The RV air conditioner shroud: What is it and what should I consider if I need a new one?
What could be my first indications my shroud is failing or has failed?
On your last long trip, did you hear a “bump” in the roof when you were driving? Did Les Nessman drop a frozen turkey on your roof? Did you swipe a branch and get a stare from your “special better half” passenger?
Have you ever felt that your AC is not cooling the place as it used to a few months back? Do you feel your AC is not functioning efficiently?
If you experience the above, check the electrical circuit. There might be disturbances in power too, which result in ACs not being able to cool the place effectively.
Even if you fix these problems, do they recur? Does it seem like you see water leaking or dripping when it rains?
All of these could be quiet signals that you have a hole, crack or imperfection in your RV ac shroud.
One good maintenance recommendation would be to check one a year or even after a long trip or violet storm to just make sure the shroud is ok
What is an rv air conditioner shroud in the first place?
An RV air conditioner shroud protects your air conditioner from snow and rain. An AC without a shroud is certain to reduce its lifespan.
Check out the illustration in the picture for this article.
An RV air conditioner without a protective shroud is a no-go. You would never travel this way or store your RV this way.
A shroud with an injury is almost as bad.
Driving with an injured shroud might mean that NEXT TIME boo boos happen on your roof, you'll be replacing the entire unit. Yikes!
Furthermore, just to hammer away at the point, ACs are expensive, it is of utmost significance that you secure them from contaminants, debris and harsh weather with a good shroud. A $150 shroud giving its life to the Oak branch is much cheaper than a $1000 complete unit!
While choosing an RV air conditioner shroud, some research is required. You need to understand what to look for when buying the product and look for some genuine compatibility information. Every AC manufacturer has a different size, shape and fittings. Check and double check.
I've made a camper air conditioner selection guide and I'll be adding info & pictures to it as fast as I can.
Want to make the best choice but have no idea how to go about it? Here is a list of considerations.
Check for the following information while purchasing an RV air conditioner shroud:
- Does it fit my air conditioner? This is probably the most important consideration!
- Is it made by the AC manufacturer or an aftermarket replacement part manufacturer. Check the user ratings!
- Secondary factors that may make a difference if you have a choice of replacement shrouds
- How heavy is the AC shroud?
- Does the shroud look like it has good rain shielding?
- Durability – Is the material long lasting?
- Corrosion resistance – Is it constructed from a plastic that will be tough?
- Can it protect your AC from harmful UV rays?
Make your AC last long- Ensure your RV has a good working RV air conditioner shroud
You want to see your AC work efficiently for as long as possible, and the trick lies in choosing an appropriate shroud for your AC.
Besides getting to know how to choose an RV air conditioner shroud, it would also be wise if you become aware of how to use and maintain it.
One failure or weakening of the shroud is the constant exposure to the harmful UV rays of the sun and over time. Over the years the shroud will eventually become quite weak.
Look for information on the ‘How To' section on how to install an RV air conditioner shroud or how to replace an RV air conditioner shroud.
When you know how to choose, install, use and maintain an RV air conditioner shroud, be assured, your AC will last longer than you expected. Sounds exciting? Start looking for information today and make a purchase that you will be proud of. An air conditioner is not something you can replace time and again, so it needs to be secured with the best RV air conditioner shroud available.
Purchasing an RV air conditioner shroud needs some research, but it is worth the time and effort!
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