Buyer’s Guide to Caravan Air Conditioners

Choosing the right caravan air conditioner is about matching cooling performance, energy efficiency, and installation constraints to the way you travel. This deep-dive covers everything you need to know — from understanding AC types and power systems to planning your inverter and battery bank, optimising solar, and keeping your system efficient for years of trouble-free touring.

Why a Caravan AC Matters

A good air conditioner does more than keep you cool — it reduces humidity, protects your interior from mould and heat damage, and keeps sleep comfortable on hot nights. In northern Australia, interior temperatures can climb above 40 °C; an undersized or inefficient AC will struggle to keep up, leading to uncomfortable and unsafe conditions.

Types of Caravan Air Conditioners

Rooftop units remain the most common solution because they deliver powerful cooling without taking up floor space. Slimline versions are designed for height-conscious travellers, reducing drag and making it easier to fit under storage sheds or low-clearance carports.

Under-bunk or split systems move the compressor outside the living space, reducing cabin noise and freeing up roof space for solar panels. They do, however, require more complex ducting and installation.

12V DC units offer flexibility for small campers or short bursts of cooling off-grid, but they consume a lot of current and are better suited for targeted or emergency use. Portable air conditioners are an entry-level option, but they take up living space and venting is less efficient — a compromise for travellers who only need occasional cooling.

Power Options & Electrical Considerations

Most caravan air conditioners run on 240V power, whether from a powered site, generator, or inverter. If you are installing an inverter, choose a pure sine wave model sized to handle both the continuous load and the compressor’s start-up surge, which can be 2–3 times the running watts. Hybrid setups allow you to run from mains power when available and switch to battery/inverter power when free camping.

Sizing: Match kW to Your Van

As a starting point, a van up to 5 m usually needs around 2.0–2.5 kW, while vans in the 6–7 m range are better served with 3.0–3.5 kW systems. Large vans, pop-tops with less insulation, or travellers frequenting tropical regions often benefit from 4.0 kW units. Consider interior volume, insulation level, and window area before committing — an undersized unit will run constantly, consuming more energy with less comfort.

Battery, Inverter & Generator Planning

Lithium batteries are ideal because they provide deeper discharge, faster recharge, and significant weight savings. Plan for enough capacity to cover your expected runtime per day plus inverter losses. A 2000–3000 W inverter is typical for running rooftop units, with sufficient surge headroom for startup. If you expect heavy AC use in remote areas, a small generator is worth carrying as a backup, especially during cloudy periods when solar input is limited.

Solar & Charging Strategies

Solar is the most sustainable way to replenish batteries, but output varies with weather, panel angle, and shade. For AC-heavy travel, 600–1000 W arrays are common. Pair solar with DC-DC charging from the alternator to keep up while driving. Smart charge controllers improve efficiency and protect battery health.

Installation & Noise Factors

Before installation, confirm your roof’s load rating and measure clearance carefully. Slimline units are excellent for height-sensitive setups but may move slightly less air. Noise ratings are worth checking — inverter-driven models tend to be quieter. Ensure ducting and return air paths are clear, and use quality seals to prevent leaks or heat loss.

Maintenance & Longevity

Clean filters regularly, check and clean condenser fins, and inspect roof seals every season to prevent leaks. Units that are serviced annually typically last longer and maintain better efficiency. When storing the van for long periods, cover rooftop units to protect them from UV exposure.

Operating Tips for Maximum Efficiency

Pre-cool your caravan in the morning or evening when outside temperatures are lower, close blinds and awnings to reduce heat load, and circulate air with fans to spread cooled air more evenly. Setting the thermostat around 24–26 °C strikes a good balance between comfort and power consumption.

Best Options by Scenario