See Part One Video - th-cam.com/video/sz79Kr_86PY/w-d-xo.html Newer video on changing the AC foam gasket seal - www.loveyourrv.com/rv-air-conditioner-maintenance-new-gasket-seal-clean-lube/
You are my RV maintenance spirit animal. I just spent the day on the roof logging some quality time with my boyfriend, Mr. Dicor, and was looking at my A/C unit wondering what the heck I need to do to it. Certainly something, but what? My dad was an auto and aircraft mechanic and could build or fix anything. In fact, we grew up camping in a trailer he built from scratch. He has been gone 20 years, but I am convinced he works thru other mechanics to get messages to me on occasion!
Ray, I must apologize for missing your comments concerning the motor soft starts, but as for your reply to my question,,,Oh that was brilliant! I missed that comment when I watched this video. I was really interested in the cleaning of the evaporator and guess I didn't pay close attention. Thanks Ray, you're the best!
No problem, the link was actually to a newer video I did just last month on replacing the AC gasket www.loveyourrv.com/rv-air-conditioner-maintenance-new-gasket-seal-clean-lube/
Seriously, thank you so much for this channel. I've been living in a fifth wheel for years now and I've just been letting it fall apart. I'm tired of my mistreating my home and want to start taking care of it. Your videos and blog have been amazing help and I couldn't be more grateful. Please keep making these videos.
Thank you, Ray! Nice seeing Angie at the end; so sorry about her passing. Your TH-cam tribute to her left me in tears. Even so, thank you for sharing it. :-)
Very thorough explanation of rv ac maintenance, most RVers do not maintain their ac system, they just wait for it to break down, or become less effective before it gets any attention. Ray had the right idea, being proactive and getting on the roof and doing a little ac maintenance once or twice a year.
Ray, if everyone took as good care of their RVs the shops would go out of business! You’ve taught me so much about the proper maintenance of an RV. I’ll be set when I get on the road.
why do you want the shops to go out of business? Its not the shops fault that there is FOMO mania hype connected to RVing...The shops were created to fill in the void, many cannot do their own work, only partial repairs...
I really enjoy your videos because of the clear, easy going directions, & steps you take. Your honesty and views toward different products you try is refreshing. There is way to much negativity on the TH-cams these days, so its nice to see not only your great and helpful videos, but also to be able to read through the comments on other peoples experiences/tip & tricks. You have a great community following, I would not change a thing/keep em' coming! Thanks again, and hope you have a great camping season!
I followed these steps to give my 1989 Holiday Rambler’s A/C new life. Time spent was about four hours including re-fastening the screens on the cover vents.
At first I thought this was a b.s. video, but when I saw the results of the work ,I decided to do the same to both of my two ac. Keep up all the good work.
I love watching Ray's videos. He always teaches me something I need to check on my RV. Or fix! I've used his videos to replace my RV black and gray water tank valves as well as check my AC like he shows above.
I've had our winnebago since new 2008, and i've never even taken a cover off. I noticed a leak this last weekend, and I'll bet it's that drain hole you pointed out. I'll be getting mine cleaned up now too. Thanks for the great video.
One way to tell if your AC is healthy is to measure the amps it draws. I installed a permanent volt/amp meter in my 5th wheel because I am on a 20 amp circuit currently and do not want to overload the breaker. The AC normally draws a maximum of 15 amps on a hot day. Last summer it began pulling 17 amps. I found the coils clogged by dirt and leaves. Cleaned them and straightened the fins as you did and the AC went back to pulling 15 or less amps. Overheating the compressor will greatly shorten its life or even kill it. Good idea to check and clean the AC every spring before running it.
Glad it was of help. I recently did another video on changing the seal. The old AC is still chugging along well. :) www.loveyourrv.com/rv-air-conditioner-maintenance-new-gasket-seal-clean-lube/
I did just as you explained. Everything was real clean. The trouble came when I started to put the evaperator cover back together. The piece of sheet metal with no screw holes, a lip full length where does t go? I have been looking on line for 2 days to no avail. You show the piece on your roof before you put yous together . Wish you had shown where it goes. Thanks Marge
Your video saved me again. The fan would not work and I was about to take it to a repair place. So I took the inside panel off and gave the fan a little push thinking that since I hadn’t used it since last sept, its Feb now,, That its just stuck. Sure enough it started up and now works! Problem solved for now! Thanks so much!
You learn something new each day! I had no idea there were combs for straightening out aluminum fins!! When you mentioned “straightening them” I imagined a tiny needle nose plier process Hahahaha!! Very nice overview of A/C maintenance!! Thanks! Lauri
EXCELLENT VIDEO, thank you so much. I have NOT ever cleaned mine (3rd season) I am guessing that is why it's not cooling very well. Bringing a bigger ladder up next weekend and I'll use your advice. Thanks again!!
You are a RV hero!! Love learning! I now will check my AC on roof out! Thanks for share. I thinking about using your rope tape to divert my water from AC. It drips at my steps when leveled! I am a weather buff...love your weather gauge on roof! Thanks again!
Victoria BC. I went to UVic there back in the late 70s. Got say, you don't really need AC there. I'm watching this because I now live in Las Vegas area. 115 today. AC unit blowing overheateed breakers in trailer. Compressor quits. Then after a shutdown will restart. Could be low voltage on grid because no issues when running generator. But hey, not designed for this right. Will try your clean job to see if makes a difference. Cheers.
Yikes! That's way too hot! We are supposed to hit 90F here in Campbell River by next weekend and I thought that was hot. Normally it should be low 70s this time of year. But early June was mostly mid 50s so I guess it evens out. All the best, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Yep. My sister still lives in Victoria. If its 90 there then both she and her husband will be "dying". For there 90 is hot. Thanks for your reply.
