Final conclusions on Roadtrek Proair undermount A/C?

[Boxster1971]

FYI - Embassy RV is installing an under mount ProAir 12V A/C system on their new Traveler Sport model to keep the roof clean for other uses.

https://www.embassyrv.com/models-tra...sport-features

[RMo]

Originally Posted by markopolo

When that level of battery capacity is needed then lithium is better suited for the task. The issue with the AGM's will be getting them all back to fully charged often. Lithium batteries don't have that requirement.

Yes, the AGMs may not be ideal, but we’ll see how the work and I’ll do my best to nurse them along until I’m feeling flush enough to go to LiFePOs. I don’t think a few hundred extra pounds will matter much given that we got accustomed to packing small in our Agile.

[RMo]

Originally Posted by Boxster1971

FYI - Embassy RV is installing an under mount ProAir 12V A/C system on their new Traveler Sport model to keep the roof clean for other uses.

https://www.embassyrv.com/models-tra...sport-features

Interesting, and I hope it works well!

[Rlum]

Anyone have opinions about this unit? Here is the link:https://www.ebay.com/itm/20308320256...K%3AMEBIDX%3AI

[RMo]

It looks similar to, but not the same as, the Houghton “Quiet A/C” that Advanced RV installs - which I believe sells for about $2100 without installation and $2800 with. That unit gets favorable reviews for being quiet and cool. Below are some links that can lead you to more info:

https://sprintychronicles.home.blog/...ioner-install/


https://www.thefitrv.com/rv-tips/the...itioner-again/

[Davydd]

Originally Posted by Rlum

Anyone have opinions about this unit? Here is the link:https://www.ebay.com/itm/20308320256...K%3AMEBIDX%3AI

That is not a split system air conditioner. I don't know about that particular Houghton unit as it appears to be a one off sale. Advanced RV (ARV), Willoughby, OH, is the US distributor to the Australian Houghton air conditioners. They install on their own vans and can up fit other manufacturer's vans. So far, I haven't found any quieter air conditioner in a van and I have witnessed that first hand in both a Sprinter and Promaster installation. ARV claims they are 20% more efficient in energy use.

They have produced YouTube videos on their Houghton air conditioners. I plan to install one in the ARV van I'm having built.

[LostInWoods]

The pic says RecPro, so that makes me think it's one of these: https://www.recpro.com/rv-air-condit...te-non-ducted/

Maybe Houghton has a slightly different version they offer to ARV vs RecPro? They look very similar, to be sure, but are they really the same? You'd have to see them both together to know for sure, I guess.

[Rlum]

Originally Posted by LostInWoods

The pic says RecPro, so that makes me think it's one of these: https://www.recpro.com/rv-air-condit...te-non-ducted/

Maybe Houghton has a slightly different version they offer to ARV vs RecPro? They look very similar, to be sure, but are they really the same? You'd have to see them both together to know for sure, I guess.

Agreed. Knowing ARV reputation. I would venture to say it is not exactly the same. I suspect something will be different. I cannot believe the price differential. Something must be missing from the less expensive one? Can't believe the mark up from ARV could be that big?

[avanti]

Originally Posted by Rlum

Agreed. Knowing ARV reputation. I would venture to say it is not exactly the same. I suspect something will be different. I cannot believe the price differential. Something must be missing from the less expensive one? Can't believe the mark up from ARV could be that big?

I'm not sure. ARV first arranged to have these units imported from Australia five years ago. They had to deal with import issues, get a 120VAC version built, and probably had to meet a minimum purchase. That was a lot for them to bite off. A big markup was probably a practical necessity. Plus, of course, given their limited capacity and a cornered market, they couldn't be blamed for charging what the market would bear.

But now that a more conventional import process has begun, and given that there is now at least one direct competitor in this market, the prices are bound to go way down.

[FLtoAK]

Wondering if Dometic truck cabin air conditioners have been considered for a class B RV. Here are a couple of links:

https://www.dometic.com/en-us/us/pro...r-buying-guide
https://www.dometic.com/en-us/us/pro...-2000-_-262673

They use 12C DC variable speed inverter compressors and boast current draw under 20A in eco mode for their 6.8K BTU unit. They also have split systems.

Haven't looked at pricing and not sure if the capacity will be sufficient for my Sprinter 144.

[LimboMan]

If anyone is still wondering, I've been using my ProAir unit since purchasing new, in 2019. Has worked flawlessly and effectively kept things cool even on a trip to Texas through to Florida then back north to Canada. Paired with 800Ah of lithium batteries which allows it to run overnight off batteries without any issues.

My only problem now is that ProAir is no longer in business and I'm in need of service for the system. Looking for any former 'certified' (or otherwise) service centres experienced in working with these units. In the past, I'd simply drive to Elkhart, IN and worked with the fine staff there.

[avanti]

Originally Posted by LimboMan

My only problem now is that ProAir is no longer in business and I'm in need of service for the system. Looking for any former 'certified' (or otherwise) service centres experienced in working with these units. In the past, I'd simply drive to Elkhart, IN and worked with the fine staff there.

Unless I am mistaken, ProAir used all standard automotive AC coolant and fittings. If so, any auto AC shop should be able to service your unit easily.