Coleman is mainly synonymous with all issues outdoor — and that features a number of the best-trusted RV HVAC methods within the enterprise. Coleman RV AC methods are extremely regarded all through the business (and, in fact, with Coleman campers), and since they’re so in style, they’re simpler to restore and discover substitute elements for.
We put collectively this whole Coleman RV air conditioner information to be your one-stop useful resource for all issues Coleman RV AC, from in style fashions to upkeep suggestions and troubleshooting. We’ve additionally included a side-by-side comparability desk that can assist you perceive which mannequin will work finest for you relying in your particular wants.
What Is a Coleman RV Air Conditioner?
Coleman RV air conditioners are rooftop cooling methods designed particularly for journey trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and motorhomes. They’re identified for his or her sturdiness, extensive compatibility, and easy-to-find substitute elements, which is why Coleman RV AC models are among the many commonest cooling methods used throughout the RV business.
Most Coleman rooftop air conditioners set up into a normal 14-inch by 14-inch roof opening and function on 120V shore energy or generator energy. These methods pull heat air from contained in the RV, cool it by way of refrigerant coils, and flow into chilled air again into the cabin. Many Coleman fashions additionally embrace warmth pumps to assist preserve your RV temperature managed in colder environments, as properly.
Coleman models are particularly in style amongst RV house owners as a result of they provide:
- Sturdy cooling efficiency
- A number of dimension choices and fashions for each small campers and huge RVs
- Broadly out there substitute elements
- Simple set up and servicing
The Mach Sequence
The Coleman Mach sequence is the best-known of all Coleman’s product traces. Whereas normal Coleman RV AC models deal with reliable cooling, Mach-series fashions add specialised options like quieter operation, low-profile designs, and better BTU output for excessive warmth circumstances.
Under, we’ll dive into a number of of the preferred Coleman RV HVAC fashions, together with each some within the Mach sequence and a few exterior of it.
Well-liked Coleman RV AC Fashions
Under, a number of the hottest Coleman HVAC fashions — and what they’re finest fitted to.
Coleman 13,500 BTU RV Air Conditioner
A 13,500 BTU Coleman RV AC is likely one of the commonest decisions for small to midsize campers and journey trailers. A unit of this dimension can sometimes cool RVs between 18 and 30 ft lengthy, relying on insulation, exterior temperatures, and solar publicity.
This dimension works properly for:
- Light-weight journey trailers
- Single-axle campers
- Pop-up campers
- Small, entry-level household RVs
- Reasonable climates
This unit can be a terrific RV AC choice for these aiming at a greener tenting expertise, as it balances cooling efficiency with decrease energy consumption.
Coleman Mach 3
The Coleman Mach 3 is likely one of the most versatile RV air conditioners within the Coleman lineup. With a 13,500 BTU cooling capability, a unit of this dimension can sometimes cool RVs between 20 and 32 ft lengthy, relying on insulation, outside temperatures, and total airflow design.
This dimension works properly for:
- Household journey trailers
- Mid-size fifth wheels
- Ducted RV cooling methods
- Multi-season campers
- Campers touring in heat summer time climates
- RV house owners on the lookout for reliable on a regular basis cooling
The Mach 3 can be a wise selection for RVers who need an environment friendly stability of cooling energy and electrical utilization. Coleman’s PowerSaver variations are particularly engineered to cut back amp draw whereas nonetheless sustaining robust airflow and constant cabin consolation.
Coleman Mach 8
The Coleman Mach 8 is a low-profile RV air conditioner constructed for campers that want highly effective cooling with out including extreme roof top. Accessible in each 13,500 BTU and 15,000 BTU configurations, its ultra-low design helps cut back aerodynamic drag whereas towing and may barely enhance total effectivity.
This dimension works properly for:
- Light-weight journey trailers
- Fiberglass campers
- Off-road and overlanding trailers
- RVs with low-clearance storage necessities
- Campers prioritizing gasoline effectivity
- Sizzling-weather tenting journeys
Psst — mild sleeper? This mannequin can be excellent for RV house owners in search of quieter nighttime cooling and a extra aerodynamic rooftop setup. At roughly 8 inches tall, it is likely one of the lowest-profile RV AC models out there on at the moment’s market that also delivers robust airflow efficiency.
