Living the van life can be an exciting adventure. However, between the joys of freedom and mobility, there is a unique challenge: maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature. Whether you’re at the beach or camping in the desert, an air conditioner can turn your boiling van into a cool oasis.
COMPARING THE BEST PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONERS FOR CAMPERS
THE IMPORTANCE OF COOLING FOR VANLIFE
Living the van life can be an exciting adventure. However, between the joys of freedom and mobility, there is a unique challenge: maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature. Whether you’re at the beach or camping in the desert, an air conditioner can turn your boiling van into a cool oasis. In this blog, we'll look at some of the best portable air conditioners for vanlife.
This guide will compare four of the best portable air conditioning units for camper van conversions: the IndelB OFF Plein-Aircon, EcoFlow Wave, Dometic RTX 2000, and Zero Breeze Mark 2.
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UNDERSTANDING AIR CONDITIONING FOR CAMPERS AND RVS
Basic Concepts and Terminology
Understanding the basics of air conditioning is essential for deciding which portable unit will work best for your van. The 5 key factors to consider when choosing air conditioning for your camper are cooling capacity, noise, power consumption, price, and maintainability. Read our comprehensive guide on how to pick the perfect AC to learn more.
When comparing portable air conditioners, it’s also worth considering other factors. This blog will also review the portability, ease of installation or deployment, and additional features such as dehumidification and remote control options.
STAY COOL WITH INDEL B OFF PLEIN-AIRCON
Introduction and Key Features
Indel B's OFF Plein-Aircon is a top product in the portable air conditioning industry. This roof-mounted AC uses a 12V Samsung compressor that cools effectively and quietly. The high-quality compressor ensures a consistent cooling experience.
With its built-in power supply, the unit can cool continuously, so you don't have to keep the engine running just for the AC. The Plein-Aircon also has a timer option, so you can set when the cooling starts and stops. It also includes a remote control for easy and convenient operation.
Cooling Capacity and Energy Efficiency
The IndelB OFF Plein-Aircon was designed to be universal. With a cooling output of 4100 BTU, it can quickly and reliably cool any small to medium van conversion or camper. It can even be used in RVs, but keep in mind that more space will take longer to cool down.
Of course, what makes the Plein-Aircon stand out is its unparalleled efficiency. With such a huge cooling output, the 12V compressor only consumes 16-42 A/h, depending on the usage. The built-in power supply can keep it running for up to 12 hours while you’re stationary, and you can power the AC practically for free when driving.
Noise Levels and User Experience
The Samsung 12V compressor in the Plein-Aircon operates nearly silently thanks to its patented cutting-edge design. This is especially important for a roof-mounted AC since you’ll likely have it on while trying to rest indoors.
Designed with simplicity and convenience in mind, installing the Plein-Aircon is completely hassle-free. Even though the installation manual and mounting bracket make the process very straightforward, we suggest consulting with a professional if this is your first time installing a rooftop AC.
TAKE THE CHILL WITH YOU WITH ECOFLOW WAVE
Introduction and Key Features
The EcoFlow Wave is a small portable AC unit with powerful cooling capabilities. With a cooling capacity of 4000 BTU, this innovative air conditioner is designed to provide fast and efficient cooling, especially for off-grid situations.
One of its standout features is its diverse range of ports, allowing you to charge the unit from 4 different sources. The Wave supports power from wall outlets, solar panels, car outlets, and EcoFlow portable power stations. This flexibility ensures that you can keep the EcoFlow Wave running no matter where you are.
Cooling Capacity and Energy Efficiency
The EcoFlow Wave can cool a 65 sq. ft. space by an impressive 9°F in just 8 minutes. This makes it an ideal air conditioner for campers, RVs, tents, and van conversions. Next time you embark on a summer camping trip, the EcoFlow Wave will ensure a comfortable environment even in the hottest weather.
The EcoFlow Wave consumes around 35-50A/h, but what it lacks in power efficiency, it makes up in power options. With so many charging options available, you can easily keep the Wave topped up at all times. And since it’s completely portable, you don’t need to worry about it draining your van battery.
Noise Levels and User Experience
Despite its impressive cooling capacity, the Wave remains lightweight, allowing for easy portability. The onboard and remote controls provide seamless control options, enabling you to adjust settings and monitor performance easily.
