Choose a rooftop design to keep equipment out of the way while getting 18000 btu cooling for hot days. When replacing older R-410A gear, the new R32 systems require a complete setup change, and ducted installs use an air distribution box to push air through the ducts. If you want the A/C to control a propane furnace, add the compatible wall thermostat and supply it with constant 12V power.
It can be done with efficient units and enough battery capacity. Check watt draw closely; one setup drew only 490 watts compared with an older 1500 watts and ran wide open about six hours, or roughly four days at a 50% duty cycle. Actual runtime depends on your batteries and inverter. Verify duty cycle expectations for your climate and insulation.
With a ducted setup, the air distribution box has a vent you can open or close. Closing it forces more air through the RV's ducts. Verify your RV is ducted, and pick an ADB designed for ducted use. If you also heat with a furnace, select a package that includes the matching thermostat or plan to run the furnace from a compatible wall thermostat.
Install is manageable with basic tools. The unit is close to 80 lbs, so a helper is smart for lifting to the roof. Follow the instructions and torque retaining bolts to 40 inch pounds. A careful DIYer reported a solo install in about 4 hours. After mounting, confirm your 120v supply and complete thermostat or ADB hookups as needed.
You can control a 12 volt furnace, but the A/C will not power the wall thermostat without 120 volt supply. Provide a constant 12 volt supply and ground to the thermostat. Use the furnace control wire to the FURN (+) terminal and leave GND open. Set dip switch 2 ON for gas furnace. In non-heat modes, an error may show if the A/C lacks 120v; heat mode works as expected.
Yes, these typically fit a 14-1/4" x 14-1/4" cutout. If you're replacing an older rooftop A/C, plan to swap the air distribution box because new R32 units aren't compatible with older R410A components. If you have a ducted system or a furnace, choose an option that includes the correct ADB and, if needed, a thermostat for furnace control.