Coleman Mach 15
The Coleman Mach 15 is designed for RV house owners who want most cooling efficiency in demanding circumstances. With a 15,000 BTU cooling capability and excessive airflow output, this mannequin is good for bigger RVs, campers with a number of slide-outs, and vacationers tenting in extraordinarily sizzling climates. A unit of this dimension can sometimes cool RVs between 28 and 40 ft lengthy, relying on insulation high quality, ceiling top, and outdoors temperatures.
This dimension works properly for:
- Giant journey trailers
- Fifth wheels
- Toy haulers
- Class A motorhomes
- Full-time RV dwelling
- Desert and southern summer time climates
The Mach 15 can be a superb selection for RVers who prioritize quick cooling and robust airflow throughout peak summer time warmth. Its highly effective fan motor and high-capacity design assist preserve consolation even throughout prolonged high-temperature journey days.
| Mannequin | BTUs | Peak/Profile | Noise | Greatest For | Value Vary (estimated) |
| Coleman 13,500 BTU | 13,500 | Commonplace profile | Reasonable | Small campers and light-weight trailers | $600–$1,000 |
| Coleman Mach 3 | 13,500 | Commonplace profile | Reasonable to quiet | Mid-size household RVs and on a regular basis tenting | $700–$1,100 |
| Coleman Mach 8 | 13,500–15,000 | Low profile | Quiet on low settings | Light-weight and low-clearance RVs | $1,200–$1,500 |
| Coleman Mach 15 | 15,000 | Commonplace profile | Reasonable | Giant RVs and excessive warmth circumstances | $800–$1,600 |
Coleman RV AC Compatibility With Coleman Campers
As you would possibly count on, many Coleman-branded campers are suitable with Coleman rooftop air conditioners. The even higher information: Coleman RV AC models are additionally typically suitable with different forms of models, exactly as a result of they’re designed with normal RV roof openings and electrical methods in thoughts.
This consists of fashions just like the Coleman Rubicon and the Coleman Lantern 17B, typically known as the Coleman 17B camper. These light-weight trailers are among the many hottest available on the market, and are an effective way to journey with all of the comforts of residence (together with local weather management because of a Coleman RV AC unit)
Low-profile Mach 8 models are particularly engaging for light-weight trailers as a result of they cut back roof top and aerodynamic drag.
Coleman RV Air Conditioner Set up
Putting in a Coleman RV AC generally is a manageable DIY undertaking for very skilled and helpful RV house owners. Nonetheless, skilled set up is extremely beneficial to assist keep away from issues down the highway (and make sure the unit is wired accurately, which retains each you and the unit safer in the long term).
Remember, too, that almost all models weigh about 80 to 100 kilos, which is already a heavy elevate for a lot of campers. If you’re going to DIY your set up, be sure to:
- Disconnect shore energy (security first!)
- Flip off turbines
- Confirm roof structural integrity earlier than stepping on prime of your rig
- Use correct sealants (water harm takes out most RVs)
- Comply with producer torque specs (i.e., don’t over-tighten!)
Coleman RV Air Conditioner Troubleshooting
Reliability is the hallmark of Coleman RV HVAC models. Nonetheless, in fact, life occurs — which is why we’ve bought this troubleshooting information in place for you. (All the time contact an expert in case you’re uncertain or going through electrical points.)
AC Gained’t Flip On
Attainable causes embrace:
- Tripped breaker
- Unhealthy capacitor
- Defective thermostat
- Wiring points
- Compressor failure
Failed capacitors are a generally reported problem in older Coleman Mach models.
Weak Airflow
Weak airflow might end result from:
- Soiled air filters
- Frozen evaporator coils
- Blocked ducts
- Failing blower motors
Heat Air Blowing
Heat or mildly cool air can point out:
- Low refrigerant
- Compressor points
- Soiled condenser coils
- Electrical issues
Freezing Up
RV AC freeze-ups are sometimes attributable to:
- Restricted airflow
- Soiled filters
- Low fan velocity
- Working in cool outside temperatures
Water Leaks
Water leaks might come from:
- Clogged drain channels
- Broken roof gaskets
- Improper leveling
- Cracked drain pans
Loud Noises
Widespread noise sources embrace:
- Free shrouds
- Worn fan motors
- Bent fan blades
- Compressor vibration
Coleman RV AC Troubleshooting Desk
| Drawback | Attainable Trigger | Potential Repair |
| AC received’t activate | Tripped breaker or dangerous capacitor | Reset breaker or change capacitor |
| Weak airflow | Soiled filter or blocked ducts | Clear filters and examine ducting |
| Heat air blowing | Soiled coils or compressor problem | Clear coils and check compressor |
| Unit freezing up | Restricted airflow | Change filters and enhance airflow |
| Water leaking inside | Broken gasket or clogged drain | Change gasket and clear drains |
| Loud rattling noise | Free shroud or fan problem | Tighten {hardware} and examine fan |
| Fan received’t begin | Unhealthy fan capacitor or motor | Change capacitor or blower motor |
Coleman RV AC Upkeep Suggestions
All the things works higher once you handle it. On the subject of your Coleman RV AC unit, a number of primary upkeep steps can go a good distance towards growing the unit’s lifespan, which makes it extra reasonably priced over time.