For those who want extended cooling without worrying about power limitations, the EcoFlow Wave is compatible with EcoFlow's portable power stations. By pairing it with a power station like the EcoFlow Delta Max or Delta Pro, you can enjoy an astounding 12 hours of runtime, keeping you cool throughout the day and night.
THE PERFECT ROOFTOP AC - DOMETIC RTX 2000
Introduction and Key Features
The Dometic RTX 2000 is a reliable, efficient, and compact cooling solution for vanlife. This portable air conditioning unit is designed specifically for motorhomes and provides maximum cooling comfort while requiring minimal power.
The Dometic RTX 2000 features a soft start function. This unique feature helps prevent power spikes upon start-up, while the slim and compact design ensures a non-intrusive installation. Finally, the four operating modes – Manual, Auto, Eco, and Boost give you full control over how you want the AC to work.
Cooling Capacity and Energy Efficiency
With a staggering 2,000W (6,800 BTU) of cooling, the Dometic RTX 2000 is in a different weight class compared to the Plein-Aircon or EcoFlow Wave. This makes it perfect for mobile homes, trucks, skoolies, and class A or C RVs. Although you could install it in a Sprinter conversion, that might be considered overkill.
Dometic prioritizes power efficiency in all of its product, and the RTX 2000 is no exception. Although it provides a huge cooling output, it consumes no more than the Plein-Aircon, at 19 - 40 A/h depending on the mode. This comes in handy when you’re living off grid, and want to power your AC from solar power.
Noise Levels and User Experience
Dometic nailed it with the usability of the RTX 2000. Designed to minimize noise and resist vibrations on the road, the Dometic AC has built-in dampeners. The user-friendlt control panel makes it easy to switch between modes and configure the cooling to your liking.
For those peaceful nights, you can turn on Sleep Mode to help conserve power while providing silent cooling.
THE BEST MINI AIR CONDITIONER – THE ZERO BREEZE MARK 2
Introduction and Key Features
The Zero Breeze Mark 2 is the smallest, most compact contender on our list. Popular among outdoor enthusiasts for its lightweight design (16lbs), the Mark 2 can be carried with one hand. This AC combines convenience, performance, and innovative features to enhance your outdoors experience.
The Zero Breeze Mark 2 features an ultra-compact compressor the size of a can of coke, and a dual hose system for enhanced cooling efficiency. Its battery powered design ensures effortless portability and lets you start cooling in under 5 minutes.
Cooling Capacity and Energy Efficiency
With a cooling capacity of 2300 BTU, the Zero Breeze is perfect for smaller van conversions, cars, truck cabins, and tents. The dual-hose design lets you get the most out of the compact compressor. Fresh outside air is drawn in by one hose, while hot air is exhausted by the other, maximising cooling efficiency.
Of course, the compact and portable build of the Zero Breeze Mark 2 makes it highly efficient, at only 15-20A/h. The Mark 2 is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery, and can run on one charge for up to 6 hours.
Noise Levels and User Experience
The engineers behind the Zero Breeze Mark 2 knew that it would be used in close proximity to people, so they paid extra attention to making it very quiet. At 52 Db(A), it’s about as loud as an electric fan, hair dryer, or a quiet street.
The user interface is user-friendly, offering easy-to-understand controls for adjusting temperature, fan speed, and mode. Its compact design and lightweight build allow for easy transport and installation, adding to the overall user experience.
COMPARISON OF THE FOUR HORSEMEN OF AIR CONDITIONING
The following comparison aims to provide a clear picture of four portable air conditioners' salient features: Indel B OFF Plein-Aircon, EcoFlow Wave, Dometic RTX 2000, and Zero Breeze Mark 2.
Features
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Best suited for
Energy Efficiency
Noise Level
Ease of installation
Price
4100
Most average-sized motorhomes
16-42 A/h
Nearly silent
Roof-mounted requires tools and manual
Sold out
4000
Most average-sized motorhomes
35-50 A/h
Quiet
No installation required, deploys in 2 minutes
Sold out
6800
Larger campers, RVs or hotter climates
19-40 A/h
Very Quiet
Roof-mounted requires tools and mounting bracket
Sold out
2300
Small to medium motorhomes
15-20 A/h
Quiet
No installation required, deploys in 5 minutes
Sold out