Best AC for a Van: 12v Mini Split

With global temperatures likely to hit record highs in the next five years, finding an efficient air conditioner is becoming more of a priority. In this video, Keri shares information about the various air conditioning options she’s tried and explains how and why she instalIed a 12v backpack mini split. This is hands-down the most efficient option I’ve seen - both in terms of initial cost and energy requirement. It’s so energy efficient that if you have a decent-sized solar system, you could run it without upgrading your electrical, and Keri shares just what it takes energy-wise.

LINKS:

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - Intro
00:57 - Meet Keri
01:09 - Window unit experiment and why it didn't work
01:43 - Portable A/C and why it didn't work
02:10 - 12v Mini Split and why it works great!
02:21 - What is a Mini Split
02:37 - How the energy consumption experiment was run
04:24 - Benefits of AC in a van, especially working full-time and having pets
06:47 - Downsides to RV rooftop AC units
08:02 - How much power you would need to run a Mini Split in your van
08:24 - Installation

Here at TheGalavan I feature vans, primarily designed and built by women, to give you inspiration for your own van build. I’m always on the lookout for other van life enthusiasts who want to collaborate and share their love of this lifestyle. I also love to cook from scratch in my van and share accessories, tips, and tricks to make van life easier and more successful for you.

Music:

Gear & Accessories:
Video Editing: iMovie
This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission.

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[TheGalavan]

Here's a link to the Mini Split Keri used:

[marysiniawa]

One of the biggest reasons why I do not live in my van is because of the heat. So now I can research this mini split idea. Thank you for sharing this.

[omavicmcmurray]

I have been thinking about this for years, ( like so many of us). A BIG THANK YOU! For sharing your experiences. Whew!!!! I will rewatch this so I can finally address this ‘top of the list’ priority. Thanks to the two of you!

[GreatGrannyFreeBird]

Excellent timing for this helpful air conditioning video. Thank you Joni!

[harlowpinson]

It would be interesting if you did a presentation on the heating mode of the mini-split unit.

[brendazorn]

.This looks like the perfect solution for my sprinter. Thank you

[janetkoball]

Hi. I just subscribed. I enjoyed this subject very much although I know nothing about it. She was easy to listen to and I will listen and share it again. I am trying to put together a 6x12 cargo trailer for me and my dog to camp in. Thanks and see you later. I'm from Central Oklahoma

[curtiswaagner]

Joni so great to catch one of your videos. thanks for another great idea. we are actually getting back to our build and hopefully back on the road in early 2024 and hopefully Jonathan and I get to meet up and catch up with you. his our great visits

[rebeccadees]

I’m a blank slate regarding everything that needs to be done especially the electrical and solar so I’m going to learn how to do as much as I can. I may be buying a pro master 2500 from a family member who just bought it from a business. It has a new transmission with 60, 000 miles. He’s had checked out and he said it’s in perfect condition. I think it’s a 2010.

[cj]

Yes, I would love a link to this ac too. Great video!

[brentmcmahon]

The bad thing about mounting on the back of anything is the dirt and dust that swirls around the back of your and a roof top mount would be ideal and a lot of air flow and the noise on the back would annoying so roof top would be the best all around mounting spot.

[Beerbatter]

Wow! That was very knowleageable and to the point. Lot's of excellent information packed into such short time. Your knowledge and expertise in the subject is obvious and appreciated. Cheers and thank you.

[WhiteThunder]

I was wondering how this added up. There are hardly any vids on this unit. Thank you for this video

[stephengregorie]

Would love to see a follow up video commenting on how its holding up? Lessons learned, and such?

[paulutd]

That's a great option. I'm hoping to build a small van just for weekend use to see if I could ease into it on a longer term basis. Definitely AC is a need. Thank you for posting and explaining your set up.

[michaelriedii]

What is your screen on the wall? I believe it showed your battery state etc. would love to look into one of these

[Lulu]

Great video !!! Love the idea of a mini split, this looks totally doable ❤. Thanks for sharing the info.

[juliepreimesberger]

Wow! Excellent interview. She rocks!!! Great job.

[vLife]

Valuable info! My next van idea will be much smaller than yours.. looking at the Promaster 118 wheel base with low roof. I have this idea with the rear wheel wells to make some bulkheads all the way up to the roof so that the a large high queen bed could be closed off with a curtain too. Then opening vent holes in both rear wheel wells so can just install a portable AC 5000 btu in the garage and have it supply air through vents in the bulkheads either to the bed or the living area to further reduce the space that needs cooling. Not even about cooling a space so much as having some cold hair directed at me where I'm at. I have another controversial idea i did in my current van that works well here in Florida - I cut a giant hole in my roof, lip up the sheet metal and over it with a giant solar panel and strip of stainless mesh for always open ventilation - bugs and water never get in, and it adds some ambient light and enough height so I can stand and even look out.

[migotsai]

Thank you very much for your sharing, I'm also interested in the circulation fan mounted on the top, could you share the purchasing links? Thank you so much ❤