Recommended AC Unit to Replace a Older Dometic 13,500 BTU Unit

Updated 02/26/2025 | Published 02/23/2025

Question:

I would like to purchase 2 of the Advent Air Low Profile RV Air Conditioners. The first one ro replace an older Dometic 13.5k unit that simply isn’t large enough to cool the 40’ trailer and the second to add a unit to my fifth wheel for better cooling and take the load off of the single unit in the middle of summer. I have a 50 amp service and pre wiring for the 2nd unit already. My fifth wheel is ducted at both AC locations. I would need the mounting hardware kit as well with the new AC locations but it doesn’t look like the Advent shroud can be closed off from dumping air directly into the room or diverting the cold air into the duct work. What other brand mounting kit can be purchased instead that has this feature and still be plug and play once installation is complete?

asked by: Cory

Expert Reply:

Hey Cory! Advent has recently come out and stated that their AC units are not as compatible as they thought they were. Additionally, they have added that any the warranty of their components, like the item # ASA86YR, will be voided if connected to a non-Advent system. We're still working to update this information on our website.

Since you're replacing a Dometic unit and are worried about plug and play, I highly recommend sticking with the manufacturer you have and going with the Dometic Penguin II Low Profile RV Air Conditioner item # DMC86ZR. The only air distribution box I have for this set up is the ductless Dometic item # DMC43ZR.

Another option is to replace your entire set up with the Furrion Chill HE RV Air Conditioner System item # FR87FJ. This will give you two 13,500 btu units, the ducted air distribution boxes, and a thermostat to control the entire system.

expert reply by: Jerred H

Cory

2/25/2025

Thanks for the clarification Jerred, Do you have a complete system like the FR87FJ with 15k units for a ducted system? If my thermostat wires do not terminate in the same location, how can I get one thermostat to control both units?

Jerred H.

2/26/2025

@Cory You're welcome and we sure do! It is the Furrion Chill HE RV Air Conditioner System item # FR84FJ. You would need to run additional wires from your second unit.