Does my RV Air Conditioner bring in outside air?

Today, I’m addressing some of your questions about RV air conditioning. Let’s dive into the first question from one of our viewers, RVing with Bandit.

Question 1: AC Fan Mode – Recirculating Air or Bringing in Outside Air?

Question: When I put my thermostat on fan-only mode and it kicks on the AC fan, is that just recirculating the air from inside the RV, or is it bringing in air from the outside? My new rig has a dual AC setup, and there’s no vent above the rear bed. I’d love to bring in cool air at night without running the AC unit.

Answer: Your AC unit in fan mode is recirculating the air inside your RV. Unlike car AC systems, RV AC units don’t have an option to bring in outside air. They only recirculate the air within the RV.

Here’s how you can bring in cool air at night:

1. Open the Windows: The simplest method is to open windows on opposite sides of your RV to create a cross breeze.
2. Use Exhaust Fans: Turn on your RV’s exhaust fans, like those in the bathroom or kitchen. These fans will pull air out of the RV, allowing fresh air to come in through the open windows.
3. Portable Fans: Place a portable fan near an open window to either blow air out, which will pull fresh air in through other openings, or blow air in directly, depending on your preference and the layout of your RV.

Remember, for effective ventilation, air needs a way to enter and exit your RV. Simply running the AC fan will only move the existing air inside your RV.

Soft Start Devices: Extending the Life of Your Compressor

Our next question comes from Larry Lofton.

Question 2: Do Soft Start Devices Extend the Life of the Compressor?

Question: What do you think about soft start devices? Do they extend the lifetime of the compressor, or can they harm the compressor? Which is better: permanent mounts or the pedestal plug-in style?

Answer: Soft start devices are designed to reduce the initial surge of power required to start your air conditioner’s compressor. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits and considerations:

1. Extending Compressor Life:
   • Theory: Soft start devices reduce the high inrush current needed to start the compressor. This lower, controlled start-up can potentially extend the life of the compressor by reducing stress on the internal components.
   • Practice: While there’s a theoretical benefit, real-world results can vary. However, many users report longer compressor life with soft start devices.
2. Permanent Mount vs. Pedestal Plug-In:
   • Permanent Mount: These are installed directly on the AC unit and are generally preferred. They provide a consistent and reliable way to manage the start-up process.
   • Pedestal Plug-In: These are easier to install but can cause issues with other appliances. They may create a brown-out effect, affecting other devices that rely on a stable power supply.
3. Brand Recommendations:
   • Micro-Air: This brand is highly recommended because they offer a solid warranty not only on the soft start device but also on your air conditioner if the AC is six years old or younger. They stand behind their product, ensuring both performance and reliability.

Conclusion

Understanding your RV’s AC and solar setups can significantly enhance your comfort and efficiency. Whether you’re optimizing air circulation or protecting your compressor with a soft start device, these insights should help you make informed decisions.