Thor Forums

[Chance]

Regardless of RV model, it's much easier to stay cool if you keep sun away from windows. We camp in Florida often (lived there and still have lots of family in Florida) and the principles are always the same.

Like Jamie, we also use a windshield cover (Adco) that makes a big difference, specially if motorhome or van is facing south. Parked facing north minimizes sun coming through windshield so we can keep the cover off longer.

In my opinion shades and curtains on the inside don't reduce a/c heat load as much as it appears. Once sun comes through glass most of the heat remains trapped inside the RV and adds to a/c load. Parking in shade, outside covers, and use of awning to keep sun away from windows can make a big difference.

A lot also depends on individual tolerance to heat. My wife and I are OK with 80*F (but prefer cooler) while others need it to be 70*F. And that affects the A/C's cooling capacity significantly. The warmer it gets inside the RV, the greater the A/C's capacity so it tends to level off (i.e. -- it'll keep up just at a higher inside temperature).