Forum Discussion

howardwheeler's avatar
howardwheeler
Explorer
Nov 23, 2016

Inverter compressors and mini splits for RVs

My limited experience with mini split ACs with inverter compressors lead me to believe they would be perfect for an RV--so perfect I can't understand why they're not being used. They draw much fewer amps, especially at startup, and are incredibly quieter. One condenser unit on the back or top of a trailer can power two or more inside evaporator and quietly keep the inside cool. Does anyone know why the technology is not being used in RVs?

8 Replies

  • C_Schomer's avatar
    C_Schomer
    Explorer
    Nov 24, 2016
    I've wondered the same thing. I've installed several mini splits and they work great. The seer would go way up and the noise would go way down if we could dump the usual RV POS ACs. Hopefully someday some mini split manufacture will see the need for one that's designed for an RV. Craig
  • theoldwizard1's avatar
    theoldwizard1
    Explorer II
    Nov 23, 2016
    road-runner wrote:
    Just guesses:

    1. Higher installation cost (more boxes + plumbing between the boxes).
    2. Not enough unit volume to pay for the required engineering.
    3. No critical need, since RV air conditioners are already available.

    In a similar vein, why do we still have the stone-age technology builtin generators instead of them having adopted inverter technology?


    #1 in both cases. Very little is any "required engineering" necessary for RV use if the basic construction is solid.
  • the_bear_II's avatar
    the_bear_II
    Explorer
    Nov 23, 2016
    Many of the RV manufacturers have begun using these units. Especially in the higher end and larger models.

    I've read many posts in several RV forums where folks have installed these units in their RV once the rooftop unit died.

    I would consider a switch to one of these if our A/C dies.
  • jharrell's avatar
    jharrell
    Explorer
    Nov 23, 2016
    road-runner wrote:


    In a similar vein, why do we still have the stone-age technology builtin generators instead of them having adopted inverter technology?


    Well the Onan Quiet Diesel 6000 and 8000 are inverter based which are used in smaller diesel motorhomes for what its worth.

    Wish my Onan 4000 gas was inverter based along with my roof A/C as well.
  • road-runner's avatar
    road-runner
    Explorer III
    Nov 23, 2016
    Just guesses:

    1. Higher installation cost (more boxes + plumbing between the boxes).
    2. Not enough unit volume to pay for the required engineering.
    3. No critical need, since RV air conditioners are already available.

    In a similar vein, why do we still have the stone-age technology builtin generators instead of them having adopted inverter technology?

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