Australia experiences some harsh summer heat, which can make travelling in the RV quite the challenge. This can be especially true when you are trying to stay cool. And this is where a 12V air conditioner designed to run on DC power comes in handy.
The 12-volt air conditioner for caravan setups can run directly from the car battery, solar panels, or the vehicle's systems, making them ideal for caravans, campervans, and even tiny homes.
Unlike the traditional 240V AC units, these smaller systems are more energy-efficient, which in turn makes them compatible with off-grid situations. And when connected to a modern portable power station, they offer even greater reliability and are a great addition for your travels.
Types of 12V Air Conditioners
When trying to pick the best 12V air conditioner for your caravan, you need to first consider your layout, your power setup, and how you travel. Below are the main types of 12V air conditioners that you can find in Australia, each with its own pros and cons.
1. Portable Units
The Portable 12V units are great if you are searching for greater flexibility. These units are installed inside the caravan and work by venting the hot air outside through a hose that passes through a window or hatch.
They are best suited for the smaller-sized caravans or for travellers who want a more temporary or easy-to-move cooling solution. Some Popular options in Australia include the EcoFlow WAVE 2 and Zero Breeze Mark 2.
Pros:
- No permanent installation
- Easy to move around
- Great for shorter trips
Cons:
- Smaller cooling coverage
- There is a need for hose installation and management
- They take up floor space
2. Underseat / Ducted Systems
The underseat or ducted 12V air conditioners are, like the name implies, installed under the car seats or the beds, and work by distributing cool air via vents.
These offer an excellent option for caravans that lack strong roof structures or when you want to just maintain the roof height. Models like the Cool J HB9000 Plus and the Truma Saphir are great examples.
Pros:
- Saves on space
- Have a low centre of gravity
- Offer a quiet operation
Cons:
Require a more complex installation
3. Rooftop Units
The Rooftop 12V air conditioners are installed permanently on the caravan roof and have enough cooling power to cool the larger living spaces more efficiently.
These types of 12V ACs are popular with those travelling full-time as well as the larger caravans, as they can distribute air evenly over a larger space with the elevated position helping to enhance airflow as well as cooling performance.
Pros:
- Simple to install
- Strong cooling power
- Ideal for larger spaces or caravans
Cons:
- Installation demands roof modification
- Adds weight to the roof and may not suit all caravans
4. Evaporative Coolers
Evaporative coolers are not true air conditioners, but many consider them a great low-power alternative and option.
They work by reducing the air temperature through evaporated air and work best in dry, low-humidity areas.
Pros:
- low power consumption
- affordable
Cons:
- Not very effective in humid conditions
- Lacks temperature control.
How 12V Air Conditioners Work
The 12V air conditioner works using a similar way to the traditional air conditioner. However, it is specifically designed to run on low voltage and for off-grid use.
The AC works by sucking the warm air inside the caravan and cooling it via a compressor, which runs the warm air over a refrigerant. The cooled air is then released back inside the caravan. This process will gradually reduce the temperature inside the caravan and help enhance comfort levels during hot temperatures.
Most of the modern 12V air conditioners come with highly efficient DC compressors that are able to vary their speed according to your needs.
This enables the unit to hasten the cooling process when the temperatures are high and then slow down once the required temperature is reached.
This helps to improve the AC's efficiency and reduces power consumption. When it comes to the evaporative-style systems, cooling will take place as the air passes over water-soaked pads, though these work best in dry climates and are not considered true air conditioners.
Power consumption is another highly important consideration. Depending on the type of model, a 12V air conditioner can consume anywhere from 15Ah to 100Ah per hour.
The more energy-efficient units that have the option of switching to eco or night modes will typically consume less power. For instance, a well-optimised system could consume about 25–45 Ah when running in moderate conditions, which makes it a practical choice when looking to include battery and solar setups.
If you compare these to the 240V air conditioners, 12V units can run directly on DC power. This means you will not need an inverter, plus you can avoid energy losses that are likely to occur when you convert the battery power from DC to AC.
While the 12V systems will generally have lower cooling output than the 240V rooftop units, they are better suited to smaller spaces, such as in caravans, campervans, and off-grid living.
Benefits and Suitability for Caravans
There are many advantages of A 12V air conditioner for caravan owners and travellers in Australia, especially for those planning to go off-grid or depend mainly on battery and solar power. That said, there are also some limitations:
Key Benefits
Off-grid freedom: They can run directly from batteries, solar panels, or even the vehicle systems. 12V air conditioners allow you to stay cool without relying on power outlets or generators.
Energy efficiency: With Direct DC operation, you are able to avoid the inverter, which makes running a 12V AC more efficient compared to running a 240V unit from the batteries.
Quiet operation: Most 12V systems come with variable-speed DC compressors, resulting in quieter performance and making them ideal for nighttime use.
