The best 13,500 BTU RV air conditioner with a heat strip combines strong cooling with winter heat, ideal for year‑round comfort in varying climates. This guide highlights five top models, explaining who each is best for and why it stands out. It also provides practical buying tips to help you compare installations, energy use, and durability across RV rooftops.
| Product | BTU / Heating | Heat Strip | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| TURBRO Inverter 13.5K BTU RV Air Conditioner | 13,500 BTU cooling; 4x heater output with heat pump | Yes | Energy-conscious owners who want quiet operation |
| Dometic FreshJet 3 Series, 13.5K BTU | 13,500 BTU cooling | No (heat strip not listed) | High airflow and lighter weight rooftop unit |
| VEVOR RV Air Conditioner, 13,500 BTU | 13,500 BTU cooling; multiple modes | No (no heat strip listed) | Value-focused installs with easy remote control |
| TUSOMA 18,000 BTU with Heat Pump | 18,000 BTU cooling; 10,236 BTU heating | Yes (heat pump integrated) | Large RVs needing powerful all-season climate control |
| BZW RV Air Conditioner 15K BTU with Heat Strip | 15,000 BTU cooling; 12,000 BTU heating | Yes (1500W heat strip) | Rooftops requiring robust heating and simple install |
TURBRO Inverter 13.5K BTU RV AC with Heat Pump
The TURBRO unit uses an energy-saving inverter compressor to boost efficiency and reduce noise. It provides 13,500 BTU cooling and heating and includes a heat pump with up to four times the output of traditional heaters. It also features a slim 10″ rooftop profile for lower air resistance and better fuel efficiency. Best for RV owners prioritizing quiet operation and year-round comfort in a compact, low-profile package.
- Best for: energy-conscious buyers who want quiet operation and a heat pump in a slim rooftop unit.
- Why selected: inverter efficiency reduces running costs and noise, while maintaining strong cooling/heating performance.
- Caution: ensure your roof can accommodate the 10″ thickness and any required wiring for WiFi/remote controls.
Dometic FreshJet 3 Series, 13.5K BTU
The Dometic FreshJet 3 Series delivers strong cooling capacity with higher airflow and a lighter build than some rivals. It is a solid choice for RVs that need robust climate control with efficient air distribution. Best for campers who want higher airflow and a lighter rooftop profile in a 13.5K BTU package.
- Best for: campers needing high airflow and a lighter unit for roof mounting.
- Why selected: emphasizes cooling power and ease of installation for mid-sized RVs.
- Caution: heat strip details are not listed; verify heating options if year-round heating is required.
VEVOR RV Air Conditioner, 13,500 BTU
This VEVOR model provides efficient cooling with multiple operating modes and both remote and panel controls. It fits standard roof openings and uses a ducted-friendly approach. Best for RV owners who want flexible control options and clear, intuitive operation in a 13,500 BTU package.
- Best for: buyers who value multiple modes and easy remote control.
- Why selected: broad mode options help tailor cooling and humidity control to conditions.
- Caution: not explicitly listed as heat-strip-equipped; confirm heating capability if needed.
TUSOMA 18,000 BTU RV A/C With Heat Pump
Although larger than the 13,500 BTU units, the Tusoma model is included for reference when comparing capacity needs. It delivers 18,000 BTU cooling with a 10,236 BTU heating output, suitable for bigger RVs or spaces up to 680 sq ft. Best for large campers seeking robust year-round comfort and strong heating performance.
- Best for: larger RVs and spaces requiring substantial cooling and heating.
- Why selected: strong all-season performance with a dedicated heat pump for winter warmth.
- Caution: higher power draw; ensure electrical supply and roof space can support the unit.
BZW RV Air Conditioner 15K BTU with Heat Strip
The BZW unit combines 15,000 BTU cooling with a built-in 1,500W heat strip for moisture removal and added warmth. It uses a non-ducted design and standard 14.25″ x 14.25″ roof vents for straightforward installation. Best for RVs up to about 24 feet where both cooling and heating are needed without ducting.
- Best for: RVs needing substantial heating capability via a built-in heat strip.
- Why selected: integrated heat strip provides moisture control and warmth alongside cooling.
- Caution: 15K cooling is paired with 12K heating; verify heating needs for your climate.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For 13,500 BTU RV AC With Heat Strip
Choosing the right 13,500 BTU RV air conditioner with a heat strip depends on the RV size, climate, roof space, and power availability. Consider inverter vs traditional compressor, heat strip capability, ducting compatibility, and installation ease. For year-round comfort, prioritize models with heat pumps or built-in heat strips, but verify electrical requirements and roof clearance before purchase.
- Heat capability: Do you need year-round heating, or is cooling the priority? Heat pumps offer efficient winter warming, while built-in heat strips provide supplementary warmth and dehumidification.
- Roof space and installation: Check thickness (inches) and whether the unit is ducted or non-ducted. Ensure roof opening size matches the unit’s footprint and venting requirements.
- Power and efficiency: Inverter-driven models save energy but may require higher upfront cost. Assess electrical supply in your RV and whether a generator or shore power is needed.
- Air distribution: Ducted vs non-ducted designs affect installation and airflow. Ducted units distribute air through ceiling vents; non-ducted units vent to the interior directly.
- Noise and comfort: Look for quieter operation and variable-speed compressors for a more comfortable camper environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 13,500 BTU mean for an RV air conditioner?
BTU indicates cooling capacity. A 13,500 BTU unit can cool RV spaces mid-sized to larger RVs when paired with efficient airflow and proper insulation.
Is a heat strip the same as a heat pump?
No. A heat strip provides electric heating, while a heat pump uses refrigerant cycles to extract heat from the air. Some units combine both for extended cold-weather performance.
Can I install a rooftop RV AC myself?
Many units are designed for DIY installation, but professional installation is advised to ensure roof integrity, electrical connections, and proper sealing.
Will a 13,500 BTU unit fit my RV roof opening?
Most 13,500 BTU units fit standard 14.25″ x 14.25″ roof openings, but verify the exact cutout dimensions from the manufacturer and your roof profile.
Which features improve energy efficiency?
Inverter compressors, heat pump capability, proper insulation, and low-profile designs that disrupt airflow less can all enhance efficiency and comfort.
Do all 13,500 BTU RV ACs with heat strips require 115V power?
Most do, with some models requiring both 115V AC and a 12V DC supply. Check the installation requirements for your chosen unit.