Your RV’s air conditioner is one of the hardest-working appliances in your rig—especially during hot Texas summers or long full-time stays. Whether you’re parked lakeside or dry camping in the desert, proper RV A/C maintenance isn’t just about comfort—it’s about efficiency, reliability, and extending the life of your unit. In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical, DIY maintenance tips to keep your RV A/C running cool and efficiently all season long.
1. Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain your RV air conditioner is to regularly clean or replace the air filters. Dirty filters block airflow, force your unit to work harder, and reduce cooling performance.
How to Do It:
- Remove the return air cover.
- Pull out the filter and inspect it.
- If it’s reusable, wash it with mild soap and water. Let it dry completely before reinstalling.
- If it’s disposable, replace it with the appropriate size/type.
Tip: Check your filters at least once a month and replace them every 2-3 months during peak use.
🔗 Also read: Why Is My RV Air Conditioner Blowing Warm Air?
2. Keep the Coils Clean
Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate on your A/C’s evaporator and condenser coils, reducing their ability to absorb and release heat. This not only lowers efficiency but can also cause your system to freeze up.
How to Do It:
- Turn off power to the unit.
- Carefully remove the shroud covering the coils (typically on the roof).
- Use compressed air or a soft brush to clean off dust and buildup.
- Spray a coil cleaner if necessary and rinse gently.
Be cautious when cleaning—coil fins are delicate and easy to bend.
3. Inspect the Shroud and Vents
Your A/C shroud (the plastic cover on your roof unit) protects internal components from weather and debris. Cracks or missing sections can let in water or pests, while blocked roof vents can reduce airflow.
What to Look For:
- Cracks, warping, or signs of UV damage on the shroud.
- Debris or nests blocking rooftop air intakes.
- Loose vent screws or seals.
If the shroud is damaged, replace it promptly to prevent internal damage.
4. Check for Airflow Blockages
Efficient cooling depends on clear, unobstructed airflow. Blocked ducts, covered vents, or poorly designed interior layouts can prevent cool air from circulating properly.
Quick Checks:
- Ensure nothing is blocking the output vents or return air intake.
- Open all registers and check for obstructions in ductwork (especially if you have a ducted system).
- Confirm your thermostat is reading and controlling airflow correctly.
Need help with diagnostics? 👉 Schedule RV A/C service here.
5. Examine the Thermostat
A faulty thermostat can lead to incorrect cycling or poor temperature control, making your unit inefficient or unusable.
What to Do:
- Test by adjusting the temp setting and listening for the compressor/fan response.
- Replace batteries (if applicable).
- If the system doesn’t respond correctly, consider replacing the thermostat.
🔗 Related: Top RV A/C Problems and DIY Diagnostics
6. Use Shore Power or Generator Properly
Power fluctuations can damage your A/C unit. Make sure your power source is reliable and steady before running the system.
Tips:
- Use a surge protector and EMS (Electrical Management System).
- Avoid running high-draw appliances at the same time as the A/C.
- Check your power pedestal for voltage irregularities before plugging in.
🔗 Related: Power Problems or A/C Issue? How to Tell the Difference in Your RV
7. Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance
Even if you handle the basics, it’s smart to have a professional RV technician inspect and tune up your A/C annually. They’ll test for refrigerant levels, inspect capacitors, clean internal parts, and check for signs of wear that aren’t visible to the average RV owner.
Mobile RV A/C experts like JBRV can come to you, making seasonal maintenance easy and stress-free.
Need a Professional?
A little routine maintenance goes a long way toward preventing breakdowns and costly repairs. If you’re unsure about handling any of these steps or suspect a deeper issue, the team at JBRV Mobile RV Repair is just a call away. We offer on-site air conditioner inspections, tune-ups, and repairs across North Texas so you can stay cool and comfortable all season long.