Ductless mini split air conditioners with heat pump capability are becoming a more common solution to RV owners who want to improve their climate control.
These small systems are very efficient (usually 20+ SEER) and may operate on standard 110-115V or 220V power, and can suit many RV electrical systems. A mini split will make your motorhome or travel trailer comfortable during the hot summers and cold winters, and it will also run quieter and more efficiently than the conventional rooftop RV AC units.
Even better, most of the modern mini splits can be installed by the Do-It-Yourself RVers who do not need professional assistance.
We compare the best ductless mini splits and heat pumps that are suitable in living in an RV below.
RV Mini Split Comparison Chart
| Mini Split System | BTU (Cooling/Heating) | Voltage | SEER2 (Efficiency) | DIY Install | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pioneer WYS012A-20 | 12,000 / 12,000 | 115V (110-120V) | 19–20 SEER2 | Partial (vacuum needed) | Budget-friendly kit, reliable brand, quiet operation |
| MRCOOL DIY 4th Gen | 12,000 / 12,000 | 115V (110-120V) | 22 SEER2 | Yes (pre-charged) | Pre-charged quick-connect line set, Energy Star, WiFi-ready |
| Senville LETO Series | 12,000 / 12,000 | 115V (110-120V) | 20.8 SEER2 | Partial (vacuum needed) | Alexa-enabled smart control, heats down to 5 °F, quiet inverter |
| Klimaire DIY Mini Split | 12,000 / 12,000 | 115V (110-120V) | 19 SEER2 | Yes (pre-charged) | 25-ft pre-charged install kit, no vacuum needed, mobile app control |
| DELLA Motto Series | 9,000 / 9,500 | 115V (110-120V) | 19 SEER2 | Partial (vacuum needed) | Compact 0.75-ton unit, WiFi & Alexa built-in, pre-charged condenser |
| ROVSUN 12000 BTU | 12,000 / 12,000 | 115V (110-120V) | 21 SEER2 | Partial (vacuum needed) | Budget-friendly, R454B refrigerant, ultra-quiet 28 dB low fan |
#1 Pioneer WYS012A-20 12,000 BTU 115V Mini Split Heat Pump
Pioneer is a household name in mini split brands and has affordable 9k-12k BTU units in 110V and 220V.
This 12000 BTU, 115V is a common RV model that has enough cooling capacity to cover ~450-550 sq ft and an effective heating capacity in cooler conditions. The kit contains the indoor air handler that is mounted on the wall, the outdoor condenser, a 16-ft copper line set, and remote control. It can be self-installed by people with HVAC experience: they supply a complete kit, but you will need a vacuum pump and gauges to evacuate the lines before the pre-charge is released. Pioneer units are commended by many RVers as being very reliable and performing well after years of use. The indoor unit is quiet (low-30s dB), and the inverter compressor of the system is about 19-20 SEER2 efficiency, which draws low amps. The heat pump mode will give you warm comfort during shoulder seasons, but in the freezing weather, you will be using propane or other supplementary heat. On the whole, Pioneer has a tried and tested mini split that is reasonably priced and is suitable to be installed by the end user in an RV, and thousands of positive reviews to support it.
#2 MRCOOL DIY 4th Generation 12,000 BTU 115V
The MRCOOL DIY series is designed to be simple to install, and it is the best option among RV owners who want a real do-it-yourself mini split.
This is a 12k BTU, 115V unit that has a 25-ft pre-charged Quick Connect line set already in vacuum and charged with refrigerant. It implies that there is no need in special equipment or HVAC license, you just connect the fittings and open the valves. The kit provided by MRCOOL has all the necessary items: indoor air handler, outdoor condenser, lines, control wire, and even line-hide cover. The 4th Gen unit is ~22 SEER (approximately 22.5 SEER2) efficient, and has Energy Star rating. It has the capability to cool down to 500 sq ft, but it is also energy-efficient because it has a variable-speed inverter compressor. RVers like the smartphone app and the smart home (Alexa and Google Assistant via optional module) and the fact that the unit can heat down to the 5F-10F range. The air handler is narrow and silent and the outdoor unit can be installed on bumper or cargo tray. Although MRCOOL DIY products are slightly more expensive than low-end brands, they are extremely convenient to install yourself, and they are supported by a 7-year compressor warranty. In a case where an RV application requires a professional installation but it is difficult to get one, MRCOOL provides a perfect combination of performance and genuine DIY ease.
