If you like to travel, then you need to know a little bit about the air conditioner in your RV. First of all, the air isn’t as pure as we’d like for it to be, which is why you must have a filter.
However, you ask: do RV air conditioners have filters? The answer to this burning question is yes, nearly all RV air conditioners have an air filter.
The filter in an RV air conditioner will help block out some of the contaminants from flying through the air inside your RV. In this article, we’ll explain how to properly take care of the filter in your RV air conditioner.
Cleaning/Replacing RV Air Conditioner Filter
Following, you will find the processes for cleaning and replacing the air conditioner filter in your RV.
Cleaning
You will find that most RV air conditioner filters are washable. This means that you can remove them from the unit and clean them. Of course, if it gets too dirty, it might be time for you to just get a new one instead.
After all, if your filter is clogged, it means that your air conditioner has to work that much harder. The process of cleaning your air filters is quite simple:
- Locate the filter- typically located behind the air vent.
- Make sure air conditioner is off and open the vent.
- Once filter is removed, run it under some warm water or place it in a bucket of warm water to soak.
- Carefully, but thoroughly wash the air filter- don’t tear it or you’ll end up having to replace it anyway.
- Once done (and filter is dry) place filter back into unit and close vent.
If you can’t get it clean, it’s a good idea to just get a new one. While you have the vent open, be sure to check for dirt/dust on the evaporator coils. If too much collects, it can cause your unit to freeze up.
You should be checking your filter once a month. If it needs to be cleaned, go ahead and take care of it. If not, come back in a couple of weeks and check again.
Replacing
When it comes to replacing the filter in your RV’s air conditioner, one thing to keep in mind is that they are not all created equal. You will want to check your owner’s manual to make sure that you are getting the right size and/or shape filter. After all, if you get the wrong size and/or shape filter, it can cause problems with your AC. On the other hand, getting the right filter ensures that your AC can run efficiently.
Location Of RV Air Conditioner Filter
It’s truly not that difficult to find the air filter in your RV’s air conditioner. Simply open the vent cover and it should be right there. Once you’ve found it, all you have to do is lift it to remove it.
If it’s extremely dirty, you’ll want to be extremely careful when removing it because you don’t want to make a mess that you have to clean up later. After cleaning, make sure it’s dry before placing it back in the unit.
Filter Cover On RV Air Conditioner
The filter cover on your RV’s air conditioner is typically made of plastic, which is durable but can break if you’re not careful with it. There are several ways that it might be attached to the ceiling in your RV: snaps, screws, or other methods. Make sure that you know what you’re working with before you try to remove it.
If possible, wash the cover before putting it back on to make sure the loose dirt doesn’t fall off into your RV or get in your newly cleaned filter.
Of course, to put it back on, simply reverse the steps you took to take it down.
Air Conditioner Filter Materials
Something to keep in mind is that RV air conditioner filters are made from a variety of materials so that you can choose what works best for you and your family. Even though you only use your RV a few times during the year, you still want the air to be clean.
Horsehair air filters are quite effective at keeping the interior of your RV clean. Another good option is woven mesh. Finally, there is foam. All three do a decent job of keeping the air inside your RV clean and breathable.
Ducted Air Conditioner Filter In RV
If you have a ducted AC system in your RV, there’s not really any special filter you will need- a standard one will work. Typically, these are placed between the duct system and the vent.
Maintenance is about the same as described above- there’s no extra work required for ducted AC systems. Of course, when it’s time to replace them, you may end up buying more than usual.
Bottom Line
Just like your air conditioner at home, the one in your RV does use filters. You will have to make sure to keep them clean so the AC will be able to run efficiently. After all, you want you and your family to be able to breathe clean air when you’re in the RV, right? You can’t control the air outside, but you can keep the air inside clean.
