Jun. 09, 2025
Imagine this: You're planning a road trip in your RV or truck. You've got your route mapped out, your snacks packed, and your playlist ready to go. But there's one thing you haven't figured out yet: what type of air conditioner to install. The choice often boils down to two main contenders: AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current) air conditioners. Each has its unique set of strengths and weaknesses. So, how do you choose? Let's dive in.
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AC air conditioners are the familiar faces in the crowd. They're the standard for most homes and businesses, and they've made their way into the world of mobile living. Here's what you need to know:
Gentle Start: AC units are the 'gentle giants' of the air conditioning world. They start up with less power, making them a good fit when power is at a premium.
Availability: AC units are everywhere. You can find a wide range of models and sizes, giving you plenty of options to choose from.
Thirsty for Power: AC units need a steady stream of AC power. In a vehicle, this means they'll need a constant supply from an inverter, which can drain your battery faster.
Energy Loss: AC units need to convert DC power from your vehicle's battery to AC power. This conversion can lead to energy loss, making them less efficient.
DC air conditioners for RVs are the new kids on the block. They run on direct current, the same type of power your vehicle's battery supplies. They're designed for vehicles and are gaining popularity for their efficiency and compatibility.
Energy Efficiency: DC air conditioners are the 'energy savers' of the air conditioning world. They run directly off your vehicle's DC power system, avoiding energy loss from power conversion.
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Steady Power Draw: Once they're up and running, DC air conditioners keep a low and steady power draw. This efficiency can help manage power consumption and prolong battery life.
Power-Hungry Start: DC air conditioners are like sprinters. They need a burst of energy at the start. This means you'll need a larger battery or a powerful generator to handle the initial power surge. But don't let this deter you. If you're planning to use your air conditioner for extended periods, especially overnight, you'll need a larger battery anyway. So, this higher starting current isn't so much a disadvantage as it is a consideration in the grand scheme of energy efficiency and power management.
No matter which air conditioner you choose, one factor remains constant: the need for a larger battery. If you plan to use your air conditioner for extended periods, especially overnight, a larger battery is a must. This is true for both AC and DC air conditioners.
In the grand scheme of things, the higher starting current of DC air conditioners becomes less of a concern when considering the overall energy efficiency and power management over time. While DC air conditioners do require a higher starting current, they are more energy-efficient in the long run. Therefore, the need for a larger battery is not a disadvantage but a requirement for the efficient operation of any air conditioner.
In conclusion, the choice between AC and DC air conditioners for RVs and trucks depends on various factors, including your power supply, energy efficiency needs, and budget. By understanding the pros and cons of each, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs. Remember, regardless of the type of air conditioner you choose, a larger battery is essential for its efficient operation.
Yes you're right. On shore the inverter will passthru the power to the rest while charging the batteries. It'll also let you limit AC shore input so you can use 15amps only. And will assist so if you're running on 15amp cord you can actually use the 15amps plus your inverter then it'll go back to charging the battery when done. Perfect for using microwave while AC is on.
If the inverter isn't inverting or charging when on shore it should be silent or almost silent. Itll just float and keep the batteries topped off while you can continue to use it.
I have the bigger Quattro and it's basically silent unless inverting or charging large loads, the fan spins up more/less depending on temps so sometimes it'll be quiet and other times you can hear it. It's not loud though. Quiet enough we actually put it next to my bed on my old coach. Ripped out the bedside table and put the rack batteries then inverter on top, Planned on framing around it but ended up just buying a new coach. It was loud for a couple hours when we pulled up to a CG then silent so as long as we didn't pull up to a CG and go right to bed it wasn't noticeable.
I don't think there's any major issue with large loads on the battery, it's pretty normal. You might have to adjust your alert settings so you don't get errors for DC ripple or high/low depending on how hard it affects it.
Not sure the DC amp draw of your AC unit and the DC charging amperage of the inverter but you should make sure it's more than the AC unit.
The question I always wonder is how much more efficient is DC ac units over AC? It seems they use a lot less power but typically they're smaller and more efficient units.
Picture this: it's a sweltering summer day. The kind where the sun beats down mercilessly. You're in your campervan, parked under the blazing sun with not a speck of shade in sight.
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