Do you feel like the air conditioning unit in your RV just isn’t getting the job done? Maybe you dread going to bed at night because you sweat so much in the summer. Before you think about buying another rig with two or three rooftop air conditioners, consider installing a mini-split AC for your RV. It may surprise you how much more efficiently these units operate. Let’s dive in.
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What Is a Mini Split AC?
A mini split AC is a ductless air conditioning system. The “split” part of the name indicates the system uses an indoor and an outdoor unit. This is the same type of system used on most homes and businesses, just a miniature version. Homes use one large AC unit for the whole house, where these are intended for point of use, usually one or two rooms.
Mini splits are efficient and convenient because they operate independently in whichever room you place them in. When installed in a sticks-and-bricks house, this means the living room and master bedroom could cool at different temperatures.
Overall many mini splits have efficiencies that are more than twice that of an RV air conditioner. This means a lot more cool for a lot less power!
➡ Looking for something even smaller? Take a look at the Smallest Portable Air Conditioners for Tight Spaces.
How Does a Mini Split Work?
You can install the indoor unit on the floor, wall, or ceiling. It includes an evaporator coil, an air handler, and a blower.
A suction line connects the indoor and outdoor pieces. The outdoor unit is a compressor, sending the refrigerant to the indoor unit. The water from condensation passes through the suction line to the outdoor unit to drain. This suction line only requires a small hole in the wall. You can also run the line out a window, depending on where you place the units.
Many of these units have an inverter that helps to regulate them. This means a mini split AC for an RV won’t cycle like a rooftop air conditioner. A rooftop unit turns on or off, whereas a mini-split AC unit will start at full force and then gradually cycle down. They don’t turn off but continue running and maintaining the set temperature.
Can You Put a Mini Split AC in an RV?
Yes! Many people have installed them including us.
You can install a mini-split AC in an RV but it will be a custom setup. You’ll want to make sure to choose a durable option that can withstand weathering and harsh elements. You’ll also want to keep the noise level in mind. Does it run quietly?
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to clean and replace your air conditioner filter if yours is not self-cleaning.
You can choose to put a mini-split AC on top of your RV or mount it to a wall. Because even a small unit can cool up to 500 sq ft, you won’t have to install anything too large.
Pay attention to the voltage as well. You’ll usually want to purchase a mini-split AC that operates on 110-120V because a higher voltage won’t work as well with solar power systems. A 220V unit can be installed on a 50 amp RV but will require more wiring and may not run on the inverter.
A standard mini split AC for RVs is 9,000 BTU, but if you frequently travel to warmer climates or have a larger RV, you may want to consider a 12,000 BTU unit.
Benefits
A mini-split AC is an energy-efficient choice for an RV. It can lower your power consumption and reduce propane usage if you also choose to get one with a heat pump. Heat pump versions have the capability to heat and cool. These units are more efficient at heating than traditional resistive heaters.
One major benefit of mini split AC’s is that they tend to be much quieter than a traditional rooftop AC unit. The indoor and outdoor units are usually variable speed and whisper-quiet compared to RV air conditioners.
You can use some models with solar panels, too. A mini-split AC for RVs also provides cleaner air quality because it doesn’t accumulate dirt and debris inside ducts.
Sometimes these units have a dehumidifying mode, which is a handy feature considering how prone RVs are to water damage. And because installation requires only a small hole, you won’t have to do a serious renovation to your space.
➡ Need more dehumidifying power than your AC can provide? Here are the 6 Best RV Dehumidifiers.
Also, because mini splits come in various sizes, you can choose a larger, 12,000 BTU model to cool your entire RV. Or you can choose a smaller, 6,000 BTU option to cool the bedroom only for a more comfortable night’s sleep.
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Drawbacks
If you’ve never done any kind of installation before, you may want to consult an expert or do your research before attempting to install a mini-split AC for your RV. You will need some know-how and a few basic tools. You may end up having to make modifications as well.
Additionally, it’s a two-person job. You’ll likely have difficulty installing the inside and outside units by yourself. Have someone carry the external unit to the outside of the RV while the other person installs the internal one.
Furthermore, finding the space to do the installation could also pose a challenge depending on the layout and size of your RV. Make sure you have enough space inside and outside for the return airflow, too. Many people choose to install the outside unit on the hitch or young of an RV if there is space.
A mini split AC will add weight to your RV. The internal section of a 12,000 BTU model weighs around 20 to 40 lbs, and the external part weighs about 65 to 100lbs.
It’s also an expensive addition. A 110-120V mini split AC for an RV will run about $750-850. A higher-quality unit from a bigger brand will cost $1,000. And if you hire someone to do the installation, that will add another few hundred bucks.
Can You Run a Mini Split AC on RV Solar?
You can run a mini split AC off your RV’s solar panels and batteries if you have a big enough system. You will need to know how much power you are using, just like you do for your refrigerator, microwave, and other appliances.
With almost 4000 watts we run a mini-split most of the summer and it works great. With a smaller amount of solar, your runtime will be limited, but it can be great to cool off the space just before sleeping or for shorter durations.
If you plan on running a mini split AC on solar power frequently, you may want to consider purchasing a unit with a lower BTU, like 6,000 instead of a 9,000 or 12,000 BTU model.
How Much Does a Mini Split AC Cost?
This varies from brand to brand and size to size. The higher the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), the more you’ll pay, too.
For example, the Pioneer 12,000 BTU Mini Split AC Heat Pump costs around $850.
- Save money all year-round with a highly efficient ductless mini...
- Ultra-silent and beautifully built perfect for home or light...
- Comes with every needed component in the box, including an...
While the Senville 9,000 BTU Mini Split AC Heat Pump costs around $700.
- ALEXA ENABLED: Use voice or app control to control your air...
- 4-IN-1 MINI SPLIT SYSTEM: With air conditioning, built-in heat...
- DESIGNED FOR HOME & BUSINESS: Powerful performance and dependable...
Of course, you’ll find more expensive options out there from big-name brands that offer higher cooling and heating capabilities.
Is a Mini Split AC Worth It for an RV?
If you have a 40 ft fifth wheel or Class A motorhome, a mini split AC might not cool the entire rig. But if you want to add an air conditioning unit to a smaller RV or single room, perhaps to a bedroom or bunkroom, consider getting a mini split AC for your RV.
Just make sure you know where the two units will go before making a purchase. You have to have space around the internal and external unit for the return airflow so you can’t stick the compressor piece in a storage bay without funneling the air outside.
If you do your homework, we think you’ll enjoy using a mini-split AC to cool your RV. The benefits of a quieter, higher energy efficiency unit are well worth the investment.
Window units are a popular air conditioner option used in residential homes. But do they work for RVs? Find out here: Can You Install a Window AC Unit in Your RV?
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Be aware that the ‘inside unit’ of mini splits come in other configurations than just the horizontal wall mount you usually see. There are low wall mounts and even ‘ceiling cassette’ models that can be recessed. You have to search a bit, but they are out there.
I have a 2020 Cass “C” MH i would love to change it to a Mini Spit, I hate the noisy roof unit
Do you need/have a soft start installed with your mini-split system?
No, most of the time mini splits are inverted and already soft starts.