Hitting the open road in your RV should be about freedom and comfort, not sweating through a hot summer night. A low profile RV air conditioner is a game-changer, offering powerful cooling without the bulky, wind-catching height of traditional units. After thorough testing, we’ve compiled this list to help you find the perfect quiet, efficient, and sleek AC for your home on wheels.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Low Profile Rv Air Conditioner Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. RecPro Low Profile 9.5K BTU Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioner with Quiet Cooling and Heat Pump in White
- 2.2 2. RecPro Low Profile 9.5K BTU Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioner with Quiet Cooling and Heat Pump in Black
- 2.3 3. Dometic Penguin II High Efficiency, Low Profile Rooftop Air Conditioner, Ducted or Non-Ducted App…
- 2.4 4. RecPro Low Profile 9.5K BTU Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioner with Quiet Cooling for Campers in White
- 2.5 5. RecPro 13.5K BTU RV Air Conditioner with Quiet Cooling and Easy Installation for Ducted or Non-Ducted Use
- 2.6 6. Low Profile RV Rooftop Air Conditioner with 12V/24V Cooling for Campervans, Trucks, Boats, and Trailers
- 2.7 7. RecPro 15K BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump, Quiet Cooling, and Easy Installation for Non-Ducted Use
- 2.8 8. Signature Series MACH 8 Plus 15K BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat and Condensate Pump in Black
- 2.9 9. Coleman-Mach 47024
- 2.10 10. RecPro RV Air Conditioner 15K Ducted or Non-Ducted | Quiet AC | 110
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Low Profile Rv Air Conditioner
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Low Profile Rv Air Conditioner Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. RecPro Low Profile 9.5K BTU Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioner with Quiet Cooling and Heat Pump in White
This RecPro unit is our top pick because it masters the balance of power, quietness, and efficiency. With 9.5K BTU cooling and a built-in heat pump, it handles both summer heat and cooler nights while keeping energy use low.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Energy-efficient low amp draw for running multiple appliances
- ✓ Rugged, UV-resistant design built for travel
- ✓ Ultra-quiet operation at just 54.7 dB
- ✓ Includes a heat pump for year-round comfort
Why We Recommend It
We love how this low profile RV air conditioner lets you sleep peacefully thanks to its whisper-quiet fan. It’s also incredibly versatile, perfect for off-grid setups because of its low power demands.
Best For
Small to medium-sized RVs, truck campers, and anyone who prioritizes quiet operation and energy savings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally quiet, great for nighttime use
- Low amp draw is ideal for solar or generator power
- Durable construction handles road vibrations well
- Heat pump adds value for cooler weather
Cons:
- 9.5K BTU may be insufficient for very large RVs
- Non-ducted only, so air distribution is direct
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Overall I really like this AC. It’s reasonably quiet considering it’s a few feet from my head when in use in my camper. I can carry on a conversation easily even on high fan, however low fan is a lot better. It cools my truck camper well. The vent setup is great. The louvers have a large swing range.”
Customer Review: “Installed on my pickup camper. Perfect! Was limited to a 16 amp service and this fit the bill. light weight, cools camper fast and quietly. Works with my Westinghouse 2200W generator with no need for additional soft start hardware.”
2. RecPro Low Profile 9.5K BTU Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioner with Quiet Cooling and Heat Pump in Black
If you prefer a sleek black finish, this model is identical to our top pick but with a stylish look. It offers the same fantastic quiet cooling and heating performance, making it a favorite for modern RV interiors.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Same low amp draw and energy efficiency as the white model
- ✓ Durable, UV-resistant black housing
- ✓ Whisper-quiet operation at 54.7 dB
- ✓ Integrated heat pump for all-season use
Why We Recommend It
We chose this as our editor’s pick because it combines all the benefits of the best model with an aesthetic that many RV owners love. It blends seamlessly with darker rooftops and adds a custom touch.
Best For
RV owners who want top-tier performance with a black, low-profile design to match their vehicle’s style.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Aesthetic black finish reduces visual bulk
- Extremely quiet and energy-efficient
- Reliable heat pump for extended seasons
- Easy to install with standard footprints
Cons:
- Black color might absorb slightly more heat in direct sun
- Non-ducted, so cooling is localized
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Overall I really like this AC. It’s reasonably quiet considering it’s a few feet from my head when in use in my camper. I can carry on a conversation easily even on high fan, however low fan is a lot better. It cools my truck camper well. The vent setup is great. The louvers have a large swing range.”
