American Vintage Trailers

Repair. Remodel. Restore.
(254) 248-1186

EST. 2011

Cool Journeys: Your RV's Essential Climate Control Partner

Imagine the immense relief of stepping into a refreshingly cool RV, Airstream, or vintage trailer after a long day under the sun. Your air conditioning system is more than a luxury; it’s a vital component for comfort, health, and truly enjoying your mobile adventures, especially in warmer climates or during summer travels.

When your AC unit falters or an older rig lacks adequate cooling, your interior quickly becomes stifling and uncomfortable, turning a pleasant trip into a test of endurance.

At American Vintage Trailers, we specialize in expert RV and vintage trailer AC installation and repair. We meticulously diagnose issues, service existing units, and install new, efficient air conditioning systems, ensuring optimal climate control and comfort wherever your road takes you.

 


Why is Reliable RV Air Conditioning Crucial?

A well-functioning air conditioning system is indispensable for enhancing your RV experience, safeguarding your comfort, and even protecting your vehicle:

  • Optimal Interior Comfort: Maintains a cool, pleasant environment inside, allowing you to relax, sleep soundly, and enjoy your RV even during peak heat.
  • Health & Well-being: Prevents heat-related fatigue, dehydration, and discomfort for occupants, ensuring a healthier travel experience.
  • Humidity Control: AC systems actively remove humidity from the air, preventing clamminess and helping to inhibit mold and mildew growth inside your RV.
  • Extended Usability: Enables comfortable travel and camping during hot seasons, broadening your travel opportunities and maximizing your RV’s utility throughout the year.
  • Protects RV Interior: Reduces the stress that high temperatures place on interior furnishings, electronics, and appliances, helping to preserve their lifespan.

Our Dedication: Delivering Consistent Cool Air

Our approach to RV air conditioning services combines technical expertise with a commitment to consistent, reliable cooling. We understand the value of escaping the heat, no matter where your adventure leads. We offer a comprehensive overview of our services designed to meet the unique needs of RV owners. From routine maintenance to emergency repairs, our team ensures that your air conditioning system operates at peak performance. Enjoy your travels knowing that you’ll stay cool and comfortable, regardless of the climate.

We believe every RV journey should be experienced in perfect climate comfort.


Ready to ensure your RV’s climate control is top-notch?

Give us a call today to discuss your RV or Airstream AC installation or repair needs. We look forward to bringing cool comfort to your travels. Our team of experienced technicians is ready to assist you with any installation or maintenance requirements. In addition to air conditioning services, we also specialize in RV window seal and repair to ensure that your vehicle remains airtight and comfortable during your adventures. Trust us to keep your RV or Airstream in top shape for all your journeys ahead.

Call us at (254) 248-1186

Why Choose Us

For Your RV & Vintage Trailer AC Repair and Install?

  • 13+ years of experience in vintage trailer repairs, remodels, and restorations
  • 40+ years of electrical and mechanical experience
  • Expert craftsmanship with high-quality materials
  • Located in the heart of Texas
  • Serving Airstream and RV owners across Texas – from DFW to Austin, Texas Hill Country, Brazos Valley, and beyond!
  • Custom solutions for modern and classic RVs

Ready to repair your Airstream?
Call us today for a quote!

Call us at (254) 248-1186

More About RV & Vintage Trailer AC Repair and Install

The air conditioning unit in your RV, travel trailer, or Airstream works tirelessly, especially in warm climates, to maintain a comfortable and enjoyable interior environment. These complex systems, combining refrigerant, electrical components, and airflow management, are subjected to constant vibration, dust, and temperature extremes, making them prone to wear and eventual malfunction. Expert AC installation, meticulous repair, and regular maintenance are crucial for ensuring efficient cooling, protecting your health, and maximizing your RV’s usability through all seasons.


