I love where you are taking your channel. It's nice to help others who would otherwise not attempt this and then pay a heavy price for something so simple to do. Thank You.
I have already done my plenum with HVAC tape as OEM,s don't do what they are supposed to because of the issues with time constraints on the build process. This is another point that I need to stress to individuals that may not know this and fortunately I found this issue by accident. The ceiling vents or registers loose far to much cool air flow. On removing the directional flow vent itself, I noticed only by putting my hand inside the trunking that the plastic insert on all my ceiling vents where not attached to the trunking, there was a 1/2" gap between the trunking and the plastic vent, so I was loosing a high percentage of flow into the skin between the ceiling and the roof. So by using the HVAC aluminium tape to bridge the gap and stop cool air from going elsewhere I have increased my airflow to 100% and have reached great efficiency. Just thought this would be an interesting addition to check as well as the plenum air flow.
Awesome video y'all. Very few RVers even know to do this. The ones that do, well....let's just say, it takes effort to get up out of the chair. The more who "like, share, and subscribe" will help get the word out. In an annoying infomercial voice.... That's right folks! As our guests today noted: The best way to ensure your AC unit(s) residential, RV or otherwise, perform in the most inefficient and electric devouring manner, while working harder and longer, is to ensure those coils are all clogged up as good as possible. If you can see light through the coils, grab a hand full of mud and push it into all those coils letting air pass. Once you've ensure your AC unit will not run optimally, sit back sweat all over and wait for the unit to break. At this point you're ready to defrost your freezer, cook a burger in the kitchen sink, and turn that milk into cottage cheese. If you order the coil clogging recipe in the next 10 minutes, we'll include a free metal trowel to aid in destroying the coils of your unit. Using the tip of the trowel, you too can bend the coils to accept more of the coil clogging mixture with just one pass. Forget those other methods and recipes which call for two or three coats to ensure optimal blockage. Who has time for that? Call now, repair technicians are standing by to take your order. But wait there's more!!!! Those same technicians taking your order, with free rush delivery, will also schedule you for service to save you even more of your valuable time. We must he crazy offering such an incredible deal. Order now. Supplies are limited. All products offered on a first idiot basis only. No exchanges. No refunds. Fools use at their own discretion. Not responsible or liable for any damages or injuries associated with any products or methods contained in the ad or delivered to the idiots who've destroyed their A.C. unit through neglect and/or laziness. RVDummies for Morons is an unregistered, unregulated, unrepentant subsidiary of RVing Morons LLC (Not to be confused with or associated with RVing Mormons LLC). But seriously excellent information. Thank you two for all the fun, entertaining, informative, and educational videos. They're a ton of work to do. I wanted to say how much I appreciate you both! In a non-weirdo way of course 😏. One tip for everyone reading.. Use an air compressor (low pressure to avoid damage) or a can of compressed air to remove the dust, bugs and debris before foam cleaner. Just tape some cardboard over the duct opening. Use a magnetic puck or small jar with a lid to hold all of the screws to keep them from falling inside the duct or rolling off the roof. Top tip: for all those loose screws, nails, nuts, bolts, button, tacks,....hard candy...etc. etc... reuse jars or plastic containers with screw on lids to hold odds and ends, predrill two holes in the lid. Use a washer and screw and attach the lid to the bottom of a shelf, underside of a bench, or the bedroom floor in the basement area of your fifth wheel. When you need something simply unscrew the jar. Grab what you need and screw it back on. The containers are not take up any valuable real estate. Cheers from the Emerald City.. Cameron
@@ChangingLanes Hilarious... And sadly true for many who neglect their units. Oh I forgot to say the wiring harness may have been under the somewhat rigid conduit to prevent it from rubbing on the sharp coils during travel. Double check with those nice folks at the repair training center. I have different AC models. So I can't be certain. Cheers!
They talked about the couples program, they should do something for singles as well. I'm sure there aren't any where near as many single RVs as there are couples and families, but that's also why a singles program may be needed. And not necessarily romantic, but also just instead of riding my motorcycle by myself, meeting another biker (of either sex) just to have someone to ride with and not feeling like a third wheel. Looking forward to more maintenance videos.
Great video! I'd add one thing when it comes to the exterior a/c covers...take a long handle (broom handle) and tap on the covers before you start taking them off to make sure bees/wasps aren't making their own vacation home in there.
Good idea... I was figuring the drill would do the same... but banging around a bit is likely better with some wasp spray handy if it tests "positive". 😳
We get a lot of dirt/dust buildup on the evaporator coils that may be coming from the outside since the blower sucks dirty air from between the AC unit and the roof through the condensate drain holes and any others that may be exposed. We already use metalic tape on the evaporator cover and clean the interior air filters frequently. Has anyone else had this issue? A piece of OPEN cell foam inserted under the AC's baser plate and the roof inline witht he evaporator drain pan would allow condensate to exit the unit while preventing dirt/dust from being sucked into the evaporator by the blower... Marc
Want to thank you for the video. It inspired me to get the supplies to perform the maintenance on my unit today. Boy was i surprised by not how dirty but the unfriendly flying wasps living under the cover.
Seriously guys, you have the best content! I have learned so much and I am looking forward to all of your discussion of RV systems. Thanks for the time and effort to provide these videos.
Why can I only give ONE thumbs up... This, with the new video on the Styrofoam modification is going to be my next project. I was in Kansas this summer when it was 103 F, and my A/C could not keep up, I had to run to Lowe's to buy insulation for all my windows, then it was okay, but DARK. Hoping this will increase the airflow so I can have some natural light in my RV when it gets hot, as I am heading to Florida soon. THANK YOU!
That vid was perfect. As a mobile rv repair dude I tell folks all the time to do minor service to their a/c units exactly as you just showed. Plus while you are up there, it's a good time to check the roof and seal condition. Something 99% of rv owners fail to do. But that helps my business!! Lynn
Good point on the roof! I inspect ours in our T-24 (day before departure) process. If you're looking for a long video LOL: th-cam.com/video/uPXNmS0IBRQ/w-d-xo.html
Those intake filters were really dirty! Cleaning those alone probably helped your system out a lot. But the extra detail you showed with the fin cleaning and straightening was awesome. The foil tape was also a great touch to make sure you're running as efficient as possible. Excellent video!!
