Quote:
Originally Posted by DLM1965
We have a 31-foot Thor Quantum with 15,000 BTU A/C unit. We live in Peoria/Phoenix AZ where temps are outrageous. We headed north to higher elevation around Prescott. Temps are 100 range. But, the A/C just cannot keep pace. Any suggestions for increasing A/C capacity? Replace rooftop unit with larger one (would ducts handle it anyway)? Portable solutions?
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I have only seen roof-top A/Cs officially rated up to 15,000 BTU/hr, although one company advertises their's as equivalent to 18,00O. I'll remain skeptical on that "equivalent" capacity until I see a lot more data.
There are some basement-type (central) A/Cs that go up to at least 24,000 BTU/hr (2-tons) in one unit. Coleman makes one with two 13,500 compressors but it mounts under RV, not on roof. Obviously it's not something easy or practical to retrofit -- adding a second roof top A/C makes much more sense.
If reducing RV heat load isn't enough, adding a second roof-mounted A/C is probably the best long-term solution. Getting electrical power to it may be one of the greatest challenges because of your 30-Amp service. It can be done though by either upgrading electrical to 50-Amp service (more expensive) or running second dedicated extension cord to campground pedestal (cheaper approach). Your 4K generator likely won't be able to run both simultaneously.
Short-term I've seen RVers install portable A/Cs to help cool things down. That requires venting a large hose or two through a window plus running power to CG pedestal. In desert conditions like you are describing I'd be concern that a single-hose portable unit may not be as effective because make-up air drawn into RV would be so hot, adding to cooling needs.