How to Service Your Caravan Air Conditioner

Jul 12, 2025

Sweaty nights in your caravan? Blame your dusty air con! To service your caravan and motorhome air conditioning, just clean filters, check coils, clear drains, and get a yearly pro check. It’s easier than finding the remote—read on for simple tips to stay cool (and smug) on the road.

Why Regular Servicing is Crucial

To Ensure Peak Cooling Efficiency

Keeping your caravan’s air conditioning in top shape is essential for staying comfortable on your travels. When the unit is clean and well-maintained, it runs more smoothly and cools more effectively.

It also reduces energy consumption, helping you save power while parked up off-grid or at a site. Ignoring maintenance often leads to poor performance and inconsistent cooling.

Regular upkeep ensures your system is always ready when you need it most.

Truma air conditioning control unit with dual vents and minimalist design, on a white background.

To Improve Air Quality and Prevent Odours

A properly serviced air conditioner also means fresher, cleaner air inside your caravan or motorhome. Dust, mould, and dirt can build up in filters and vents, spreading unwanted smells or allergens.

By cleaning the internal parts, you can stop these issues before they affect your comfort. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference—especially if you’re travelling with pets or family members sensitive to dust or pollen.

To Extend the Lifespan of Your Unit and Prevent Costly Repairs

Letting small issues pile up can lead to expensive repairs or even total unit failure. Routine maintenance helps you catch worn parts, blockages, or signs of strain early.

The better you look after the system, the longer it lasts—and the more money you save. Just a bit of cleaning and inspection can prevent hundreds in future costs.

DIY Service Checklist: What You Can Do Yourself

Safety First: Disconnecting from Power

Before you touch a thing, make sure the power is off. Unplug the unit from the mains or isolate it via your breaker switch to avoid shocks.

Wear gloves and safety glasses if possible, especially when working near sharp components or cleaning agents. A safe setup is always the best starting point.

Cleaning the Internal Air Filters and Vents

Air filters are the lungs of your air conditioner. Remove them and rinse gently with warm soapy water, then allow to dry fully before reinstalling.

Damaged filters should be replaced to maintain airflow and hygiene. While you're there, wipe down the interior vents with a damp cloth to remove dust or cobwebs.

Inspecting and Clearing the External Rooftop Unit

Climb carefully onto your caravan’s roof if needed and inspect the external housing. Remove any covers using a screwdriver, and check for leaves, debris, or dirt buildup.

Clean the condenser and evaporator coils with a soft brush, being careful not to bend any fins. A light vacuum may help if dust is thick, but always use a gentle touch.

Checking and Tightening Seals and Mountings

Loose fittings can lead to rattles, leaks, or reduced performance. Check around the edges of your rooftop unit and inside any access panels.

Tighten any loose screws or mountings, and inspect the sealant around joins. If any rubber seals look cracked or brittle, it may be time to reseal or replace them.

Woman using a Truma Aventa remote control while looking at a ceiling-mounted air conditioning unit inside a modern motorhome.

Troubleshooting Common Air Conditioner Problems

What to Do If Your Air Conditioner Isn't Cooling

First, double-check your settings—make sure you’re not accidentally in fan mode. Then check the filters for dust or clogging, and ensure coils are clean and unobstructed.

Still not cooling? Low refrigerant or internal faults could be the cause, which will need professional diagnosis. If in doubt, don’t force it—call a technician before things get worse.

How to Handle Water Leaks from the Unit

If water is dripping inside your caravan, the drainage system may be blocked. Look at the drainage tray and pipes to check for obstructions.

A simple flush with water and vinegar can often do the trick. Keep the area dry while you work, and double-check after the next run cycle to ensure the issue is solved.

Identifying and Addressing Strange Noises or Smells

Rattling or grinding sounds can mean loose parts or trapped debris. If you hear humming or buzzing, it could be an electrical issue.

Musty smells usually point to mould or stagnant water in the system. Clean filters and inspect the drain—if smells or noises persist, it’s best to get expert help.

When to Call a Professional Technician

Signs That Indicate a Need for Professional Help (e.g., Refrigerant Issues)

If your air conditioner is running but not cooling, or if airflow has dropped significantly, the refrigerant might be low. This isn’t something you can fix yourself.

Other signs include odd smells that cleaning doesn’t remove, loud mechanical sounds, or moisture where it shouldn’t be. In any of these cases, a qualified technician is the safer choice.

What to Expect from a Professional Service

A technician will check refrigerant levels, clean deep inside the system, and inspect electrical components. They’ll also test performance and airflow, and spot worn-out parts early.

Some services may include resealing or recharging refrigerant gas, depending on the issue. A yearly professional service helps catch unseen problems before they become costly.

Understanding the Average Costs of Professional Servicing

Costs vary depending on the type of system and what's required. For most caravan and motorhome air conditioning units, expect to pay between £100 and £250.

This is a small price compared to a full unit replacement—and worth it for the peace of mind and comfort it brings.

Dometic rooftop air conditioner mounted on a cream-coloured motorhome by the seaside.

Maintaining Your Caravan Air Conditioner Year-Round

How Often Should You Service Your Air Conditioner?

Pre-Season and Post-Season Checks

Always give your system a good check before your first trip of the season. Clean the filters, inspect coils and drainage, and test for proper cooling.

At the end of the season, clean it again before storage to prevent mould or rust forming. These two checks help your system survive the off-season in good shape.

Recommendations for Frequent vs. Infrequent Use

If you use your caravan air conditioner weekly or during long trips, clean filters monthly and inspect coils every three months.

For occasional use, aim for at least twice a year—once before peak season and once after. Regardless of how often you use it, a yearly professional check is still a smart move.

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