Awesome video and tutorial! I just did our 2020 GD reflection after watching your video! I only wish there was a rv training school up here in Canada 🇨🇦 I recently spoke to a rv tech that camps here in our rv camp ground and he informed me that in the province of British Columbia that most rv techs don’t require a red seal technician certificate!! Cheers guys and a happy Canada Day to all Canadians down south!🇨🇦👍
What a great idea to have that type of class and training out there. Extremely helpful for everyone and/or anyone wanting to take care of their rig. You guys are so good at putting these types of videos together. Thanks a trillion! 😉
I have had this project on my mind for months. We are 330ft off our private, DIRT road 🙄. So far, the intake filters were really dirty. I just need to get the cleaners suggested on this video and i can get to work on the units themselves. Thanks for the lesson.
You just referenced my favorite movie of all time, "Swingers" if I didn't already love you guys; I'd have to say I definitely do now.. "Vegas Baby,, VEGAS!!"
I just can't wait to get on the roof and do some cleaning. Great video. Will be looking forward to refrigeration. I personally think refrigeration is one of the greatest inventions of all time. I'm not sure I would want to spend much time in AZ without it, and I've never been to AZ. AZ will be next year. Thanks, Jim&Celia Hooch on Wheels
Am doing some maintenance this week. I have been good washing the inside vents and covers. However, I am very delinquent with the ac on the top. Sooo glad I found this. This will happen later this. As usual, I learn so much from your videos. Thank you.
Serendipity, watching you're video while it is raining here in DC and drips started coming out of the air condo cover...up to the roof tomorrow with some caulk.
I watched this video when it first came out and I knew I had to add AC servicing to my To Do list. Well, today was the day so I watched the video again and then climbed up on the roof. My rig is 10 years old (I've had it for 3) and I doubt the AC units have ever been cleaned. What a mess!! I followed your directions and got the coils in good shape. One thing you didn't show, because yours was pretty clean, was how to clean the squirrel cage fan. Mine was disgusting. It took over an hour just to scrub the accumulated grime off. I didn't dare try to remove it so it was one fin at a time. But, it is all clean now. One additional tip to pass along is when you have the interior cover off give the bolts that hold the AC unit on a snug up. Don't over-tighten or you'll over-compress the gasket between the unit and the roof. With all the vibrations the bolts can work loose. Another great, helpful, video. Looking forward to more.
Thanks so much for this! Routine maintenance is probably the thing that concerns me most, because I don’t know what I don’t know (if that makes sense). How about a video on caulking/sealing, and one on lubrication? (Slides, pin box, levelers/jacks, and whatever needs to be lubed)
Great video! I've had to clean our inside filters a couple times, but havent' done the top side yet. Thanks for OJT video to show me how. We also had one AC go out when we hit the New Mexico desert and had to have a mobile tech come take a look. Turns out it was just a loose connection on one of the wires in the unit, so I would recommend checking all wire connections for tightness when you have the cover off.
Thanks for yet another great video. I cleaned all 3 of mine today. One note I’ll add, when you pull the metal cover off the front, pull it off slowly until you know for sure the wires are long enough. The 3rd a/c (in the garage) had short wires and 4 of them came off the control box. It took a little bit of time on Google to find the control box wiring diagram to figure out where they went. The other 2 a/c’s had no issues. This is also a good time to check the connections and make sure they’re tight. A few of mine were loose, so I snugged them up.
Hey Guys, you can use the Frost King Coil Cleaner inside or out. It is safe for use indoors on HVAC systems and refrigerator/freezer coils. You do not need a special cleaner for the condenser and one for the evaporative coils. I've been using this product for many years without ill effect.
Great video guys. I’m looking forward to this series. Cleaning and inspecting the A/C units was the first thing I did when I purchased my used Solitude 369RL a few months ago. Needless to say the dealer didn’t touch them. I was quite happy with the job GD did installing them. I didn’t have to add or remove any silver tape. A small shop vac with the soft brush helps to clean the fins as well.
First time viewer. I was dreading doing my own A/C maintenance. Your video took my fear factor away! Thank you both. Great job! Refrigerator maintenance will be next. Thank you again for sharing your knowledge. Time to order A/C cleaning supplies.
I just went through that process just last week & think I did pretty good without the knowledge you just shared. On another note, I installed an “easy start 364” from micro-air. Wow I’m so impressed by it. Excellent for dry camping/booddocking where you run off your generator.
If you'v e only one one AC, you look into "hard" start versus soft starts. Same idea (extra capacitor for the start up) without the "brain". Todd (from this video) recommended them.
Great video both of you. I can't wait to get my new Riverstone RKFB at the end of the month. We sold our house in June and purchased 2 acres in sw Tucson. We have been very inspired by your video's. Next time you are in the SW. You need to go to Rocky Point Mexico. It is awesome and safe. Thanks!
Nice job on the video....very helpful, especially now that I have had my rig a year I am sure the AC is ready for inspection and cleaning! I can tell you that the first week I had my RV, I noticed the AC was stupid noisy (Dometic BriskAir II) I pulled off the inside cover and I found that the installation was done poorly and much of the air was going into the ceiling and the foam tape they used was not sealing the intake from the blower side so it was just recirculating the air. I even had insulation sucked up into the evap. coils on the inside. Took out my trusty HVAC tape and resealed everything and made it air tight and way less restrictive. It was cooler, far less noisy, and much more air was coming from the vents! Looking forward to the next video!
So far, our's has had only minor air flow issues (like we showed in the video), but we've seen some online that look like a 5 year old installed the unit. LOL
Thanks for walking through the A/C maintenance. Stumbled on this looking for (what I thought was a Changing Lanes) video on how the three GD A/C's "talk" to each other. We have three A/C's in the 399TH, but if more than one is on, only one is cold. (Yes, on 50 amp shore power at the moment, too.)
That's odd.. Check your power management system (ours is in the bedroom). It will tell you if it's properly detecting 50A and if any loads are in a "shed" state. When it sheds a load for an AC, the AC fan will run, but the compressor will not and it will blow ambient or warm air. Can't hurt to give GDRV a call on it also.