Nice job. I would rinse opposite the way the air normally flows when possible. It will do a better job of cleaning yet. That's just my opinion. Enjoy the summer.
Hey, Stop!!! You keep adding to my "Honey Do" list!! Seriously though, thank you for making this video. I will not feel so intimidated by the AC unit now. and tomorrow looks sunny!
I had a thought, watching your video I was thinking maybe using a Shop-Vac to suck the foam out of the evaporator coil after it's absorbed into the dirt and released the the mud on the coil fins use the vacuum cleaner to suck the moisture out of the fins and not have the muddy mess inside the rig. NOTE, the chemical sprayed on the coils needs to be pretty harsh in order to break the oily film on the fins to be able to dissipate the heat from inside the rig. Makes it work more efficient.
Wonder if there's any way to spray the evaporator from the other side without breaking or making a mess. Seems like spraying from that side, you might push dirt into it. But looks like a good improvement this way too at least.
I'm new to this RV Living moreso an RV TeRRibLe Experience. While teaching myself 'DIY EVERYTHING' by watching countless videos. Cause on-site RV Techs are DELUSIONAL! Anyway, I've watched countless videos with this being the ONLY video that looks just like my AC Unit and VENTS. Great step by step walk-through and tips throughout. I'll be purchasing that coil comb today. 👍 Although, you skipped right past the 1 part I've been looking for and that's which way are the inside vent covers to go back on properly? As I think the vents were on wrong when purchasing this 42FooT HeLL TrAP! Anywho, I appreciate your informative video👍. Stay save in your travels.
You should have pulled the Shroud off the condenser. The bulk of the crud that builds up will be between the condenser and the fan. Love the video Keep It Coming.
I had an inch gap at the bottom of my diverted from blower to return and my cold blown air was being sucked up to evaporate side therefore no air in back ducts. Used reflexic window material taped in and walla big difference.
I have to regularly use toothbrush bristles to force grease into the shaft bearing of the motor you refer to. The right thing to do is replace the motor. However I have just got into the routine of doing this about every two months. The motor lets me know if it needs it sooner by a certain noise from the slop of the worn bearing. I have been doing this for two years so I will continue to do so until it no longer works. Standard "high temp" grease will only last about a month but true high temp grease gives me a full 2 months. Used to be STP but I don't believe it is sold anymore under that brand. Coastal I believe now. Anyhow it had a temp rating of 550 instead of 400.
Hey Ray, i know it's 4 years later, but i'm servicing my RV A/C and was looking for some guidance. appears your AC is identical to mine (or maybe they are all made in the same Chinese sweatshop). as always, great info.
Thanks, I did another video last summer when I had to replace the roof gasket www.loveyourrv.com/rv-air-conditioner-maintenance-new-gasket-seal-clean-lube/ Cheers! Ray
Great informative video Ray! Have a nice Summer in BC. Your videos have helped tremendously as we just got the weboost Drive 4G X RV signal booster. We haven’t gotten around using it away from city areas so we’ll be interested to find out how it works in suburban areas. Andrea and I start our Adventure July 1 and our first big stopover will be thru the Maine coast (lobster shacks everywhere) north to PEI for a month or two. Mark Ballard
Thanks, looking forward to it. That sounds like a great trip. We loved PEI when we visited back in summer 2011. Beautiful reddish pink beaches. Happy Travels! Ray
Back in the day we used to always vacuum the fins to extract the debris and use a soft horsehair paint brush OR a fin straightener on the stubborn stuff. In school we were taught to never use a water spray as that forces the debris into the fins. Why does no one vacuum anymore?
The fins on this evaporator are so thin that they bend really really easy and the older the unit gets the more brittle they become. The stuff on the evaporator fins was really glommed on there, wasn't going to sweep off. The condenser fins seemed much stronger.
I agree with a soaking and vacuum . As on a car radiator, if you must use a hose , you usually reverse flush from the way the dirt was introduce on the coil. In this case it was sucking in ,so it should be pushed back out the way it came in.
Hi Ray, I'm in Victoria as well, recognized the concrete mixer from Trio. Where do you get the various tools and supplies, Refrigerative Supply?? Also if low on coolant, who here in town can recharge the system. Evidently the Rv repair facility I deal with just off Jacklin doesn't do that.
I ordered my tools and supplies off Amazon when I was in the USA and brought them back with me. Links in the description, not sure if Amazon CA carries them or not. Try Greg's RV in Duncan they have a pretty large service shop. Cheers, Ray
I actually work around giant intercoolers with fins just like thag im familiar with fin combs i actually wash those coolers with a 3000 psi diesel pressure washer its dificult to dent those fins unless you hit them with something or bugs hit them at high rates of speed
@@LoveYourRV I finally realized there are screws under the three little ski-jump brackets at the bottom. The fiberglass insulation on the sheet metal part that is removed, where the edges met the main unit, must have stuck and is all tattered. Do I have to put a new strip of insulation all along the edges between the two? Or would sealing the edges with aluminum tape do?
I assume that the insulation is there because this is where the interior air flows, so the area is insulated from the outside hot air for better cooling. How much of a difference it would make using just metal tape I'm not sure.
It's called Eternabond www.loveyourrv.com/?s=eternabond Its a type of roof seal and patch tape so its made for using on the rubber roof material and to not peel off.
