Keep your cool. Summer has begun to heat up, and that means your RV’s AC will be put to the test. Can your unit handle the heavy workload? Will it operate effectively without causing a racket?
Consider how much noise your AC generates. If it drowns out your favorite TV shows or music channels, then maybe it’s time for a change. If you can’t carry on a conversation without yelling over the din, then you’re due for an upgrade.
Coleman Mach 10
That’s where the Coleman Mach 10 air conditioner enters the picture. The Quiet Series of the Coleman-Mach NDQ (Non-Ducted Quiet) and DQ (Ducted Quiet) rooftop air conditioners and heat pumps pack plenty of power without the irritating roar. Coleman Mach 10 ACs generate a whopping 13,500 Btus while drawing 10.4 amps of power (16 amps for heat pumps). All this at 80 pounds, giving you the cooling you want with the peace of mind and quiet that allows you to commune with nature. Isn’t that what RVing is all about?
Keeping Your AC Happy
As you hit the highway this summer, get the best possible performance from your AC. Take the following steps to keep those temperatures low and your power usage to a minimum.
Output Temperature. Your AC should operate at least 20 degrees below the incoming air. Get acquainted with your AC’s output temperature to know whether your system is working effectively.
Filter Cleaning. Air filters catch dust and airborne dirt from getting drawn into the cooling fins. Regularly clean your filters to ensure top operation. Check the owner’s manual for proper cleaning.
Shore Power Voltage Draw. Get a voltage monitor to ensure that the shore power voltage to your RV is sufficient. In extreme hot spells, electric overloads in the park can happen, causing a big drop in shore-power voltage. A shore-power voltage of anything at or below 102 VAC means air conditioning should not be used. If this is the case, turn off unnecessary appliances to ensure your AC is getting the juice it needs.
Desert camping / Photo: Eagle View RV Resort at Fort McDowell
AC Helpers
Supplement your AC’s cooling efforts with some common-sense steps.
Close blinds and curtains. Close all window coverings on the sunward side, and extend the awning(s) on that side to shade outside walls.
Go East. Position your RV in an easterly direction. In other words, face the end with the most glass toward the east. This will spare you from the worst effects of hot afternoon sun. Consult the park’s site maps before making a reservation.
Made in the Shade. This is a no brainer. Check to see if any spaces are protected from the sun by shade trees. Again, check with the park before you make your reservation.
Keep the Hot Air Out. Make sure your windows are closed while the AC is running. When you enter and exit, close the door behind you as quickly as you can.
Keep the Cooking Outside. Why generate unnecessary heat in your kitchen when you can enjoy a nice outdoor barbecue? Cook on an outdoor grill to help keep your RV interior cool.
Implement these tips to ensure that you keep your cool on the road.