifier.

This product is easy to operate once you have it properly installed. It is remote controlled with a washable filter. It has full thermostatic control with digital readout and 24-hour programmed timer.

What is good about this air cooler is that it has dual hose and high BTU, two specifications that makes an air cooler as the best choice amongst other brands.

This product does not come cheap. But what are important in an appliance more than its price are the quality, durability, and functionality of a product.

Why You Should Trust Us

While there are many sources of buying guides and information about RV appliances online, not all of them are reliable in giving you clear insights, but we’re different. We’re using a method when reviewing RV appliances and equipment.

At first, we consider the things to look into when shopping around for a portable RV air conditioner. When done factoring in what to consider, we research and review the top picks in the category. In the reviews, we check on the special qualities and determine the pros and cons. Using a process, we can make a thorough guide to help you in the buying decision later.

Who we are? SmartRVing.net is a team of recreational vehicle enthusiasts who are passionate about RV camping and living. We’re here to share our knowledge and experience to the world regarding the best RV gears, appliances, equipment and tools, to name some. We also have firsthand experience using different mobile home appliances like an RV window air conditioner.

With us, you can get insights on how to choose such products. After reading this guide, we do hope you will be able to find the right portable AC for your mobile home.

What Is A Portable Air Conditioner For RV/ How Does It Work

Summer is the best time to go out and go on an adventure. While travelling to new places seems great, it’s impossible to escape the summer heat.

RVs may come with their own air conditioning units; however, there are times when the heat becomes too much to bear.

Instead of suffering from the heat, you can use portable air conditioners for RVs to alleviate your discomfort. They serve as great add-ons into your RV and help promote a cooler environment.

RV Portable air conditioners are also useful especially when you have a broken or unreliable air conditioning system. With this, you wouldn’t have to deal with the sweltering heat.

Moreover, portable air conditioners also help in getting a good sleep. Due to their ventilation process, they also result in cleaner and fresher air inside your RV.

The RV portable air conditioners are basically like mini air conditioners. They come with wheels and handles, allowing you to easily move and transport them around your RV. They are also small and come in various designs.

These units come with one or two hoses for ventilation. The portable air conditioner ventilates the air inside the room. It then absorbs the conditioned air to cool the condenser while expelling the warm air outside.

Types Of RV Portable Air Conditioners

There are four types of RV portable air conditioners.

First is the rooftop air conditioner. This type doesn’t take up much space since it’s installed on top. However, you might have problems with installation as it is heavy and comes with numerous wires and vents.

This type is powerful, ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 BTU per hour depending on the unit. It can sufficiently cool an area of 10 ft. x 50 ft.

However, it also consumes a lot of power that might be problematic for those with small loads or those who are off the grid. You also have to be careful when going in tunnels since it might damage the unit.

The second type is the vent free portable air conditioner. Also known as the swap cooler, it provides moist air ventilation wherein the unit releases evaporated water into the air.

This type doesn’t consume much energy since it only needs a vent and it also boasts a compact but beautiful design.

However, you might need to use a hose since there are times when the water is not completely evaporated. Also, this type is only suited for areas with dry climates.

The third type is the portable air conditioners. As in their name, they are generally tiny and don’t take up much space. They also have wheels and handles for easy movement.

These types come with one or two ventilation to ventilate hot air from the outside. Some units also come with adjustable window frames to keep the hose in place.

It is advisable to buy one with two hoses since a single-hose unit sometimes improperly ventilates the heat.

The last type is the window air conditioner. It doesn’t take up much space since it’s installed outside of the window. Some units are small as 14 units. This type has a high cooling capacity and is quiet and easy to install.

Benefits Of Using An RV Portable Air Conditioner

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of a product is essential for a buyer. This way, they’ll know what to expect from the product and assess if it can meet their needs.

Like all products, an RV portable air conditioner also has its own fair share of pros and cons. This section will list all of these accordingly.

Advantages

Comfortable trip

Summer is a perfect time for travelling; however, the heat can sometimes be too much to bear. Having an RV portable air conditioner can help decrease your discomfort and ensure in a fun and comfortable trip.

Convenient

Portable air conditioners are especially useful when your RV has a weak or unreliable AC system. They can also act as a good substitute for your AC in case it gets damaged and broken.

Clean indoor air

RV portable air conditioners work by pulling moisture from the air as well as the dehumidifying the room. With this, the air inside is constantly moving and replaced. Instead of stale air, you’ll get fresher and cleaner air. Your allergies will also be alleviated.

Easy to install

Unlike other RV air conditioners, the portable ones are definitely easy to install. In fact, only minimum installation is required since you only have to mount the ventilation hose.

Moreover, these units are so small and come with wheels and handles. This way, you can easily carry them around.

Small and compact

RV portable air conditioners come in small sizes that are perfect for those who have limited spaces. Moreover, you can easily move them around and install them in a new location if you want.