It helps the AC start a little more smoothly and with a lower initial current draw. When starting the AC units compressor needs to kick on and it can take a surge of amperage to do that. The hard start capacitor stores energy and can release it at the start-up stage, thus reducing the amperage draw from the power input to the RV. Why is that helpful? It can reduce the chances of blowing breakers when running the AC and multiple other devices in the rig, especially in hot weather. There is less strain on the AC parts helping lengthen life. Many people use them to help a generator start up the AC unit, where before the generator would go into shutdown mode not able to power the initial surge current needed to fire up the compressor. Some RV AC units already have a hard start capacitor and other don't. Another device that is often used but much more expensive is a soft starter. www.microair.net/products/easystart-364-3-ton-single-phase-soft-starter-for-air-conditioners Cheers, Ray
Ray simple green applied through a small pump up bug sprayer is highly recommended that’s what a lot of the commercial air conditioner repair man use in the Phoenix area and we have a few air-conditioners in the Phoenix area. Thanks for the video👍👊😎
I've heard that from a few folks that say they use it and it works well. I'm a little hesitant as I know that Simple Green can corrode aluminum if left on it too long. It's in the companies FAQs and I've heard stories of it eating aluminum wheels.
I prefer the purple cleaner. Basically the same except it has an added ingredient or something. That's what I buy for the shop as well. It works really good removing grease, and any hydraulic oil that may have leaked on the equipment. In the field. Nothing beats a good hot water preasure wash at the shop. But they are not making money sitting there..lol
My roof ac Dumps al the condensate on the roof which then runs don the front side of the RV... Is that normal? is there supossed to be a drain line or something? If not how do I get it to flow to the other side or the back so it doesn't drip on people? Thanks Ps I saw your rope trick is that just cotton rope? is the rope inside the drain pan?
It's a plastic type rope, that yellow polypropylene stuff. The rope isn't inside the drain pan, just catches the water as it drains out and guides it over to the side gutter.
Good morning Ray! Beautiful weather this weekend. I received an email from Camper Report, and in there was an article about Boondocking. They mentioned a product called a SoftstartRV A/C starter. I presume this is a digital motor starter. The price is pretty good, but I'm not sure how well it works. Could you maybe test one of these, or a motor starter that you know of? Seems like a pretty good idea to have.
Actually I had mentioned those in a recent video I did about the AC - th-cam.com/video/UKajweIFh4M/w-d-xo.html Many people were interested so I plan to test one out. Cheers, Ray
I have used higher concentrations of Simple Green on the coils and the other components and have really good luck with it. I haven't had any concerns about it damaging the roof material or discoloring the side walls. I lug a small shop vac up there to suck up most of the water runoff. I also use foil tape to seal up the joints within the return and exhaust chambers. Just my . 02 cents worth.
Yes, but not cheap and as far as I know my require specialize knowledge and tools to change. Here is a part link I found highskyrvparts.com/rv-parts/appliances/air-conditioners/air-conditioners-replacement-parts/coleman-mach-air-conditioner-compressor-1450-4209 Most people elect to replace the whole AC I imagine
I accidentally pulled a few wires off don't know where they go. Would like a picture of how they hook back up. But my air conditioner also has a heater
See if you can search online for the service manual for your particular make and model of AC. In it will be a wiring diagram usually with which color goes to which terminal. Cheers, Ray
I live in and camp in the Mohave Desert which can be dusty! My coach has two Coleman Mach 10 Heat Pumps. While in COOL mode, I get an abnormally large amount of dust and dirt building up on the Evaporator coil necessitating cleaning the evaporator 3 or more times each year. I clean the units interior air filter every two weeks. I don’t have any water leaks into the coach from the AC so I know the main 14” square gasket is good. I believe the problem is that there isn’t a filter of other means to keep dirt from entering between the roof and the AC’s metal base plate at the two condensate drain holes. A piece of open cell foam inserted under the metal base plate and on top of the roof under the drain holes would prevent dirt from being sucked into the area under the evaporator shroud. This foam would allow condensate to drain through it to the roof but would stop dust from getting into the evaporator coil fins. Alternatively a small Duck Bill check valve inserted through the base plate evaporator drain holes would likely also work. I plan to clean teh evaporator coil tomorrow and will try a small piece of the open cell foam inserted under each of the drain holes. Time will tell if this makes a significant difference.
hey Ray, how does the shroud come off these units? i have a pair of these units (a 15k and a 13.5k) on our new-to-us motorhome and i can't seem to get the covers to come off. with the 4 screws removed, i can only get the rear part of the shroud to lift up a couple of inches then it binds up and won't move any more. rather not attempt to force it and break something. our old 5th wheel had a pair of Dometic Penguin units and those were clam shell style covers and really easy to remove. thanks
MIne was quite tight but with a little bit of prying first at one end then the other comes come off. Mine is a Coleman Mach though, not sure about a Domestic.
Well you did not mention how to get into the squirrel cage fan side of the AC system from he top to check the cooling coil. It could also get clogged with dust or built up mold or anything that could condense on the inside part.
Yes, I did. I could get to both sides of the cooling coil, see here - th-cam.com/video/fv5KBhdEvNg/w-d-xo.html Most of the debris was on the side the air is drawn into.
I have a 77 dodge sportsman RV and the air conditioner is not cooling very good it use to work great just last year no problem and now suddenly it decided to stop cooling and I am trying to find someone to fix it I’m in Cleveland Tennessee and so far I haven’t found any help how much should that cost me doses anyone know about what would be the cost for something like this to get someone to refill my coolant?