Reverse-cycle capability: Some 12 ac models feature both cooling and heating, which provides you with year-round climate control without the need for installing additional appliances.
Built for Australian conditions: Many of the 12 ACs are built to perform in extreme heat, with some units rated for temperatures as high as 52°C. This makes them a great choice for those harsh Australian summers.
Limitations to Consider
Limited cooling power: the 12V air conditioners will generally have lower output compared to the 240V rooftop units and may be unsuitable for cooling large caravans.
Higher upfront cost: 12V ACS will often come with complex DC compressors and other specialised components. This makes such types of ACs costlier to buy and install.
Ventilation requirements: to ensure optimum airflow, it's important to ensure good ventilation when using a 12V AC. This is especially true for the portable or under-seat models and helps maintain efficiency while preventing overheating.
Best-Suited Applications
Pop-top and small caravans: The smaller internal space makes cooling with a 12V ac more effective and efficient.
4WDs, campervans, and boats: Thanks to their compact spaces and the fact that you will likely take them off-grid, this works well with 12V ac.
Remote and free camping setups: A good choice for where you have solar or batteries.
Energy-Saving Tips
- Seal gaps to reduce heat from getting inside
- Park the caravan in a shaded spot whenever possible
- Use awnings and reflective window covers
Power Requirements and Management
For you to run a 12V air conditioner efficiently, you will need to do a bit of power planning. Unlike 240V Acs, these units depend a lot on battery capacity, solar input, and clever energy management.
Battery Capacity
Minimum setup: You will require around 300Ah of lithium (LiFePO₄) to get runtimes of 1–2 hours.
Extended cooling: For longer runtimes, such as overnight, aim for 400–600Ah.
Lithium batteries are preferred over the AGM thanks to their capability for deeper discharge, lighter weight, and faster charging.
Solar Integration
For more sustainable off-grid cooling, consider getting a solar integration.
600–800W of solar panels is enough to recharge your batteries during the day, especially in summer when you are likely to use the air conditioner the most.
Portable Power Stations
Portable power stations offer a flexible alternative compared to fixed battery systems.
And with the BLUETTI Elite 300 Portable Power Station with its 2400W of output and a 3014.4Wh capacity, you can run your 12V air conditioner all through the night. And let's not forget the fast charging and stable output you get from this awesome portable power station.
If you opt for the BLUETTI 1200W Charger 2, you can recharge via the alternator or your rooftop solar panel while driving or camping.
Power Management Tips
- Ensure that you use pure sine wave inverters if you need an AC output.
- Check consumption through the mobile apps or battery monitor.
- Avoid accessory sockets that draw too much power and unnecessary loads
Top Models and Buying Tips for 2024
When shopping for a 12V air conditioner for your caravan, it's a good idea to pair it with the right portable power station. Also, it pays to consider a few key factors to ensure you get the most out of your system.
Recommended 12V Air Conditioner Models
EcoFlow WAVE 2 (Portable) – It consumes less power and is a flexible unit ideal for smaller caravans. The Portable models are simple to install and move, and are a great choice for those offgrid trips.
Dometic FreshJet Series – Its Known for its highly efficient inverter technology as well as its reliable and highly effective cooling performance. This model is an excellent choice for longer caravans.
GREE 3.5kW Units – These are strong systems with higher cooling capacity, perfect for larger caravans and heavy summer use.
What to Look For When Buying
- Caravan Size & BTU/kW Rating – For smaller vans under ~5 m, a 2 kW cooling capacity is often sufficient, while larger caravans often benefit from units with 3.5 kW or more.
- Noise Levels – It is especially important for overnight comfort. Search for the quieter models.
- Wi-Fi/Smart Controls – Many of the modern 12 AC models feature app or remote-control capability, which allows for easier temperature adjustment.
- Temperature Range & Climate Suitability – Go for models that are tested and can handle the hot Aussie summers.
Power Station Pairing Tips
In order for you to get the most out of your 12V air conditioner, you may want to consider pairing it with a portable power station like the BLUETTI Elite 300 Portable Power Station. It is capable of handling higher loads and can offer long runtimes.
If you want to recharge as you drive to your destination, consider getting the BLUETTI 1200W Charger 2. This will integrate the alternator and solar panel into your power system.
Installation Tips
Rooftop units: It's best to leave this to professionals to ensure a watertight sealing and proper support.
Portable units: Often easy to install. You can even do it yourself with basic tools, and it is ideal for DIYers.
Conclusion
For Australian caravanners, getting a 12V air conditioner ensures you get energy efficiency, as well as comfort, even in the summer heat. Whether you opt for a rooftop, portable, or underseat cooling system, pairing it with a reliable portable power station such as the BLUETTI Elite 300 will give you uninterrupted cooling without draining the vehicle's battery.
