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10 Best Portable Air Conditioner For Rv 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

SereneLife Small Air Conditioner Portable 12,000 BTU with Built-in Dehumidifier + Heat - Portable AC unit for rooms up to 550 sq ft - Remote Control, Window Mount Exhaust Kit

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,442
BTU Rating
Noise Level
Ventilation Requirements

Most important from
20536 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 by1,442
BTU Rating
Noise Level
Ventilation Requirements

Most important from
20536 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, 12,000 BTU AC Unit for Bedroom with Drainage-free Cooling, 46dB Quiet, APP/Voice/Remote, 24h Timer with Fan & Dehumidifier, Smart Standing AC for Room Indoors, AC515S

Rating
10.0
BTU Rating
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
318 reviews

BTU Rating
This air conditioner provides actual functional cooling over a space, with a compressor that works great.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
High quality unit that keeps the temperature even without overcooling, making it worth the investment.
Noise Level
The unit is very quiet, even on high settings, making it ideal for confined spaces like an RV.
Ventilation Requirements
The installation kit is a standout feature, with panels and adhesive strips that seal off the exhaust frame effectively.
Additional Features
The ease of assembly and setup is impressive, and the app is user-friendly with great information display.

The Dreo Portable Air Conditioner boasts a substantial 12,000 BTU rating, making it powerful enough to cool spaces up to 300 square feet, which is ideal for an RV. Its energy efficiency is supported by the use of R-32 refrigerant. One of its notable advantages is the low noise level, operating at just 46 dB, ensuring minimal disturbance, which is particularly beneficial in the confined spaces of an RV.

The size is relatively compact with dimensions of 14.37 x 17.32 x 28.13 inches, and it includes handles and castors for easy portability. Ventilation is simplified with a universal window kit that fits various window types, making installation hassle-free. Additionally, the drainage-free cooling feature reduces maintenance efforts, especially in humid conditions below 85%.

The air conditioner also comes with multiple control options, including a remote, touchpad, app, and voice commands via Alexa and Google Assistant, enhancing convenience. It operates in three modes—cooling, dehumidifying, and fan—adding to its versatility. Despite this, it offers a 1-year warranty and robust customer support. This product is well-suited for RV owners looking for a powerful, quiet, and convenient cooling solution.

Rating
10.0
BTU Rating
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
318 reviews

BTU Rating
This air conditioner provides actual functional cooling over a space, with a compressor that works great.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
High quality unit that keeps the temperature even without overcooling, making it worth the investment.
Noise Level
The unit is very quiet, even on high settings, making it ideal for confined spaces like an RV.
Ventilation Requirements
The installation kit is a standout feature, with panels and adhesive strips that seal off the exhaust frame effectively.
Additional Features
The ease of assembly and setup is impressive, and the app is user-friendly with great information display.
#3

BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner up to 550 Sq. with Remote Control, White

Rating
10.0
BTU Rating
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
7002 reviews

BTU Rating
Effortlessly cools the room within minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
More efficient in both cooling and heating compared to previous machines owned.
Noise Level
Quieter operation compared to previous units, allowing for phone conversations even when the AC is running.
Ventilation Requirements
The hose attachment is significantly improved, providing a secure and reliable connection without the need for additional tape.

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner is an efficient cooling solution with a BTU rating of 12,000 ASHRAE (8,000 DOE), making it suitable for spaces up to 550 sq. ft. This is particularly useful for larger RVs, ensuring ample cooling during hot months. It features a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 5.8, which is on the lower side, indicating moderate energy efficiency; therefore, it might lead to higher energy consumption over prolonged use. A notable strength is its noise level of 52 dB, which is relatively quiet and conducive to a peaceful environment in an RV, especially during sleep or relaxation times.

In terms of portability, the unit's compact dimensions (13.8 x 17.1 x 28.1 inches) and a weight of 56.8 pounds, coupled with casters and side handles, make it easy to move around as needed. Ventilation is handled through an included window kit, ensuring straightforward installation and efficient air exhaust management. Additional features like the 'Follow Me' remote control provide convenience by allowing more precise temperature control, which further enhances comfort.

The unit's cooling power (3516 Watts) and capacity (0.8 liters) might be limiting factors for prolonged high-intensity usage. This air conditioner is user-friendly with its easy setup and multiple functionalities, including dehumidifying and fan modes. While it excels in cooling efficiency and portability, its energy efficiency could be a drawback for those conscious of power consumption. This unit is best suited for RV owners looking for a reliable, portable cooling solution with a quiet operation and added convenience features.

Rating
10.0
BTU Rating
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
7002 reviews

BTU Rating
Effortlessly cools the room within minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
More efficient in both cooling and heating compared to previous machines owned.
Noise Level
Quieter operation compared to previous units, allowing for phone conversations even when the AC is running.
Ventilation Requirements
The hose attachment is significantly improved, providing a secure and reliable connection without the need for additional tape.

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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