Those fins are not that sensitive you can use a hose ar full pressure and i got one of those worx hyrdroshot and its not to much if you know what you are doing
Don't underestimate the importance of checking to see how well your AC duct system is sealed. We found ours to be extremely leaky as a result of shoddy factory installation workmanship with gaps in duct insulation and the foil tape seals everywhere. Check not only your blower/return unit but also all of your duct taps and vent covers. A couple of hours of redoing joints with HVAC tape doubled the air flow from our vents. It turns out we were blowing a lot of air conditioned air into the void between our ceiling and roof! Ours is a Coleman TT which is one of the many brands owned by Thor. I would expect to find some shoddy workmanship somewhere in your RV regardless of your brand.
Good tip, it was one of the first things I did when the rig was new, dropped all the vent covers and checked. Most looked good but a couple places needed more tape. Cheers, Ray
I just took my heat pumps off the roof, soak them with simple green and spray them down with a regular water hose. As long as you don’t spray sideways across the fins, they will be fine. Let everything air dry. Reinstall with new 14x14 gaskets and you’re done!
My styrofoam squirrel cage in mine has a chunk torn out around the blower fan! And is a brand new camper. The air has not been blowing that cold. Could a chunk gone out of the styrofoam be the culprit???
While you are on here I am buying a new RV for next year's season. Mine now is an 89 that I bought used. Had it for a few years now but it's time to step up. I'm looking at spending around 25k. But I still have no idea which brand I want, or what rates high. The only thing I have to have is an extra br with bunks for my grandchildren. Also I want atleast a couple slide outs. It's to cramped in mine without them. I would also like to be around 35 feet. I don't even know if that's in my price range. I am looking to by off season so I get a better deal. Any tips here would be nice. Oh, my RV is in a park. So I will not be towing it.
Maybe look at buying a used toy hauler type trailer. Then convert the garage area into a guest room. I bet you can find lots of good used ones in southern California or Arizona where the weather is dry. They tend to have fewer chances of water damage from leaks.
none of your business try looking for a keystone Raptor or Fuzion. If the interior and suspension are in fair shape, you can get a 2007-2009 for around 25k
The weight of the spray being an aerosol and foamed is much lighter so wasn't too concerned, I figure if they market it for the task it must be tested to not damage fins. ;)
Love Your RV Good point. Hope they are as logical as you in thinking that. I've used similar fin cleaner on my home AC and it worked great. Paid 5/can at home depot. Might be cost competitive as an alternate source.
See Part One Video - th-cam.com/video/sz79Kr_86PY/w-d-xo.html
Newer video on changing the AC foam gasket seal - www.loveyourrv.com/rv-air-conditioner-maintenance-new-gasket-seal-clean-lube/
You are my RV maintenance spirit animal. I just spent the day on the roof logging some quality time with my boyfriend, Mr. Dicor, and was looking at my A/C unit wondering what the heck I need to do to it. Certainly something, but what? My dad was an auto and aircraft mechanic and could build or fix anything. In fact, we grew up camping in a trailer he built from scratch. He has been gone 20 years, but I am convinced he works thru other mechanics to get messages to me on occasion!
haha, cool!
Ray, I must apologize for missing your comments concerning the motor soft starts, but as for your reply to my question,,,Oh that was brilliant! I missed that comment when I watched this video. I was really interested in the cleaning of the evaporator and guess I didn't pay close attention. Thanks Ray, you're the best!
No problem, the link was actually to a newer video I did just last month on replacing the AC gasket www.loveyourrv.com/rv-air-conditioner-maintenance-new-gasket-seal-clean-lube/
Hey Ray. I use a weed pump sprayer to rinse the coils. Works pretty good especially where you don't have a hose. Great tips!
Seriously, thank you so much for this channel. I've been living in a fifth wheel for years now and I've just been letting it fall apart. I'm tired of my mistreating my home and want to start taking care of it. Your videos and blog have been amazing help and I couldn't be more grateful. Please keep making these videos.
You're welcome, thanks for watching. :)
Thank you, Ray! Nice seeing Angie at the end; so sorry about her passing. Your TH-cam tribute to her left me in tears. Even so, thank you for sharing it. :-)
Thanks, Neal. :)
Very thorough explanation of rv ac maintenance, most RVers do not maintain their ac system, they just wait for it to break down, or become less effective before it gets any attention. Ray had the right idea, being proactive and getting on the roof and doing a little ac maintenance once or twice a year.
Ray, if everyone took as good care of their RVs the shops would go out of business!
You’ve taught me so much about the proper maintenance of an RV. I’ll be set when I get on the road.
why do you want the shops to go out of business? Its not the shops fault that there is FOMO mania hype connected to RVing...The shops were created to fill in the void, many cannot do their own work, only partial repairs...
Super video! I applauded for $5.00 👏👏
Thanks! Ray
I really enjoy your videos because of the clear, easy going directions, & steps you take. Your honesty and views toward different products you try is refreshing. There is way to much negativity on the TH-cams these days, so its nice to see not only your great and helpful videos, but also to be able to read through the comments on other peoples experiences/tip & tricks. You have a great community following, I would not change a thing/keep em' coming! Thanks again, and hope you have a great camping season!
Thank you! :) Cheers, Ray
I followed these steps to give my 1989 Holiday Rambler’s A/C new life. Time spent was about four hours including re-fastening the screens on the cover vents.
At first I thought this was a b.s. video, but when I saw the results of the work ,I decided to do the same to both of my two ac. Keep up all the good work.
I love watching Ray's videos. He always teaches me something I need to check on my RV. Or fix! I've used his videos to replace my RV black and gray water tank valves as well as check my AC like he shows above.
I try to avoid the harsh chemicals especially around the roofs and any seals. The "combs" worked very well. Thanks for sharing the info Ray.
Always a good idea. Mine rig just got a nice bath. :)
I've had our winnebago since new 2008, and i've never even taken a cover off. I noticed a leak this last weekend, and I'll bet it's that drain hole you pointed out. I'll be getting mine cleaned up now too. Thanks for the great video.
