Forum Discussion

mekkerl's avatar
mekkerl
Explorer
Feb 07, 2018

Second AC

I would like to purchase and install a second AC.
The front bedroom skylight is wired with power only.
I'd like the unit to be ducted into the current ducts.
My question is how to regulate the second AC...via a wall mounted thermostat (one that I can purchase with the AC unit). Or, figure out a way to make the current thermostat work with both AC units?

I have no idea how I would get a thermostat line from the new unit to the current thermostat.

Any ideas or has someone else done this before?

I really want to avoid going with a ductless unit.

Thank you!

5 Replies

  • In addition to the air conditioner, you'll also need to get the "ceiling assembly", which is that separate part that you see inside the camper. Some are made with the controls, thermostat, on-off switch right on them so no need for a thermostat on the wall. However, if you are in a 5er and the ceiling is high, you might not be able to reach the controls.

    Either way, you'll need to get the ceiling assembly too that matches the air conditioner you get, and the air conditioner will need to match your existing ducts. If push comes to shove, you can always run a wire outside your walls and cover it with trim, and then put a wall thermostat anywhere you want.
  • Yeah, there are two ducts already there and ready to use for the 2nd AC.
    I am only missing the control wires.
    The only place I did not check was within the duct-work which is sealed off with foil tape. 'Second Chance' mentions it could be there...I'll have to check when I get it out of storage in a few months!
    I'm hoping to buy the equipment soon to get a good deal before the RV season kicks prices up. So I need to decide which direction I should go, ducted or non ducted, and what type of control I want.
  • Check with your manufacturer or selling dealership. Many late model RVs are set up with ducting around the front skylight already - and the control wiring hidden behind the thin insulation used to block off the ducting when the skylight was installed. If that is the case, the manufacturer can also tell you where the control wiring is on a wall to fish it out for a thermostat.

    Rob
  • how are you going to hookup ducts to existing duct work? mighty awful tight space above the ceiling. i would be more concerned over that feet than a wall t-stat
  • Ivylog's avatar
    Ivylog
    Explorer III
    Staple the necessary phone cord across the ceiling and down to the Tstat that you glue to the wall. OK, no easy way to hide it if they did not include a control cord and where the other end is located. I would look at your current Tstat and IF it has a button labeled Zone (doubt it) then pull it off and see if there are two sets of control wires. Otherwise, suck it up and put in a non ducted unit. Instead of turning it off/on on the face of the new AC, turn it's breaker off if you cannot reach the controls.

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