@@ChangingLanes Yeah, might be next step. Lots of debugging yesterday. Tested park pole, tested power cord, etc. Never shows 50amps inside, only 30. There was a brief moment coming off the generator where it showed 50, but then dropped to 30. Will likely need a mobile tech. Thanks for replying!
@@WillBelden I would go straight to the source and call GDRV. Sure sounds like something isn't wired properly. I'm not sure if the power management that's showing 30A is using phase difference between line 1 and line 2 (50 A is split phase), or if it's using continuity (to see if line 1 and 2 are bridged.). But, if it's detecting 30A and you try to draw more, it makes sense that it will shed the 3rd AC's compressor.
@@ChangingLanes Agreed. Changing campgrounds tomorrow, who'll see what happens at next 50amp when we get there. Did measure 2x120 and combined 240 here. Many suggestions are to check for loose wiring around ATS. If I can find it. Heh.
@@ChangingLanes To CL and others reading this looking for a similar answer. Yes, we had 50amp at the pole, but we inadvertently had our inverter on the entire time. We have a Viktron Multiplus, but by engaging it, we limited our entire system to 30 amps. I also suspect that we were adding additional discharge / recharge cycles to our batteries that we really shouldn't be doing, considering we have all that shore power available. If you're having the same problem, just turn your inverter to OFF or CHARGE ONLY. I hope my error helps someone else!
Thanks for the video. I do our A/C maintenance since I don't let my husband on the roof because his sense of balance of not good. It looks like I've done it correctly in the past, though. Also, thanks for the tip about using the less expensive cleaner and the cap that comes on it. I've been using the expensive stuff only. Its time to do maintenance again but we are in Texas and we're getting a lot of rain. About the time the roof dries good it rains for a week again.
Simple green is a much easier product to get and used to clean a/c unit with. Works well on both coils on with small spray bottle. Foaming cleaners generally have to be rinsed which I didn't see explained cause they will deteriorate the metals. Nicely done video.
O,o, ect! So many questions! The service on the a.c. is reasonable basic. Good presentation on the video. I would like to see the pros and cons regarding residential refrigerator versus gas electric refrigerators. I am tickled to see all the service videos you can come up with! Also can you include service on a class A coach? I know that is hard to show an example with your toy hauler. Can't wait for your next video. Thanks Safe Travels
Very good video on taking care of the air conditioners but one thing you might need to go over is the condenser water drain it is a tube that drains the water off of the air conditioner when it goes through its defrost cycle to make sure it doesn't fill up with water or debris
Great collab, great editing! So understandable, taking what they taught, you doing it and then on to the next information. Fantastic video, so glad I’ve discovered your channel.
Awesome video! I am a semi-retired mechanic and this school would be great as we travel. I always get ask to fix whatever people have broken. “Traveling RV Mechanic”. lol
Good timeing on this video as I just plunked out $1,300 for an AC that bit the dust. Even up here in Hiawassee, GA where the daytime highs are about 80, AC's can meet their end! Bonne voyage et bonne route!
Check your outlet ducts where they connect to the main duct, I've found separations or offset ducts and taped them up. makes a world of difference in air volume, plus your not cooling your attic.
I'm going to add some commentary throughout... I hope it helps. I have no experence at all this, so it's just my uneducated commentary, ok.. First, the pray on foam. it seems to me that letting the foam simply do its thing and dry without being sprayed off, everything you loosen just sits there and dries on the coils. Do you think that covering the hole into the roof and flushing with water would be a better and more complete solution to making sure you get all the crap out of the coils and off the roof? Second, I love the idea of the comb, yet think that taking time to gingerly use the comb to do the job thoroughly and completely is best. Next, I would think that any work you do on those coils should avoid pushing debris further into the coils causing more congestion and build-up. Vigorous flushing seems best. Your system seemed pretty darn clean, BTW. Last... love this couple and the healthcare plan they pulled together and the home schooling program. Nice too that they built a network that brings like-minded travelers together. Overall, great video and I look forward to more. Happy travels!
For clogged fins you can use water, but the way it's used is crucial. A hose with a sprayer usually will cause too much pressure, so yes a hand pump spray application will help. As well as you see in the video if you use the brush first you can loosen the debris pretty effectively prior to applying the cleaner. Water does work, just be very careful. Great questions.
Very informative and is sure to save me money as I most likely would have left this to the dealer or more likely than that I would have never cleaned them due to ignorance on this topic. Thanks again Changing Lanes!
You appear to have one of those units that have a poor airflow design. Before the air enters the ducts, it's all jumbled up in that box area. Look for the videos here that show a foam device inserted in that area to smooth out the airflow. They show a huge increase in air flow at the duct openings.
Great job on the video, and excellent series of topics! Love fact your covering the routine maintenance. The fact you take the time to research the way you have, provide a very valuable resource with the "National RV Training Academy". Also greatly appreciate you provide a list of the materials need and links to them. You obviously put a lot of work into these videos!
Tara, you need some foam kneepads for when you help Chad with projects (a lot less wear and tear on the knees is a good thing). Take care of them now - I'm 60 and paying for not taking care of mine!
Thank you for the GREAT content. Watched this video before going to bed and had a crazy-cool dream about Tara getting TOTALLY healed. Not a dream I was expecting but one that I will gladly agree with and cover in prayer! #WithGodAnythingIsPossible . Love you guys and can't wait to hit the road soon! You are prepping us for a beautiful new season ahead!!!
This is awesome! I was going to make a video for Nebraska Camping Community Facebook group on this very topic since there has been a lot of people on there with AC problems lately and its mostly lack of maintenance. Now ill just share this so i don't have too. The only thing i do different than you is i used canned compressed air for cleaning computer keyboards to blow the dust or flying cotton off the fins. That works pretty good. One could use air compressor air but it is to easy to damage the fins with that so that is not recommended. Now i can put my own AC off a little longer. HAHA. I was going to do a wheel bearing video too because that's a hot topic. But ill let ya'll do all that hard work and ill just share. LOL
An excellent video. I didn't realize just how often you need to do the maintenance on the AC. LOL I'm only behind almost 2 years on mine. Thanks again for the great video.