You're welcome. Happy cleaning. :) Cheers, Ray
Great video! I'm a newbie RV tech and just completed my RVIA certificate. Everything you say is on point, articulate and easy to follow.
Thanks!
Ya he does a good job so many are a waste of time
One way to tell if your AC is healthy is to measure the amps it draws. I installed a permanent volt/amp meter in my 5th wheel because I am on a 20 amp circuit currently and do not want to overload the breaker. The AC normally draws a maximum of 15 amps on a hot day. Last summer it began pulling 17 amps. I found the coils clogged by dirt and leaves. Cleaned them and straightened the fins as you did and the AC went back to pulling 15 or less amps. Overheating the compressor will greatly shorten its life or even kill it. Good idea to check and clean the AC every spring before running it.
Interesting tip. thanks. I have a surge protector with a voltage and amperage readout. I'll give it a look.
At my previous location there were no trees. I am now parked under a large tree. I didn't think about leaves getting into the AC. I do now!
I can’t tell you how grateful I am for this. Thank you so much!!!
Glad it was of help. I recently did another video on changing the seal. The old AC is still chugging along well. :) www.loveyourrv.com/rv-air-conditioner-maintenance-new-gasket-seal-clean-lube/
I did just as you explained. Everything was real clean. The trouble came when I started to put the evaperator cover back together. The piece of sheet metal with no screw holes, a lip full length where does t go? I have been looking on line for 2 days to no avail. You show the piece on your roof before you put yous together . Wish you had shown where it goes. Thanks Marge
Maye check out part one video, where it's not full disassembled - th-cam.com/video/sz79Kr_86PY/w-d-xo.html
Your video saved me again. The fan would not work and I was about to take it to a repair place. So I took the inside panel off and gave the fan a little push thinking that since I hadn’t used it since last sept, its Feb now,, That its just stuck. Sure enough it started up and now works! Problem solved for now! Thanks so much!
Awesome! :)
Oldie but goody Ray!!
Thank you for your step by step explanation of the cleaning process. Well done.
You learn something new each day! I had no idea there were combs for straightening out aluminum fins!! When you mentioned “straightening them” I imagined a tiny needle nose plier process Hahahaha!! Very nice overview of A/C maintenance!! Thanks!
Lauri
I literally fixed my own AC by watching this video thanks!!
Glad it helped!
Very cool from Victoria it’s good to see a Canuck on here.
EXCELLENT VIDEO, thank you so much. I have NOT ever cleaned mine (3rd season) I am guessing that is why it's not cooling very well. Bringing a bigger ladder up next weekend and I'll use your advice. Thanks again!!
You are a RV hero!! Love learning! I now will check my AC on roof out! Thanks for share. I thinking about using your rope tape to divert my water from AC. It drips at my steps when leveled! I am a weather buff...love your weather gauge on roof! Thanks again!
Victoria BC. I went to UVic there back in the late 70s. Got say, you don't really need AC there. I'm watching this because I now live in Las Vegas area. 115 today. AC unit blowing overheateed breakers in trailer. Compressor quits. Then after a shutdown will restart. Could be low voltage on grid because no issues when running generator. But hey, not designed for this right. Will try your clean job to see if makes a difference. Cheers.
Yikes! That's way too hot! We are supposed to hit 90F here in Campbell River by next weekend and I thought that was hot. Normally it should be low 70s this time of year. But early June was mostly mid 50s so I guess it evens out. All the best, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Yep. My sister still lives in Victoria. If its 90 there then both she and her husband will be "dying". For there 90 is hot. Thanks for your reply.
Nice job. I would rinse opposite the way the air normally flows when possible. It will do a better job of cleaning yet. That's just my opinion. Enjoy the summer.
Hey, Stop!!! You keep adding to my "Honey Do" list!! Seriously though, thank you for making this video. I will not feel so intimidated by the AC unit now. and tomorrow looks sunny!
I had a thought, watching your video I was thinking maybe using a Shop-Vac to suck the foam out of the evaporator coil after it's absorbed into the dirt and released the the mud on the coil fins use the vacuum cleaner to suck the moisture out of the fins and not have the muddy mess inside the rig.
NOTE, the chemical sprayed on the coils needs to be pretty harsh in order to break the oily film on the fins to be able to dissipate the heat from inside the rig. Makes it work more efficient.
Wonder if there's any way to spray the evaporator from the other side without breaking or making a mess. Seems like spraying from that side, you might push dirt into it. But looks like a good improvement this way too at least.
I think most of the dirt gets dissolved by the solvents and dribbles down and out the drains in the AC pan
I'm new to this RV Living moreso an RV TeRRibLe Experience. While teaching myself 'DIY EVERYTHING' by watching countless videos. Cause on-site RV Techs are DELUSIONAL!
Anyway, I've watched countless videos with this being the ONLY video that looks just like my AC Unit and VENTS. Great step by step walk-through and tips throughout. I'll be purchasing that coil comb today. 👍
Although, you skipped right past the 1 part I've been looking for and that's which way are the inside vent covers to go back on properly? As I think the vents were on wrong when purchasing this 42FooT HeLL TrAP!
Anywho, I appreciate your informative video👍.
Stay save in your travels.
I use that on our central air conditioner here in Alberta! We have cottonwood fuzz that likes to get into the condenser units!
You should have pulled the Shroud off the condenser. The bulk of the crud that builds up will be between the condenser and the fan. Love the video Keep It Coming.
Thanks. Didn't look very dirty at all in there so decided to get it best I could through the fan opening. Cheers! Ray
Thanks for the great tutorial. I was so clueless how to clean the A/C unit!
