Carrier Enters RV Air Conditioner Market

After months of rumor and speculation that Carrier, a United Technologies Company, was considering developing an RV air conditioner and entering the RV market, Carrier dramatically confirmed the story by exhibiting at the recent Louisville show and unveiling its "AirV" RV air conditioner. Carrier, of course, is a household word in home air conditioning and heating, but this is the company's first venture in to the RV market.

As far as the product itself, Carrier says the AirV systems feature high-strength, lightweight polymer construction that won't rust or discolor and will deliver ample cooling for any RV. And heating is available as an option for cooler climates.

Some of the unique features of the AirV include the "air sweep" automatic oscillator device designed to distribute air more evenly, quick and easy air filter replacement and a bottom discharge louver that directs conditioned air from the ceiling.

In addition the AirV has an exclusive "slinger" wheel design that recycles condensation back into the condenser coil, reducing the risk of water runoff streaks on the sides of the RV. It also features all-copper coils, a Carrier compressor, high-strength polymer construction, and a powder-paint-coated base pan. It's designed and built to maximize cooling capacity, efficiency, and reliability. It resists corrosion to reduce maintenance time and cost.

The AirV has the versatility to be specified for ceiling air distribution or ducted air. Carrier says it weighs less than competitive RV air conditioners, a feature that should appeal to weight-conscious manufacturers. Carrier also believes this feature will appeal to fold-down manufacturers and owners.

Carrier told RV News the AirV would be available to OEM manufacturers as well as an aftermarket product through a national network of warehouse distributors. While the initial offering is a 13,500 BTU product, an official from Carrier told RV News that Carrier expects to introduce a larger unit in the near future.

RV News expressed concern about Carrier's long-term commitment, explaining other big name companies such as Sanyo, Panasonic and others have developed appliances for RV applications but bailed out after a short stint, leaving RV owners with orphaned units. Carrier assured RV News that the company was committed and intended to stay for the long haul.

Service will be provided by trained RV repair facilities as well as Carriers' global service network so consumers with service issues can be back on the road with minimum delays.