When temperatures drop and camping season wraps up, servicing your RV’s air conditioner probably isn’t top of your list. (In fact, it might not make the list at all.) But with the intense heat of summer becoming a distant memory, your A/C isn’t working as hard to keep you cool—making it the ideal time to give this trusty appliance some much-needed attention before it sits unused for the off-season.
With storage prep and RV winterization already on your plate, this might feel like just another chore, but skipping maintenance can lead to big headaches. From an A/C that struggles to cool, to unexpected breakdowns and emergency repairs, or even mold and mildew growth while your rig is in storage (yuck), these issues are a lot harder and more expensive to fix once camping season returns.
The good news is that RV A/C maintenance isn’t rocket science, and spending a little time and effort now ensures your unit stays in great shape for your next adventure. Here’s how to keep your A/C running strong without breaking a sweat.
Step-by-Step Maintenance Tasks
Step 1: Clean the Unit
Start by giving your A/C a thorough cleaning—removing dust, debris, and buildup will help it run efficiently and prevent future problems.
- Clean or Replace the Air Filter: Your RV’s A/C filter keeps dust and debris from entering the unit, but over time, it gets dirty and clogged. This can result in reduced performance, higher energy consumption, and a seriously nasty buildup of airborne particles inside your camper. If your filter is reusable, it can be vacuumed and/or washed with mild soap and water, and then reinstalled after drying. If the filter is too dirty or damaged, replace it with a new one.
- Clean the Condenser Coils: Dirty condenser coils can strain the A/C and negatively impact cooling efficiency. To clean them, remove the shroud (the cover) and vacuum away dust and debris with a soft brush attachment. If the coils are particularly dirty, use a no-rinse coil cleaner to remove stubborn grime.
- Clean the Vent Covers and Shrouds: Dust and dirt can accumulate on the vent covers and shrouds, reducing airflow and making the whole unit look dingy. Remove the covers, wipe them down with soapy water, and inspect for cracks. If you find damage, there are plenty of sturdy replacements available here on Parts Via from popular brands like Coleman Mach, ICON, and Dometic.
Step 2: Inspect and Service Components
Now that the unit is clean, it’s time to make sure everything is in good working order. Regularly inspecting and servicing key components can prevent breakdowns and improve performance next season.
- Check Electrical Connections: Faulty or corroded wiring can lead to A/C malfunctions or complete failure. Examine all visible wires for wear or corrosion, and check that every connection is secure. If your unit struggles to start or trips breakers when running multiple appliances, a soft starter kit can reduce strain on the motor and extend its life.
- Clear the Drain Lines and Hoses: A clog in the drain lines can lead to water damage and mold growth. Ensure the drain line is clear of debris and draining as it should. If it’s clogged, use a gentle stream of lukewarm water or compressed air to clear it out. Be sure to give all hoses a thorough once-over to check for any cracks, holes, or other damage.
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Inspect Seals and Refrigerant Lines: Check the seals around the A/C unit for cracks or damage. Leaky seals can reduce efficiency and allow hot air to enter. Similarly, inspect refrigerant lines for signs of wear or leaks. If you notice any issues, it might be worth scheduling a professional check-up.
Step 3: Lubrication & Mechanical Check
Next, it’s important to lubricate moving parts and check the overall mechanical condition of the unit. This helps keep things running smoothly and reduce wear and tear.
- Lubricate Motor Bearings: The motor bearings are key to smooth operation, and over time, they can dry out, leading to squeaking or sluggish performance. Apply a small amount of lubricant designed for electric motors to these bearings to keep them running quietly and efficiently.
- Check the Fan Blades: Fan blades should be clean, free from cracks, and spinning smoothly. If you notice any damage, it may be time to replace them. Replacement cooling fans are easy to come by, and swapping them out is an affordable and straightforward fix.
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Inspect Other Moving Parts: Take a moment to check any other moving components, like the capacitor and condenser fan. Make sure nothing is rubbing or creating friction, as this can cause unnecessary wear. Apply lubrication to any joints or moving parts that seem dry or stiff.
Step 4: Winter Storage Prep
Once your AC is clean, serviced, and ready to go, it’s time to prepare it for cold-weather hibernation. Proper winter storage not only protects your unit from the elements, but also ensures it’s in top condition when you’re ready to use it again.
- Cover the Unit: To shield your A/C from the harsh winter weather, cover it with a protective A/C cover. This will guard against rain, snow, and debris, preventing damage to sensitive components. Choose one that’s breathable to prevent moisture from building up under the cover.
- Seal the Ducts: Make sure the air ducts are properly sealed to prevent any cold air or unwanted pests from entering and causing damage to the system. If you notice any cracks or loose seals, replace them with a new gasket to ensure an airtight fit.
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Protect Against Moisture: Moisture can lead to mold, mildew, rust, and a host of other issues—so controlling humidity is key. Use moisture absorbers or a dehumidifier inside the RV to keep the interior dry and prevent any dampness from affecting the A/C unit. This is particularly important if you plan to store your RV in a humid environment.
Pro Tips
To get the most from your off-season maintenance, avoid these common mistakes and check key components regularly before next season.
- Keep the air filter clean. This is probably the simplest maintenance step with the biggest payoff—so don’t skip it. Check the filter regularly during the camping season, and give it a final clean or replacement before storing your RV for winter.
- Use gentle cleaners. Harsh chemicals can damage coils, plastic parts, and the unit’s finish. Stick with mild soap, water, or no-rinse coil cleaners to protect delicate components.
- Consult your RV’s manual. Every A/C unit has slightly different winterization requirements. Following manufacturer guidance ensures you don’t miss any unit-specific steps.
- Do a thorough annual check. At the end of each season, inspect filters, coils, fans, seals, and drain lines. Catching issues early prevents costly repairs and keeps your A/C running smoothly next summer.
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Mark maintenance dates. Note when you last cleaned or serviced the unit so you have a record for next season and can track recurring issues.
Ready to Gear Up for Next Season?
Whether you're doing a simple tune-up or thinking about replacing your unit altogether, Parts Via has everything you need to keep your RV A/C in peak condition. From replacement filters and coil cleaners to full A/C units, Parts Via carries trusted brands and essential components, all in one place.
Take advantage of the FREE ship-to-store option and get your parts delivered to a nearby dealer or service center at no extra cost. Get a head start now, and you’ll be cool and comfortable when the next much-anticipated camping season begins!
Need help choosing the right A/C system or figuring out what to buy? Check out our in-depth shopping guides while you’re here: