We’ve been living full-time in our RV since 2022, and it’s been an incredible adventure filled with unforgettable memories and valuable lessons. One of the most important things we’ve learned is the importance of regular maintenance, especially when it comes to our RV’s air conditioning system. At first, cleaning our RV AC seemed like a daunting task, but with a little research and some trial and error, we’ve discovered that it’s not as complicated as it seems. In fact, it’s a crucial step in ensuring that our home on wheels stays cool, comfortable, and healthy, no matter where our journey takes us.
Why Regular RV AC Cleaning is Essential for Full-Time RVers
As full-time RVers, we’ve learned that regular maintenance is key to keeping our home on wheels in top shape, and that includes our air conditioning system. When we first started our RV journey, we didn’t realize how important it was to clean our AC units regularly. However, after experiencing allergies and noticing a decrease in cooling efficiency, we quickly learned that neglecting this task can lead to a host of problems.
Cleaning your RV air conditioner isn’t just about maintaining its performance; it’s also about ensuring a healthy living environment. Over time, dirt, dust, and mold can accumulate in your AC unit, which can then be circulated throughout your RV when the system is running. By cleaning your AC regularly, you can remove these allergens and contaminants, promoting better indoor air quality and preventing respiratory issues. Plus, a well-maintained AC unit will work more efficiently, saving you money on energy costs and extending the lifespan of your system.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Your RV Air Conditioner’s Exterior
Cleaning the exterior of your RV air conditioner may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and a little know-how, it’s a task that any RVer can tackle. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Gather your supplies: a cordless drill or screwdriver, cleaning products (like Frost King ACF19 Foam Coil Cleaner and Nu-Calgon 417175 Evap Foam), a vacuum cleaner with attachments, shop rags or old towels, and a brush (often included with the cleaning products).
- Turn off the power to your RV to ensure your safety while working on the AC unit.
- Remove the plastic shroud covering the AC unit on your RV’s roof. This usually involves removing a few screws and lifting the shroud off.
- If your unit has a metal shroud, remove that as well, taking care to note how it’s positioned for reassembly.
- Cover the air filter and any exposed electronics with rags to prevent debris and cleaning solution from entering your RV.
- Using the brush attachment, gently scrub the condenser and evaporator coils to remove any built-up dirt and debris.
- Vacuum out the loosened debris from both sides of the unit.
- Apply the appropriate cleaning solution to each side of the unit, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Allow the solution to work its magic, then gently brush the coils again to remove any remaining grime.
- Wipe down the interior of the unit with a damp cloth, cleaning the fan and other components.
- Reassemble the metal shroud (if applicable) and plastic shroud, making sure everything is securely in place.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean your RV AC’s exterior, improving its efficiency and extending its lifespan.
Cleaning and Replacing Your RV AC’s Interior Filters
In addition to cleaning your RV AC’s exterior, it’s crucial to maintain the interior filters regularly. Most RV air conditioners have a filter that catches dust, dirt, and other airborne particles before they enter your living space. Over time, these filters can become clogged, reducing air flow and forcing your AC to work harder to cool your RV.
To keep your AC running smoothly and maintain good indoor air quality, we recommend checking your filters every three months or so. If they look dirty, it’s time to clean or replace them. While some RVs come with disposable filters, we prefer using reusable, washable filters like TikFoam RV AC Filters. These filters are more eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run, as you can simply rinse them off with water and let them dry before reinstalling them.
When cleaning or replacing your filters, be sure to consult your RV AC’s manual for specific instructions, as the process may vary slightly depending on the make and model of your unit. By staying on top of filter maintenance, you can ensure that your AC is working efficiently and effectively, keeping you comfortable on even the hottest days.
Improving Indoor Air Quality in Your RV: Tips and Tricks
Maintaining good indoor air quality is essential for your health and comfort, especially when living in the confined space of an RV. In addition to regular AC cleaning and filter maintenance, there are several other steps you can take to improve the air quality in your home on wheels:
- Use an air purifier: When we were experiencing allergy issues, we invested in a Filtrete Air Purifier, which helped remove allergens and other contaminants from the air. Running an air purifier in conjunction with your AC can make a big difference in your overall air quality.
- Ventilate your RV regularly: Whenever possible, open your windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate through your living space. This is especially important when cooking or using cleaning products that may emit fumes.
- Control humidity levels: High humidity can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can negatively impact your air quality. Use a dehumidifier or your AC’s “dry” setting to keep humidity levels in check.
- Clean frequently: Regular cleaning, including vacuuming, dusting, and mopping, can help remove allergens and other particles from your RV’s surfaces and prevent them from becoming airborne.
By implementing these tips alongside regular AC maintenance, you can create a healthier, more comfortable living environment in your RV.
Must-Have Products for Effective RV AC Cleaning and Maintenance
Having the right tools and products on hand can make RV AC cleaning and maintenance a breeze. Here are a few must-have items that we recommend:
- Frost King ACF19 Foam Coil Cleaner: This powerful cleaner is specifically designed for air conditioner coils, helping to remove dirt, grime, and other build-up.
- Nu-Calgon 417175 Evap Foam: Another excellent coil cleaner, this product is perfect for tackling the evaporator side of your AC unit.
- TikFoam Reusable, washable air filters: Investing in high-quality, washable filters can save you money in the long run and reduce waste.
- Filtrete Air Purifier: This compact air purifier is perfect for RVs, helping to remove allergens and improve overall air quality.
- A good cordless drill or screwdriver: Having a reliable power tool on hand makes removing and reinstalling your AC shroud a cinch
By keeping these products in your RV maintenance arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle AC cleaning and maintenance tasks, ensuring that your unit runs efficiently and effectively for years to come.
You can do this!
Cleaning your RV air conditioner may seem like a challenging task at first, but as you’ve seen, it’s a manageable process that can make a significant difference in your comfort and the longevity of your AC unit. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using the right tools and products, you can effectively clean your RV AC’s coils, filters, and other components, promoting better indoor air quality and ensuring that your system runs efficiently.
Remember, regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your RV AC and preventing costly repairs down the road. By incorporating these cleaning tasks into your RV maintenance routine, you’ll be able to enjoy a cool, comfortable living space on all your adventures.
We hope you’ve found this guide helpful and informative. If you have any questions or want to share your own experiences with RV AC maintenance, please feel free to leave a comment below. We’re always eager to learn from our readers and help in any way we can.
Thank you for joining us on this journey of RV maintenance and discovery. Keep exploring, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying the wonderful world of RV living
