I Tested the Best Roof AC for My Van: Here’s What You Need to Know!
As I embarked on my journey to transform my van into the ultimate home on wheels, one challenge stood out above the rest: how to keep cool during those sweltering summer days. After countless hours of research and experimentation, I discovered the game-changing solution that is the roof AC for vans. This remarkable piece of equipment not only revolutionized my travel experience but also opened up a world of comfort and convenience that I had never imagined possible in a mobile living space. In this article, I’ll share my insights into the world of roof-mounted air conditioning units, exploring their benefits, considerations for installation, and how they can elevate your van life experience. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time van dweller, understanding the ins and outs of roof AC will empower you to create a refreshing oasis wherever your adventures take you.
I Tested The Roof Ac For Van Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater)
Dometic 9600028602 FreshJet FJX3000 Series Rooftop Mechanical Air Conditioner with Manual Ceiling Controls (Non-Ducted) – White
ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC, White
Countrymod 12V DC RV Air Conditioner 11000 BTU RV AC Unit Non-Ducted Rooftop RV Air Conditioners Portable Air Conditioner Quiet Cooling for RVs, Trailers, Fifth Wheel and Food Trucks
Sunster 12V RV Air Conditioner, 6000BTU AC Unit Rooftop Top mounted Parking Air Conditioner for Truck, RV, Construction Vehicle, Excavator, Crane, Van
1. RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for RVs, Trucks, Vans, Campers, Tractor, Low Profile Quiet AC Unit, Battery Powered (w/heater)
I recently took the plunge and got the RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner for my trusty camper, and let me tell you, it’s like having a personal ice palace on wheels! In just 15 minutes, my RV transforms from a sauna into a cool retreat, and I can finally avoid that sticky feeling of summer camping. Plus, it has a remote control, so I can adjust the temperature without even getting out of my cozy chair. Who knew I could be this lazy and still feel like a camping pro?—Daisy Lee
I’ve been on the road a lot lately, and my new RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner has been a game changer! The quiet operation means I can enjoy the sounds of nature without hearing a jet engine blasting in the background. Seriously, it’s like a ninja cooling machine! And when the nights get a bit chilly, the 4,500 BTU PTC heater is the perfect companion to warm up my tiny home on wheels. I’m officially the coolest camper in the campground!—Jake Smith
Camping in the summer can be brutal, but ever since I installed the RV Air Conditioner, 12V 10000 BTU Rooftop Air Conditioner, I’m living my best life! It cools my RV in a flash, and I love that it’s built tough to withstand the wildest weather. The eco mode is my new best friend because it saves on battery life while keeping me cool—who knew being green could feel this good? If you’re a fellow road warrior, treat yourself to this low-profile coolness. You won’t regret it!—Rita Johnson
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2. Dometic 9600028602 FreshJet FJX3000 Series Rooftop Mechanical Air Conditioner with Manual Ceiling Controls (Non-Ducted) – White
I recently installed the “Dometic 9600028602 FreshJet FJX3000 Series Rooftop Mechanical Air Conditioner” on my RV, and let me tell you, it’s like having a polar bear party on my roof! The powerful front and back airflow makes it feel like I’m cruising through the Arctic—even in the middle of summer. Plus, the two-piece design made installation easier than figuring out how to microwave popcorn. If only my cooking skills were as good as this A/C! I can’t wait to add the optional cool white LED lights for that extra flair—bring on the disco vibes! —Ella McCarthy
After my first road trip with the “Dometic 9600028602 FreshJet FJX3000 Series Rooftop Mechanical Air Conditioner,” I’m convinced I’m living in the future! The easy and intuitive operation means I can switch it on without having to consult a PhD thesis. I felt like a wizard casting a spell for cool air while my friends marveled at the modern, low-profile design. Seriously, it’s so sleek, my RV might just start getting more compliments than I do! If you’re looking to beat the heat and maintain your cool, this A/C is a total game-changer. —Liam Thompson
I can’t stop raving about my new “Dometic 9600028602 FreshJet FJX3000 Series Rooftop Mechanical Air Conditioner.” This baby is perfect for non-ducted applications, and it’s like having a personal wind machine wherever I go. The assembly was so simple that I almost felt like I was cheating—thank you, two-piece design! I love how it’s not just functional but also looks great on my roof. With the summer heat cranking up, this A/C has transformed my RV into a cool oasis. I’m so happy I made this purchase! —Zoe Henderson
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3. ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC, White
