Replacing AC Unit

[jimin pa]

Our 1975 argosy's a.c. Finally gave up . Instead of putting money into a 40 year old unit might want to just replace the whole thing . Where's the best price?


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Jimin pa

[87MH]

Try PPL RV Superstore in Houston. Don't know what the bottom line will be with shipping.

Be aware that PPL may not be informed about the necessity of a properly fitted drip pan. You may be better off purchasing the entire package from a dealer that is familiar with Airstream specific requirements.

Don't know how you use your AS, but in my case a heat pump was by far the wisest choice for replacement units.

[JimGolden]

I'd recommend a 15,000 BTU unit and never look back. You can always cut it back if it's too cold. None of these aluminum trailers are insulated that well and aluminum has a great heat transfer coefficient (which in English means if it's hot on the outside, it will be hot on the inside).

I replaced the 13,500 BTU unit on my 34 footer with a 15,000, and painted the roof white, and it made all the difference in the world. I went with a Carrier AiRV, but they are no longer made. So I guess you are looking at Dometic or Coleman. Both are good.

As for the drip pan....it's not a big deal. You can let it drip down the side of the roof, along the rain gutter channel (well, Avion has one anyway But if you must have the drip tube hookup, be sure to ask.

Best of luck,

[mccrosti]

Ok, the difference is that your Armstrong AC is typically rebuild-able using parts that local AC guys have, you'll drop $900-$1500 on a new Dometic Penguin or similar and when it goes south, you'll buy a new one. Something to consider.