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10 Best Portable Air Conditioner For Rv 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner With Heat & Built-in Dehumidifier 12,000 BTU, Portable Heater & AC For Rooms up to 550 Sq Ft - Remote Control & Window Mount Exhaust Kit Included

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,329
BTU Rating
Noise Level
Ventilation Requirements

Most important from
26807 reviews

BTU Rating
Easily cools large areas, with users praising its effectiveness even in high temperatures.
Noise Level
The SereneLife unit is much quieter than previous models, making it suitable for nighttime use.
Ventilation Requirements
Heavy-duty exhaust hose is a significant improvement over flimsy ones found in other units.
Additional Features
The unit's sleek appearance and oscillating air directors are appreciated for aesthetics and functionality.

The SereneLife Small Air Conditioner Portable 12,000 BTU is a versatile unit well-suited for an RV or other compact living spaces. With its cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU, this unit is capable of cooling rooms up to 550 sq ft, which should comfortably cover most RV interiors. The built-in dehumidifier is a valuable feature, aiding in reducing humidity levels and creating a more comfortable environment.

One of the standout aspects is the 4 operating modes, including cooling, heating, dehumidifier, and fan, making this unit useful year-round. The included remote control adds convenience, allowing users to adjust settings easily. Energy efficiency is solid with a SEER rating of 15, ensuring that it won't be a major drain on power, an important consideration for RV use. The noise level ranges from 56 to 59 dB, which is relatively quiet, making it suitable for use even during nighttime.

Size and portability are strong points, given its compact dimensions and rolling wheels, making it easy to move around. However, the unit weighs over 70 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some users. The ventilation requirement involves using a window mount exhaust kit, which is standard but does require installation effort. On the downside, while its cooling power is robust, the heating power matches the cooling at 12,000 BTU, which might not be sufficient for particularly cold environments. This unit is a great option for those seeking a portable, multi-functional air conditioner for their RV, though it might be slightly heavy to handle for some users.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,329
BTU Rating
Noise Level
Ventilation Requirements

Most important from
26807 reviews

BTU Rating
Easily cools large areas, with users praising its effectiveness even in high temperatures.
Noise Level
The SereneLife unit is much quieter than previous models, making it suitable for nighttime use.
Ventilation Requirements
Heavy-duty exhaust hose is a significant improvement over flimsy ones found in other units.
Additional Features
The unit's sleek appearance and oscillating air directors are appreciated for aesthetics and functionality.
#2

Dreo Portable Air Conditioners, 8,000 BTU Air Conditioner for Bedroom with Drainage-free Cooling, 45dB Quiet, APP/Voice/Remote, 24h Timer with Fan & Dehumidifier, Smart AC Unit for Room Indoors

Rating
8.5
BTU Rating
Noise Level
Size and Portability

Most important from
634 reviews

BTU Rating
This unit cools quickly and effectively, covering a generous area with impressive efficiency for its size.
Noise Level
Its quiet operation, comparable to a low conversation, makes it ideal for overnight use without disturbing sleep.
Size and Portability
The portable design with smooth caster wheels and an easy-to-install modular window kit enhances mobility and setup convenience.
Ventilation Requirements
The drainage-free system works as promised, eliminating the hassle of manual water removal, which is especially convenient in an RV setting.
Additional Features
Remote control, app integration, and voice command compatibility provide seamless, flexible ways to adjust settings from anywhere.

The Dreo 8,000 BTU portable air conditioner is a strong candidate for cooling small spaces like an RV or bedroom, offering effective cooling with a coverage area of about 150 square feet. Its 8,000 BTU rating means it can cool efficiently, and the included fan and dehumidifier modes add versatility. The unit operates quietly at 45 dB, which is roughly the sound level of a quiet conversation—great for overnight use or working without distraction. One standout feature is its true drainage-free system that automatically evaporates moisture, sparing you the hassle of manually draining water, which is a big plus in an RV setting where drainage can be tricky. The smart controls let you adjust settings via app, remote, or voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant, making it easy to customize the temperature and operation without fuss.

In terms of size, it weighs 55 pounds and has smooth caster wheels, which helps with moving it around, although it might still be on the heavier side for frequent repositioning in tight RV spaces. The included modular window kit fits various window types, but RV windows can be quite different from home windows, so installation might require some adaptation. While the product doesn’t explicitly list an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), the use of R-32 refrigerant points toward environmentally friendlier cooling. The unit’s noise isolation system further contributes to quiet operation, a feature often overlooked but valuable in confined RV interiors. The 115V power source means you need access to standard shore power or a suitable generator, which some RV setups might lack. Despite its compact height under 25 inches, the footprint may still take up a noticeable portion of limited RV floor space. This Dreo model blends solid cooling power, quiet running, and smart features, making it a convenient choice for RV users looking for a flexible, low-maintenance cooling solution, provided they can accommodate the size and power needs.