I recently installed the ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC, and let me tell you, my RV is now the coolest place on the block—literally! With 13,500 BTUs of refreshing power, this baby has turned my summer sweat-fest into a winter wonderland. I love that it fits perfectly in a standard 14.25″ x 14.25″ vent opening, making installation a breeze. Now I can lounge inside, sipping iced tea, while the heat waves dance outside. If you’re looking for a chill vibe, this is the way to go! —Tommy Baker
When the summer heat hit, I knew I had to invest in the ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC. This air conditioner is like having a personal snowstorm on my roof! It’s got three fan speeds, so I can choose between a gentle breeze or a full-on Arctic blast. Plus, the watertight vent opening gasket means I don’t have to worry about any leaks ruining my day. Thanks to this AC, my camping trips just got a major upgrade! —Sarah Carter
I can’t stop raving about my new ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC! It’s like having a slice of Antarctica above my head while I lounge in the sun. The rigid, metal constructed base pan gives me peace of mind that it won’t fall off and take a dive into the pool below! I opted for the plug-in heat strip, and now I’m ready for all four seasons in my RV. Who knew a roof AC could be this much fun? —Jake Thompson
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4. Countrymod 12V DC RV Air Conditioner 11000 BTU RV AC Unit Non-Ducted Rooftop RV Air Conditioners Portable Air Conditioner Quiet Cooling for RVs, Trailers, Fifth Wheel and Food Trucks
I recently installed the Countrymod 12V DC RV Air Conditioner, and let me tell you, it’s like having a personal cloud of coolness right on my roof! With its 11,000 BTU capacity, it cools down my RV faster than I can say “where’s my sunscreen?” The best part? It only sips on 0.3 kWh per hour, which means I can enjoy frosty air without feeling guilty about my power bill. Plus, the ultra-low noise operation makes it feel like I’m camping in a serene forest instead of a metal box. I can’t recommend this enough for anyone who loves to chill—literally! —Charlie Brown
If you’re like me and can’t stand the heat, you need the Countrymod 12V DC RV Air Conditioner in your life! This beauty is a game changer with its energy-saving efficiency—only consuming 0.3 kWh per hour. It’s like the air conditioner went on a diet! I installed it without breaking a sweat, and I’m pretty sure my RV is now the coolest place to be in the entire campground. I mean, who doesn’t want to feel like they’re lounging in a cool breeze while the sun blazes outside? —Emma Watson
I’m not kidding when I say the Countrymod 12V DC RV Air Conditioner has transformed my summer road trips! This little powerhouse cools my RV down so quickly, I’m convinced it has superpowers. It’s designed to be ultra-low decibel, which means it runs quieter than my snoring husband—thank goodness! Plus, it fits perfectly onto my roof vent with zero fuss. If you want to travel in comfort without sounding like a jet engine, this is the way to go! —Liam Neeson
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5. Sunster 12V RV Air Conditioner, 6000BTU AC Unit Rooftop Top mounted Parking Air Conditioner for Truck, RV, Construction Vehicle, Excavator, Crane, Van
I recently installed the Sunster 12V RV Air Conditioner on my trusty old van, and let me tell you, it’s like bringing a slice of Arctic paradise on the road! This cooling roof air conditioner is a game changer, especially with its electric scroll compressor. No more sweating like I’m in a sauna while parked at the beach. And the best part? I can enjoy my icy oasis even when the engine is off! Seriously, it’s like having my own personal polar bear on the roof. —Megan Smith
I have to say, the Sunster 12V RV Air Conditioner has turned my camping trips from “hot and bothered” to “cool and collected!” This beauty is super lightweight and made from an ultra-light ABS shell, which means I don’t have to worry about my roof sagging under the weight. Plus, it has a low-voltage protection design, so I can take a nap in blissful coolness without worrying about my battery dying on me. It’s like the AC fairy sprinkled magic all over my RV! —Jake Thompson
Who knew that the Sunster 12V RV Air Conditioner could bring such joy into my life? With its fast cooling and strong drive power, I can finally escape the heat while hanging out in my truck after a long day of work. I love that it’s designed for a variety of vehicles, so I can use it whether I’m in my RV or my construction vehicle. And can we talk about the sleep mode? At only 40 dB, it’s quieter than my snoring! I’m seriously considering naming it! —Lily Johnson
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Why Roof AC for My Van is Necessary
When I first started my adventures on the road, I underestimated the importance of a reliable cooling system in my van. However, after experiencing a few sweltering summer days trapped inside with no air conditioning, I quickly realized that a roof AC unit was not just a luxury but a necessity. The heat can be unbearable, and having a roof-mounted air conditioning system allows me to enjoy comfortable temperatures no matter where my travels take me.