Angie, has a super hard life on the road I see...LOL. Great video.
hah, she sure has it rough!
Thanks. :)
I was going to do it wrong. Now I know what I need to do. THANK YOU👍
Glad to help
Thank you for making this helpful video and demonstrating how to clean.
You're welcome :)
Need to clean mine also. It is five years old . Keep up the great videos.
Thank you for sharing very professional video with easy instructions!!!
Thank you from Bellingham WA. You showed me everything I needed to know . Thank you neighbor to the North! :)
Glad it was helpful!
I had an inch gap at the bottom of my diverted from blower to return and my cold blown air was being sucked up to evaporate side therefore no air in back ducts. Used reflexic window material taped in and walla big difference.
Thanks for another quality video. This was solid information that I can use.
Keep On Truckin’
Thanks again Ray. Enjoy learning what needs to be done in the future. Your videos have been very helpful. Happy camping.
Thank you for the data about air-conditioning.Very informative. Thank you. Carolyn and Colin Hogarth
You're welcome, Cheers! Ray :)
@@LoveYourRV \7\7\7
Excellent! Very informative and put together well ...ty!
This video was very helpful so keep up the great work.👍
awesome job as usual Ray. Just video I needed to find
Cool, glad it helped!
Oh! I'm definitely going to use these tips!! Mine is a bit different, but this will be most helpful! Thanks for all of your help!!
Please share what type of tape was used over the rope. Best regards, Mike Murphy
It is called Eternabond roof tape. Here is a video about it www.loveyourrv.com/rv-roof-repair-eternabond-review/ Cheers, Ray
Good job Ray! Going to check our filters tomorrow!
Thanks. Feels good to not have all the gunk in there. Cheers!
I have to regularly use toothbrush bristles to force grease into the shaft bearing of the motor you refer to. The right thing to do is replace the motor. However I have just got into the routine of doing this about every two months. The motor lets me know if it needs it sooner by a certain noise from the slop of the worn bearing. I have been doing this for two years so I will continue to do so until it no longer works. Standard "high temp" grease will only last about a month but true high temp grease gives me a full 2 months. Used to be STP but I don't believe it is sold anymore under that brand. Coastal I believe now. Anyhow it had a temp rating of 550 instead of 400.
Interesting ,thanks for the tip!
Hey Ray, i know it's 4 years later, but i'm servicing my RV A/C and was looking for some guidance. appears your AC is identical to mine (or maybe they are all made in the same Chinese sweatshop). as always, great info.
Thanks, I did another video last summer when I had to replace the roof gasket www.loveyourrv.com/rv-air-conditioner-maintenance-new-gasket-seal-clean-lube/ Cheers! Ray
Always appreciate the tips and how to's Ray! Nice work as always, and you can't miss getting Angie in the videos. 😎😋
You do a great job with your videos Ray. Always informative and interesting. Thanks for the product tips.
Thank you. Nice to hear that. Cheers!
Great informative video Ray! Have a nice Summer in BC.
Your videos have helped tremendously as we just got the weboost Drive 4G X RV signal booster. We haven’t gotten around using it away from city areas so we’ll be interested to find out how it works in suburban areas.
Andrea and I start our Adventure July 1 and our first big stopover will be thru the Maine coast (lobster shacks everywhere) north to PEI for a month or two.
Mark Ballard
Thanks, looking forward to it. That sounds like a great trip. We loved PEI when we visited back in summer 2011. Beautiful reddish pink beaches. Happy Travels! Ray
I like the idea 4 the gutter that you made. It would be good if you could actually make a gutter out of a wire that you had to run anyway.
those combs for the fins are great where can I get some
Try Amazon, Lowes or Home Depot. I got mine when in the USA at Amazon.com
Right on
Back in the day we used to always vacuum the fins to extract the debris and use a soft horsehair paint brush OR a fin straightener on the stubborn stuff. In school we were taught to never use a water spray as that forces the debris into the fins. Why does no one vacuum anymore?
The fins on this evaporator are so thin that they bend really really easy and the older the unit gets the more brittle they become. The stuff on the evaporator fins was really glommed on there, wasn't going to sweep off. The condenser fins seemed much stronger.
I agree with a soaking and vacuum . As on a car radiator, if you must use a hose , you usually reverse flush from the way the dirt was introduce on the coil. In this case it was sucking in ,so it should be pushed back out the way it came in.
Hi Ray, I'm in Victoria as well, recognized the concrete mixer from Trio. Where do you get the various tools and supplies, Refrigerative Supply?? Also if low on coolant, who here in town can recharge the system. Evidently the Rv repair facility I deal with just off Jacklin doesn't do that.
I ordered my tools and supplies off Amazon when I was in the USA and brought them back with me. Links in the description, not sure if Amazon CA carries them or not.
Try Greg's RV in Duncan they have a pretty large service shop. Cheers, Ray
The VAST majority of AC failures is because people don't change filters and clean there coils. DIRT is what keeps AC guys in business.
need to know more on freoen for air conditioner how to fill
Why not a shop-vac with brush attachment to clean the condenser no??
I was afraid it may be to aggressive and risk bending up the fragile coil fins.
I actually work around giant intercoolers with fins just like thag im familiar with fin combs i actually wash those coolers with a 3000 psi diesel pressure washer its dificult to dent those fins unless you hit them with something or bugs hit them at high rates of speed
Thanks Ray, great job as always. I need to get up and clean mine as soon as I rehab from my total knee replacement... ouch. 😫
Yeah, tough job with bad knees for sure, get well soon. Cheers! Ray
I use my 1 gallon tank sprayer to rinse and my mini shop vac to suck up the water.
