Quick AnswerA ducted RV air conditioner distributes cooled air through ceiling ducts to multiple vents throughout the RV. A non-ducted system delivers conditioned air directly into the living space through the ceiling assembly. |
Ducted vs Non-Ducted
Another important factor when replacing or upgrading an RV air conditioner is whether the existing system is ducted or non-ducted. This distinction affects airflow, installation requirements, and compatibility.
What Is a Ducted System?
A ducted system routes cooled or heated air throughout concealed air ducts and distributes it throughout different areas of the RV. These systems are common in larger travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes.
Signs Your RV Has a Ducted System
- Multiple vents located throughout the RV
- More even temperatures between rooms or zones
- Larger floorplans or separated living spaces
Benefits
- More even airflow throughout the RV
- Often quieter
- Better suited for larger RVs or multiple living areas
- May support multi-zone temperature control
Things to Consider
- Installation, maintenance, and replacing components may be more complicated
- Ducting routes can affect cooling performance
A large RV interior with ceiling vents, indicating a ducted system
One example of the way air flows through a ducted system
What is a Non-Ducted System?
A non-ducted system delivers air directly into the cabin through the ceiling assembly. These systems are more common in camper vans, smaller travel trailers, and more compact RV layouts.
Signs Your RV Has a Non-Ducted System
- Air blows directly from one ceiling assembly
- Cooling is concentrated near the ceiling assembly
- Smaller RV or open layout
Benefits
- Installation, maintenance, and replacing components is often easier
- May have a lower upfront cost for a new system
- Fewer components involved
Things to Consider
- Cooling may feel less even in larger interiors
- Noise may be more noticeable due to direct airflow
- Larger RVs may require dual units for adequate cooling
This image demonstrates the airflow inside an RV with a non-ducted system
A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Ducted Systems | Non-Ducted Systems |
| Air distribution | Multiple vents or zones | Direct airflow from ADB |
| Noise level | Often quieter | May be more noticeable |
| Installation Complexity | More complex | Simpler |
| Typical RV size | Medium to large | Smaller RVs and campers |
| Cooling consistency | More even | Can vary by distance from ADB |
Why This Matters When Replacing Components
Understanding whether your system is ducted or non-ducted can help prevent compatibility issues when replacing any component of your system. Some components are designed specifically for one setup, and others are meant to be support either one. Choosing the correct components for your particular setup is crucial for proper system performance.
Once you've determined the configuration used in your RV, you can begin comparing compatible rooftop units. All of our products include supported installation types along with a compatibility section to help you select the correct components.
Next Step
Now that you've learned the difference between ducted systems and a non-ducted systems, the next step is understanding the different ways to manage the climate inside your RV.
Some systems maintain one set temperature throughout the coach, while others allow different areas to be controlled independently. To learn more, continue to our next article "Single Zone vs Multi-Zone"