Common RV AC Issues & The Impact of Failure

Recognizing the signs of AC trouble early can prevent discomfort and potential damage to your RV’s electrical system or interior:

  • No Cooling or Weak Airflow:

    • Problem: The unit turns on, but the air isn’t cold, or the fan blows weakly. This is the most frustrating issue.
    • Impact: Leads to a stifling interior, discomfort, potential for heat-related fatigue, and makes your RV unusable in warm weather.
  • Unit Fails to Turn On:

    • Problem: The AC system is completely unresponsive when activated.
    • Impact: No cooling whatsoever. This could indicate an electrical fault, a tripped breaker, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a failed motor.
  • Loud Noises or Excessive Vibrations:

    • Problem: The AC unit makes unusual grinding, rattling, clunking, or excessively loud humming noises.
    • Impact: Disrupts peace and quiet in your RV, often indicates a failing fan motor, loose components, or a struggling compressor that could lead to complete unit failure.
  • Water Leaks Inside the RV:

    • Problem: Water drips or pools from the AC unit’s interior vents or ceiling panel.
    • Impact: Causes water damage to interior ceilings, walls, or subfloor, and can foster mold growth. Typically due to a clogged condensate drain line or improper unit tilt.
  • AC Unit “Icing Up”:

    • Problem: Visible ice forms on the evaporator coils inside the RV or on the condenser coils outside.
    • Impact: Reduces cooling efficiency, can cause water damage when the ice melts, and indicates underlying issues like low refrigerant, restricted airflow from dirty coils, or a fan problem.
  • Constant Cycling:

    • Problem: The AC unit frequently turns on and off in short bursts.
    • Impact: Inefficient cooling, puts undue stress on the compressor, and can indicate a faulty thermostat or an incorrectly sized unit.

Our Comprehensive RV AC Installation & Repair Process

Whether you need to restore the chilling power of your existing unit or install a brand-new, efficient system, our expert technicians deliver precise and reliable AC services for your RV, camper, or Airstream:

  1. Thorough Diagnostic Assessment:

    • We begin with a meticulous inspection of your entire AC system. This includes checking refrigerant levels, inspecting all electrical components (compressor, capacitors, relays), and assessing the condition of condenser and evaporator coils, fan motors, and ductwork.
    • We use specialized diagnostic tools to accurately pinpoint issues like refrigerant leaks, electrical faults, or airflow obstructions.
  2. Expert Component Repair & Replacement:

    • Faulty or worn-out components such as compressors, capacitors, fan motors, relays, or thermostats are precisely repaired or replaced with high-quality, RV-specific parts.
    • For systems experiencing refrigerant issues, we conduct proper leak detection, repair, and environmentally responsible evacuation and recharging to manufacturer specifications.
  3. Coil Cleaning & Airflow Optimization:

    • Dirty evaporator and condenser coils significantly reduce AC efficiency. We thoroughly clean these coils to ensure optimal heat exchange and airflow, restoring your unit’s cooling capacity.
    • For ducted systems, we inspect and seal any leaks in the ductwork to ensure cool air reaches all intended vents effectively.
  4. Condensate Drainage System Service:

    • Clogged or improperly routed condensate drain lines are a common cause of internal water leaks. We meticulously clear and repair these lines, ensuring proper drainage of condensation to the exterior.
  5. Professional New AC Unit Installation:

    • Sizing & Selection: We help you choose the ideal AC unit, calculating the precise BTU capacity needed for your RV’s size, insulation, and typical travel conditions to ensure maximum efficiency and comfort.
    • Secure Mounting & Sealing: New rooftop units are securely mounted and meticulously sealed to prevent any water intrusion, ensuring proper drainage and structural integrity.
    • Seamless Electrical Integration: Dedicated wiring and circuit protection are installed for the new unit, guaranteeing adequate power supply and safe operation.
    • Ductwork Connection: For ducted systems, the new unit is perfectly integrated with existing ductwork to ensure even cool air distribution throughout your RV.
  6. Comprehensive Performance Testing:

    • After any repair or installation, the AC system undergoes rigorous testing. We verify its cooling output, temperature differential between intake and output, noise levels, and overall efficiency to ensure it’s performing at its peak.