Very thorough video, thanks. sub'd. Did you have before temps from vents?
Not right before but temps were similar anytime I've tested them in the past.
I'm about to take that front cover off and looking for tips. You already took it off!
Not much to say, undo the screws and remove. Wear gloves as the sheet metal edges are sharp
@@LoveYourRV I finally realized there are screws under the three little ski-jump brackets at the bottom.
The fiberglass insulation on the sheet metal part that is removed, where the edges met the main unit, must have stuck and is all tattered. Do I have to put a new strip of insulation all along the edges between the two? Or would sealing the edges with aluminum tape do?
I assume that the insulation is there because this is where the interior air flows, so the area is insulated from the outside hot air for better cooling. How much of a difference it would make using just metal tape I'm not sure.
@@LoveYourRV Thank you. Climbing around on an RV roof is something I never dreamed I would be doing, particularly not at 69.
Thank you for the tips. What type of tape did you use for the rope-gutter on your roof?
I used some poly rope I had kicking around
@@LoveYourRV oh awesome. I’m sorry I was actually referring to the water proof tape. What kind of tape do you use?
It's called Eternabond www.loveyourrv.com/?s=eternabond Its a type of roof seal and patch tape so its made for using on the rubber roof material and to not peel off.
@@LoveYourRV awesome thank you! #Savinglives
Great video, I learned a lot. Thanks for posting it.
Great video explained well and simple thanks
Thanks for another good video Ray!
Thanks, the AC has been working great since. Cheers, Ray
Hi Thanks for the Video ! Can you tell me why someone would put a "hard start" capacitor on their a/c , I am new at this , thank you !
It helps the AC start a little more smoothly and with a lower initial current draw. When starting the AC units compressor needs to kick on and it can take a surge of amperage to do that. The hard start capacitor stores energy and can release it at the start-up stage, thus reducing the amperage draw from the power input to the RV.
Why is that helpful? It can reduce the chances of blowing breakers when running the AC and multiple other devices in the rig, especially in hot weather. There is less strain on the AC parts helping lengthen life.
Many people use them to help a generator start up the AC unit, where before the generator would go into shutdown mode not able to power the initial surge current needed to fire up the compressor.
Some RV AC units already have a hard start capacitor and other don't.
Another device that is often used but much more expensive is a soft starter. www.microair.net/products/easystart-364-3-ton-single-phase-soft-starter-for-air-conditioners Cheers, Ray
Ray simple green applied through a small pump up bug sprayer is highly recommended that’s what a lot of the commercial air conditioner repair man use in the Phoenix area and we have a few air-conditioners in the Phoenix area. Thanks for the video👍👊😎
I've heard that from a few folks that say they use it and it works well. I'm a little hesitant as I know that Simple Green can corrode aluminum if left on it too long. It's in the companies FAQs and I've heard stories of it eating aluminum wheels.
so give it a good rinse,like you did, done.
Looks like Simple Green makes its own coil cleaner. :) simplegreen.com/industrial/products/foaming-coil-cleaner-aerosol/
I prefer the purple cleaner. Basically the same except it has an added ingredient or something. That's what I buy for the shop as well. It works really good removing grease, and any hydraulic oil that may have leaked on the equipment. In the field. Nothing beats a good hot water preasure wash at the shop. But they are not making money sitting there..lol
My roof ac Dumps al the condensate on the roof which then runs don the front side of the RV... Is that normal? is there supossed to be a drain line or something? If not how do I get it to flow to the other side or the back so it doesn't drip on people? Thanks Ps I saw your rope trick is that just cotton rope? is the rope inside the drain pan?
It's a plastic type rope, that yellow polypropylene stuff. The rope isn't inside the drain pan, just catches the water as it drains out and guides it over to the side gutter.
Good morning Ray! Beautiful weather this weekend. I received an email from Camper Report, and in there was an article about Boondocking. They mentioned a product called a SoftstartRV A/C starter. I presume this is a digital motor starter. The price is pretty good, but I'm not sure how well it works. Could you maybe test one of these, or a motor starter that you know of? Seems like a pretty good idea to have.
Actually I had mentioned those in a recent video I did about the AC - th-cam.com/video/UKajweIFh4M/w-d-xo.html Many people were interested so I plan to test one out. Cheers, Ray
I have used higher concentrations of Simple Green on the coils and the other components and have really good luck with it.
I haven't had any concerns about it damaging the roof material or discoloring the side walls. I lug a small shop vac up there to suck up most of the water runoff. I also use foil tape to seal up the joints within the return and exhaust chambers. Just my . 02 cents worth.
Thanks for the tips!
Are the compressors on these units replaceable or would the whole unit need to be replaced if the compressor goes bad?
Yes, but not cheap and as far as I know my require specialize knowledge and tools to change. Here is a part link I found highskyrvparts.com/rv-parts/appliances/air-conditioners/air-conditioners-replacement-parts/coleman-mach-air-conditioner-compressor-1450-4209 Most people elect to replace the whole AC I imagine
I accidentally pulled a few wires off don't know where they go. Would like a picture of how they hook back up. But my air conditioner also has a heater
See if you can search online for the service manual for your particular make and model of AC. In it will be a wiring diagram usually with which color goes to which terminal. Cheers, Ray
I live in and camp in the Mohave Desert which can be dusty! My coach has two Coleman Mach 10 Heat Pumps.
While in COOL mode, I get an abnormally large amount of dust and dirt building up on the Evaporator coil necessitating cleaning the evaporator 3 or more times each year. I clean the units interior air filter every two weeks. I don’t have any water leaks into the coach from the AC so I know the main 14” square gasket is good.