Thanks for the video. I learned a lot. I think you might miss something that you did not lubricate the fan shaft. I had problems with the AC one time it did want to started up but the fan would not turn from the lack of use. The only thing I had at the time was WD40, sprayed the shaft and it started up. I am sure the white lithium grease would have been better but that's what I had at the time.
Absolutely the perfect video! Great job you two! Great subject, great information, great presentation! Perfection! Let me see, 10,000+ views and only 4 dislikes. (obviously not what they thought they were going to be getting.) You really couldn't hope for better. Even Jimmy Fallon doesn't get such a low percentage of dislikes. I always enjoy your videos and find them very useful.
Also I went thru the whole RV and resealed the foil tape seems. OEM just didn't do a good job. They just don't care. Also, Walmart sells a new reusable filter for a few different model AC units.... including this Coleman. Trying it out now. The thicker allergenic filters are made by a company in Sarasota FL.if I recall
Thanks for this excellent video I just installed an easy start on the exact same AC and decided to clean it while I was working on it this was extremely helpful thank you
It's not very reassuring when a self purported "RV Maintenance Expert/Trainer" gets the intake and the outtake mixed up (15:00 mark) and he didn't just put his finger on the wrong area, he went ahead and said "we'll close this off as we're vented" while pointing to the inlet that he just called outlet.... I feal as reassured as I did that day the plumber showed up to fix my leak and on top of his van he had an upside down small aluminum boat.... hmmm... just goes to prove my belief, trust no one and do your own work. That being said, great video as always.
Awesome video! We are new to all of this so having these instructional videos is awesome! I am guessing hot water tank is on the list ... if not, please add! Thx!
Our Fuzion has same Coleman AC units. Our front unit has an issue sometimes when it's super hot out of freezing over. I think also when we close the bedroom door and isolate it, say at night, it freezes over as well. The defrost auto doesn't work well. So I have to manually defrost by running just the fan on high. Cleaned the coils last year....seems like it helped but not cured. However this info and video is super helpful as I was using the foaming cleaner only and just on the inside coils. Gonna buy both cleaners next and try to do a more thorough job.
So when its super hot outside and you run into freezing coils it really seems as though its an air flow issue. There is a heat exchange on the coils where the hot air in the RV should run across the cold coils. That hot air from the RV has a ton of moisture so it is captured by the coils. IF the coils cannot exchange the heat outside and dry off the coils, then those coils will freeze. Take the shroud off the A/C and check for 2 things, the evaporator coils on the outside should be clean of debris, but make sure your thermistor is in place. The thermistor is a tiny probe that goes in between the fins and tells the unit to shut off if the fins get too cold.
I'm going full time rving but stationary on my land. I have a 2007 royal international 38 foot monarch made by carriage. I paid 16k on it and it's in immaculate shape pretty much never used.
![🛠 Tools for Full Time RV Living! [RV Tools] Changing Lanes!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cjD8fhm4gJ0/mqdefault.jpg)
Just one comment to add. When removing your cover be careful of wasp nests.
Great video
I love where you are taking your channel. It's nice to help others who would otherwise not attempt this and then pay a heavy price for something so simple to do. Thank You.
You guys have really knocked it SOLID on this video!!!! Maintenance is SO Important!!! She wouldn’t have been kneeing it like that on NON SKID!!!
But the Non-skid cushions your fall after busting shins on tie-down chains.. LOL
Great video. We actually shut off the large rapid spot where the quick ac door can leak out and it made a HUGE difference.
I have already done my plenum with HVAC tape as OEM,s don't do what they are supposed to because of the issues with time constraints on the build process. This is another point that I need to stress to individuals that may not know this and fortunately I found this issue by accident.
The ceiling vents or registers loose far to much cool air flow. On removing the directional flow vent itself, I noticed only by putting my hand inside the trunking that the plastic insert on all my ceiling vents where not attached to the trunking, there was a 1/2" gap between the trunking and the plastic vent, so I was loosing a high percentage of flow into the skin between the ceiling and the roof. So by using the HVAC aluminium tape to bridge the gap and stop cool air from going elsewhere I have increased my airflow to 100% and have reached great efficiency. Just thought this would be an interesting addition to check as well as the plenum air flow.
Awesome video y'all. Very few RVers even know to do this. The ones that do, well....let's just say, it takes effort to get up out of the chair.
The more who "like, share, and subscribe" will help get the word out.
In an annoying infomercial voice.... That's right folks! As our guests today noted: The best way to ensure your AC unit(s) residential, RV or otherwise, perform in the most inefficient and electric devouring manner, while working harder and longer, is to ensure those coils are all clogged up as good as possible. If you can see light through the coils, grab a hand full of mud and push it into all those coils letting air pass. Once you've ensure your AC unit will not run optimally, sit back sweat all over and wait for the unit to break. At this point you're ready to defrost your freezer, cook a burger in the kitchen sink, and turn that milk into cottage cheese. If you order the coil clogging recipe in the next 10 minutes, we'll include a free metal trowel to aid in destroying the coils of your unit. Using the tip of the trowel, you too can bend the coils to accept more of the coil clogging mixture with just one pass. Forget those other methods and recipes which call for two or three coats to ensure optimal blockage. Who has time for that? Call now, repair technicians are standing by to take your order. But wait there's more!!!! Those same technicians taking your order, with free rush delivery, will also schedule you for service to save you even more of your valuable time. We must he crazy offering such an incredible deal. Order now. Supplies are limited. All products offered on a first idiot basis only. No exchanges. No refunds. Fools use at their own discretion. Not responsible or liable for any damages or injuries associated with any products or methods contained in the ad or delivered to the idiots who've destroyed their A.C. unit through neglect and/or laziness. RVDummies for Morons is an unregistered, unregulated, unrepentant subsidiary of RVing Morons LLC (Not to be confused with or associated with RVing Mormons LLC).
But seriously excellent information. Thank you two for all the fun, entertaining, informative, and educational videos. They're a ton of work to do. I wanted to say how much I appreciate you both! In a non-weirdo way of course 😏.
