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Writer's pictureJonathan Miller

RV AC Optimization

Updated: Sep 11, 2022

This article contains links for products that may earn us a comission.


Frost King ACF19 Foam Coil Cleaner, 19Oz, 19 Ounce


When we first bought our new to us RV, every time we stopped and setup we would find large wood shavings littering the floor underneath the AC returns. One time we even found a round “biscuit” completely blocking one of the registers- left over from where they cut the hole into the duct work.


One of the exercises we performed in class to become a registered technician was to inspect and perform AC optimization on our rigs.

This involved removing the registers and returns to verify that the ductwork was sealed and properly capped rather than venting into the attic space. We also checked for debris and obstructions.


We took an extra step and vacuumed out as best we could using a small portable shop vac to remove all of the loose material left over from the installation of the duct work by the manufacturer.


Removing the outdoor AC covers allowed access to check the fans, capacitors, compressor, and to clean and straighten the condenser and evaporator coils. During this inspection the wiring harnesses were found hanging loosely in the return air space partially blocking the evaporator coil and restricting the flow of air.


One of the units even had the thermistor pulled out which had been allowing this evaporator to ice up which is a bad thing for any AC.


We reinstalled the thermistor and cleaned the wiring up using wire ties to pull the harness up and out of the way creating better air flow; then checked and added duct seal aluminum tape to a section of the air damn that was not properly sealed to prevent short cycling.


This process has helped our AC’s operate more efficiently and it has caused a noticeable improvement in comfort.


Before Straightening and Cleaning.

After Straightening and Cleaning



Leak at Air Dam between cool and return air sides of the condenser.

Air Dam Sealed with tape.

Cool Air to Duct work - prior to retape.

Radiant Barrier installed inside top section of cover.


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