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RV Repair by Custom way in California > FAQ > Camper Air Conditioner Repair
Camper Air Conditioner Repair

Camper Air Conditioner Repair

A working camper air conditioner is essential, especially in hot climates like California. When your AC stops cooling properly, makes unusual noise, or trips breakers, it usually means something is failing inside the system. Some issues are simple. Others require professional repair.

Below is a clear guide explaining common AC problems, what you can check yourself, and when to call professionals.

Common Camper AC Problems

1. AC Is Running but Not Cooling

Possible causes:

  • Dirty air filter

  • Blocked evaporator or condenser coils

  • Low voltage from campground power

  • Failing capacitor

  • Refrigerant issue (rare but serious)

Start with the simple checks first.

2. AC Won’t Turn On

Check:

  • Circuit breaker

  • Thermostat settings

  • Shore power connection

  • 12V control fuse

  • AC power pedestal voltage

If breakers trip immediately, there may be a short or compressor problem.

3. AC Is Loud or Vibrating

Common reasons:

  • Loose mounting bolts

  • Worn fan motor

  • Debris inside rooftop unit

  • Damaged fan blades

  • Loose shroud

Excess vibration can damage the roof if ignored.

4. AC Freezes Up

If you see ice buildup:

  • Airflow may be restricted

  • Filter could be clogged

  • Evaporator coils may be dirty

  • Low ambient temperature

Turn the AC off and let it thaw before restarting.

Basic DIY Maintenance Steps

Before calling for repair, try:

  1. Clean or replace the air filter

  2. Inspect rooftop shroud for debris

  3. Check thermostat batteries

  4. Verify campground voltage

  5. Tighten visible mounting hardware

Never open sealed refrigerant components unless you are certified.

Electrical Issues in Camper AC Units

Camper AC systems rely on:

  • Shore power

  • Capacitors

  • Control boards

  • Compressors

  • 12V thermostat circuits

Common electrical failures include:

  • Bad start capacitor

  • Burned relay

  • Faulty control board

  • Loose wiring connections

These components are located inside the rooftop electrical box and require careful handling.

When Compressor Problems Occur

If the compressor:

  • Hums but does not start

  • Trips the breaker immediately

  • Makes grinding noises

The repair may involve:

  • Capacitor replacement

  • Soft start installation

  • Full AC unit replacement

In many cases, replacing the entire rooftop unit is more cost-effective than rebuilding a failed compressor.

Signs You Should Call Professionals

Call for professional repair if:

  • You smell burning

  • Breakers trip repeatedly

  • AC leaks water inside

  • Ice forms constantly

  • The unit runs but never cools

  • Electrical wiring looks damaged

Camper AC systems combine high voltage and sealed refrigerant systems. Incorrect repairs can cause more damage or safety risks.

Repair vs Replacement

Repair makes sense if:

  • Capacitor or fan motor is bad

  • Control board failed

  • Minor electrical issue

Replacement is smarter if:

  • Compressor is locked up

  • Unit is over 8 to 10 years old

  • Major internal failure

We Can Help!

If your camper air conditioner needs repair, Custom-way can help.

We understand:

  • Rooftop AC systems

  • RV electrical layouts

  • Capacitors and control boards

  • Proper roof mounting and sealing

We can safely access the rooftop unit, diagnose the issue, and repair or replace the system correctly without damaging your RV roof or wiring.

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✉️ customway.ca@gmail.com

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