Ducted vs. Non-Ducted RV Air Conditioners: Why TURBRO Ductless ACs Are the Best Choice for Your RV

Whether you're planning a cross-country road trip or just weekend getaways to your favorite camping spots, one thing is non-negotiable: staying cool and comfortable inside your RV. Choosing the right air conditioning system is essential for beating the heat and ensuring your RV feels like home wherever you park it.

If you've been researching RV AC units, you've probably come across two main types: ducted and non-ducted (ductless) systems. While both have their place, most RVers, especially those with small to mid-size setups, find that ductless systems offer the best mix of convenience, performance, and cost-effectiveness.

At TURBRO, we specialize exclusively in non-ducted RV air conditioners, and in this guide, we’ll walk you through why they’re the smart choice for most RV owners.

What’s the Difference Between Ducted and Non-Ducted RV AC Units?

Before we dive into why ductless is the better fit for your RV, let’s break down the basic difference.

Ducted AC Systems

These units are built into your RV and push cooled air through a system of hidden ducts and vents. Ducted systems are more common in large Class A motorhomes or fifth wheels, where air needs to reach multiple rooms or zones.

Pros:

• Even cooling in multi-room RVs
• Quieter operation due to roof-mounted motor

Cons:

• Requires professional installation and internal ductwork
• Higher upfront and maintenance costs
• Overkill for smaller RVs or single-room spaces

Some RV AC units also contain heat pumps, so you can stay warm when driving through cold climates. 

Non-Ducted (Ductless) AC Systems

Non-ducted air conditioners don’t use internal ducts to distribute air. Instead, they push cool air directly from the unit into the living space through a distribution box mounted inside the ceiling.

TURBRO offers this type of system, and it’s quickly become the go-to choice for RVers who want high performance without the hassle.

Why Non-Ducted ACs Are a Better Fit for Most RVers

At TURBRO, we design our ductless RV air conditioners for real-life use: easy to install, energy-efficient, and powerful enough to keep you cool no matter where your travels take you.

Here’s why more and more RV owners are choosing TURBRO non-ducted systems:

• DIY-Friendly Installation: No internal ductwork needed. Install in hours with basic tools and save on labor costs.
• Powerful Cooling: Up to 15,000 BTU to beat even the hottest days.
• Energy Efficient: Cools quickly without draining your battery or generator.
• Quiet Operation: Noise-dampening tech keeps your RV peaceful.
• Easy Maintenance: Washable filters and accessible parts make upkeep simple.
• Budget-Friendly: Lower upfront and long-term costs compared to ducted systems.

TURBRO Ductless RV ACs: Built for Your Journey

Our non-ducted RV air conditioners are perfect for:

• Travel trailers
• Pop-up campers
• Class B and C motorhomes
• Van conversions

Whether you're upgrading your old RV air conditioner or outfitting a new build, TURBRO has a solution that fits. We combine smart engineering with modern features like digital thermostats, adjustable fan speeds, and sleek, compact designs.

Here’s what one of our customers, Joe Miller, had to say about his Greenland 13,500 BTU Inverter RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump.

“I just had this new air conditioner/heat pump installed on my RV, and it fit perfectly into the original space. The installation process was simple, making it an easy upgrade. The heat pump works efficiently, providing great heating when needed. Plus, it's noticeably quieter than my previous air conditioner, which is a huge bonus for a more comfortable experience. Overall, I’m really happy with this upgrade!”

Final Thoughts: Ductless Is the Way to Go

While ducted systems have their place in luxury RVs, most RVers will benefit more from the simplicity, efficiency, and value of a non-ducted system. That’s why TURBRO focuses exclusively on ductless RV air conditioners: they offer everything you need for comfort on the road without the complexity.

Why Choose TURBRO?

• Quick installation
• Powerful performance
• Energy-efficient design
• Quiet operation
• Low maintenance
• Affordable pricing

Ready to Cool Down?

Explore TURBRO’s full lineup of non-ducted RV air conditioners at turbro.com, and find the perfect cooling solution for your next adventure.

Because your RV deserves comfort without the complications.