One tip for everyone reading.. Use an air compressor (low pressure to avoid damage) or a can of compressed air to remove the dust, bugs and debris before foam cleaner. Just tape some cardboard over the duct opening. Use a magnetic puck or small jar with a lid to hold all of the screws to keep them from falling inside the duct or rolling off the roof.
Top tip: for all those loose screws, nails, nuts, bolts, button, tacks,....hard candy...etc. etc... reuse jars or plastic containers with screw on lids to hold odds and ends, predrill two holes in the lid. Use a washer and screw and attach the lid to the bottom of a shelf, underside of a bench, or the bedroom floor in the basement area of your fifth wheel. When you need something simply unscrew the jar. Grab what you need and screw it back on. The containers are not take up any valuable real estate.
Cheers from the Emerald City..
Cameron
You forgot the part: "Then you can go online and rant about how all RV ACs are &^%$& garbage and the RV industry is garbage" 😂🤣
@@ChangingLanes Hilarious... And sadly true for many who neglect their units.
Oh I forgot to say the wiring harness may have been under the somewhat rigid conduit to prevent it from rubbing on the sharp coils during travel. Double check with those nice folks at the repair training center. I have different AC models. So I can't be certain.
Cheers!
My coils weren't too bent up. I used the cap to get most of them straight and a box cutter to carefully bend the worst bent fins into place.
They talked about the couples program, they should do something for singles as well.
I'm sure there aren't any where near as many single RVs as there are couples and families, but that's also why a singles program may be needed.
And not necessarily romantic, but also just instead of riding my motorcycle by myself, meeting another biker (of either sex) just to have someone to ride with and not feeling like a third wheel.
Looking forward to more maintenance videos.
Great video! I'd add one thing when it comes to the exterior a/c covers...take a long handle (broom handle) and tap on the covers before you start taking them off to make sure bees/wasps aren't making their own vacation home in there.
Good idea... I was figuring the drill would do the same... but banging around a bit is likely better with some wasp spray handy if it tests "positive". 😳
We get a lot of dirt/dust buildup on the evaporator coils that may be coming from the outside since the blower sucks dirty air from between the AC unit and the roof through the condensate drain holes and any others that may be exposed.
We already use metalic tape on the evaporator cover and clean the interior air filters frequently. Has anyone else had this issue?
A piece of OPEN cell foam inserted under the AC's baser plate and the roof inline witht he evaporator drain pan would allow condensate to exit the unit while preventing dirt/dust from being sucked into the evaporator by the blower...
Marc
Want to thank you for the video. It inspired me to get the supplies to perform the maintenance on my unit today. Boy was i surprised by not how dirty but the unfriendly flying wasps living under the cover.
I think wasps are born just pissed off! 😂
Chad after watch this i did ours and lawd the crap that came out ,,mainly cause our toy hualer sits under a rv shed ..thank u
Thanks. Great video! I’m 71, but in great shape and I like doing my own maintenance.
Timely video for me! Based in this, I ordered all the necessary supplies and cleaned my 3 AC units. What a difference it made! Thank you.
Awesome to hear!! 👍🏼
Seriously guys, you have the best content! I have learned so much and I am looking forward to all of your discussion of RV systems. Thanks for the time and effort to provide these videos.
Why can I only give ONE thumbs up... This, with the new video on the Styrofoam modification is going to be my next project. I was in Kansas this summer when it was 103 F, and my A/C could not keep up, I had to run to Lowe's to buy insulation for all my windows, then it was okay, but DARK. Hoping this will increase the airflow so I can have some natural light in my RV when it gets hot, as I am heading to Florida soon. THANK YOU!
That vid was perfect. As a mobile rv repair dude I tell folks all the time to do minor service to their a/c units exactly as you just showed. Plus while you are up there, it's a good time to check the roof and seal condition. Something 99% of rv owners fail to do. But that helps my business!!
Lynn
Good point on the roof! I inspect ours in our T-24 (day before departure) process. If you're looking for a long video LOL: th-cam.com/video/uPXNmS0IBRQ/w-d-xo.html
Those intake filters were really dirty! Cleaning those alone probably helped your system out a lot. But the extra detail you showed with the fin cleaning and straightening was awesome. The foil tape was also a great touch to make sure you're running as efficient as possible. Excellent video!!
Awesome video and tutorial! I just did our 2020 GD reflection after watching your video! I only wish there was a rv training school up here in Canada 🇨🇦 I recently spoke to a rv tech that camps here in our rv camp ground and he informed me that in the province of British Columbia that most rv techs don’t require a red seal technician certificate!! Cheers guys and a happy Canada Day to all Canadians down south!🇨🇦👍
Thanks for the tips! Bought a GD 2 years ago and just realized I need to do this. Enjoy the channel
The roof is the flight deck, that's even cooler now that Top Gun is popular again. Thanks for the video.
What a great idea to have that type of class and training out there. Extremely helpful for everyone and/or anyone wanting to take care of their rig. You guys are so good at putting these types of videos together. Thanks a trillion! 😉
I have had this project on my mind for months. We are 330ft off our private, DIRT road 🙄. So far, the intake filters were really dirty. I just need to get the cleaners suggested on this video and i can get to work on the units themselves. Thanks for the lesson.
For me, the biggest challenge is just getting on the roof. Great how-to video.
If you could come up with a way to get tank sensors working correct that would be AMAZING! 😊
LOL! Been working on that one for a while!
@@ChangingLanes Just dumped... sh*tters still full... The million dollar idea (fix)
You just saved me a lot of time. Thanks for the tutorial on Grand Design AC system cleaning. It came up at just the right time.
You just referenced my favorite movie of all time, "Swingers" if I didn't already love you guys; I'd have to say I definitely do now.. "Vegas Baby,, VEGAS!!"
I just can't wait to get on the roof and do some cleaning. Great video. Will be looking forward to refrigeration. I personally think refrigeration is one of the greatest inventions of all time. I'm not sure I would want to spend much time in AZ without it, and I've never been to AZ. AZ will be next year.
Thanks,
Jim&Celia
Hooch on Wheels
Am doing some maintenance this week. I have been good washing the inside vents and covers. However, I am very delinquent with the ac on the top. Sooo glad I found this. This will happen later this.
As usual, I learn so much from your videos. Thank you.
