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Old 06-12-2016, 02:00 PM   #1
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2nd AC unit

We have a one year old XLR Thunderbolt 340x12.

When we purchased we were told the unit had one AC and an extreme weather package and would keep everything cool in the summer. We have come to find out we need the 2nd AC. One unit runs continuously and doesn't really cool until 1am. With it running all the time we've added fans to try and help and with all the noise you can't hear a thing.

Here's my question, has anyone purchased a portable AC to use to help cool? My camper is wired for a second AC it's just more expensive.

Anyone have the same problem and have a solution? Thanks.
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Old 06-13-2016, 11:37 AM   #2
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The only real problem with a portable unit is where to exhaust the hot air. You'll need some where to route the hot air duct.

Most RV windows aren't really conducive to that configuration.
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Old 06-13-2016, 12:48 PM   #3
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Good point. It would be a pain.
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Old 06-13-2016, 02:24 PM   #4
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Check around on-line for a second AC. On my previous 5er, I added a second 15k unit myself. Was pretty simple with the help of a bobcat to get the unit on the roof. Think I spent $800 total for the roof unit and inside ceiling assembly, ducted. Mine was pre-wired for second AC.
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Old 07-28-2016, 11:32 AM   #5
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I had a similar challenge. The single ac in the 29hfs sometimes needs assistance. I found a 10,000 BTU in lowes $300. I figure can use it when needed, plug it in separately via an extension cord and exhaust it with a modified vent to the rectangular vent built in the camper in the back toy hauler bedroom.
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Old 07-28-2016, 12:06 PM   #6
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I just purchased a Dometic 13.5 on eBay for $500. The unit is new, in the box and from a dealer. I will install in my TT bedroom as a second AC.


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Old 07-28-2016, 12:20 PM   #7
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That's a great deal......jburr. My concern is that the 30 amp service will be exceeded with,the second unit. With the second portable ac the unit would be plugged directly to the power source bypassing the 30 amp issue. I have had troubles with just keeping,my breaker from tripping with the ac on and the water heater on electric. I usually have to use propane for the water heater to keep the breaker from tripping. These toy haulers should automatically come in 50 amp service and a 2nd ac unit. I always have to supplement the cooling with the smaller tower fans to keep air moving.
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Old 07-28-2016, 12:53 PM   #8
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You're right about the 30 amp service, my travel trailer came with a 50 amp service and prewired for the second AC.


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Old 07-28-2016, 01:24 PM   #9
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I added a second 13.5k to my 30 amp camper.
Ran the wire through the ceiling and down an interior wall into the basement.
There I installed a breaker panel and then ran the wire to the side skirting and put in another 30 amp receptacle.
I then plugged the main camper into the 50 amp service with a dog bone.
The other cord went to the 30 amp receptacle.



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Old 07-28-2016, 02:08 PM   #10
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Turbs...that's creative!
Is there a cut out in the back for another unit or did you install from scratch?
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Old 07-28-2016, 03:05 PM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by laurajean View Post
Turbs...that's creative!
Is there a cut out in the back for another unit or did you install from scratch?


I installed it where my bedroom vent was.

http://www.forestriverforums.com/for...per-90283.html



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Old 07-29-2016, 10:02 PM   #12
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We actually added a third ac unit. We have a 50 amp camper and the third has its own 30amp plug and cord. No problem cooling it down
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Old 08-17-2016, 06:44 PM   #13
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I just been to vegas, 42/107. two units could not keep the trailer cool. My front bedroom was good, its got it own dedicated unit. The rear garage area was definitely not cool, I had teenagers in there. The main living area was ok but the unit was close to running constantly. In those temps a third unit would be a godsend
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Old 08-18-2016, 11:53 AM   #14
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TFordes, you know the pedestal normally doesn't have an independent 30A feed... it uses the same feed as one leg of the 50A. (L1 or L2) . I do virtually the same but I have 30A on one leg and 15A on the other... way less than your potential for trying to get 80A from one leg. Seems like that could be a problem.
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Old 08-18-2016, 11:55 AM   #15
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Ian, if they're like most, they keep going in and out. Nothing can cool down the great outdoors.
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Old 08-18-2016, 01:34 PM   #16
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WW we have been doing it for 5 seasons no problems at all
Also usually have a fridge plugged into the pedestal. Camp 60 to 70 nights a year in different campgrounds. Even run the heat strip in the garage A/C unit when it is chilly
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Old 08-18-2016, 02:38 PM   #17
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that's amazing... I've been in CGs that could give decent 30A. You're saying your 3 AC units could all run at the same time? learn something everyday! thanks.
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Old 08-18-2016, 02:52 PM   #18
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I've got one 15500 ac . no problems keeping unit cool . i camp in themountains in the summer and Florida in the winter piece of cake . one thing i do know is if the hot water element is heating , the ac going , maybe the tv on and you turn on the microwave you will trip a 30 amp breaker
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Old 08-18-2016, 10:01 PM   #19
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WolfWhistle yes all three at the same time. Sometimes the microwave and the hot water heater on electric. Now if I fire up the now dryer and the curling iron at the same time with all three running sometimes I will trip bit not all the time. It is pure awesomeness. Having my own meat locker on wheels
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Old 08-19-2016, 04:03 PM   #20
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Seen new style 15k dometic a/c units being installed at the rally.


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