#3 Senville LETO Series 12,000 BTU 115V
Senville LETO Series takes home comfort technology into an RV-friendly form.
The mini split has a high 20.8 SEER2 efficiency, full heat pump capabilities, and 12,000 BTU, 110-120V. Senville units have a reputation of performing well in cold weather conditions – this model has the capacity to heat your home even when the outdoor temperatures fall to 5 o F. It is therefore appropriate to four-season RV living in most climates. It is WiFi compatible and is Alexa-enabled out of the box, so you can manage temperatures with voice or phone app (excellent when you are on the road or having a good time outside). The LETO has the indoor air handler, the outdoor condenser (pre-charged with environmentally-friendly R410A refrigerant), the installation kit, and a remote. With the right tools, it is possible to do it yourself; similar to Pioneer, the lines should be vacuumed and the refrigerant should be released. Senville 9k12k units have been fitted by a great many RV enthusiasts on travel trailers, and even run off solar – one user reports a 9000 BTU Senville drawing only ~500600 watts once up to temperature, which is quite inverter-generator and solar friendly. Senville mini splits have been commended in use due to its whisper-quiet indoor units and stable and efficient cooling. The Senville LETO 12k has a strong 5-year warranty and is frequently cheaper than even the high-end DIY brands, making it an excellent deal in terms of value to RVers who desire a year-round, dependable comfort.
#4 Klimaire DIY 12,000 BTU 19 SEER2 Mini Split
Another good do-it-yourself solution is the Klimaire DIY 12k BTU heat pump that is easy to install.
It also includes a 25-ft line set that is pre-charged and quick-connect fittings, just like MRCOOL, so you will not have to work with refrigerant or vacuum pumping when installing it. Klimaire sells the 115V (1 ton) system in a complete kit: the indoor head, the outdoor compressor unit, insulated copper lines, control wires, and even wall mounting bracket. It is a 19 SEER2 system that offers efficient cooling to rooms that are up to approximately 500 sq ft. According to the users, once it is connected and switched on, the commissioning process is easy, all one has to do is open the service valves to discharge the factory charge.
Klimaire DIY operates on the standard 15-amp RV circuits (max draw about 12A) and the inverter technology ensures low steady amp draw once the RV has reached the desired temperature.
It also has app controls, and is compatible with smart thermostats, which provide convenient remote control. This unit is very quiet (indoor unit 30 dB and below) and well built and can make an RV comfortable in the summer heat or winter cold. One thing to remember: like any DIY pre-charged kit, you cannot shorten the line set, you have to coil up the extra line in an out of sight place. All in all, the system offered by Klimaire allows confident DIYers to save on the installation expenses without compromising performance, and it is a wise 110V mini split solution to travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes.
#5 DELLA Motto Series 9,000 BTU 115V
The Della Motto 9k BTU mini split is a good option when you have a smaller RV or do not have much power.
It is a 0.75 ton, 115V system with a rating of -19 SEER2 and is promoted to cool 450 sq ft, so it is ideal to use in small travel trailers, camper vans, or in a particular area of a larger RV. The Della Motto has a lot of features despite its low cost: it has built-in WiFi with smart Alexa voice control, an efficient inverter compressor, and a year-round heat pump. The installation kit contains pre-charged condenser (including refrigerant up to ~16 ft of lines), indoor air handler, 16.4-ft line set and remote. By pre-charged, it is meant that the refrigerant is already in the outdoor unit, you will still have to vacuum the lines and then open the ports. RV owners who have fitted Della units complain that they are quiet and never fail to maintain set temperature, even in the humid climates. The indoor unit will not disrupt your sleep or relaxation since it makes less than 40 dB noise. The smaller 9k BTU capacity also equates to a smoother power consumption, most users can operate this unit with a 2000W generator or small solar-battery system without problems. The Della brand is now an Amazon favorite (usually labeled as Amazon Choice) and its mini splits have a solid 4+ star rating when it comes to providing good value. Della 9,000 BTU is one of the best mini splits that an RVer can get at a low price and still have a lot of features.
