In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make RV AC more efficient in just a handful of easy steps.
If your RV AC just isn’t putting out a decent amount of cool air, then this hack is for you.
I was told about this a number of years ago, and it will definitely improve the cold temp of your AC. It worked for me.
Understanding The Problem
Nine times out of ten, inefficient RV AC originates in the “plenum” area of the AC unit.
The plenum area is basically the central space in the AC where air is gathered, directed, and then either cooled or recirculated.
How It Works
- Warm air is pulled in from the RV interior.
- Air is then drawn through the evaporator coil, cooled and dehumidified.
- This cooled air is then redirected into ducts or straight back into your living space.
The Cause Of The Problem
If warm and cool air mix in the plenum because of leaks or a missing/poorly sealed dividing wall (separating the cold and warm air) you will lose cooling efficiency fast.
Even RV AC units with metal divider walls are often poorly sealed and insulated.
The Solution
Properly sealing the dividing wall, and the plenum area of your RV AC with foil tape (HVAC).
N.B. Different RV AC brands have slightly different designs, but they are essentially all the same. Don’t worry if your RV AC doesn’t look exactly like this, when disassembled they all look pretty similar.
What You’ll Need
Screwdrivers (Whatever’s Needed)
Phillips and flathead is normally all you need.
But a handy selection of screwdrivers for removing your RV AC internal cover, and any other internal sections, to enable you to gain access to the AC units’ plenum area.
HVAC Tape
HVAC tape is what you’re going to use to seal the dividing wall and the seams in your RV AC unit.
HVAC stands for “Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning”.
This tape is built to handle high temps, moisture, airflow pressure, and is exactly what you need for the job.
(The adhesive on this tape is also ridiculously sticky).
How To Fix It
Step 1 – Turn Electric Off
Make sure the power to the RV AC is off. Make doubly sure by flipping any breakers etc.
Step 2 – Remove The Cover
The first thing to do is to remove the internal plastic cover.
Step 3 – Remove Additional Framework
There will more than likely be some additional metal framework to remove before you can access the main plenum area with the dividing wall.
Step 4 – Check The Divider Wall
Inspect the divider wall for damage and make sure it is the correct position.
Step 5 – Clean Up The Area
Clean up any loose factory tape and expanding foam that may be present on the metal walls of the plenum area.
Step 6 – Install HVAC Tape
Install the HVAC tape around the divider where it meets the metal plenum wall.
Also install the HVAC tape along all the seams and any gaps that you may see.
You are basically trying to stop any cold and warm mixing from either side, and stop any potential air escaping.
You are also trying to streamline the interior of the plenum, to allow the warm and cold air to pass freely through the area.
Step 7 – Reinstall Cover
Once you are happy with the taping, carefully reinstall any framework, and finally your plastic AC cover.
Expected Outcome
When I initially did this mod for myself, I was slightly sceptical of what I’d gain from “adding a bit of tape”.
I hear of improvement hacks all the time, but to be honest, this one really surprised me.
This mod will definitely improve the efficiency and cold temps from your RV AC.