Serendipity, watching you're video while it is raining here in DC and drips started coming out of the air condo cover...up to the roof tomorrow with some caulk.
Likely just a clogged drip pan, causing it to overflow into the RV. Good luck!
Thank you so much for taking the time out of your day to show the proper way to maintenance your RV air-conditioner
I’ve been rv’ing for years and still learn from what you do. That’s for the videos and tips!
I watched this video when it first came out and I knew I had to add AC servicing to my To Do list. Well, today was the day so I watched the video again and then climbed up on the roof. My rig is 10 years old (I've had it for 3) and I doubt the AC units have ever been cleaned. What a mess!! I followed your directions and got the coils in good shape. One thing you didn't show, because yours was pretty clean, was how to clean the squirrel cage fan. Mine was disgusting. It took over an hour just to scrub the accumulated grime off. I didn't dare try to remove it so it was one fin at a time. But, it is all clean now. One additional tip to pass along is when you have the interior cover off give the bolts that hold the AC unit on a snug up. Don't over-tighten or you'll over-compress the gasket between the unit and the roof. With all the vibrations the bolts can work loose. Another great, helpful, video. Looking forward to more.
Great job and good tip on the mounting bolts! 👍🏼 Thanks for watching! 😊
Thanks so much for this! Routine maintenance is probably the thing that concerns me most, because I don’t know what I don’t know (if that makes sense). How about a video on caulking/sealing, and one on lubrication? (Slides, pin box, levelers/jacks, and whatever needs to be lubed)
Haven't really had to caulk anything.. But lubrication is definitely on the list! 👍🏼
@@ChangingLanes hi
Thank you for this! I just cleaned mine for the first time ( full-timer here) it was nastyyyy, now my Delta T is 23!
don't even rv myself (not yet at least) but i love your guys content and you both are so passionate with what you guys do
Great video! I've had to clean our inside filters a couple times, but havent' done the top side yet. Thanks for OJT video to show me how. We also had one AC go out when we hit the New Mexico desert and had to have a mobile tech come take a look. Turns out it was just a loose connection on one of the wires in the unit, so I would recommend checking all wire connections for tightness when you have the cover off.
Definitely! 👍🏼
I have learned SO MUCH from your videos! Thanks very much from Texas. The Indian scoot is awesome also..
Thanks for yet another great video. I cleaned all 3 of mine today. One note I’ll add, when you pull the metal cover off the front, pull it off slowly until you know for sure the wires are long enough. The 3rd a/c (in the garage) had short wires and 4 of them came off the control box. It took a little bit of time on Google to find the control box wiring diagram to figure out where they went. The other 2 a/c’s had no issues. This is also a good time to check the connections and make sure they’re tight. A few of mine were loose, so I snugged them up.
Great tip! 👍🏼
Being a hvac guy myself I enjoyed this video a lot
Hey Guys, you can use the Frost King Coil Cleaner inside or out. It is safe for use indoors on HVAC systems and refrigerator/freezer coils. You do not need a special cleaner for the condenser and one for the evaporative coils. I've been using this product for many years without ill effect.
Great video guys. I’m looking forward to this series. Cleaning and inspecting the A/C units was the first thing I did when I purchased my used Solitude 369RL a few months ago. Needless to say the dealer didn’t touch them. I was quite happy with the job GD did installing them. I didn’t have to add or remove any silver tape. A small shop vac with the soft brush helps to clean the fins as well.
I can imagine the shop vac would be handy if they were really dirty for sure! Thanks for watching! 😊
First time viewer. I was dreading doing my own A/C maintenance. Your video took my fear factor away! Thank you both. Great job! Refrigerator maintenance will be next. Thank you again for sharing your knowledge. Time to order A/C cleaning supplies.
Welcome to our channel! 😊
Great job. I used to sell wholesale HVAC and teach entry level classes. This is a great video for AC maintenance
I just went through that process just last week & think I did pretty good without the knowledge you just shared. On another note, I installed an “easy start 364” from micro-air.
Wow I’m so impressed by it. Excellent for dry camping/booddocking where you run off your generator.
If you'v e only one one AC, you look into "hard" start versus soft starts. Same idea (extra capacitor for the start up) without the "brain". Todd (from this video) recommended them.
Hard start mod is cheaper, but still draws a lot of amps/watts at start up. I’ll stand by my choice 100%
Has Todd ran the hard start on a 2000 watt generator?
@@dannyscobee6530 @TwoBeardsandaBabe .... Todd?
Great video both of you. I can't wait to get my new Riverstone RKFB at the end of the month. We sold our house in June and purchased 2 acres in sw Tucson. We have been very inspired by your video's. Next time you are in the SW. You need to go to Rocky Point Mexico. It is awesome and safe. Thanks!
Thanks for watching and for the tip! 👍🏼😊
I never thought of the short cycling from the bottom vent being opened. Makes sense.
Think I will tape those up too.👍
Nice job on the video....very helpful, especially now that I have had my rig a year I am sure the AC is ready for inspection and cleaning! I can tell you that the first week I had my RV, I noticed the AC was stupid noisy (Dometic BriskAir II) I pulled off the inside cover and I found that the installation was done poorly and much of the air was going into the ceiling and the foam tape they used was not sealing the intake from the blower side so it was just recirculating the air. I even had insulation sucked up into the evap. coils on the inside. Took out my trusty HVAC tape and resealed everything and made it air tight and way less restrictive. It was cooler, far less noisy, and much more air was coming from the vents!
Looking forward to the next video!
So far, our's has had only minor air flow issues (like we showed in the video), but we've seen some online that look like a 5 year old installed the unit. LOL
Thanks for walking through the A/C maintenance. Stumbled on this looking for (what I thought was a Changing Lanes) video on how the three GD A/C's "talk" to each other. We have three A/C's in the 399TH, but if more than one is on, only one is cold. (Yes, on 50 amp shore power at the moment, too.)
That's odd.. Check your power management system (ours is in the bedroom). It will tell you if it's properly detecting 50A and if any loads are in a "shed" state. When it sheds a load for an AC, the AC fan will run, but the compressor will not and it will blow ambient or warm air. Can't hurt to give GDRV a call on it also.