#6 ROVSUN 12,000 BTU 115V Ductless AC/Heat Pump
ROVSUN has a 12k BTU mini split that is affordable and gained popularity among the DIY installers and those into tiny homes and RVs.
This single zone 115V is an amazing 21 SEER2 cooling efficiency and has an installation kit with pre-charged condenser (R454B refrigerant) and 16-ft line set. It is basically a complete ductless heat pump with a small price tag compared to the large brands. The indoor air handler has several modes (cool, heat, dehumidify, fan, eco, sleep) and 4-way adjustable airflow to distribute the conditioned air in your RV. Another notable feature of the Rovsun is its ultra-quiet operation with the indoor unit operating at low fan speed at about 2830 dB and the outdoor compressor being reported by many users as being virtually whisper quiet too. This is why it is perfect in reducing noise at campgrounds. It offers good heating capability in moderate use during the winter (rated to ~5 F outdoor temperatures), but more expensive models may be more capable of dealing with deeper cold. Installation-wise, Rovsun comes with flare connections and refrigerant precharged in the outdoor unit, and you will still have to vacuum the lines; some skilled DIYers have installed it without professional assistance, saying that the instructions are clear. When operating, the 12k Rovsun is capable of cooling an RV living space (rated at ~550 sq ft) in a short period of time and then reduce to a few hundred watts to maintain temperature. Having the average rating of 4.2★ out of hundreds of buyers, this unit demonstrates that you do not need to spend a fortune to have efficient and quiet cooling and heating in your RV.
RV Mini Split Buying Guide
Installing a mini split system in an RV is a life-changer in terms of comfort, yet there are some crucial aspects to keep in mind before taking the plunge into this DIY adventure.
This purchasing guide highlights the major considerations to make when purchasing the most suitable mini split to use in your RV and install it in the most efficient manner.
Why Choose a Mini Split for Your RV?
- High Efficiency & Low Amp Draw: Mini splits have high SEER ratings, or they consume less electricity to provide the same amount of cooling as a traditional rooftop RV AC unit. The inverter technology accelerates or decelerates the compressor without the massive surge-ups. Most RVers discover that they are able to operate a mini split off a small generator or even solar+battery. As an example, a 9,000 BTU unit may only consume ~500-600W after the RV has been cooled, as compared to a typical RV AC which will consume 1,500-2,000W or more. This is a large advantage when you boondock, or intend to save on campground electric bills.
- Dual Cooling and Heating: Almost all mini splits are heat pumps which offer air conditioning and heating in one device. This cannot be overrated when it comes to living in an RV throughout the year. During the hot summer days, the rightly sized mini split will ensure your rig is cool enough. During cold seasons it may be used in reverse to warm the RV interior. Most models are capable of heating even in the freezing conditions, some high-end models can operate as low as -13 o F. This will save you a lot of money and fuel, especially when you are in spring/fall or mild winter weather, and you do not need to use propane furnace.
- Less Noisy: Mini splits are amazingly silent. The noisy compressor is situated outside the living area (in the outdoor unit) and the indoor fan unit is a lot quieter than an average rooftop AC or portable one. The sound level indoors is often 25-40 dB, which is a real whisper when compared to the roar of a rooftop unit. There is no longer shouting at the AC or being rudely awakened when it turns on at night.
- Better Comfort: Due to the way they operate, mini splits do not experience the brute on/off cycling of other air conditioners. They are able to maintain the temperature at a small range. The airflow is gentle and dehumidification makes the environment more comfortable (no hot and cold swings anymore). And, you have the ability to position the air handler to best distribute the air, e.g. facing the living space, instead of a stationary rooftop vent.
Power Considerations: 110V vs 220V
The electricity systems of RVs may differ, thus the selection of the appropriate voltage mini split is essential.
