Can RV Batteries Run an Air Conditioning Unit?

As housing and energy prices increase, there is a renewed interest in off-grid and such as van or RV living. Although there are many benefits to going off-grid, one thing you must take into consideration is energy consumption and battery capabilities. As you are off-grid in a van or RV, you will be reliant on batteries. Normally, this won’t be too much of an issue to worry about, but when the temperature begins to rise, you’ll want to begin using your AC, which can completely drain your batteries if you don’t have the proper power requirements.

RV Air Conditioner Power Requirements

To properly run an RV AC unit, it’s important to understand the energy consumption of the unit itself. First, you need to find the wattage of the unit. Depending on what you have, this can range from 1000W to 3500W to start up and then about 300-1500 to run it. From there, you can determine the size of the battery bank you need to properly power your AC and other appliances. Typically, this would require a lot of energy, meaning a lot of batteries to run the unit, which isn’t taking into consideration the other appliances.

However, 12V AC units are becoming very popular with RVs which are much more efficient and can run on batteries just fine. “Mini-split” units are also on the rise in popularity as it can also be run on batteries alone. If you’re looking to use batteries to run your unit, using one of these types of ACs is your best bet.

Battery Types and Their Impact

The type of battery you use doesn’t just affect your AC unit, but also your RV’s performance. There are two popular types of batteries used for RVs: lead-acid and lithium batteries; each has its own properties that make them popular.

Although lead-acid batteries are popular due to their earlier introduction, upgrading to lithium batteries is worth the cost, however. Lithium batteries, especially LiFePO4 batteries, provide many noticeable benefits to the performance. Even if you’re using mainly shore power, the longevity of lithium-type batteries can’t be outmatched by others. This also allows you to park your RV anywhere off-grid, which is especially useful for anyone who enjoys dry camping.

The higher efficiency, deep discharge rates, and quicker recharge times also allow lithium batteries to power other appliances on top of the battery, including TVs. Even if they have a higher upfront cost, the savings over time prove that lithium batteries are a more cost-effective option than the other batteries on the market.

Shop 12.8V 100Ah LifePO4 Battery for RVs

 Calculating Battery Bank Size

To determine the battery bank capacity follow these steps:

1. Find the daily energy consumption of your system
   1. Total Watts * Hours of Use = Watt Hours (Wh)
   2. Do this for each appliance and add the Wh together for full daily consumption
2. Decide how many days your battery bank should run your system
   1. Typically 2-5 days
3. Decide on the voltage of your system
   1. 12V, 24V, or 48V

Your system should have 3 times your daily Wh needs, so if your system has 8Wh, your system should be able to hold 24Wh.

 Solar and Generator Support

Air conditioning units use up a low of power and may end up draining your battery, despite the type of battery that you use. Having backups to support your batteries is a crucial component of any RV unit. Installing solar panels and integrating solar power into your system is a great way of extending your battery life.

This is especially important for those who prefer dry camping or boondocking as you can charge your batteries and power your appliances, including your AC, through the solar panels. Be warned, however, that you need to be able to generate enough power to do both. That’s why you must measure your system properly and install appropriately sized panels.

You should also consider having a generator on hand. Generators can supplement battery power during extended periods of AC use or during cloudy days if you have solar panels integrated into your RV.

Practical Tips for Efficient AC Use

Whether you’re using the best lithium batteries or parking and using shore power for your RV, you want to be able to get the most out of your unit. There are some practical tips for efficient AC use for your system.

1. Reduce Cooling Demand
   1. Use window covers to reduce sunlight entering the cabin.
   2. Insulate your windows to better protect the amount of heat that stays in your RV.
   3. Park under shade or near trees (adjust parking if using solar panels
2. Energy Management
   1. Only run your AC in the room you are in.
   2. During peak solar hours, try to limit electronics and AC use.
   3. Park in the shade and cooler areas when possible.
3. Alternative Cooling Solutions:
   1. Use a fan instead of the AC unit
   2. Invest in evaporative coolers to keep you cool
   3. Open windows and doors to air out the cabin.

Cost Considerations

Whether you’re upgrading your current system or starting fresh, there is going to be an initial investment in lithium batteries. Compared to AGM batteries, lithium batteries can be twice as expensive. Plus, there is the cost of an appropriate inverter that can capably run an RV AC. All told, there is a cost involved.

However, although the upfront costs of a lithium battery may seem higher, the overall savings when upgrading a battery bank to lithium cannot be denied. Aside from the little to no maintenance, the longevity of lithium batteries means that you don’t have to replace them every 2-3 years. Likewise, with their advanced features, such as deep discharge capabilities, advanced safety features, and faster charging times, lithium batteries are a long-term investment that proves itself time and again.

Running an RV AC unit on batteries is feasible with the right setup and careful planning. Things to take into consideration are the RC unit, battery size, inverter, cost, and total appliance usage. Many RV’s will come with correctly sized systems; however, it’s important to consult with a professional for any personalized solutions you want yourself.

Explore the different RV battery options available, such as Sunrich Energy’s selection of lithium batteries and battery banks. Each product is optimized for size, energy output, and cost, so you can run all your RV appliances with ease.