RV air conditioners: power, ducts and additional units
Match an RV air conditioner to the roof installation, controls and available electrical supply. Check running demand and startup behavior separately. A soft start can change startup demand, but does not increase the pedestal, cord or branch circuit rating or repair an electrical fault.
One model number supplies a more useful number than a class average
Dometic’s September 2016 installation manual lists model 651815.80X with 13.1 A compressor rated-load current and 2.6 A fan rated-load current. Their arithmetic sum is 15.7 A, before other RV loads. The compressor locked-rotor figure is a separate 63 A specification, not a continuous running load.
Two copies of that rated-load sum total 31.4 A, already 1.4 A above a 30-A supply rating before any other demand. This is a comparison of published ratings, not a measurement of every operating condition or proof that every two-unit installation fails.
Two air conditioners on 30 amps is a configuration question
SoftStartRV advertises two-air-conditioner operation on a 30-A hookup. That is not permission for every pairing. Confirm actual running demand, starts, load management, manufacturer compatibility and the complete supply arrangement.
| Check | Required evidence |
|---|---|
| Roof | Opening, support, roof thickness and actual height |
| Controls | Compatible ceiling assembly, thermostat and communications |
| Electrical | Branch wiring, protection, running loads and starting supply |
| Airflow | Approved duct or direct-discharge arrangement |
| Sound | Comparable test conditions and the installed mounting |
Ducts and roof work are part of the installation
A ducted assembly must match the specified unit and controls; it is not a generic cover swap. A second unit needs approved structure, wiring and protection. A lower-profile product is not automatically quieter, and adding a shroud cannot be assumed to improve sound without affecting airflow.
Keep accessible filters and outlets in the condition specified by the installed manual. Stop at damaged wiring, hot connectors or repeated protective trips and obtain qualified service. A protection device’s disconnect threshold is not a universal appliance operating limit.
Use generator sizing, shore-power limits and cooling faults for those separate decisions. Have a qualified installer confirm roof and mains changes before ordering the replacement equipment.