Rating
8.5
BTU Rating
Noise Level
Size and Portability

Most important from
634 reviews

BTU Rating
This unit cools quickly and effectively, covering a generous area with impressive efficiency for its size.
Noise Level
Its quiet operation, comparable to a low conversation, makes it ideal for overnight use without disturbing sleep.
Size and Portability
The portable design with smooth caster wheels and an easy-to-install modular window kit enhances mobility and setup convenience.
Ventilation Requirements
The drainage-free system works as promised, eliminating the hassle of manual water removal, which is especially convenient in an RV setting.
Additional Features
Remote control, app integration, and voice command compatibility provide seamless, flexible ways to adjust settings from anywhere.
#3

Midea Duo 14,000 BTU (12,000 BTU SACC) High Efficiency Inverter Ultra Quiet Portable Air Conditioner, with Heat up to 550 Sq. Ft., Works with Alexa/Google Assistant, with Remote Control & Window Kit

Rating
8.5
BTU Rating
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
6509 reviews

BTU Rating
The Midea Duo 14,000 BTU unit is phenomenally well made and incredibly well thought out, with every detail planned for and clear instructions.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy efficiency is a strong point, with users noting minimal increases in power bills compared to other units.
Noise Level
Despite its impressive performance, the unit can sometimes emit a high-pitched whine, though many users learn to tune it out.
Ventilation Requirements
Installation is straightforward with all necessary adapters and panels provided, making the process easier.
Additional Features
The app integration and remote control add convenience, with seamless setup and easy operation.

The Midea Duo 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner stands out for its high cooling capacity, making it suitable for spaces up to 550 sq. ft., which is ideal for larger RVs. The innovative hose-in-hose design ensures efficient air circulation, preventing hot air from entering the cooled space.

This unit uses inverter technology, offering significant energy savings (over 40% compared to federal standards), making it a highly efficient choice for those concerned with energy consumption. Its SEER rating of 12.3 further underscores its energy efficiency. Noise levels are impressively low at 42 decibels, which is quiet enough to not interrupt daily activities or sleep.

Additionally, the unit comes with smart features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling control via smartphone apps and voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, adding convenience for modern users. The included remote control and window kit simplify installation and operation. The unit is relatively large and might require ample space for placement within an RV. The ventilation setup, though effective, demands proper installation to function optimally. Despite its advanced features, it might be considered pricey compared to basic models without similar technology and smart capabilities. The Midea Duo offers a balance of powerful cooling, energy efficiency, and quiet operation, making it a strong candidate for tech-savvy users looking to efficiently cool their RVs with added smart functionalities.

Rating
8.5
BTU Rating
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
6509 reviews

BTU Rating
The Midea Duo 14,000 BTU unit is phenomenally well made and incredibly well thought out, with every detail planned for and clear instructions.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy efficiency is a strong point, with users noting minimal increases in power bills compared to other units.
Noise Level
Despite its impressive performance, the unit can sometimes emit a high-pitched whine, though many users learn to tune it out.
Ventilation Requirements
Installation is straightforward with all necessary adapters and panels provided, making the process easier.
Additional Features
The app integration and remote control add convenience, with seamless setup and easy operation.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Air Conditioner For Rv

Choosing the right portable air conditioner for your RV is crucial to ensure comfort during your travels. There are several key specifications to consider that will help you find the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will allow you to make an informed decision and enjoy a cool and pleasant environment inside your RV.
BTU RatingBTU stands for British Thermal Units and measures the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. This spec is important because it determines how effectively the unit can cool your RV. BTU ratings typically range from 5,000 to 15,000 for portable air conditioners. For smaller RVs, a lower BTU rating (around 5,000-8,000) may be sufficient, while larger RVs may require a higher BTU rating (10,000-15,000). To pick the right one, consider the size of your RV and the climate you will be traveling in. A higher BTU rating is better for hotter climates and larger spaces.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures the efficiency of the air conditioner. It is calculated by dividing the BTU rating by the power consumption in watts. A higher EER indicates a more efficient unit, which is important for saving energy and reducing operating costs. EER values typically range from 8 to 12. If you plan to use the air conditioner frequently, choosing a unit with a higher EER will be beneficial in the long run. Look for units with an EER of 10 or above for better efficiency.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates how loud the air conditioner will be when operating. This spec is important for ensuring a quiet and comfortable environment inside your RV. Noise levels for portable air conditioners usually range from 50 to 60 dB. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the air conditioner while sleeping, opt for a unit with a lower noise level (around 50 dB). For general use, a noise level of up to 60 dB may be acceptable.
Size and PortabilityThe size and portability of the air conditioner are crucial for fitting it into your RV and moving it around as needed. This spec includes the dimensions and weight of the unit. Smaller and lighter units are easier to handle and store, but may have lower cooling capacities. Consider the available space in your RV and how often you will need to move the unit. If space is limited, choose a compact and lightweight model. If you have more room and need higher cooling capacity, a larger unit may be suitable.
Ventilation RequirementsPortable air conditioners require proper ventilation to expel hot air outside the RV. This spec includes the type and length of the exhaust hose. Ventilation is important for the efficient operation of the unit. Most portable air conditioners come with a window kit for easy installation. Ensure that the exhaust hose is long enough to reach your window or vent. If your RV has limited ventilation options, look for units with flexible installation kits or shorter hoses.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of the air conditioner. These may include remote control, programmable timer, multiple fan speeds, and dehumidifier mode. These features are important for customizing the operation to suit your preferences. Consider which features are most important to you. For example, a remote control can be handy for adjusting settings from a distance, while a programmable timer can help save energy by automatically turning the unit on or off.

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