Best RV Air Conditioner With Heat Strip for All-Season Comfort
Answering the search for an RV air conditioner with a heat strip: these units provide cooling and electric heating in one install, ideal for flexible climates and shoulder-season travels. The top picks below are best for different RV sizes and power setups, from compact campers to larger trailers. Each option includes a heat strip or heat pump feature to ensure warmth on chilly mornings without relying on the vehicle’s furnace.
Buyer type overview:
– Small to mid-size RVs (up to about 20–24 ft): compact, quiet, and energy-efficient models with heat strips are ideal for off-grid or generator use.
– Mid-to-large RVs (24–36 ft): higher BTU units with dual cooling/heating options, better for warmer climates and extended stays.
– Off-grid or solar setups: models with low amp draw and efficient operation help conserve power while still delivering reliable cooling and heating.
| Product | BTU/Heating | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| FOGATTI RV Air Conditioner Non-Ducted 15000BTU with Heat Strip | 15000 BTU cooling; built-in heat strip | Smaller to mid-sized RVs needing quick cooling with winter warmth | Requires 115V AC and 12V DC power |
| FOGATTI RV Air Conditioner with Heat Strip 15000BTU Non-Ducted | 15000 BTU cooling; 15000 BTU heat strip | Vent-friendly, all-in-one unit for easy install in non-ducted setups | Includes heat strip for quick cabin heating |
| BZW RV Air Conditioner 15K BTU with Heat Strip | 15000 BTU cooling; 1500W heat strip | Rugged, non-ducted rooftop unit for campers up to 24 ft | Requires 115V AC and 12V DC power |
| FOGATTI Rooftop RV AC Unit with Heat Strip 15000 BTU | 15000 BTU cooling; 1500W heat strip | Non-ducted, easy install for many RV models | Includes air distribution components and InstaCool series |
| FOGATTI 18K BTU RV AC Unit with 1800W Heating | 18000 BTU cooling; 1800W heating | Larger RVs or hotter climates needing robust cooling and heating | WiFi, remote, and compatibility with ducted or non-ducted systems |
FOGATTI RV Air Conditioner Non-Ducted 15000BTU with Heat Strip
This unit delivers 15,000 BTU of cooling while incorporating a built-in heat strip for warming. It operates with both 115V AC and 12V DC power, making it suitable for RVs that depend on both shore power and a 12V system for fan and control functions. Best for smaller to mid-sized RVs where a quiet, space-saving rooftop unit is preferred. Cautious users should confirm electrical availability and roof cut-outs before installation.
FOGATTI RV Air Conditioner with Heat Strip 15000BTU Non-Ducted
Equipped with a 15,000 BTU cooling capacity and a heat strip for quick cabin warming, this all-in-one unit is designed for quick installations on non-ducted rooftops. It’s well suited for campers and fifth wheels seeking robust cooling plus warmth without separate heating equipment. Best for travelers who want fast climate control and a simple install, with attention to both AC and heat strip integration.
BZW RV Air Conditioner 15K BTU with Heat Strip
The BZW unit combines 15,000 BTU cooling with a built-in 1500W heat strip, designed for RVs up to 24 ft. It’s a rugged option with a non-ducted design, aiming at straightforward rooftop installation. Best for campers who want a balance of cooling and heating in one package, and who can follow provided installation steps. A potential limitation is the requirement for both 115V and 12V connections, which may affect electrical planning.
FOGATTI Rooftop RV AC Unit With Heat Strip 15000 BTU
This non-ducted unit offers 15,000 BTU cooling and a built-in 1500W heat strip, plus an air distribution box and thermostat kit for convenient temperature management. It fits standard rooftop openings and is designed for easy installation on many RV models. Best for owners who value included installation aids and reliable cooling with warmth on cool mornings. Limitation: check compatibility with your RV’s roof cut-out and ducting if applicable.
FOGATTI 18K BTU RV AC Unit With Heating
This higher-capacity model provides 18,000 BTU of cooling and 1800W of heating, suitable for larger RVs or hotter climates. It features WiFi and remote control, with compatibility for ducted or non-ducted configurations and a quiet operation profile. Best for larger travel setups requiring robust climate control. A limitation is higher power demand; ensure electrical capacity and installation space meet the unit’s needs.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Your RV AC With Heat Strip
What size RV should you target? Measure the interior space to estimate BTU requirements. Smaller RVs may be comfortable with 12,000–15,000 BTU units; larger rigs typically need 16,000–18,000 BTU models for effective cooling and heating.
Heat strip vs. heat pump: A built-in heat strip provides electric heating without relying on propane, ideal for shoulder seasons. A heat pump adds efficiency for mild weather but may be less effective in extreme cold unless paired with back-up heating.
Power and connections: Confirm availability of 115V AC shore power and a 12V DC supply, especially for non-ducted rooftop units. Off-grid setups should balance amp draw, solar capacity, and generator availability to avoid electrical strains.
Installation considerations: Check roof cut-out dimensions, weight, and whether your RV supports ducted or non-ducted configurations. Some units include air distribution boxes or thermostat kits for easier mounting.
Noise and comfort: Look for decibel ratings—lower dB means quieter operation, improving sleep quality on long trips. Consider dual-stage compressors or multi-fan designs for more even cooling and faster heating.
Durability and climate tolerance: UV-resistant housings and impact-resistant shells help units survive sun exposure and road conditions. ABS materials commonly provide durability at a reasonable weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do RV air conditioners with heat strips require more power? Yes, running heating adds electrical load. Plan for sufficient AC and DC capacity and consider backup power for peak use.
- Can I install a non-ducted unit without professional help? Some models are designed for easier DIY installation, but verify roof compatibility, seals, and electrical connections before proceeding.
- Is a heat strip as effective as a dedicated heater? A heat strip provides electric warmth suitable for mild cold; for very cold conditions, a dedicated furnace or heat pump may be more effective, depending on climate and power availability.
- What is the best BTU for my RV size? Smaller RVs often do well with 12,000–15,000 BTU; larger or hotter environments may require 16,000–18,000 BTU for reliable cooling and heating.
- Are heat-strip units compatible with ducted RV systems? Some units are designed for non-ducted installs, while others support both ducted and non-ducted configurations—check product specifications and OEM recommendations.
- Do these units support WiFi or remote control? Many newer Fogatti models include WiFi and remote control capabilities for convenient operation from inside or remotely via a smartphone.