Can A Rooftop AC Unit Be Added To An Enclosed Trailer With A 1" Thick Roof?

Updated 07/10/2026 | Published 07/08/2026

Question:

I am interested in a roof top a/c unit. This is an enclosed car trailer with the 1 inch bows. There is a 14 x14 frame. I recently installed a maxxfan that we purchased from you. The customer is now requesting an air conditioner. Any help would be great. Im sure there is a way to install one on a 1 inch roof Thanks in advance Don

asked by: Don B

Expert Reply:

Hey Don, welcome back! Yes, it's definitely possible to replace the roof vent with an A/C unit since both use the standard 14" x 14" roof opening. For an enclosed trailer, I'd recommend the following:

- Furrion Chill HE RV AC System w/ Thermostat - 13.5K Btu - Ducted/Non-Ducted - Single Zone - R32 # FR35TD

The biggest challenge isn't the opening, it's the roof structure. The Furrion requires a roof thickness between 3-1/2" and 6", so with a 1" roof, you'll need to build a spacer/frame to achieve the proper clamping thickness. Just as importantly, you'll want to reinforce the roof around the opening so it can safely support an A/C that weighs right around 100 lbs. I'd tie that reinforcement into as many of the roof bows as practical to help distribute the load and minimize flex. Since you already installed a MaxxFan, you know the opening is there, but an A/C puts considerably more weight and stress on the roof than a vent fan.

You'll also need a dedicated 120V AC circuit capable of handling the unit's power requirements. Once the roof is properly reinforced and the thickness is built up to spec, there's no reason you can't successfully install a rooftop A/C on the trailer.

How does your customer use the enclosed trailer? Car shows, track days, or work?

expert reply by: Jesse M

Furrion Chill HE RV AC System w/ Thermostat - 13.5K Btu - Ducted/Non-Ducted - Single Zone - R32
(click to enlarge)

Don B.

7/9/2026

So. Should the thickness difference be made up on the roof side or inside? I see potential leakage on the roof side. Im assuming the roof side. Trailer will be used as a mobile cigar lounge. Im thinking the roof top ac will be centered between the two maxxfans i have already installed

Jesse M.

7/10/2026

@DonB Oh wow a mobile cigar longue! I don't even smoke and that still sounds awesome! lol Typically, people make up the thickness difference on the inside using 2x4s or plywood. Have you thought about maybe doing an under-bench AC like part # VE56QV? They run off 12v power plus you wouldn't need to reenforce the roof. Just though I'd throw that out there as a potential option.