This review dives into the OutEquipPro 12V rooftop air conditioner, a compact and lightweight unit perfect for off-grid adventures in vans and RVs. Boasting 10,000 BTU cooling and a surprising 4500 BTU heating element, this 12V model offers multiple operating modes (turbo, echo, sleep, and fan) with temperature control between 61°F and 86°F. Its low-profile design (0.59 inches) maximizes headroom, while the included remote control adds convenience. Power consumption, a critical factor for off-grid users, is meticulously examined in this review, along with installation methods and noise levels.We'll explore the installation process, including alternative wiring techniques to avoid extra roof holes, and present real-world power consumption data gathered during testing. Discover how this unit performs under various conditions, from fan-only mode to the coldest turbo setting. We'll also discuss the heating function and its energy demands. Finally, we'll compare the OutEquipPro to more established brands, weighing performance, efficiency, affordability, and overall value to determine if it's a worthwhile investment for your van life or RV needs.
Pros And Cons
- Lightweight (43 lb), easy to install
- Low profile indoor panel (0.59 in)
- Available in 12V (10,000 BTU) and 24V (11,000 BTU) versions
- Includes heating element (4500 BTU)
- Multiple modes: turbo, echo, sleep, and fan
- Temperature range: 61°F to 86°F
- Includes remote control
- One-year warranty
- Low power consumption (variable depending on settings, tested up to ~530W)
- Soft start
- Comes with 12 ft of 6-gauge copper wire
- Relatively quiet (35-45 dB depending on fan speed and proximity)
- Inverter-driven compressor for efficient power usage
- Original installation recommendation required drilling an extra hole in the roof (alternative methods now recommended)
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Product Overview: OutEquipPro 12V
The OutEquipPro 12V rooftop air conditioner is designed for off-grid adventures. Its compact size (28.3 x 28.3 x 6.3 inches) and lightweight design (43 lbs) make it ideal for van conversions and RVs. Available in both 12V and 24V versions, the 12V model offers 10,000 BTU cooling and includes a heating element (rated at 4500 BTU). It boasts multiple modes: turbo, echo, sleep, and fan, offering temperature control between 61°F and 86°F.
Key features include a low-profile indoor unit (0.59 inches), a remote control, a one-year warranty, and high-quality copper wiring (12ft of 6-gauge wire). The power consumption ranges from 21 to 58 amps (12V model) – a crucial factor for off-grid users. It's important to note that the manufacturer recommends using a 100-amp fuse for optimal performance.
Installation Considerations
Installation is generally straightforward, fitting standard RV air conditioner openings (14x14 inches or 14x9 inches). However, routing the power cable can present a challenge. The original recommendation to drill an extra roof hole is often avoided by van lifers. The manufacturer now suggests two alternative methods: routing through the intake duct or looping the power cord around the gasket and sealing it.
We opted for the gasket method to avoid drilling extra holes, ensuring a watertight seal with sealant. Other installers might choose to drill one hole for both solar and AC wiring. Regardless of the chosen method, proper sealing is essential to prevent roof leaks.
Power Consumption and Performance Test
The power usage was a key concern, and testing revealed the actual consumption is lower than the manufacturer's stated range. In fan-only mode, power draw was minimal (around 15 watts at medium speed). At high fan speed without cooling, it consumed approximately 30 watts. Turbo mode, the coldest setting, drew around 40 amps and 530 watts; less than the anticipated 58 amps.
Switching to medium fan speed with cooling at 70°F resulted in a draw of around 25 amps and 330 watts. The compressor’s inverter-driven design ensures energy efficiency by cycling on and off at varying speeds to maintain the set temperature, optimizing power consumption. Testing showed power usage decreased further over time as the desired temperature was reached.
Noise Levels and Other Observations
Noise levels were surprisingly low. Measurements showed approximately 35dB at sleeping distance and 45dB directly at the air conditioner vent. Even in turbo mode, the noise remained manageable. The low-profile design and efficient operation make this AC unit ideal for van conversions where headroom is limited.
The unit also has a heating function, although the power consumption (around 44.5 amps at 585 watts at 86°F) might make it unsuitable for prolonged use overnight. Adjusting the temperature down would reduce power draw considerably.
Conclusion and Recommendation
The OutEquipPro 12V rooftop air conditioner is a highly efficient and surprisingly quiet option for van life, exceeding expectations in power consumption and noise levels. It's a strong contender against more expensive brands like Dometic, offering comparable cooling capacity (10,000 BTU) with significantly lower power usage and a more competitive price point.
The low profile is a major advantage for van conversions, and the excellent customer service adds to the overall positive experience. For off-grid camping or campground use, this air conditioner offers a great balance of performance, energy efficiency, and affordability, making it a highly recommended product.