Do You Need to Cover Your RV Air Conditioner? 6 Best RV AC Covers

There is a learning curve to RVing, including determining what gear you need. For example, an RV air conditioner cover may be the last thing on your mind. So how important is an RV AC cover? 

This article will divulge why you should use an RV AC cover. We’ll also point you to seven of the best options. 

What Is An RV AC Cover?

An RV AC cover is precisely what it sounds like; an object that protects your air conditioner. It keeps your AC unit secure from the elements when not in use. Covers come in vinyl or tricky materials, and you can purchase them online at places like Amazon or RV supply stores. 

Why Should I Cover the Air Conditioner On My RV? 

There are four main reasons to use an RV air conditioner cover. Let’s take a look at each. 

Keep in Mind: With warmer weather coming, you’ll need the right air conditioner. Check out these camping air conditioners!

Protects Against Airborne Contaminants 

Airborne contaminants can easily blow into your air conditioner and your RV. If your RV is in storage or not in use for an extended period, particles could potentially cause health issues when you enter the RV. A cover can help keep unwanted contaminants out. 

Protects Against Rodents and Insects

Rodents and insects love to make a home in RVs, especially during the winter. RV air conditioners have openings that make it easy for them to get in and set up camp. An RV AC cover helps seal the entry points.

Protects Against The Elements

An RV will last longer the more you protect it from the elements. This includes accessories like the air conditioner. If you store your RV outdoors, an AC cover will help protect the unit from rain, wind, snow, and sun. In addition, the protection will increase the life of the air conditioner.

Reduces Draft

Putting a cover on your air conditioner helps reduce drafts entering your RV. It can be beneficial if you camp or RV in cooler climates. Off-setting any drafts can reduce the amount of heat you need to use when cold.

Should You Cover Your RV Air Conditioner in the Winter?

Some will argue that using an RV air conditioner cover in the winter could increase mold. To alleviate this potential issue, clean your air conditioner before and after covering it for the winter.

In addition, we recommend covering as much of your RV as possible during the winter when stored. The more you can do to protect the RV and its accessories, the more years you’re adding to the exterior.

What Happens If You Run the AC With a Cover On?

Running your RV AC with a cover on can damage the air conditioner. Be sure to remove the cover as soon as you realize it’s still on. With a cover on, the air conditioner cannot exchange heat and condensation and can harm the unit’s internal components.

Can I Drive With An RV AC Cover On?

Driving with an RV AC cover on is not recommended, as it will likely blow off while going down the road. However, if you’re moving your RV a short distance on your property or in a campground, it’s possible to leave it on.

Be aware of where you’re driving and how fast you’re going. It could blow off and get lost, but it could also be dangerous if it lands on another vehicle’s windshield. All manufacturers of the below AC covers state they are not meant to be left on while driving, so we say follow their instructions.

The Best RV Air Conditioner Covers  

Now that we’ve covered the importance of an RV AC cover, let’s look at the seven best options. Before purchasing one of these covers, measure your air conditioner and ensure that you’re getting the correct size.

Pro Tip: If you’re in search of RV apps to use on your next road trip, we found 17 RV apps every camper should have.

1. ADCO White RV Air Conditioner Cover

Dimensions: 29.5” x 14.75” x 34” 

The ADCO RV air conditioner cover is a heavy-duty jersey-backed vinyl. It protects against airborne contaminants and UV rays. The cover has a drawcord to secure it around the air conditioner.

2. Camco Vinyl Air Conditioner Cover 

Dimensions: 12.94” x 9.19” x 3.06”

Camco’s vinyl RV AC cover fits Dometic Brisk II models. It has a locking drawcord to keep the cover snug and secure from rodents or elements. The vinyl material is highly durable and gets excellent reviews.

3. Classic Accessories Over Drive RV Air Conditioner Cover 

Dimensions: ‎42.5” x 30” x 14.25”

The Classic Accessories Over Drive cover fits the Coleman 1, 2, 3, and the Mach 3 Plus and Mach 15 RV roof mount air conditioners. It has vinyl and UV-protected material with a drawcord. In addition, it comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

4. Dumble Camper Air Conditioner Cover

Dimensions: 29” x 14” x 43.8”

The Dumble Camper Air Conditioner Cover has water-resistant and durable vinyl. Its material is reinforced at all stress points and is soft and non-scratch. There is a drawcord in this RV AC cover to keep it secure around the AC unit.

5. Elements Air Conditioner Cover (Dometic)

Dimensions: 30.5” x 14” x 32”

The Elements RV Air Conditioner Cover can accommodate the Dometic Brisk HP. It protects your AC unit from weather and sun damage. The cover is made from vinyl and has a drawcord to secure it around the unit.

6. Elements Air Conditioner Cover (Coleman Mach)

Dimensions: 28.5” x 14” x 39”

Elements also have an RV AC cover that fits the Coleman Mach RV air conditioner. It’s the same vinyl material on the version that fits a Dometic unit, except with different dimensions. 

Protect Your RV Air Conditioner

We highly recommend an RV air conditioner cover to protect your RV when stored or not in use. Maintaining your RV and its accessories will ensure a longer life span for your air conditioner and more camping trips! 

Have you purchased one of the covers on our list? If so, leave us a comment below and let us know what you think of its durability and protection.

Last update on 2024-11-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API