Recommended Air Conditioner for 28' Car Trailer

Updated 11/03/2025 | Published 01/02/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Advent Air RV Air Conditioner - 13,500 Btu - White - R32

(923)

$727.20

Advent Air RV Air Conditioner System - Manual - 13,500 Btu - White - R32

(463)

$842.16

Electric Heat Strip for Advent Air RV Air Conditioners - 5,500 BTU - R32

(14)

$98.23

Dometic RV Furnace - Propane - Automatic Pilot - 12V DC - 20,000 Btu - Black Door

(5)

$1053.43

Question:

Hello, I am looking to do a new install of a rooftop A/C unit in my 28 enclosed car tailer. I would like heat and cool, use one of the existing rooftop vents, and have all the controls at the unit to simplify the install. I will need to run 120V wiring from my breaker panel to the unit. what units would you recommend? Id prefer American made if possible Thank you.

asked by: Arik F

Expert Reply:

Hi Arik; a 13,500 Btu unit like the # ADV96SR you looked at will be able to handle your car trailer. The Advent Air units do a great job without breaking the bank so I do recommend them. Unfortunately, none of our air conditioners are American made. Since this is a new installation you will need the # ADV23SR. This includes the air distribution box with controls like you want, along with the star capacitor. The heat strip is available separately # ADV34QR.

The unit fits 14-1/4" long x 14-1/4" wide openings so assuming that is a standard roof vent it will fit as is. It also requires a roof that is 2-1/2" to 5" thick. If you don't meet this requirement you will need to add some wood or other material to thicken it up around the opening where the AC installs.

The heat strip really isn't designed to heat a large space so if true heating is what you're after I recommend adding an actual furnace like the # DMC76RR. If you aren't spending a lot of time in the trailer and heat isn't a big deal I would supplement with a space heater.

expert reply by: Robin H

Robin H.

11/3/2025

Hey Arik, how did the Advent Air unit work out for your trailer setup? Did the heat strip provide enough warmth, or did you end up adding the furnace for extra heat? Your update could make it easier for others planning a similar install.

Arik F.

11/3/2025

@RobinH thanks for the follow up. I'm very happy with the A/C unit, it has no problem keeping the trailer cool. Even on 105 degree days in direct sun and opening the door every hour or so it would still keep the inside below 80. Keep in mind this car trailer is poorly insulated (if at All) The heat strip worked as you guys said. It takes the chill off in the morning. But it doesn't put out much heat during the night when the temps dip below 50. I'll consider a supplemental heater if I keep encountering those kind of overnight temps.