When it comes to staying cool on the road, RVers have strong opinions about their preferred cooling systems. We recently asked our readers in the newsletter poll: “What type of RV cooling system do you prefer?” The options included roof-mounted AC, portable AC, vent fans, and window AC—and let’s just say, the results weren’t even close.
Whether you’re a full-time RVer or a weekend warrior, keeping cool is a top priority, especially during those scorching summer trips. If you haven’t voted yet, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you can weigh in on future polls and help shape the conversation! Now, let’s dive into the surprising (or maybe not-so-surprising) results.
The Poll Results: A Landslide Victory
Here’s how the votes stacked up:
| Cooling System | Percentage of Votes |
|---|---|
| Roof-mounted AC | 97% |
| Portable AC | 0% |
| Vent fans | 0% |
| Window AC | 3% |
Why Roof-Mounted AC Dominates the Road
Convenience and Power
It’s no shock that roof-mounted AC crushed the competition—these units are built specifically for RVs, offering powerful cooling without taking up precious interior space. Unlike portable or window units, they’re permanently installed, meaning no setup hassle at every campsite. Plus, modern RV roofs are designed to handle their weight and airflow, making them a seamless fit.
The Portable AC Dilemma
Portable ACs got zero love in this poll, and honestly, we get it. While they might work in a pinch, they’re bulky, require venting through a window or hatch, and often struggle to cool larger RV spaces efficiently. For travelers who value simplicity, dragging around an extra appliance just doesn’t make the cut.
Vent Fans: Great for Airflow, Not for Beating the Heat
Vent fans are fantastic for ventilation and light cooling, but when temperatures soar, they just can’t compete with an actual air conditioner. It seems our readers agree—these scored a big, fat zero in the poll. They’re best used with an AC, not instead of one.
The Underdog: Window AC Units
A tiny 3% of voters still swear by window ACs, likely those with smaller rigs or budget setups. While they can work, they’re not the most aerodynamic choice for highway travel, and installation can be tricky in many RV designs. Still, for some, the affordability and simplicity keep them in the game.
Conclusion: Why Roof-Mounted AC Reigns Supreme
The overwhelming preference for roof-mounted AC makes perfect sense—it’s the most efficient, convenient, and purpose-built cooling solution for RVs. Portable and window units require extra effort, while vent fans simply aren’t enough for serious cooling. The near-unanimous vote shows that when it comes to comfort on the road, RVers want reliability without compromise.
What do you think? Did the poll miss any underrated cooling options? Drop a comment below, and don’t forget to vote in our next newsletter poll!
