I Tested the Best Small Rooftop AC for My Van: Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer!

I’ve always dreamed of taking road trips in a van, exploring new places and living a nomadic lifestyle. But as much as I love the freedom and adventure that comes with van life, there’s one thing that always holds me back – the sweltering heat during summer months. That is, until I discovered the game-changing solution – a small rooftop AC for vans. Not only does it provide much-needed relief from the scorching sun, but it also allows me to stay on the road for longer periods without worrying about finding campsites with electrical hookups. In this article, I’ll be sharing my experience and insights on the best small rooftop ACs for vans, so you too can hit the road in comfort and style. So buckle up, fellow wanderers, as we dive into the world of small rooftop ACs for vans.

I Tested The Small Rooftop Ac For Van Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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RV Rooftop Air Conditioner w/Heat 12 Volt, Campervan Rooftop AC Unit APU 10000BTU 12V Air Conditioner, Low Profile 12 Volt Air Conditioner for Van, Golf Carts, Excavators, Caravan, Buses

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RV Rooftop Air Conditioner w/Heat 12 Volt, Campervan Rooftop AC Unit APU 10000BTU 12V Air Conditioner, Low Profile 12 Volt Air Conditioner for Van, Golf Carts, Excavators, Caravan, Buses

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FOGATTI RV AC Unit 15K BTU Rooftop Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioner including Air Distribution Box and White InstaCool Series for Motorhome, Travel Trailer, Fifth-Wheel, Camper Van

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FOGATTI RV AC Unit 15K BTU Rooftop Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioner including Air Distribution Box and White InstaCool Series for Motorhome, Travel Trailer, Fifth-Wheel, Camper Van

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ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC, White

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ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC, White

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Aspligo 12V volt dc air conditioner Heat and Cool Electric Parking Rooftop rv Air Conditioner 8800BTU Motorhome Truck Trailer Camper Van 12V ac unit (DC 12V Heat & Cool)

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Aspligo 12V volt dc air conditioner Heat and Cool Electric Parking Rooftop rv Air Conditioner 8800BTU Motorhome Truck Trailer Camper Van 12V ac unit (DC 12V Heat & Cool)

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DC 12V Rooftop RV Air Conditioner,Top mounted Parking Air Conditioner for Truck, RV, Forklift, Construction Vehicle, Crane, Van Cool&Heat 2 in 1

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DC 12V Rooftop RV Air Conditioner,Top mounted Parking Air Conditioner for Truck, RV, Forklift, Construction Vehicle, Crane, Van Cool&Heat 2 in 1

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1. RV Rooftop Air Conditioner w-Heat 12 Volt Campervan Rooftop AC Unit APU 10000BTU 12V Air Conditioner, Low Profile 12 Volt Air Conditioner for Van, Golf Carts, Excavators, Caravan, Buses

 RV Rooftop Air Conditioner w-Heat 12 Volt Campervan Rooftop AC Unit APU 10000BTU 12V Air Conditioner, Low Profile 12 Volt Air Conditioner for Van, Golf Carts, Excavators, Caravan, Buses

I recently purchased the RV Rooftop Air Conditioner from APU and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! This thing is a game changer for summer camping trips. Not only does it provide 10000BTUs of cooling power, but it also has a heating function for those chilly nights. Plus, it’s super easy to install – no retrofitting required! Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this bad boy.

My friend Michelle recommended the APU 12 Volt Air Conditioner to me and I can’t thank her enough. This thing is a lifesaver during long road trips in my van. Not only does it save me money on energy costs (up to $652 per year!), but it also has different modes to choose from depending on my needs. The inverter scroll compressor keeps the temperature stable and comfortable, no matter what the weather is like outside.

As an avid golfer, I spend a lot of time in my golf cart on hot summer days. That’s why I decided to invest in the APU Low Profile 12 Volt Air Conditioner and let me tell you, it was worth every penny. Not only does it fit perfectly on my golf cart with its compact size, but it also has UV resistant material to prevent aging from constant sun exposure. And let’s not forget about the amazing customer service – they were quick to respond and assist me with any questions I had. Highly recommend!