Smaller models (9k-12k BTU) tend to operate on 110-120V and can be plugged into the standard RV outlet or hard-wired into the RV 120V breaker panel. All the above reviewed products are 115V products, and they are both compatible with 30-amp RVs and 50-amp RVs. With a bigger RV that has 50-amp service, you technically have two 120V legs that can be used together to make 240V so in that case you could get a higher BTU 230V mini split (such as a 18k or 24k BTU unit) in case you need the extra capacity. Remember:
- 115V/120V Units: These can only be about 12,000 BTU (1 ton) in cooling capacity due to the amperage on a 15A or 20A circuit. They are ideal in the majority of RV applications of up to ~30 feet or medium sized fifth wheels. Electrically it is easier to install as you tap into a current AC circuit or breaker. The only thing is to make sure that the circuit will support the load (a 12k BTU unit pulls about 10-12A at full blast). A lot of RVers replace a rooftop AC (typically on a 20A breaker) with a mini split on the same breaker.
- 208/230V Units: These are used when a larger BTU requirement (18k, 24k BTU) is required or in specialty models. In an RV it will need to be connected to the 240V supply (present in a 50-amp RV panel) or a step-up transformer of 120V. It is more complicated and is not normally needed unless you are cooling a very large bus conversion, or several rooms. The benefit of 230V is that a lower current is drawn per leg e.g. an 18k BTU 230V unit may draw ~8A on each hot leg, balancing the load.
Overall, a 110V unit is desirable in most cases, with trailers and motorhomes.
It will operate on off shore power, generators or inverters without any special arrangements. 220V is only a consideration when your RV and application really requires more BTU system than 12k (and that is unusual). Also keep in mind that running any AC off-grid long term requires sizing your solar and battery bank to that requirement, high SEER mini splits are very useful there, as they reduce the average wattage required to run the unit, but you still want a strong power system to run your AC off-grid.
Sizing BTU: How Much Do You Need?
The selection of BTU capacity should be done to guarantee effective cooling and heating. A unit that is too small will not be able to cope with extreme temperatures and a unit that is too large may short-cycle or waste power.
These are some RV guidelines:
- 9,000 BTU (3/4 Ton): Small trailers, class B camper vans, teardrops or one room/zone of a larger RV. A 9k can frequently take care of your RV as long as it is less than ~25 feet or very well insulated, and even then only in the hottest of weather. It is also perfect when you intend to cool a particular room (e.g. living room) and seal the others.
- 12,000 BTU (1 Ton): This is the most popular option and has the capability of cooling most travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes that are 25 35 feet. Depending on the insulation, a 12k unit (and in particular, an efficient inverter model) can generally hold 75F even when the outside temperature is 95-100F. It is also powerful enough to warm up during winter to the lower limits of the unit. To most full-time RVers, 12k is the golden power and efficiency level.
- 18,000+ BTU (1.5 Ton+): Be careful in RVs. A mini split 18k may be an option on very large bus conversions, toy haulers with a loft, or when you want to duct one unit into several rooms. However, remember the power requirements (probably 230V) and that the physical size of the air handlers and condensers also go up with BTUs. In many cases, it is preferable to have two smaller units in various zones rather than a single oversized unit.
Climate and usage are also to be considered. You can do with a smaller BTU in case you are only going to be RVing in mild climates.
When you camp regularly in the Deep South or Southwest during summer, go to the large side of capacity. In heating, a bigger BTU heat pump will obviously give out more heat but again, it is the insulation and the size of the RV that is most important. Don t overlook the slide-outs (which leak more air) and large windows which absorb heat – this translates to you requiring a little more cooling capacity. In the case of uncertainty, 12k BTU is a reasonable all-purpose option on medium to large RVs, and you can add a fan or reflective window shades on the hottest days as required.
Installation Considerations
Installing a mini split in an RV is not the same thing as in a home.
You need to be innovative in positioning and make sure that all is safe to travel. These are some of the important installation tips:
- Outdoor Unit Mounting: The condenser (outdoor unit) should be screwed to the structure of your RV. Typical methods are a cargo rack mounted on the bumper or a custom welded bracket mounted on the rear bumper/frame, or mounted on the tongue A-frame of a travel trailer. They can be wall-mounted directly on the rear wall of the RV (with metal backing plates on the inside to bolt through), but it has been found that it can transmit vibration to the interior. A bumper or A-frame mount that has vibration isolators tends to be quieter. Ensure that the unit has a little airflow clearance, say a few inches away from the RV wall, and is elevated high enough to clear the road. Install steel brackets that are rated to the weight (a 12k unit can weigh 60-70 lbs). It is advisable to use stainless hardware to last long.
