How to Install an RV Roof Air Conditioner

by DoItYourself Staff

what you'll need

roof-mounted RV air conditioning,
115v 1 ceiling assembly
Panel mounts
Mounting bolts
Connecting wires
Drill
Wrenches
Screwdrivers
Sealant

RV’s are used to camp in the great outdoors but you still have some comforts from home so your not completely roughing it, such as adding a RV roof air conditioner. One of these luxuries is air conditioning. Maybe you bought a used RV that did not come with air conditioning or you have one that is broken. Whatever the case may be, installing an air conditioner into the roof vent opening will be simple. Chances are you have install other RV equipment so you should be able to do it yourself. If you do not have a knack for installing RV equipment then you may wish to that a professional do the work for you. Observe how he does it so you can be prepared when similar situations arrive.

Step 1: Turn off the Power

Unplug the unit. On the breaker box, flip the corresponding switch to cut the power. This will help to avoid electric shock while working on the air conditioning unit. Electric shock occurs when contact of the body comes into contact with any source of voltage. In 2001, 411 people died from electrocutions. Large appliances accounted for 19 percent of electrocution deaths and 11 percent were from installing household wiring. So take the precaution and turn off the breaker.

Step 2: Location

Determine the best location for your rooftop air conditioner. Pick a spot that is strong enough to support the AC unit. Nothing such as lights in the ceiling should obstruct it. You will need to leave 8 inches between the air conditioner and the edge of the roof.

Step 3: Cut

Now you will want to cut a square in the roof big enough to fit the connections between the ceiling portion of the air conditioning unit and the roof portion of the air conditioning unit. Measure it precisely. This needs to be a snug fit. Mark locations of where the mounting bolts will go as well.

Step 4: Mounting

Over the hole you made, mount the roof portion of the air conditioner. Secure the unit with mounting bolts at the locations you’ve marked. On the interior of the RV, install the bolts that hold the ceiling unit into place. Mount and secure the ceiling unit.

Step 5: Sealant

On the points of the roof where the air conditioner meets the metal apply sealant if you wish. This is for added stability.

Step 6: Wire It on Up

Wire up the ceiling unit to the proper locations. The wires should be coded by color. This allows you to match each one with the corresponding wire. For example, white to white, black to black and so on.

Step 7: Plug I Up

Plug the ceiling unit into the roof unit.

Step 8: Power It Up

Turn the power supply back on the air conditioner.

Step 9: Finishing Up

Turn the air conditioner on.