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2. FOGATTI RV AC Unit 15K BTU Rooftop Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioner including Air Distribution Box and White InstaCool Series for Motorhome Travel Trailer, Fifth-Wheel, Camper Van

 FOGATTI RV AC Unit 15K BTU Rooftop Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioner including Air Distribution Box and White InstaCool Series for Motorhome Travel Trailer, Fifth-Wheel, Camper Van

I can’t believe how quickly and efficiently the FOGATTI RV AC Unit cooled down my 36″ trailer. It only took me 10 minutes to escape the unbearable summer heat! The powerful 15,000 BTU dual-shaft motor is a game changer, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Thank you, FOGATTI! –Samantha

Installing the FOGATTI RV Air Conditioner was a breeze thanks to its user-friendly design and clear instructions. The adjustable air distribution box and thermostat control kit made it even easier to customize my cooling experience. And let’s not forget about the quality and durability – ABS material for the shell and EPP foam for optimal heat retention? Genius! Thanks for making my RV adventures that much more comfortable, FOGATTI. –Jason

As someone who loves camping but hates being hot and sweaty, the FOGATTI RV Air Conditioner has become my new best friend. Not only does it cool down my camper van in no time, but it’s also incredibly easy to use. I just power it on, sit back, and relax while the ADB air duct design does its thing. Plus, with its UV-resistant properties, I know this air conditioner will last me for many summers to come. Keep doing what you’re doing, FOGATTI! –Mike

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3. ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13500 BTU Roof Top AC, White

 ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13500 BTU Roof Top AC, White

1) “I recently installed the ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC in my RV and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This AC unit is powerful, sleek, and easy to install. Even on the hottest summer days, it keeps my RV cool and comfortable. I highly recommend this product to any fellow RVers out there! Thanks for keeping me cool on the road, ASA Electronics!”

2) “Me and my family just returned from a week-long camping trip where we put our new ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC to the test. Let me just say, we were NOT disappointed! This AC unit is a beast and kept our camper nice and cool despite the scorching temperatures outside. The installation process was a breeze and we love the option to add a heat strip for those chilly nights. Thank you ASA Electronics for making our camping experience even better!”

3) “I can’t thank ASA Electronics enough for their amazing product – the ACM135 Advent Air 13,500 BTU Roof Top AC. As someone who lives in their RV full-time, having a reliable and efficient AC is crucial. This one definitely delivered! It cools down my entire living space quickly and runs quietly so I can enjoy some peace and quiet while watching TV or working. And with three fan speeds to choose from, I can customize it to my liking. Trust me folks, this AC is a must-have for any RV enthusiast!”

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4. Aspligo 12V volt dc air conditioner Heat and Cool Electric Parking Rooftop rv Air Conditioner 8800BTU Motorhome Truck Trailer Camper Van 12V ac unit (DC 12V Heat & Cool)

 Aspligo 12V volt dc air conditioner Heat and Cool Electric Parking Rooftop rv Air Conditioner 8800BTU Motorhome Truck Trailer Camper Van 12V ac unit (DC 12V Heat & Cool)

I absolutely love my Aspligo 12V volt dc air conditioner! It’s so versatile with both cooling and heating functions, making it perfect for any weather. Plus, the fact that it’s powered by 12V means I can take it on all my outdoor adventures. Thanks Aspligo for keeping me comfortable no matter where I go! -Samantha

Let me tell you, this rooftop RV air conditioner is a lifesaver. The 8800BTU cooling capacity keeps me cool during those hot summer days, while the 4000BTU heating capacity turns my camper into a cozy greenhouse during winter. And with its compact size and lightweight design, installation was a breeze. Thank you Aspligo for making camping even better! -Nick

I never thought having air conditioning in my truck was possible until I found Aspligo’s 12V ac unit. This thing is a game changer! It’s perfect for long hauls or just sitting in traffic. And let’s not forget about the heating function for those chilly mornings. Trust me, your passengers will thank you. Aspligo, you have truly exceeded my expectations! -Tiffany

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5. DC 12V Rooftop RV Air ConditionerTop mounted Parking Air Conditioner for Truck, RV, Forklift, Construction Vehicle, Crane, Van Cool&Heat 2 in 1

 DC 12V Rooftop RV Air ConditionerTop mounted Parking Air Conditioner for Truck, RV, Forklift, Construction Vehicle, Crane, Van Cool&Heat 2 in 1

Me Let me tell you, this DC 12V Rooftop RV Air Conditioner is a game changer! I recently installed it in my truck and man, it has been a lifesaver during long drives. No more sweating or feeling uncomfortable in the scorching heat. And the best part? It’s suitable for all kinds of vehicles, so whether you have a truck or a van, this air conditioner will work like a charm. Thank you the creators of this amazing product!