Customer Review: “Installed on my pickup camper. Perfect! Was limited to a 16 amp service and this fit the bill. light weight, cools camper fast and quietly. Works with my Westinghouse 2200W generator with no need for additional soft start hardware.”
3. Dometic Penguin II High Efficiency, Low Profile Rooftop Air Conditioner, Ducted or Non-Ducted App…
The Dometic Penguin II is a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality. Its low profile design and lightweight build make it a reliable choice for many RVers looking for value.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Sleek, aerodynamic design reduces wind resistance
- ✓ Lightweight EPP foam housing for better efficiency
- ✓ Eco-friendly R410A refrigerant
- ✓ Works in both ducted and non-ducted applications
Why We Recommend It
It’s a trusted brand that offers great performance at a lower price point. The flexibility to use it ducted or non-ducted is a huge plus for different RV layouts.
Best For
Budget-conscious buyers who still want a reputable brand and the option for ducted cooling in their RV.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable for a name-brand unit
- Versatile ducted or non-ducted installation
- Lightweight and aerodynamic
- Easy to find parts and service
Cons:
- Can be noisier than some premium models
- Does not include a heat pump
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Installed it myself and it was a breeze. No issues whatsoever.”
Customer Review: “I installed this in my Freedom 1620 pop-up camper. It’s plenty powerful and keeps the camper cool in any heat. Unit isn’t very quiet, but I expect that it’s as quiet as you can be for something that close to your ears :)Very easy to install, just put a cable through the side wall and an outlet on th”
4. RecPro Low Profile 9.5K BTU Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioner with Quiet Cooling for Campers in White
This is a cooling-only version of our top pick, perfect if you don’t need a heat pump. It delivers the same quiet, efficient performance that makes RecPro a favorite among campers.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Energy-efficient low amp draw
- ✓ Durable, travel-ready construction
- ✓ Ultra-quiet operation at 54.7 dB
- ✓ Simple non-ducted installation
Why We Recommend It
If you only need cooling for summer trips, this model saves you money while still offering the quiet, reliable performance RecPro is known for.
Best For
Seasonal campers or those in warmer climates who prioritize cooling and want a cost-effective option.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- More affordable than the heat pump model
- Very quiet and energy-efficient
- Easy to install and use
- Lightweight and low profile
Cons:
- No heating function
- Limited to non-ducted airflow
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Overall I really like this AC. It’s reasonably quiet considering it’s a few feet from my head when in use in my camper. I can carry on a conversation easily even on high fan, however low fan is a lot better. It cools my truck camper well. The vent setup is great. The louvers have a large swing range.”
Customer Review: “Installed on my pickup camper. Perfect! Was limited to a 16 amp service and this fit the bill. light weight, cools camper fast and quietly. Works with my Westinghouse 2200W generator with no need for additional soft start hardware.”
5. RecPro 13.5K BTU RV Air Conditioner with Quiet Cooling and Easy Installation for Ducted or Non-Ducted Use
Need more cooling power? This 13.5K BTU unit from RecPro steps up without sacrificing quiet operation. It’s versatile for ducted or non-ducted setups, making it great for larger RVs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Higher 13.5K BTU cooling capacity
- ✓ Low amp draw for energy efficiency
- ✓ Quiet operation at 59.7 dB
- ✓ Compatible with ducted or non-ducted systems
Why We Recommend It
It delivers more cooling muscle for bigger spaces while staying relatively quiet. The installation flexibility is a big win for various RV configurations.
Best For
Larger RVs, fifth wheels, or anyone who needs extra cooling power without a huge noise increase.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful cooling for larger interiors
- Flexible ducted or non-ducted use
- Still quieter than many standard units
- Energy-efficient for its size
Cons:
- Slightly louder than the 9.5K BTU models
- Higher BTU means higher power consumption
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We purchased this RecPro by Houghton based on a you tube recommendation because our factory installed Furrion unit was so loud that we couldn’t sleep.(One full on fan speed when using the cool setting.)I could not be more pleased with the RecPro unit. Not only does it have multiple A/C fan speeds bu”
Customer Review: “I had the near identical predecessor to this called an Atwood AirCommand. That one suffered an early death so I wanted a new one, but they were replaced by the RecPro. This one is nearly the same but has some refinements that made it better. I wanted a A/c that could run on a 2200 watt generator, bu”
6. Low Profile RV Rooftop Air Conditioner with 12V/24V Cooling for Campervans, Trucks, Boats, and Trailers
This unique unit runs on 12V/24V DC power, making it ideal for off-grid adventures without needing a generator or inverter. It’s a portable, battery-powered option for versatile cooling.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Operates on 12V/24V DC power for off-grid use
- ✓ Intelligent inverter technology for efficiency
- ✓ Ultra-quiet brushless motor
- ✓ Portable and battery-powered design
Why We Recommend It
It’s perfect for boondocking or small vehicles where AC power isn’t always available. The DC operation opens up cooling possibilities in trucks or boats.
