MRCOOL® TravelCool™ RV Air Conditioner Installation Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Begin. MRCOOL Direct
Complete Installation, Electrical Requirements, Roof Opening, Dimensions, Tips & FAQs
Installing a new RV air conditioner is one of the best upgrades you can make to improve comfort while traveling. The MRCOOL® TravelCool™ RV Inverter Heat Pump combines quiet inverter technology, energy-efficient heating and cooling, and modern controls into a rooftop system designed specifically for campers, travel trailers, fifth wheels, motorhomes, and other compatible recreational vehicles.
Unlike traditional fixed-speed rooftop air conditioners that constantly cycle on and off, the TravelCool™ system uses DC inverter technology to automatically adjust compressor speed. This helps maintain a more consistent indoor temperature, reduces power consumption, lowers operating noise, and minimizes wear on the compressor over time.
Whether you’re replacing an older rooftop unit or installing a TravelCool™ system for the first time, understanding the installation requirements before you begin can help ensure a smooth installation and years of dependable performance.
Install Manual
Before You Install
Before removing your old rooftop air conditioner, verify the following:
✅ Your RV roof is structurally sound.
✅ The existing roof opening meets the required dimensions.
✅ Your electrical system provides a dedicated 120-volt circuit.
✅ The roof surface is clean and level.
✅ You have enough clearance around the rooftop unit.
✅ Another person is available to help safely lift the unit into position.
Although many experienced RV owners can complete the installation themselves, always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and local electrical codes.
Designed Specifically for RV Applications
The MRCOOL® TravelCool™ is engineered for:
- Travel Trailers
- Fifth Wheels
- Campers
- Motorhomes
- Toy Haulers
- Truck Campers
It is not designed for residential homes, apartments, commercial buildings, agricultural equipment, or construction machinery. Installing the unit outside of its intended application may affect performance and warranty eligibility.
Roof Opening Requirements
One of the most common installation questions is:
“What size hole does the TravelCool need?”
The required roof opening is:
14.17 inches × 14.17 inches (360 × 360 mm)
This standard opening allows the rooftop assembly and interior ceiling assembly to mount correctly while providing proper gasket compression for a weather-resistant seal.
Always inspect the roof opening for damage, rot, or delamination before installing the new unit.
Roof Thickness Requirements
The TravelCool™ installation system is designed for RV roofs up to:
Maximum Roof Thickness
5 inches (127 mm)
If your roof exceeds the recommended thickness, additional hardware or installation modifications may be required. Always verify roof construction before beginning installation.
Electrical Requirements
Proper electrical installation is critical for safe operation.
Power Supply
- Voltage: 120 Volts AC
- Frequency: 60 Hz
- Phase: Single Phase
Recommended Dedicated Breaker
16 Amp
The manufacturer recommends installing the unit on its own dedicated circuit protected by both magnetic and thermal overload protection with leakage protection.
Using a dedicated circuit helps prevent nuisance breaker trips and protects the inverter electronics.
Heating & Cooling Performance
The inverter compressor continuously adjusts output to match the heating or cooling demand inside your RV.
Cooling Capacity
10,000–15,000 BTU/h
Heating Capacity
12,000–16,000 BTU/h
Instead of running only at full capacity, the inverter technology increases or decreases compressor speed as needed, improving comfort while reducing power consumption.
Airflow
The system delivers approximately:
323.72 CFM
High airflow helps distribute conditioned air more evenly throughout the RV while maintaining quieter operation than many traditional rooftop units.
Refrigerant
The TravelCool™ uses:
R-32 Refrigerant
R-32 offers improved energy efficiency and lower global warming potential compared to many older refrigerants. Because it is classified as mildly flammable, always follow the safety instructions provided in the installation manual and never service the sealed refrigeration system unless properly trained and qualified.
What’s Included
Depending on whether you choose the ducted or non-ducted version, your package may include:
- Rooftop Heat Pump
- Interior Air Distribution Box
- Ceiling Control Assembly
- Remote Control
- Mounting Hardware
- Adjustable Air Duct Components (ducted models)
- Installation Manual
Always verify all components are present before beginning installation.
Installation Tips from MRCOOL DIRECT
After helping customers select and install heating and cooling systems, we’ve found these tips can help make the installation go more smoothly:
- Clean all old roof sealant before installing the new gasket.
- Never reuse an old mounting gasket.
- Tighten mounting bolts evenly using a crisscross pattern.
- Avoid overtightening the mounting hardware, which can compress the gasket too much.
- Verify your roof opening measurements before lifting the unit onto the roof.
- Confirm the dedicated electrical circuit is disconnected before beginning work.
- Inspect all wiring connections before restoring power.
Common Installation Mistakes
Avoid these common issues:
❌ Reusing the old gasket
❌ Installing on an uneven roof
❌ Overtightening mounting bolts
❌ Blocking return air openings
❌ Using an undersized electrical circuit
❌ Failing to verify roof opening dimensions
Taking the time to perform these checks can help prevent leaks, vibration, and premature equipment problems.
Frequently Asked Questions RV Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Inverter.
Can I replace my existing RV rooftop AC with the TravelCool™?
In many cases, yes. Verify your roof opening dimensions, roof thickness, and electrical requirements before installation.
Does the TravelCool™ provide heat?
Yes. It functions as both an air conditioner and an inverter heat pump, providing efficient heating and cooling.
What breaker size should I use?
The installation manual recommends a dedicated 16-amp circuit with appropriate protection.
What voltage does it require?
120 Volt AC, 60 Hz, Single Phase.
What size roof opening is required?
14.17” × 14.17”.
Can homeowners install it?
Many experienced RV owners can install the system themselves, but electrical work should always comply with applicable codes. If you’re unsure about any part of the installation, consult a qualified technician.
Why Buy Your TravelCool™ from MRCOOL DIRECT?
When you purchase your MRCOOL® TravelCool™ from MRCOOL DIRECT, you’re buying from a team that specializes in MRCOOL products—not a general online marketplace.
When you shop with us, you’ll benefit from:
- Expert product guidance before you buy
- Friendly customer support
- Fast shipping on qualifying orders
- Genuine MRCOOL products
- Assistance choosing compatible accessories and replacement parts
- Ongoing support before and after your purchase
Whether you’re upgrading your RV, replacing an aging rooftop air conditioner, or preparing for your next adventure, we’re here to help you choose the right solution with confidence.