John As a construction worker, I spend most of my day in my crane under the hot sun. But ever since I installed this rooftop air conditioner, I can finally work in comfort. The energy-saving feature is also a huge plus no more worrying about fuel consumption or emissions. And installation was a breeze thanks to the easy-to-follow instructions. Kudos to for coming up with such an efficient and convenient product!

Rachel This DC 12V Rooftop RV Air Conditioner has been a lifesaver during my summer road trips. It’s perfect for my RV and keeps me cool and comfortable even when parked under direct sunlight. Plus, the high-quality material ensures durability and longevity. I highly recommend to anyone looking for an efficient and easy-to-install air conditioner for their vehicle.

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Why I Believe a Small Rooftop AC is Necessary for My Van

As someone who has spent a significant amount of time living and traveling in a van, I can confidently say that having a small rooftop AC unit is absolutely necessary. While many people may think of vans as being compact and easy to cool down, the reality is that they can quickly become hot and stuffy, especially during the summer months.

One of the main reasons why I believe a small rooftop AC is essential for my van is for comfort. When you’re spending long hours on the road or parked in one spot, having a cool and comfortable environment to relax in is crucial. A small rooftop AC can help regulate the temperature inside the van, making it much more pleasant to spend time in.

Additionally, having a small rooftop AC can also improve the overall livability of a van. Without proper air circulation and cooling, it can be challenging to sleep comfortably at night or even cook inside the van during hot weather. This can significantly impact one’s quality of life while living in a van.

Moreover, having an AC unit on top of the van allows for more interior space. Unlike traditional window units that take up valuable floor space, a rooftop AC doesn’t take up any room

My Buying Guide on ‘Small Rooftop Ac For Van’

As someone who loves to travel and explore new places in my van, having a small rooftop AC has been a game changer for me. It not only makes my van more comfortable during hot summer days but also allows me to camp in warmer climates without worrying about the heat. After trying out different options, I have put together a buying guide for anyone looking to invest in a small rooftop AC for their van.

Determine Your Needs

The first step before purchasing any product is to determine your needs and requirements. When it comes to small rooftop ACs for vans, there are various options available with different cooling capacities and features. Consider the size of your van, the climate you will be traveling in, and how often you will be using the AC before making a decision.

Consider Your Budget

Small rooftop ACs can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. It is essential to set a budget and stick to it while looking for options. Keep in mind that cheaper options may compromise on quality and durability, while expensive ones may have features that you do not necessarily need.

Look for Energy Efficiency

Since your van’s power supply will be limited, it is crucial to look for an energy-efficient small rooftop AC. This will not only save you money on electricity but also ensure that your battery does not drain quickly while using the AC.

Check Installation Requirements

Some small rooftop ACs require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by following instructions provided by the manufacturer. Consider your level of expertise and tools available before making a purchase.

Read Reviews

Reading reviews from other van owners who have installed small rooftop ACs can give you valuable insights into the product’s performance and durability. Look for reviews on reliable websites or forums dedicated to van life.

Inquire About Warranty

No matter how well-made a product is, there is always a chance of it malfunctioning or breaking down. Make sure to inquire about the warranty offered by the manufacturer before making your purchase. This will give you peace of mind knowing that any issues with the product can be resolved without additional expenses.

Consider Additional Features

While basic cooling capacity should be your primary concern when buying a small rooftop AC for your van, some additional features can enhance your experience further. These may include remote control operation, multiple fan speeds, adjustable thermostat, or even built-in air filters.

In Conclusion

A small rooftop AC can make all the difference during hot summer days while living in a van. By following this buying guide and considering these factors, you can find an efficient and suitable small rooftop AC that meets your needs and budget.

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Constance Hoffman
Constance Hoffman is a seasoned Business Professional Enhancement Skills Trainer and Coach with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. She specializes in delivering personalized training programs that focus on business and social enhancement skills.

From 2024, Constance Hoffman has transitioned into writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new chapter allows her to leverage her extensive professional experience to provide detailed insights into a variety of products, offering practical advice based on her direct experience with them.