what is a good price for a second air conditioner

[zzuroweste1]

I am considering a second air conditioner...what is a good price....and what is a good brand...can I install it myself...is it hard if the rv is set up with the wiring and preparation.

[prariepoodle]

ZZuroweste1, We just had camping world install a second A/C on our montana, we chose a coleman and boy does it do a good job of cooling the whole RV.We have not run both of them together yet as it has not got hot enough. I have to tell you that the new one will run you out of the bed room it gets so cold.LOL

[zzuroweste1]

quote:Originally posted by prariepoodle

ZZuroweste1, We just had camping world install a second A/C on our montana, we chose a coleman and boy does it do a good job of cooling the whole RV.We have not run both of them together yet as it has not got hot enough. I have to tell you that the new one will run you out of the bed room it gets so cold.LOL

what did you pay for it

[Bill Hill]

zzuroweste1,
Welcom to the MOC. First you'll need to determine if your rig is already wired for a 2nd A/C, if so it's a relatively easy job. If not, you'll definitely want professional installation as it will require adding wiring to the roof and that means removal of interior panels, etc. You'll know if it's wired because there will be an electrical box in the ceiling with a cover plate that says something about A/C wiring. Check Camping World or your local RV dealer for prices on the A/C and installation.

[Montana_2779]

Good rule of thumb is about $1000 for the unit and installation. This will vary just a bit based on the hardware and wire pulls necessary. We've always had good luck with the offerings from Coleman. They have several units running 8 BTU to about 15K BTU. If the unit is only going to cool the bedroom space, a smaller unit at a lower price would probably do the trick. You may also pull fewer amps with a smaller unit, thus allowing you to run both A/C's or an A/C and more power-consuming appliances/lights at once (based on your electrical service). No reason that you shouldn't be able to install it yourself, BUT 1) if the wiring or hardware isn't in the configuration that you expect, the self-installation might become pretty tough (in our pop-up, several mods were necessary), and 2) you won't have any warranty on labor.

For current retail pricing, check Camping World at www.campingworld.com . They have several units catalogued. We contacted a local RV dealer for our aftermarket installation. Their price was quite comparable. Good luck!!

[prariepoodle]

quote:Originally posted by prariepoodle

ZZuroweste1, We just had camping world install a second A/C on our montana, we chose a coleman and boy does it do a good job of cooling the whole RV.We have not run both of them together yet as it has not got hot enough. I have to tell you that the new one will run you out of the bed room it gets so cold.LOL

It was around $650.00 1500 BTU with heater.

[Montana Sky]

I just priced a second a/c from my dealership for a 15,000btu installed for $965. Trying to decide if I really want to spend the money now or wait till mid summer when I really need it.

[sreigle]

Zzuroweste1, if you do find you have the 2nd AC prep, I **think** that includes the additional framing and bracing around the vent over the bed. If that's the case it should be a pretty simple matter to install it. I think the AC units are pretty heavy, though. You might try calling Keystone to find out exactly what is included in the 2nd AC prep so you know the answers to those questions. (574) 535-2100 and ask for customer service. If you are unsure whether you have the prep, have your VIN at hand. I think they can tell you if it does or not.

We have the 2nd AC prep but do not have the 2nd AC unit. So I have no first hand experience with this installation.