@@ChangingLanes Yeah, might be next step. Lots of debugging yesterday. Tested park pole, tested power cord, etc. Never shows 50amps inside, only 30. There was a brief moment coming off the generator where it showed 50, but then dropped to 30. Will likely need a mobile tech. Thanks for replying!
@@WillBelden I would go straight to the source and call GDRV. Sure sounds like something isn't wired properly. I'm not sure if the power management that's showing 30A is using phase difference between line 1 and line 2 (50 A is split phase), or if it's using continuity (to see if line 1 and 2 are bridged.). But, if it's detecting 30A and you try to draw more, it makes sense that it will shed the 3rd AC's compressor.
@@ChangingLanes Agreed. Changing campgrounds tomorrow, who'll see what happens at next 50amp when we get there. Did measure 2x120 and combined 240 here. Many suggestions are to check for loose wiring around ATS. If I can find it. Heh.
@@ChangingLanes To CL and others reading this looking for a similar answer. Yes, we had 50amp at the pole, but we inadvertently had our inverter on the entire time. We have a Viktron Multiplus, but by engaging it, we limited our entire system to 30 amps. I also suspect that we were adding additional discharge / recharge cycles to our batteries that we really shouldn't be doing, considering we have all that shore power available. If you're having the same problem, just turn your inverter to OFF or CHARGE ONLY. I hope my error helps someone else!
Thanks for this type of video. This more about the taking care of the RV and not just trying to sell something.
Thanks for the video. I do our A/C maintenance since I don't let my husband on the roof because his sense of balance of not good. It looks like I've done it correctly in the past, though. Also, thanks for the tip about using the less expensive cleaner and the cap that comes on it. I've been using the expensive stuff only. Its time to do maintenance again but we are in Texas and we're getting a lot of rain. About the time the roof dries good it rains for a week again.
You are both outstanding at what you do. I really enjoy all of your videos.
Ah, thank you so much! We love hearing positive feedback from followers 💗
Great video… seriously! Thank you for this and the Amazon links too! Now to brave getting on a ladder onto the roof!
As a new owner of camper thank you for the video
Simple green is a much easier product to get and used to clean a/c unit with. Works well on both coils on with small spray bottle. Foaming cleaners generally have to be rinsed which I didn't see explained cause they will deteriorate the metals. Nicely done video.
O,o, ect! So many questions! The service on the a.c. is reasonable basic. Good presentation on the video. I would like to see the pros and cons regarding residential refrigerator versus gas electric refrigerators. I am tickled to see all the service videos you can come up with! Also can you include service on a class A coach? I know that is hard to show an example with your toy hauler. Can't wait for your next video. Thanks Safe Travels
Excellent video. Thank You guys and Todd for showing us this easy to understand AC maintenance video.
Very good video on taking care of the air conditioners but one thing you might need to go over is the condenser water drain it is a tube that drains the water off of the air conditioner when it goes through its defrost cycle to make sure it doesn't fill up with water or debris
The routine maintenance series is a great idea! We are looking forward to this series.
Great collab, great editing! So understandable, taking what they taught, you doing it and then on to the next information. Fantastic video, so glad I’ve discovered your channel.
Awesome video! I am a semi-retired mechanic and this school would be great as we travel. I always get ask to fix whatever people have broken. “Traveling RV Mechanic”. lol
Definitely! Get certified and make a business out of it.. 👍🏼
Good timeing on this video as I just plunked out $1,300 for an AC that bit the dust. Even up here in Hiawassee, GA where the daytime highs are about 80, AC's can meet their end! Bonne voyage et bonne route!
That was great. I'm so afraid of heights that when I watch these kinds of videos I get so nervous.
Check your outlet ducts where they connect to the main duct, I've found separations or offset ducts and taped them up. makes a world of difference in air volume, plus your not cooling your attic.
Awesome video. Dealership was going to do this exact maintenance for $130 per air condition unit. So this is a crazy savings to do it yourself
Forgot 5o mention, I purchased several of these items today using your links provided
Yes! Definitely a huge savings times 3! 👍🏼 💰
Thank you! 😊
I'm going to add some commentary throughout... I hope it helps. I have no experence at all this, so it's just my uneducated commentary, ok.. First, the pray on foam. it seems to me that letting the foam simply do its thing and dry without being sprayed off, everything you loosen just sits there and dries on the coils. Do you think that covering the hole into the roof and flushing with water would be a better and more complete solution to making sure you get all the crap out of the coils and off the roof? Second, I love the idea of the comb, yet think that taking time to gingerly use the comb to do the job thoroughly and completely is best. Next, I would think that any work you do on those coils should avoid pushing debris further into the coils causing more congestion and build-up. Vigorous flushing seems best. Your system seemed pretty darn clean, BTW. Last... love this couple and the healthcare plan they pulled together and the home schooling program. Nice too that they built a network that brings like-minded travelers together. Overall, great video and I look forward to more. Happy travels!
For clogged fins you can use water, but the way it's used is crucial. A hose with a sprayer usually will cause too much pressure, so yes a hand pump spray application will help. As well as you see in the video if you use the brush first you can loosen the debris pretty effectively prior to applying the cleaner. Water does work, just be very careful. Great questions.
Very informative and is sure to save me money as I most likely would have left this to the dealer or more likely than that I would have never cleaned them due to ignorance on this topic. Thanks again Changing Lanes!
Wow, Stephanie reminds me so much of Trish from KYD. They could be sisters. :)
You appear to have one of those units that have a poor airflow design. Before the air enters the ducts, it's all jumbled up in that box area. Look for the videos here that show a foam device inserted in that area to smooth out the airflow. They show a huge increase in air flow at the duct openings.
Great job on the video, and excellent series of topics! Love fact your covering the routine maintenance. The fact you take the time to research the way you have, provide a very valuable resource with the "National RV Training Academy". Also greatly appreciate you provide a list of the materials need and links to them. You obviously put a lot of work into these videos!
Thanks, David! 😊
Tara, you need some foam kneepads for when you help Chad with projects (a lot less wear and tear on the knees is a good thing). Take care of them now - I'm 60 and paying for not taking care of mine!
