How to Remove and Install an RV A/C: The Best Guide

The ultimate manual for taking out and replacing an RV air conditioner is here. This guide will walk you through each step of safely removing and installing a new A/C unit in your recreational vehicle, whether you are an experienced RV owner or a novice. This manual covers all the information you require to complete the task effectively and efficiently, from tools and equipment to tips and tricks. So let’s jump in and get to work installing a brand-new air conditioning system to give your RV a new lease on life!

There will be less wind resistance on top of your RV or trailer if you remove the RV AC. It is heavier than you might think for an RV AC unit, so losing some of that weight can be pleasant as well.

The main room of your RV probably lacks a vent or skylight if it’s a few years old, like ours.

This applies to our 2013 Heartland Prowler. However, there was no way for good natural light to enter the main living/working area despite the fact that the room has many windows and a skylight.

There isn’t much light coming in because all of the windows are tinted. When we first spent the winter down south, we were really aware of how dark it was inside our travel trailer.

Even though removing and installing an RV air conditioner (A/C) can seem like a daunting task, with the right equipment and advice, you can complete it on your own. A step-by-step tutorial for removing and installing an RV air conditioner is provided here:

Step 1: Gather tools and materials

Screwdriver
Wrench set
Sealant
Caulk gun
Screws and nuts

Step 2: Turn off power to the A/C unit

To prevent any accidents, make sure the power to the A/C unit is turned off before beginning any work.

Step 3: Remove the old A/C unit

With a screwdriver or wrench, find the bolts or screws holding the A/C unit to the RV’s roof. Then, remove them.
Place the old air conditioner in a secure location after carefully lifting it off the roof.

Step 4: Clean the roof surface

Remove any debris, dirt, or old sealant by cleaning the area of the roof where the A/C unit was previously installed.
Make any necessary repairs after checking the roof surface for damage.

Step 5: Install the new A/C unit

Put the new A/C unit in place and fasten it with screws or nuts to the RV’s roof.
To make sure there is a tight seal between the roof and the air conditioning unit, apply a bead of sealant around the unit’s base.

Step 6: Connect the electrical wiring

Making sure that every connection is tight and secure, attach the electrical wiring to the new air conditioning unit.

Step 7: Test the A/C unit

Reconnect the A/C unit’s power and check to see if it is operating properly.

In conclusion, if you have the right tools and follow these instructions, removing and installing an RV A/C unit is not a difficult task. To ensure the A/C unit operates effectively and safely, take your time and double-check all connections and seals.

In actuality, there aren’t really that many steps involved in removing an AC unit, and it’s fairly simple. Before going up on top, let’s begin inside your rig.

To start things off, simply remove the air return grill, which should only be secured by a few clips or tabs. Of the total 6 screws you will be removing, this will reveal 4 of them. Place the grill aside and out of the way.

The two remaining screws can be accessed by popping out the two screw cover tabs that are present. The entire cover will come off once all six screws have been removed. Once those are out.

The following step entails taking out the four large bolts that hold the internal parts of the unit to the unit on top of your rig. These can be found in each corner of the metal mounting bracket that was made visible when the plastic covering was removed.

Take out all 4 of these screws using a ratchet and the proper socket. They are lengthy, I assure you. You’re about to perform a brief forearm pump.

Remove the metal housing now that the bolts have been released. My fit was fairly tight, so I carefully removed one side at a time. All that’s left are the electrical connections holding everything in place at this point.

I had to unplug two electrical connections from my appliance. On the outside of the unit, one bundle of wires is simply disconnected. Unclip it at this time.

There are two additional wires that are plugged in inside a covering after you disconnected that wire bundle. One screw holds this panel covering to the wall; once removed, you can access the wire clip inside. Disconnect the wires and remove the covering now.

Nothing is left to hold the bottom unit to the top once that wire bundle has been disconnected. Simply leave it hanging on the disconnected wires. Although there shouldn’t be a problem, it’s best to check that none of the wires are tangled up or compressed in a way that could compromise them.

Inside, you’re done. To finish the removal, let’s climb to the roof.

With screws on each side, the shroud covering the AC can be removed with ease. Take your time carefully lifting the cover off the unit’s base after removing each and every screw.

Along with the screws holding it in place, these typically fit somewhat tightly (causing friction). When it is turned off, place it on the ground. You don’t want it to be damaged by a wind gust that blows it off the roof.

Lift or pry up the AC unit’s edges gradually as you work your way around to the other side to finish the removal. If everything is a little bit stuck in place, doing this will help break the gasket free.

When everything starts to loosen up, you will be aware that you are getting close. It is time to either set it aside or completely remove it from the roof once you feel it is completely free.

Due to their weight and bulk, these units will probably need two people to lift them off the roof. Once you’ve successfully completed this step, store it away from the elements.

Installing An A/C In A Recreational Vehicle

The steps listed below must be carefully followed in order to install an RV A/C:

Select a suitable location for the air conditioning unit. The site must be able to support the weight of the appliance and provide access to the required electrical and ductwork connections.
Based on the RV’s dimensions and level of insulation, determine the size of the A/C unit you require.
A/C unit, mounting hardware, electrical wiring, and ductwork are just a few of the tools and materials that need to be gathered.
Install the mounting bracket for the A/C unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. To the structure of the RV, the bracket needs to be firmly fastened and leveled.
Put the A/C unit in place and use the included hardware to fasten it to the mounting bracket.
Run the A/C unit’s electrical wiring in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Connect the ductwork to the A/C unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Turn on the power to the A/C unit and test it to ensure it works properly.

It is important to remember that working with electrical equipment can be dangerous and should be done with care. Hiring a professional to do the job is best if you’re unsure about your abilities. It is also important to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific A/C unit and to check for any local codes or regulations that may apply. It’s also recommended to check for leaks or insulation issues before installing the A/C unit to prevent future problems. This will typically include a power supply and a thermostat control circuit.