Running an air conditioner while boondocking has been the biggest challenge when RVing off-grid. Traditional air conditioners are loud and too inefficient for your average off-grid electrical system to handle. That’s where 12-volt inverter air conditioners come in.
12-volt inverter air conditioners use less power, run quietly, and work better when powered from batteries – perfect for off-grid camping. These high-efficiency inverter A/C units are now hitting the RV market making it possible to stay cool with just a moderately sized lithium battery bank and solar setup.
Inverter A/C Benefits
- Low energy consumption
- Variable speed compressor
- Minimal temperature fluctuation
- Inverter Controller adjusts compressor to maintain steady temperature
- Compressor ramps up and down to maintain temperature
- Compressor is barely running when maintaining temperature
- Does not need a power inverter to run
Installation Considerations
- Requires new DC Power Cables run to the A/C
- May require a battery system upgrade
- Roof mounted units need a 14″ x 14″ hole in the roof (fits standard vent openings)
CountryMod 12 Volt Roof Mounted Inverter Air Conditioner for RV, Van, Camper. This A/C uses less than 300 Watts to operate. Perfect for boondocking or full-timing. I installed this on my Class A motorhome.
Here’s what folks are saying:
Just finished installing and ran for 24 hours. Worked perfect. No more generator!! Keeps the camper a nice even temp and my solar panels keep up with the amp draw. ~UrbanWildland
Mine is installed now and with 103 degree outside it has been holding at 79 degrees inside and draws 50 amps which is great. In ECO mode at 95 degree outside temp, it was drawing only 27.1 Amps. Quiet and just more comfortable. ~Thomas
Here’s why they are a smart choice for your RV:
1. Uses Less Power
12-volt inverter A/Cs don’t waste energy. They adjust their speed based on how much cooling you need, so they use less power. This helps your batteries last longer, which is important if you rely on solar or have limited power.
2. How an Inverter Air Conditioner Works
An inverter air conditioner works differently than a regular A/C. Instead of just switching on and off, it uses a variable-speed compressor. This compressor speeds up or slows down based on how much cooling is needed, which saves energy and keeps the temperature steady. It also means the A/C can start up smoothly without a big power surge, which is great for running off batteries or solar.
2. Why 12-Volt DC Power is Important
12 Volt power can come from your lithium batteries, solar panels, or your vehicle’s alternator. Using a 12-volt air conditioner means you don’t have to rely on a heavy, noisy generator or always be plugged into shore power. It also reduces the need for a large power inverter to convert DC to AC, which saves energy and keeps your power system simpler.
3. Quieter Cooling
Inverter A/Cs are quieter than regular RV air conditioners. Instead of turning on and off loudly, they speed up and slow down smoothly, keeping the noise down so you can enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
4. Steady Temperature
Inverter air conditioners keep a steady temperature in your RV. They adjust quickly in response to changes in the temperature inside your RV. So you don’t get those big temperature swings from hot to cold like you do with older units.
Traditional non-inverter controlled A/C compressors have one speed. They turn on when the temperature exceeds the set temperature, and then off when the temperature drops below the set temperature.
In warmer conditions, the temperature rises quickly as soon as the A/C turns off. This causes a temperature fluctuation of a few degrees each time the air conditioner cycles.
The variable speed compressor and fan continues to run at a very low speed consuming minimal power instead of turning off when the set temperature is reached. As ambient temperature rises, the compressor ramps up to a higher level to maintain the desired temperature.
5. Easy Power Setup
12-volt inverter A/Cs don’t need a big generator or large power inverter. You can run them straight from your off-grid lithium battery bank and solar panels which makes them great for boondocking and full-time RVers.
More 120 Volt AC inverter capacity becomes available since the air conditioner is powered directly from the battery bank (or solar panels) and not by the inverter.
6. No Soft-Start Needed
Older, single-stage air conditioners use a lot of power when they first turn on. This means you often need a special soft-start device if you want to run them on batteries. Inverter units don’t have this problem. They start up gradually, which is easier on your power system.
7. Lasts Longer, Needs Less Fixing
Because these A/C units don’t have to turn on and off all the time, they last longer and break down less often. This means fewer repairs and more time enjoying your travels.
Affordable RV Inverter Air Conditioners Priced Under $1,000
If you want your RV to be cooler, quieter, and more energy-efficient, a 12-volt inverter air conditioner might be the way to go. Here are some popular RV Inverter Air Conditioners priced under $1,000:
- COUNTRYMOD 12V or 24V 10,000 BTU Low Profile Rooftop RV Air Conditioner – Easy installation for Vans, Campers and Motorhomes with thicker roof. Fits in standard 14″ x 14″ roof opening.
- OutEquipPro 12V 10,000 BTU Rooftop RV Air Conditioner (with optional Heater) – For camper vans and campers. Fits in standard 14″ x 14″ roof opening. Not compatible with motorhomes roofs with thicker insulation.