Awesome video. Makes me realize I have not been doing effective maintenance on my AC units. Thanks!!
Great information but you forgot the most important item....wasp spray with a 20 foot stream. I have needed it every time I take off my A/C covers.
A quick shop vac first is the only thing I would suggest.
I would have lugged it on the roof if we needed it. It was pretty clean in there...
Thank you for the GREAT content. Watched this video before going to bed and had a crazy-cool dream about Tara getting TOTALLY healed. Not a dream I was expecting but one that I will gladly agree with and cover in prayer! #WithGodAnythingIsPossible . Love you guys and can't wait to hit the road soon! You are prepping us for a beautiful new season ahead!!!
EMnation We love that dream! 😜 Thanks for keeping me in your prayers! Safe travels!! 💕 ~Tara
This is awesome! I was going to make a video for Nebraska Camping Community Facebook group on this very topic since there has been a lot of people on there with AC problems lately and its mostly lack of maintenance. Now ill just share this so i don't have too. The only thing i do different than you is i used canned compressed air for cleaning computer keyboards to blow the dust or flying cotton off the fins. That works pretty good. One could use air compressor air but it is to easy to damage the fins with that so that is not recommended. Now i can put my own AC off a little longer. HAHA. I was going to do a wheel bearing video too because that's a hot topic. But ill let ya'll do all that hard work and ill just share. LOL
Thanks for sharing, Cory! 😊
An excellent video. I didn't realize just how often you need to do the maintenance on the AC. LOL I'm only behind almost 2 years on mine. Thanks again for the great video.
You guys really show how easy it is to service you own A/C. Thank you for creating this! Oh and great taste in RVs
Thanks for the assist!!! Look forward to the next one! 👊🏼
Thank you to all 4 of you for doing this video, learned so much!!
Thank you so much for sharing this information. We are newbies and we have lots to learn. We are looking forward to watching the full series. 😊
A very good video. So much needed information. Thank you. Will be following for sure. 👏👏👏
Wonderful video. Learned a lot. Now to get my bum up on the roof...
Thanks for the video. I learned a lot. I think you might miss something that you did not lubricate the fan shaft. I had problems with the AC one time it did want to started up but the fan would not turn from the lack of use. The only thing I had at the time was WD40, sprayed the shaft and it started up. I am sure the white lithium grease would have been better but that's what I had at the time.
👍
Nice Work,
Just Technical enough..
Keep 'em coming
Great info! Gotta take a look at my ac unit before we go out again in a week. Thanks guys.
Absolutely the perfect video! Great job you two! Great subject, great information, great presentation! Perfection! Let me see, 10,000+ views and only 4 dislikes. (obviously not what they thought they were going to be getting.) You really couldn't hope for better. Even Jimmy Fallon doesn't get such a low percentage of dislikes. I always enjoy your videos and find them very useful.
We're pretty sure we have at least 2 people that subscribe just so they can click dislike. LOL Thanks for watching! 😃
Great job I enjoy watching your videos because there so helpful ….. thank you
Also I went thru the whole RV and resealed the foil tape seems. OEM just didn't do a good job. They just don't care.
Also, Walmart sells a new reusable filter for a few different model AC units.... including this Coleman. Trying it out now. The thicker allergenic filters are made by a company in Sarasota FL.if I recall
Great video! Video's like this one is the reason I watch TH-cam!
Philip Coffeen Awesome! Thank you! 😎
I really appreciate your maintenance videos. Lots of useful information.
Thanks for this excellent video I just installed an easy start on the exact same AC and decided to clean it while I was working on it this was extremely helpful thank you
It's not very reassuring when a self purported "RV Maintenance Expert/Trainer" gets the intake and the outtake mixed up (15:00 mark) and he didn't just put his finger on the wrong area, he went ahead and said "we'll close this off as we're vented" while pointing to the inlet that he just called outlet.... I feal as reassured as I did that day the plumber showed up to fix my leak and on top of his van he had an upside down small aluminum boat.... hmmm... just goes to prove my belief, trust no one and do your own work. That being said, great video as always.
Awesome video! We are new to all of this so having these instructional videos is awesome! I am guessing hot water tank is on the list ... if not, please add! Thx!
Awesome video! It made me feel like I can do this job! Our family just bought an RV and we are learning to do all the maintenance.
👍
Our Fuzion has same Coleman AC units. Our front unit has an issue sometimes when it's super hot out of freezing over. I think also when we close the bedroom door and isolate it, say at night, it freezes over as well. The defrost auto doesn't work well. So I have to manually defrost by running just the fan on high.
Cleaned the coils last year....seems like it helped but not cured.
However this info and video is super helpful as I was using the foaming cleaner only and just on the inside coils. Gonna buy both cleaners next and try to do a more thorough job.
Also make sure the hot and cold side are well separated inside the unit... You might be getting some bleed-over happening.
So when its super hot outside and you run into freezing coils it really seems as though its an air flow issue. There is a heat exchange on the coils where the hot air in the RV should run across the cold coils. That hot air from the RV has a ton of moisture so it is captured by the coils. IF the coils cannot exchange the heat outside and dry off the coils, then those coils will freeze. Take the shroud off the A/C and check for 2 things, the evaporator coils on the outside should be clean of debris, but make sure your thermistor is in place. The thermistor is a tiny probe that goes in between the fins and tells the unit to shut off if the fins get too cold.
@@RVBeardandBabe Ohhh.. good point on the thermister! You da man! 👊🏼 (I hope this is Todd LOL)
Changing Lanes if it was Stephanie she would have called it the thermisses.
Great for keep coffee warm, but complete garbage for measuring temperature. LOL
THANK YOU for posting this!! I was going to be working on mine this week- your posting could not be more timely!!
Awesome information...going to clean mine tomorrow...Travis & Darlene
Very excited for this series! Can't wait to see about the axle maintenance!
I'm going full time rving but stationary on my land. I have a 2007 royal international 38 foot monarch made by carriage. I paid 16k on it and it's in immaculate shape pretty much never used.
Did I get a good deal lol?
Excellent tutorial on how to clean an AC.... we need to do ours soon. Thanks
👍🏼 😊
This stuff is great, building up my collection of go to videos! Thx