Understanding AC Installation & Repair Costs & Value

The cost of RV AC installation and repair varies widely, depending on whether it’s a repair or a full replacement, the type and size of the AC unit, and the complexity of the job. It’s a critical investment in your RV’s comfort, longevity, and your ability to enjoy travel in any climate.

Factors Influencing Cost:

  • Repair vs. Replacement: Repairing a component (e.g., a capacitor) is significantly less expensive than replacing the entire AC unit.
  • AC Unit Type & BTU: Larger, more powerful units (e.g., 15,000 BTU vs. 13,500 BTU) or specialized basement/ducted units have higher material costs.
  • Installation Complexity: Adding AC to an RV that didn’t previously have it (requiring structural/electrical work) is more involved than a simple like-for-like replacement.
  • Refrigerant Services: Leak detection, repair, and recharging costs are distinct from component replacement.
  • Labor Hours: Diagnostics and meticulous installation/repair require skilled labor.

Investing in professional RV AC installation or repair provides immediate and significant benefits: consistent interior comfort, enhanced health safety in warm weather, protection for your RV’s interior from excessive heat and humidity, and increased resale value. It transforms your travel experience, ensuring every journey is a cool and refreshing one.

FAQ: Your AC Questions Answered

  • This is a common problem with several potential causes.
  • It could indicate low refrigerant levels, possibly due to a leak in the system.
  • Dirty or clogged evaporator or condenser coils can restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
  • Other issues might include a failing compressor, a malfunctioning fan motor, or even a simple thermostat problem not signaling the compressor to engage.
  • We recommend having your RV’s AC unit professionally inspected and serviced at least once a year, ideally before the start of the warm season.
  • This preventative maintenance helps ensure optimal efficiency, extends the lifespan of the unit, and can identify minor issues before they become major breakdowns.
  • Regular cleaning of coils and checking electrical connections are part of this service.
  • Yes, generally they can, but it requires a professional assessment.
  • Modern RV AC units are often more efficient than vintage models.
  • Our technicians will assess your existing electrical system, roof structure, and overall integrity to ensure the new unit can be safely and effectively installed.
  • Sometimes, an electrical system upgrade might be recommended to fully support the new AC unit’s power demands.
  • Loud noises (grinding, rattling) often indicate a failing fan motor, loose components, or issues with the compressor.
  • Water leaking inside your RV from the AC unit is typically caused by a clogged condensate drain line. When the condensate can’t drain outside, it overflows into your RV’s interior.
  • It could also indicate that the RV isn’t level, causing water to pool and overflow. Both issues should be addressed quickly to prevent further damage.
  • Most RV air conditioners require 120-volt AC power.
  • A smaller unit (e.g., 13,500 BTU) typically needs a 20-amp dedicated circuit, while larger units (e.g., 15,000 BTU) usually require a 30-amp circuit.
  • They can be powered by shore power (when plugged into an electrical pedestal at a campground or home) or by a properly sized RV generator.
  • Ensuring adequate and stable power is crucial for the AC unit’s efficient operation and longevity.

Have more questions about keeping your RV cool and comfortable?

Call us at (254) 248-1186

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Related Services

Ensuring ideal climate control in your RV, Airstream, or vintage trailer often connects with other vital systems and upgrades. As you manage your AC needs, consider these complementary services that can further enhance your vehicle’s overall functionality and interior comfort:

RV & Trailer Electrical Repairs

Why it’s related: Your AC unit is a significant electrical component. This service ensures your RV’s electrical system, including wiring, circuit breakers, and power supply, is robust enough to safely and efficiently power your air conditioning.

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Roof Resealing & Repair for Travel Trailers, Campers, and RVs

Why it’s related: Most RV air conditioning units are roof-mounted. Proper installation or repair of an AC unit involves ensuring a meticulous, watertight seal where it connects to the roof, making roof integrity essential.

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Interior Remodeling for Vintage RVs & Travel Trailers

Why it’s related: Upgrading or installing new AC systems, especially ducted units, can impact your RV’s interior ceiling or wall components. This service allows for seamless integration of new climate control systems within a broader interior modernization project.

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