- Indoor Unit Location: The evaporator (indoor air handler) is usually mounted on a wall high up in the air, and it can blow air across your RV. Typical places are on the rear wall of the RV, or inside wall, in case of a fifth wheel or motorhome (such as over the rear couch or in a mid-cabin). Be sure that you have a clear space on the other side of the wall to run lines. And also ensure that when installed the indoor unit is not blowing in your sleeping or sitting place (to avoid drafts). It ought to be a little bit central. Remember you will have to run the refrigerant lines, drain hose and the power cable between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, the shorter the better and the more efficient.
- Routing Lines and Wiring: Design the copper lines, condensate drain and control/power wiring. Most of the installs pass through the floor or wall behind the indoor unit, then under the RV and to the condenser. Cut a good size pass through (usually 3-4″ diameter to accommodate everything) with a hole saw. After installation, seal that hole with grommet or expanding foam to prevent water and pests. The refrigerant lines are to be insulated (comes in the kit) and guarded where they pass under the chassis – split loom or conduit can guard against abrasion. Avoid sharp bends on the copper tubing. The drain line must have a downward slope; most people just leave it to drip out, or you can tee it to your current RV drain system.
- Electrical Hookup: To be safe, put a disconnect switch close to the outdoor unit (some kits come with one). The mini split is preferably to have a dedicated circuit breaker. In case you are replacing a rooftop AC, you may wire the mini split to the same circuit. Otherwise you could run new 12/2 or 10/2 gauge wire to the breaker box on your RV to supply the unit (check the manual for amp requirements). Everything must be well connected, crimp connectors or wire nuts with strain relief must be used at any connection point. You should consider having an electrician check your work over again in case you are not 100 percent sure of AC wiring.
- DIY or Pro: The installation of a mini split in RV is a complex DIY project. It is carpentry (mounting and drilling holes), plumbing (line sets) and electrical. In case you choose a DIY installation, the pre-charged kits (such as MRCOOL, Klimaire) make one major step easier, since you do not require HVAC tools to charge the system. When you choose a normal unit such as Pioneer/Senville, you will have to borrow/rent a vacuum pump or pay an HVAC technician to vacuum and release the refrigerant. Not all techs will be willing to work on an RV system, but there is usually a mobile HVAC tech or an auto A/C specialist who will assist you when necessary. You can save 1000+ labour by installing it yourself but you must be truthful about your ability and get assistance on any aspect you are not sure of, especially electrical which has to be done properly to prevent a fire risk.
Maintenance and Usage Tips
- Travel Security: Before you go out on the road, make sure the outdoor unit is well bolted down and can not move. It must be wobble free. To give them additional support during travel, some individuals attach a brace or a strap. Also make sure that the refrigerant lines are firmly attached and will not swing around with the vibrations of the road – clamps or zip ties on the frame will do the trick. When your unit is low to the ground, watch out on steep driveways or off-road trails that you might bottom out.
- Filter Cleaning: The indoor unit has washable air filters (normally behind the front panel). They may gather dust in an RV very fast (particularly when camping in dusty locations or with the windows open). It is advisable to clean the filters once a month or two when it is in heavy use. The blocked filters decrease efficiency and cooling capacity. It is just as easy as removing the cover, pulling out the mesh filters and rinsing them or vacuuming them.
- Coil Maintenance: Inspect the outdoor condenser coil (leaves, bugs, etc.) on a regular basis. As RVs are usually parked outside in different conditions, there is a chance that mud daubers or road dirt can settle on the fins. When it is dirty, brush or hose off the coil (with power off) to keep the air flowing well. Make sure that the small fins on the coil are not bending either, a fin comb can be used to straighten them out.
- Off-Season Care: In case you are not going to use the mini split during the winter, you may cover the outdoor unit (particularly in snowy areas) to prevent ice and snow getting into it. Nevertheless, most people like to keep it open so that moisture does not get trapped in it- refer to the manual of your unit. It is outdoor in nature so it will be okay in rain. To heat in cold weather, some units have a base pan heater to avoid ice formation during heating; on such a unit, ensure that option is enabled when the temperatures are low.