Upkeep steps to not miss embrace:
- Cleansing the filters, which ought to be accomplished each few weeks (at the very least each different month) throughout heavy use
- Cleansing the condenser and evaporator coils, which might improve cooling effectivity and reduce pressure on the compressor
- Inspecting seals, together with the roof gaskets and sealants, at the very least as soon as 1 / 4
- Checking the shroud which covers the unit — a free, cracked, or leaky shroud can enable water into the system and create extra noise
It’s also possible to do a deeper upkeep dive to arrange for a heavy upcoming season of journey. As an example, within the weeks earlier than a giant summer time journey, use the time to:
- Take a look at your unit’s cooling efficiency earlier than you head out and hit the highway
- Clear the coils to ensure the unit is able to go
- Tighten the mounting bolts to make sure a good match to the physique of your rig
Entering into these good upkeep habits will help many RV air conditioners final 10–15 years or longer, so that they’re value it!
Coleman RV Air Conditioner Components & Substitute
As a result of Coleman RV AC models are so widespread, their substitute elements are straightforward to seek out — which is one among their main benefits for RV house owners. When you’re ready round for a substitute half you must particular order, chances are you’ll end up with out temperature management for much longer than you’d like!
Widespread Coleman RV substitute parts embrace:
- Shrouds
- Capacitors
- Air filters
- Thermostats
- Fan motors
- Ceiling assemblies
When to Restore vs Change
Repairing an older unit might make sense if:
- The compressor nonetheless capabilities
- The mandatory elements are cheap
- The system cools successfully
However, substitute is perhaps smarter if:
- Compressor failure happens (changing the compressor might be costlier than merely changing the unit)
- A refrigerant leaks develop
- You’re repairing the unit extra often
- The unit is greater than 10–15 years previous
Is a Coleman RV AC Value It?
For a lot of RV house owners, Coleman RV air conditioners are a stable first selection because of their mixture of reliability, availability, and mannequin selection. While you use a Coleman HVAC system, you profit from:
- Straightforward-to-find substitute elements so you possibly can preserve the unit for a few years, growing affordability
- Broad RV compatibility so that you received’t be caught with a unit you possibly can’t use
- A number of profile and BTU choices so you possibly can customise your HVAC system to your rig’s wants
- Sturdy cooling efficiency (which is, in spite of everything, the entire level)
- An established service community so that you’re by no means removed from assist once you want it
While you hire an RV by way of RVshare’s peer-to-peer community, you might have the chance to expertise a Coleman AC unit for your self — or to check out several types of RVs (and RV HVAC methods) earlier than you grow to be an RV proprietor. Browse the listings at the moment.
Coleman RV AC Items: Incessantly Requested Questions
It is determined by the way you handle them! With common upkeep, although, many Coleman RV AC models final between 10 and 15 years.
Many small and midsize campers can get by with a 13,500 BTU unit, which might cool a rig of as much as 30 ft in size (relying on the local weather). Bigger RVs or hotter climates, nonetheless, typically profit from a 15,000 BTU mannequin.
The Mach 8 focuses on ultra-low-profile design, whereas the Mach 15 prioritizes most cooling efficiency. The Mach 15 is considerably extra highly effective than the Mach 8 and a sensible choice for campers touring in highly regarded climates.
When you’re helpful, you possibly can. Nevertheless, skilled set up will help keep away from pricey errors and roof leaks — and, in fact, the hazard of working with electrical parts as a layperson.
RV ACs might freeze up if the filters are clogged, if the airflow is restricted, or in case you’re experiencing an issue with the evaporator coils. first troubleshooting step is to show the AC off for some time and see if it defrosts after which begins to work usually once more.
Sure! However extra importantly, Coleman RV AC models are normally suitable even with different makes, since they’re made to a standardized dimension.