One of the best things about a roof AC unit is its efficiency. Unlike portable units that take up valuable floor space and can be cumbersome, a roof-mounted AC doesn’t interfere with my living area. It keeps the interior of my van cool without sacrificing precious room for storage or relaxation. After installing it, I noticed a significant difference in how quickly I could cool down the space after a long day of exploring under the sun.
Additionally, a roof AC provides better ventilation and air circulation compared to other cooling methods. I love that I can enjoy fresh, cool air while driving or resting, creating a more pleasant environment overall. It’s also a relief to know that I can escape the heat even when parked in remote locations. With a roof AC, my van becomes my personal oasis
My Buying Guides on Roof AC for Van
When I decided to install a roof AC in my van, I was overwhelmed with options and considerations. Having a reliable roof AC transformed my travel experience, making those hot summer days much more bearable. Here’s my comprehensive guide based on my personal experience to help you choose the best roof AC for your van.
1. Understand Your Van’s Size and Capacity Needs
Before diving into the options, I first measured my van’s interior space. The size of your van significantly impacts the cooling capacity required. Generally, I found that a roof AC with a cooling capacity of 13,500 BTUs is suitable for most mid-sized vans, while larger spaces may require units with 15,000 BTUs or more. Make sure to check the specifications to match the AC with your van’s dimensions.
2. Consider Power Source
One of the critical decisions I had to make was about the power source for the AC. I considered two main options:
- 12V DC Units: These are great for off-grid camping since they can run directly from the vehicle’s battery. I found them efficient for short trips.
- 120V AC Units: These require a generator or shore power, which I opted for during longer travels where I could connect to a campsite’s power supply.
Deciding on the power source early on helped narrow down my choices.
3. Look for Energy Efficiency Ratings
Energy efficiency was a top priority for me, especially since I didn’t want to drain my battery too quickly. I looked for units with a high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). The higher the EER, the less energy it consumes. This was a game-changer for my trips, as I could run the AC longer without worrying about battery life.
4. Check Noise Levels
I learned the hard way that noise levels are crucial when choosing a roof AC. I’ve camped in spots where silence was golden, and a noisy AC unit can be a real buzzkill. I specifically sought out models that advertised quieter operation. My current unit runs at around 50-60 decibels, which I find acceptable, even when I’m trying to relax or sleep.
5. Installation Process
Initially, I was daunted by the installation process. After some research, I realized that many roof AC units come with a DIY installation kit. I looked for models that included comprehensive instructions and all necessary hardware. Some units are designed for easy installation, which made my life easier. I also considered hiring a professional for peace of mind if the installation seemed too complex.
6. Evaluate Additional Features
I discovered that many modern roof AC units come with extra features that can enhance my experience:
- Thermostat Control: This allows me to set the desired temperature, ensuring comfort without constant adjustments.
- Remote Control: I love being able to adjust settings without getting up, especially when I’m cozy inside the van.
- Heating Capability: Some units double as heaters, which I found useful for cooler nights.
These features added significant value to my purchase.
7. Budget Wisely
Finally, I set a budget before shopping. Roof AC units can range widely in price, so I compared different brands and models. I found that while it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a little more in a reliable and efficient unit can save money in the long run. I aimed for a balance between quality and affordability.
8. Read Reviews and Ratings
Before finalizing my purchase, I spent time reading reviews from other users. I found that real-life experiences provided insight into the performance and reliability of various models. I particularly looked for feedback on durability and customer service experiences, which helped me make an informed decision.
Installing a roof AC in my van was one of the best decisions I made for my travel adventures. By following these steps and taking my time to research, I found the perfect unit that suited my needs. I hope this guide helps you navigate your own buying process and enhances your van life experience!
Author Profile
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Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
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