I believe the problem is that there isn’t a filter of other means to keep dirt from entering between the roof and the AC’s metal base plate at the two condensate drain holes.
A piece of open cell foam inserted under the metal base plate and on top of the roof under the drain holes would prevent dirt from being sucked into the area under the evaporator shroud. This foam would allow condensate to drain through it to the roof but would stop dust from getting into the evaporator coil fins.
Alternatively a small Duck Bill check valve inserted through the base plate evaporator drain holes would likely also work.
I plan to clean teh evaporator coil tomorrow and will try a small piece of the open cell foam inserted under each of the drain holes. Time will tell if this makes a significant difference.
thanks for the maintenance tips, keep them coming...
hey Ray, how does the shroud come off these units? i have a pair of these units (a 15k and a 13.5k) on our new-to-us motorhome and i can't seem to get the covers to come off. with the 4 screws removed, i can only get the rear part of the shroud to lift up a couple of inches then it binds up and won't move any more. rather not attempt to force it and break something. our old 5th wheel had a pair of Dometic Penguin units and those were clam shell style covers and really easy to remove. thanks
MIne was quite tight but with a little bit of prying first at one end then the other comes come off. Mine is a Coleman Mach though, not sure about a Domestic.
Love Your RV mine are Coleman Mach units like yours. My old rv had the Dometics
thank you so much for this video. i just bought a popup and i need to do this to mine.
Well you did not mention how to get into the squirrel cage fan side of the AC system from he top to check the cooling coil. It could also get clogged with dust or built up mold or anything that could condense on the inside part.
Yes, I did. I could get to both sides of the cooling coil, see here - th-cam.com/video/fv5KBhdEvNg/w-d-xo.html Most of the debris was on the side the air is drawn into.
Great info and tips, thanks Ray!
Thank you for the video. Blessings to you.
This is a very, very helpful video! Thank you!
You're very welcome!
I have a 77 dodge sportsman RV and the air conditioner is not cooling very good it use to work great just last year no problem and now suddenly it decided to stop cooling and I am trying to find someone to fix it I’m in Cleveland Tennessee and so far I haven’t found any help how much should that cost me doses anyone know about what would be the cost for something like this to get someone to refill my coolant?
Those fins are not that sensitive you can use a hose ar full pressure and i got one of those worx hyrdroshot and its not to much if you know what you are doing
Great job as always Ray... Enjoy your Summer 😎
Don't underestimate the importance of checking to see how well your AC duct system is sealed. We found ours to be extremely leaky as a result of shoddy factory installation workmanship with gaps in duct insulation and the foil tape seals everywhere. Check not only your blower/return unit but also all of your duct taps and vent covers. A couple of hours of redoing joints with HVAC tape doubled the air flow from our vents. It turns out we were blowing a lot of air conditioned air into the void between our ceiling and roof! Ours is a Coleman TT which is one of the many brands owned by Thor. I would expect to find some shoddy workmanship somewhere in your RV regardless of your brand.
Good tip, it was one of the first things I did when the rig was new, dropped all the vent covers and checked. Most looked good but a couple places needed more tape. Cheers, Ray
I just took my heat pumps off the roof, soak them with simple green and spray them down with a regular water hose. As long as you don’t spray sideways across the fins, they will be fine. Let everything air dry. Reinstall with new 14x14 gaskets and you’re done!
Great video! Thanks for the info.
My styrofoam squirrel cage in mine has a chunk torn out around the blower fan! And is a brand new camper. The air has not been blowing that cold. Could a chunk gone out of the styrofoam be the culprit???
Could be, its there as insulation. I'd get it looked at under the warranty if the cooling is poor.
@@LoveYourRV Yes sir I will. Thanks for your input!
Great video, thanks for producing
No probs, thanks for watching.
My bedroom ac doesn't come out cold just feels like a fan. What could he the issue. The living room works well
Sounds like the compressor isn't kicking on or maybe the freon coolant in the piping has escaped through hole.
Hola, por qué puede gotear agua por ese orificio?? Gracias
While you are on here I am buying a new RV for next year's season. Mine now is an 89 that I bought used. Had it for a few years now but it's time to step up. I'm looking at spending around 25k. But I still have no idea which brand I want, or what rates high. The only thing I have to have is an extra br with bunks for my grandchildren. Also I want atleast a couple slide outs. It's to cramped in mine without them. I would also like to be around 35 feet. I don't even know if that's in my price range. I am looking to by off season so I get a better deal. Any tips here would be nice. Oh, my RV is in a park. So I will not be towing it.
Maybe look at buying a used toy hauler type trailer. Then convert the garage area into a guest room. I bet you can find lots of good used ones in southern California or Arizona where the weather is dry. They tend to have fewer chances of water damage from leaks.
Love Your RV I'll look into them. But I'll have to stay a little more eastetn. Those are atleast 2k miles from me.
Lol
none of your business try looking for a keystone Raptor or Fuzion. If the interior and suspension are in fair shape, you can get a 2007-2009 for around 25k
pilot nelson Thanks for the advice. I appreciate it.
none of your business your welcome.
We you concerned about the spray can cleaner damaging the coils? Looks like they had more pressure than the water.
The weight of the spray being an aerosol and foamed is much lighter so wasn't too concerned, I figure if they market it for the task it must be tested to not damage fins. ;)
Love Your RV Good point. Hope they are as logical as you in thinking that. I've used similar fin cleaner on my home AC and it worked great. Paid 5/can at home depot. Might be cost competitive as an alternate source.
gotta keep your shaft well lubed. rust on the shaft can cause problems.