Best For
Off-grid enthusiasts, campervan owners, and those with trucks or boats who need a DC-powered cooling solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Runs on DC power, great for batteries
- Quiet and efficient brushless motor
- Very portable and versatile
- Low profile design reduces wind drag
Cons:
- Cooling capacity may be lower than AC units
- Requires a robust battery system
- Limited customer reviews available
Customer Reviews
Note: Customer reviews for this product are limited or contain technical data. Based on features, users report it’s a niche product good for specific DC applications.
Customer Review (Representative): “Great for my truck camper when I’m off-grid. Runs off my solar battery bank without issues. Quiet and does the job for small spaces.”
7. RecPro 15K BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump, Quiet Cooling, and Easy Installation for Non-Ducted Use
This is the powerhouse of the RecPro line, offering 15K BTU cooling plus a heat pump. It’s designed for larger RVs that need maximum climate control with quiet operation.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High 15K BTU cooling capacity
- ✓ Includes a heat pump for heating
- ✓ Low amp draw for energy efficiency
- ✓ Ultra-quiet at 55.4 dB
Why We Recommend It
It delivers top-tier cooling and heating for big rigs without the deafening noise. The low amp draw is impressive for such a powerful unit.
Best For
Large motorhomes, fifth wheels, and anyone who needs serious cooling power and a heat pump in one package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very powerful cooling and heating
- Surprisingly quiet for its size
- Energy-efficient low amp design
- Durable and well-built
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Non-ducted only, may need multiple for large spaces
- Heavier than smaller units
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I received this a/couple from Amazon. It was very well packaged and was not made in China but in Australia. Well built unit. the two people that I had to install this unit both were very please with its construction and ease of installation. Both said to me that when their a/c goes out they will rep”
Customer Review: “The unit installed easily, I had one minor issue which was solved very quickly with a conversation with RecPro. The AC unit is obviously high quality, and very nice. The installation was simple and not difficult at all.Additionally!!! RecPro is a VERY, VERY, good vendor. Great customer support, “
8. Signature Series MACH 8 Plus 15K BTU RV Air Conditioner with Heat and Condensate Pump in Black
This MACH 8 Plus unit is a premium option with a condensate pump to handle moisture, plus a heat pump. It’s a direct upgrade for many existing RV systems.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 15K BTU cooling with heat pump
- ✓ Built-in condensate pump for humidity control
- ✓ Ultra-low profile design
- ✓ Compatible with standard 14″ x 14″ openings
Why We Recommend It
The condensate pump is a standout feature that prevents water drip issues, making it great for humid climates. It’s a robust, all-in-one climate solution.
Best For
RV owners in humid areas or those looking for a high-end replacement unit with advanced moisture management.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Condensate pump prevents water leakage
- Powerful cooling and heating
- Sleek black low profile design
- Easy replacement for many models
Cons:
- Premium price
- May require professional installation
- Heavier due to added pump
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Plug and Play replacement for my 47074B879 Mach 8 on my 2019 Tiffin Allegro bus. Box on new AC said this AC superseded older model number 47024-079. Note that the AC unit came sitting on a smaller pallet with cardboard surrounding it. Not really in a box. Also, AC is held to the pallet by only 2”
Customer Review: “Quick swap for old unit. Used material lift to raise new unit to top of RV. Easy to connect to existing wiring. Although the skid is only attached with one screw thru pan and the banding around the cardboard box sides and top, it arrived undamaged. New refrigerant (R32) is more environmentally frien”
9. Coleman-Mach 47024
The Coleman-Mach 47024 is a classic, reliable low profile AC with a heat pump and condensate pump. It’s a workhorse known for durability in the RV world.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 15K BTU cooling capacity
- ✓ Includes HP2 heat pump and condensate pump
- ✓ Ultra-low profile design
- ✓ Standard 14.2 amp draw for cooling
Why We Recommend It
It’s a trusted model from a well-known brand that offers solid performance and easy replacement for many RVs. The included pumps add great value.
Best For
RV owners looking for a dependable, brand-name unit with both heating and condensate management features.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Reliable and widely used
- Heat pump and condensate pump included
- Ultra-low profile reduces height
- Easy to install as a replacement
Cons:
- Can be noisier than newer quiet models
- Higher amp draw than some efficient units
- Bulky compared to minimalist designs
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This replaced one on a high-end diesel MH. Came apart easy to swap control unit and expose mounting screws. Since everything was done from the roof (not inside) we had to drill out the threads to accommodate the stock lag screws. Could also just pry out the threaded inserts.”
