Based on insights from Popular Mechanics by Timothy Dale
Why trust Kunes on this?
Kunes Auto & RV Group has been helping folks across the Midwest make the most of life on the road for years. With 40+ locations and a deep bench of service pros, they know what works in real RV life—especially when it comes to the one thing no camper wants to mess with: staying cool in summer heat.
Matt Lueneburg, Director of RV Operations at Kunes, summed it up like this:
“Your RV is basically a big metal box in the sun. A good A/C isn’t optional—it’s survival. The key is matching the unit to your space, power setup, and comfort level. Bigger isn’t always better, and quiet always wins.”
What makes a “good” RV A/C?
Popular Mechanics laid out a super helpful guide on what to look for when picking an RV air conditioner. Here's the breakdown, simplified with input from Kunes' experts:
| Key Factor | What It Means |
| BTUs | Cooling power. 13,500 BTUs for smaller campers, 15,000+ for big rigs. |
| Noise Level | Dual-fan units are typically quieter. Essential if you sleep light. |
| Energy Draw | Make sure your RV’s electrical system or generator can handle the load. |
| Profile Height | Low-profile = better fuel efficiency and less wind drag. |
| Brand Reliability | Stick to known brands like Dometic, Coleman, Furrion. Easier to service. |
Top Picks from Popular Mechanics (with Kunes' take)
Dometic Brisk II
- Available in 13.5K or 15K BTU versions
- Strong airflow, solid reliability
- Quiet enough for overnights
Coleman Mach 15 Plus
- 15,000 BTU cooling power
- Can come with a heat pump
- Built rugged for regular road warriors
Furrion Chill / Chill HE
- Ultra-quiet, dual-fan operation
- Compact and modern look
- Slightly higher efficiency than average
RecPro 15K
- Great for budget-conscious buyers
- Known for whisper-quiet performance (~60 dB)
- Reliable even without big-name branding
Dometic Penguin II
- Low-profile (just around 11 inches tall)
- Perfect for fuel savings and windy highways
- Available in multiple BTU options
Kunes Tips from Matt:
“Don’t just look at price or power. Look at where and how you travel. Full-timer? Prioritize durability and serviceability. Weekend warrior? Go for quieter, energy-efficient options. And always, always buy from a place that can help if something breaks. That’s why we offer parts and support through RV PandA.”
Summary: What to Look For
- Cooling Power: 13,500 BTU for small-to-mid RVs, 15,000+ BTU for bigger ones
- Noise Level: Quiet is worth it, especially for sleeping
- Power Use: Make sure your generator or hookup can handle the load
- Unit Size: Low-profile units help with fuel efficiency
- Reliable Brands: Stick with trusted names for parts and service access
Need Help Choosing?
If you're unsure which model fits your RV or travel lifestyle, reach out to your nearest Kunes RV dealership or browse rvpanda.com. The team is ready to help with advice, parts, and professional support every step of the way.
