Frida RV - Climate Control Systems

Climate Control Systems in Frida

Frida is equipped with multiple climate control systems to keep you comfortable in various weather conditions. Understanding how to use these systems efficiently will keep you comfortable while maximizing energy efficiency.

❄️ Rooftop A/C

13,500 BTU air conditioner

Cools the entire RV

Requires 30 amp service or generator

🔥 Propane Furnace

30,000 BTU propane furnace

Heats the entire RV

Uses battery power for fan

🔌 Electric Space Heater

1500-watt portable heater

Good for mild temperature drops

Requires shore power

💨 Roof Vents & Fans

Powered roof vent

Creates airflow

Battery-powered operation

Using the Air Conditioner

The rooftop air conditioner is perfect for hot days and can cool the RV quickly and efficiently.

A/C Operation

Power requirements: The A/C requires either shore power (campground electricity) or the generator to run. It won't run on battery power alone.
Thermostat control: Set your desired temperature on the thermostat control panel.
Fan speed: Select your preferred fan speed (low, medium, or high).
Vents: Adjust the ceiling vents to direct air where needed.

Thermostat Control Panel

Mode:

Temperature:

72°F

Fan Speed:

💡 ENERGY TIP: When using the A/C, close all windows and doors. Keep blinds closed on sunny windows to reduce heat gain. For maximum efficiency, set the temperature to 72-75°F rather than a much colder setting.

A/C Limitations

The A/C works best when outside temperatures are below 95°F. In extreme heat, it may struggle to cool below 15-20 degrees from the outside temperature. Some additional tips:

Park in shade when possible to reduce heat load
Use the roof vent fans to exhaust hot air before turning on A/C
Run the A/C ahead of time if you know you'll return to a hot RV

Using the Propane Furnace

The propane furnace provides powerful heating for cold weather and runs on propane with a 12-volt fan.

Furnace Operation

Propane check: Ensure propane is turned on at the tanks.
Battery check: The furnace fan requires battery power, so ensure your batteries are charged.
Thermostat control: Set the thermostat to HEAT mode.
Temperature setting: Select your desired temperature.
Startup wait: The furnace may take 15-30 seconds to ignite after being turned on.

⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Never block furnace vents (inside or outside). Keep the area around vents clear of belongings. The furnace produces carbon monoxide, so a working CO detector is essential when using the furnace.

Furnace Usage Tips

The furnace uses approximately 1/3 gallon of propane per hour at full operation
It also draws about 7 amps from your batteries for the fan
For sleeping comfort, set the temperature a few degrees lower at night
Use the electric space heater when connected to shore power to conserve propane

Using the Electric Space Heater

When connected to shore power, the included portable electric heater can provide heat without using propane.

Space Heater Tips

Only use when connected to shore power (won't work on battery or generator)
Place on a flat, stable surface away from walkways
Keep at least 3 feet away from flammable materials
Never leave unattended while running
Perfect for maintaining temperature overnight or during mild cold

⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Never use the space heater while driving or when no one is in the RV. Always place it on a hard, level surface away from bedding, paper, or other flammable materials.

Roof Vents and Natural Ventilation

The powered roof vent and windows can create excellent airflow and are perfect for mild weather or to assist the A/C.

Roof Vent Operation

Open the vent by turning the crank handle.
Turn on the fan using the switch on the vent frame.
Adjust the fan speed as needed.
For best airflow, open a window on the opposite side of the RV.

💡 VENTILATION TIP: For optimal airflow, keep the roof vent open and running in exhaust mode, and open windows on the shaded side of the RV. This creates a cooling flow of air through the entire space.

When to Close Vents

Remember to close the roof vent in these situations:

When rain is expected
When using the air conditioner
When leaving the RV unattended
Before driving

Temperature Management by Season

Summer Strategy

Outside: 85-105°F

Primary: Air Conditioning

Secondary: Roof Vents, Window Shades

Winter Strategy

Outside: 30-50°F

Primary: Propane Furnace

Secondary: Electric Space Heater

Spring/Fall Strategy

Outside: 50-75°F

Primary: Roof Vents & Windows

Secondary: Space Heater (night)

Desert Day/Night

Day: 90°F / Night: 60°F

Day: A/C or Vents in shade

Night: Open windows or heat

Power Conservation Strategies

Climate control can be power-intensive. Here are strategies to stay comfortable while managing power usage:

System	Power Source	Consumption	Conservation Tips
Air Conditioner	Shore power or generator	High (13-16 amps)	Use roof vents during mild hours, set to 75° instead of 70°
Propane Furnace	Propane + battery for fan	Medium (7 amps, 1/3 gal propane/hr)	Use lower temperature settings, use electric heat when possible
Electric Heater	Shore power only	High (12.5 amps)	Use low setting (750w) when possible
Roof Vent Fan	12V battery	Low (1.5-3 amps)	Use natural ventilation when possible

Troubleshooting Climate Control Issues

Air Conditioner Not Cooling

Check that you're connected to shore power or running the generator
Ensure the thermostat is set to COOL
Verify temperature is set low enough (below current temp)
Check that all windows and doors are closed
If still not working, try resetting by turning off for 5 minutes

Furnace Not Heating

Check propane levels and ensure tanks are open
Verify battery power is adequate (above 12.1V)
Listen for initial fan - should run before ignition
Check for error codes on thermostat
Allow system to complete cycle - may take 30+ seconds to start

Roof Vent Issues

Check that vent is open (crank handle turned)
Verify battery power is available
Inspect fan switch for proper operation
Ensure vent opening isn't blocked
Try different fan speeds

Temperature Inconsistency

Check for air leaks around windows and doors
Adjust ceiling vents for better airflow distribution
Use window shades strategically (closed on sunny side)
Consider using portable fan to circulate air
Reposition temperature sensor if it's in sun or near heat source

💡 FINAL TIP: Climate management in an RV requires more active management than in a house. Be prepared to adjust your systems throughout the day as conditions change. In extreme temperatures, consider seeking out campgrounds with full hookups to ensure adequate power for climate control.

Frida RV - Climate Control 🌡️

🌡️ Climate Control Guide