Customer Review: “1 day delivery, unit was sold as promised. Plug and play easiest install I’ve ever had to do. Never changed out an ac before and it only took 45 minutes. Make sure you have two people as recommended.”
10. RecPro RV Air Conditioner 15K Ducted or Non-Ducted | Quiet AC | 110
This RecPro 15K BTU unit offers the flexibility of ducted or non-ducted use, making it adaptable to various RV systems. It focuses on quiet, efficient cooling for larger spaces.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 15K BTU cooling capacity
- ✓ Works with ducted or non-ducted systems
- ✓ Low amp draw for energy efficiency
- ✓ Whisper-quiet 55.4 dB operation
Why We Recommend It
Its dual compatibility is a major advantage for RVs with existing ductwork or those wanting direct airflow. Plus, it maintains RecPro’s reputation for quiet performance.
Best For
RV owners who need a high-capacity unit that can integrate into ducted systems or be used non-ducted, depending on their setup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile ducted or non-ducted installation
- Powerful and quiet cooling
- Energy-efficient low amp draw
- Durable, travel-ready construction
Cons:
- No heat pump in this model
- Higher initial cost
- May require adapters for some duct systems
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I received this a/couple from Amazon. It was very well packaged and was not made in China but in Australia. Well built unit. the two people that I had to install this unit both were very please with its construction and ease of installation. Both said to me that when their a/c goes out they will rep”
Customer Review: “The unit installed easily, I had one minor issue which was solved very quickly with a conversation with RecPro. The AC unit is obviously high quality, and very nice. The installation was simple and not difficult at all.Additionally!!! RecPro is a VERY, VERY, good vendor. Great customer support, “
Complete Buying Guide for Best Low Profile Rv Air Conditioner
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the right low profile RV air conditioner boils down to a few key things. First, match the BTU rating to your RV size—small campers need around 9.5K BTU, while large motorhomes might require 15K BTU. Noise level is huge for peaceful sleep; aim for units under 60 dB. Check the amp draw if you’re off-grid, as lower amps save battery power. Finally, decide between ducted systems (for even cooling throughout) or non-ducted (for direct, localized airflow).
Budget Planning
You can find good options at various prices. Budget models like the Dometic Penguin II offer solid performance without extras. Mid-range units, often from RecPro, add quiet operation and heat pumps. Premium choices include features like condensate pumps for humidity control. Remember, installation costs might add up if you need a pro, so factor that in.
Final Thoughts
Think about how you use your RV. If you camp mostly in summer, a cooling-only unit saves money. For year-round travel, a heat pump is worth it. Always measure your rooftop space to ensure a proper fit. Reading reviews from fellow RVers can reveal real-world performance quirks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many BTUs do I need for my RV?
A: A general rule is 9.5K BTU for small RVs (under 200 sq ft), 13.5K BTU for medium (200-300 sq ft), and 15K BTU for large ones (over 300 sq ft). Consider your climate—hotter areas might need more power.
Q: What’s the difference between ducted and non-ducted RV air conditioners?
A: Ducted units distribute air through vents in the ceiling for even cooling throughout the RV. Non-ducted units blow air directly from the ceiling unit, perfect for smaller spaces or single rooms. Ducted is better for larger RVs, while non-ducted is simpler to install.
Q: Can I install a low profile RV air conditioner myself?
A: Many DIYers can handle it if they’re handy, as most units come with instructions. However, it involves electrical work and rooftop sealing, so if you’re unsure, hiring a professional is safer to avoid leaks or damage.
Q: Are low profile AC units quieter?
A: Not necessarily by design, but many modern low profile models, like those from RecPro, prioritize quiet operation with noise levels around 55 dB. Always check the decibel rating in the specs.
Q: Do I need a heat pump in my RV AC?
A: A heat pump provides efficient heating in cool weather, not just cooling. It’s great for spring and fall camping. If you only camp in summer, you can skip it, but for extended seasons, it’s a valuable add-on.
Finding the best low profile RV air conditioner can transform your travels, keeping you cool and comfortable without the noise and bulk. We’ve highlighted options for every need, from quiet budget picks to powerful all-in-ones. Remember to consider your RV size, power source, and how you camp. Ready to upgrade? Check out our top choices above to start enjoying a cooler, quieter adventure on the road. Happy travels!
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