How to Fix Common RV Air Conditioner Problems: RV Troubleshooting 1
From not pulling power to not cooling down to tripping a breaker, there are a few common problems that go along with RV air conditioners. But with a better understanding of how your RV air conditioner operates, there are several simple troubleshooting solutions to remedy these issues and ways to maximize your appliance's efficiency.Let's take a look at a few common problems and troubleshooting solutions for your RV air conditioner.
Troubleshooting: Low (or No) AC or DC Power
An RV air conditioner uses two different types of power to operate. The thermostat and other controls operate on your 12-volt direct current (DC) battery. The RV A/C unit (fan and compressor) runs on 120-volt alternating current (AC) via shore power. If either of these is missing or improper, you'll have problems with the operation.
(1) Check battery voltage and other related issues like loose battery connections or corrosion.
(2) You'll want to make sure that you're not operating outside of your RV's power capabilities. Depending on your RV's amperage (either 30 or 50 amp) you'll have 3,600 watts or 12,000 watts of power, respectively, available for use. An RV air conditioner can consume upwards of 2,400 watts on start-up and then level out to around 1,500 watts as it continues to run. RVers can quickly exceed the available wattage by operating other appliances, like a microwave, electric water heater element, or refrigerator at the same time. Try turning one of the other appliances off and test the air conditioner again.
(3) Low voltage can cause an increase in amperage running through the air conditioner, which in turn causes the breaker to trip in the electrical panel. If you have a display panel inside your RV or an EMS (electrical management system) that shows an exact voltage reading coming into the RV, make sure that it's in the proper operating range as recommended by the air conditioner manufacturer. If you know how to use a multimeter, you can use one to get this voltage reading at the campground pedestal-the multimeter should be set to "Volts AC."
Troubleshooting: Warm Air Coming Out of the Ceiling Vents
Warm air from either the RV attic or the "return" air vent can mingle with cool air via leaks or gaps at areas in your RV, like the plenum or dam area. Airflow issues like frozen evaporator coils, dirty coils, dirty air filters, and improper fan speed can also cause warm air to come out of the ceiling vents.
(1) Periodically inspect the plenum or dam area of your RV by removing the overhead ceiling cover where the return air filter and/or controls are located. Use HVAC foil tape to seal off problem areas where the cool air supply might be mixing with warm air. Even the smallest holes can create problems. Or, call an RV technician to inspect all of the possible locations for leaks and gaps throughout the ductwork.
(2) Keep the fan speed set on high so that air moves properly across the evaporator coils and prevents them from icing over. Also, check, clean, and replace the return air filter as needed when in use.
Troubleshooting: Cycling On and Off
Your RV A/C unit might run properly but cycles on and off, also known as short cycling. Here's one possible cause:
(1) High humidity can cause the evaporator coils to freeze and impede airflow. Invest in a dehumidifier to use inside of your RV to assist with removing excess moisture in the air.
(2) If your overhead interior panel includes the air dump feature, keep it open instead of using ductwork or individual registers to regulate the temperature inside the RV. Keeping your unit working properly is all about maximum airflow.