Energy-efficient

The amount of energy your AC consumes depends on its power. However, portable ones usually consume a lot less compared to other RV AC types. With this, they are perfect for those who have small electrical loads.

Disadvantages

Less Efficient

Single-hosed portable air conditioners are inefficient in cooling rooms. This is especially true when you have a big RV.

They are known to ventilate the air inside the room improperly. Instead of expelling warm air outside, it sends out dehumidified indoor air. Because of this, the unit has to compensate and cool the remaining air inside.

Sometimes, the unit expels the cool air outside while sending warm air inside.

Restricted placements

While portable AC units are easy to install, you need to place them in areas close to plugs. With this, you may have to adjust to get closer to the AC.

How We Picked

A RV portable air conditioner is a great addition to your RV home, especially when you are travelling during the summer. With this, you wouldn’t have to worry about the sweltering and instead, enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

As such, RV portable AC units are a great investment. Because of their popularity, there are a lot of models and units available. Due to this, it might be difficult to look for one.

But you don’t need to worry. Here are some important factors to consider when you are in the market.

Power

One of the first things you need to look out for is the power output. In RV air conditioners, this is measured in British Thermal Units (BTU) and is based on the size of your RV.

Standard AC units come with 13,500 BTU. However, depending on the size of your RV, you might want a model with a higher or lower output.

While the standard BTU of 13,500 is enough to cool down a large RV, it is still suggested that you buy a unit with at least 18,000 BTU to assure continuous cooling.

If you have a smaller RV, then the standard might be enough. You can also choose smaller AC units to save on your RV’s electrical load. [You might also want to use an RV air conditioner size calculator for guidance as well.]

Moreover, if you are planning to visit places with high humidity, it might be best to get a unit with a higher power output. With this, you will get continuous cooling in your RV and have a comfortable trip.

Power consumption

To know this, check the wattage of the AC unit before purchasing it. That way, you will know how much electricity your AC will consume and whether or not you can sustain it in the end.

Noise

If you are a light sleeper or travelling with one, then it is important to pick out an AC unit that produces the least amount of noise. That way, your sleep will go undisturbed and you will have a more comfortable trip.

Easy to use

Of course, no one wants a unit that is difficult to use. Before you purchase one, try using the controls and see if it is easy to operate.

Installation and maintenance

Most RV portable air conditioners are quite easy to install and maintain. Nonetheless, this is still an important factor to consider.

If you are planning to install it alone, then make sure the unit is light. Moreover, it is also best to look for air conditioners that come with warranties.

In terms of maintenance, ensure that there are plenty of spare parts available for your unit. That way, you can easily repair it while on the road.

Extra Features

RV portable air conditioners come with numerous extra features. While this may be a matter of preference, here are some practical and useful ones.

If you can, find a model that provides a heat pump. With this, your AC unit can also be used during winters as it can act like a heater.

It’s also worthwhile to purchase a unit that has air purifiers to clean indoor air further. You should also look for units that have many air outlets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the most popular portable air conditioner for RV brands?        

A: While there are many popular portable AC for RV brands, not all of them are durable and high in quality. If it works poorly, you can be wasting your money, so you should do a careful research. Consider certain factors like the brand. Some of the most popular ones include Honeywell, FRIGIDAIRE, Shinco, Koldfront and LG.

Q: How to install & use?              

A: The installation of a portable ac for RV depends on the portable air conditioner type that you bought for your recreational vehicle. You might want to hire a professional installer if you don’t know how to install one yourself.

On the other hand, there are portable air conditioners that have a window kit and exhaust hose included. They also do not require extra tools for the job and have an easy installation manual. You can quickly install one in less than an hour. Generally, you should refer to the instruction manual for specific guidelines.

Q: How to maintain & care/ clean?

A: You can keep the optimal performance of your RV AC by routinely cleaning its interior. You should also replace and maintain its filters, inspect its condenser coils and ensure the hose is straight. Finally, you should refer to the specific user manual for care and maintenance instructions.

Q: Where to buy?              

A: You can buy the portable air conditioners in appliance stores or online marketplaces that include Amazon.com. It’s the largest marketplace for different AC brands and models at varying price points. Check out this online marketplace to choose a portable air conditioner for pop up camper, mobile home or recreational vehicle.

Conclusion

Choosing the best portable air conditioner for RV is less challenging if you have the idea and information of what to expect and how to choose an AC. We do hope that you’ve learned something from this guide to make a wise buying decision. Buy a portable air conditioner for your recreational vehicle today!

Arthur

Except when sleeping, Arthur cannot keep camping out his mind. He loves RVing that he spends most of his time in his recreational vehicle and on the road. Arthur knows that this might change once he got married to the love of his life, Amanda. But the two have no problem, as Amanda also loves camping. In fact, the both of them are excited to have kids that would also love RVing.