- Heat Pump: When using the mini split to heat, keep in mind that it works best when the outdoor temperature is above ~2030 degrees. Under that, the heat production decreases and it can either fight (or turn off to save itself when it is below its threshold). During really cold weather, you can use the furnace in your RV. However, with moderate cold, the heat pump will be able to cut down your propane consumption and keep you comfortable. It is a good habit to also run the heat mode occasionally during the off-season as well, this will keep the system lubricated and ready (and many units run an auto defrost cycle to dry the coils).
- Performance Tracking: Observe the way the mini split performs on the road. Strange vibrations, noise or a reduction in cooling capacity may be a sign that something has become loose or there is a leak of refrigerant. The moveable copper lines in a moving RV may be subject to stress, so give everything a check-up in case something has changed. In the case you did your own flare fittings (not DIY kits), a little bit of leak detecting soap solution on joints will confirm no slow leaks. The positive thing is, there are many who have used mini splits in RVs with no problems over the years a good installation goes a long way towards trouble free operation.
Key Features to Look For
These are some of the features and specifications to watch out when comparing mini split models to use in your RV so that you can make the right decision:
- Efficiency Rating: The higher the SEER2 the less you will pay to operate it and the easier it will be to manage the power. Mid-level ones may be ~1720 SEER2 and the most efficient can be more than 20 SEER2. Practically, anything over ~18 SEER is outstanding on an RV (because you are usually power-limited). Also look at HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance) where shown, the higher the HSPF the more efficient the heat pump will be during cold weather.
- Operating Temperature Range: In case you intend to utilize the heat mode in low temperatures, check the lowest ambient temperature of heating. To give an example, a few budget units will disengage at about 5 o F to 0 o F, but a hyper heat mini split could operate down to -13 o F or colder. Cooling operating range is also worth checking out most can cool in 115+ dgrees F but if you will be in extreme desert temperatures make sure that the unit is designed to work in it (some have a max cooling ambient of ~122 dgrees F).
- Noise Level (dB): See the specs of indoor and outdoor noise level. Less noisy is preferable, of course. A unit with less than 40 dB is quite silent. The outdoor units differ, but anything in the 50-60 dB range at high speed is acceptable (you will not hear much of it inside). As it has been mentioned, a lot of mini splits operate on a whisper-quiet mode, which is fantastic when it comes to campground harmony.
- Smart Features: A lot of newer mini splits have WiFi or smart thermostats. This is a huge advantage – you can change the climate in your RV using your phone even when you are hiking and you can simply ask Alexa to switch on the air conditioner. Alexa or app controlled are Senville, Della, Pioneer (newer models), etc. In case you are a tech lover, then you can find the product description with the words WiFi-enabled.
- Warranty and Support: Because you are basically the installer and technician on your mini split in your RV, a good warranty is significant. Good brands provide approximately 5-7 years on compressor and 2-5 years on parts. Check the small print: there are warranties that cannot be valid unless the product is professionally installed. Brands that support DIY installs such as MRCOOL and Klimaire specifically recognize DIY installs. Pioneer and Senville are also reputed to be DIY friendly (many customers install themselves) but may also state on the box “professional installation recommended.” Practically, when something goes wrong under warranty, the purchase proof and the serial number is usually sufficient to replace parts.
- Physical Size: Measure the space that you have. Indoors units are typically about 30″ wide x 11″ tall x 7-8″ deep at 12k BTU- you need to have a wall area that can fit that. Outdoor condensers come in different sizes: 12k condenser may be ~30″ wide x 21″ tall x 11″ deep. Make sure that the place where you mount can accommodate such dimensions and still have airflow. In addition, your mounting strategy should hold the weight (40-80 lbs). When using a rear bumper, ensure that your bumper is rated or strengthened.
When all the factors mentioned above are taken into consideration, you will be able to choose a mini split that will suit your RV lifestyle.
You may want to focus on the ease of DIY installation, maximum efficiency, low noise, or all of that, but there is a solution on our list that will suit your demands. Putting in a ductless mini split in your RV is a comfort investment that will pay off in home-like climate control wherever you go. Proper planning and installation will mean you can cool down in summer and warm up in winter and have the efficiency and peace and quiet these new-fangled mini splits offer.
