Get The Most Out Of Your Dometic Air-Conditioner | Lets Go Caravan and Camping

Get The Most Out Of Your Dometic Air-Conditioner

Category: News, Safety, Date: 13 December 2024

Dometic Inverter Air Conditioner

Dometic Caravan Roof Air Conditioner: Essential Information & Maintenance Tips

Dometic Caravan Roof Air Conditioner

Stay cool all year round with some simple tips to maintain your roof-mounted air-conditioning unit for maximum performance, efficiency and lifespan.


1. Insulation

Keep cool air in and hot air out with a well-insulated caravan, reducing the workload on your Dometic air conditioner. Better insulation means improved cooling efficiency, lower energy consumption, and longer run times when using your air conditioner on an inverter powered by your batteries.

  • Use reflective blinds or curtains: Hang reflective window shades or thermal curtains to block the sun’s heat from entering your vehicle.
  • Pre-cool your caravan: On very hot days, keep blinds, windows, and doors closed early in the day. Start the air conditioner before the hottest part of the day, allowing it to maintain a comfortable environment rather than having to cool down a heated space. Dometic inverter air conditioners adjust the compressor speed to match the cooling demand, so they only use the energy required to maintain comfort.
  • Roll out your awning: This keeps the hot sun off one side of the caravan, preventing the living space from heating up too much.

2. Select the right Temperature and Fan Speed

The right temperature and fan speed helps maintain a comfortable environment without overworking your air conditioner.

  • Pro Tip: Set the thermostat to a comfortable 22°C and adjust the fan speed according to the outside temperature. A higher fan speed cools the area faster, but a steady low speed efficiently maintains the temperature. Setting the thermostat too low (like 16°C) won’t cool the space any faster and will waste energy.

3. Keep Air Output Vents and Intake Openings Clear

Good airflow is essential for the air conditioner to work efficiently. Ensure nothing is blocking air vents and if there is a wall close to the air output vent, adjust the deflectors so the air doesn’t blow directly onto it so air can circulate.

  • Warning: Blocked vents can reduce efficiency and may cause overheating or mechanical issues.
  • Clean filters regularly: Dirty filters reduce airflow and efficiency, so make sure they’re clean.

4. Ventilate After Prolonged Sun Exposure

If your caravan’s been sitting in the sun, let the hot air out with good ventilation before switching the air conditioner to cooling mode.

  • Pro Tip: Run the air conditioner with the windows open for a few minutes to release trapped heat. Once ventilated, close the windows and let your Dometic air conditioner cool your RV efficiently.

5. Minimise Door and Window Openings

Once your caravan interior is comfortably cool, minimise opening windows and doors. Every time a door or window is opened, cool air escapes, and warm air enters, making the unit work harder.


Regular Maintenance from Dometic Service Centre

A well-maintained air conditioner will provide efficient and trouble free cooling and extend your unit’s life.

Check Condensation Drainage Channels

Ensure the drainage channels are clear during regular Dometic air conditioning services. Blocked channels can lead to water build-up and leakage inside your caravan.

Pro Tip: Keep drainage channels free of debris so water can flow freely.

Clean the Internal Air Filters

Regularly clean air filters for optimal performance. The return air filters collect dust and dirt over time, reducing airflow and efficiency.

How to Clean Filters: (They slide out from the sides of your air distribution box on the ceiling.) Use a flat screwdriver or knife to lift the handle and slightly pull the filters out. Remove the filters by hand. Clean them under running water and let them dry completely. Once dry, slide the filters back into place.

Service the Heat Exchanger/Condenser

The condenser is a critical component of the air conditioner and should be serviced by a Dometic air conditioning specialist to ensure proper functionality.

  • Pro Tip: Have the condenser serviced annually to prevent issues and maintain efficiency. This involves blowing out the condenser fins to remove dust, dirt, and other items that may block air flow. A Dometic service workshop can do this as part of an RV service or as a standalone service, especially if the RV has been in storage.

Service the Heat Exchanger/Condenser

The condenser is a critical component of the air conditioner and should be serviced by a Dometic air conditioning specialist to ensure proper functionality.

  • Pro Tip: Have the condenser serviced annually to prevent issues and maintain efficiency. This involves blowing out the condenser fins to remove dust, dirt, and other items that may block air flow. A Dometic service workshop can do this as part of an RV service or as a standalone service, especially if the RV has been in storage.

Check Seals and Fastening Bolts

Have a professional inspect the gasket between the roof air conditioner and the caravan roof annually for any cracks or damage that could cause air or water leaks.

  • Fastening Bolts: Ensure the fastening bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s recommended torque (2.5 Nm ± 0.3 Nm). Adjust them if necessary for a secure fit.

Professional Maintenance for Refrigerant Systems

Any maintenance beyond regular cleaning should be performed by qualified Dometic personnel, especially when handling refrigerants or other critical system components.

  • Warning: Handling refrigerants without proper training is dangerous. Always seek professional help for these tasks.

Follow these simple tips, perform regular maintenance, and your caravan roof air conditioner will provide you with a cool and comfortable environment wherever your travels take you.


Contact Dometic Service

Dometic service offers a range of fixed-price services to give you peace of mind on your next adventure. Mention this Let’s Go article and get a 10% discount!

Bonus Offer: Trade in your old air conditioner, working or not, and receive $300 off an upgrade.

Contact Dometic Service:

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