Best 12V Rooftop AC Units for Van Conversions
We’re passionate about building vans that blend comfort, durability, and off-grid capability for adventurers. A key component for a comfortable van life is a reliable air conditioning system. 12V rooftop air conditioners are ideal for off-grid camping, running directly off your van’s battery system without needing shore power or a generator. In this blog post, we compare the top 12V rooftop AC units available in 2025.
Why 12V Rooftop AC Units?
Unlike traditional 120V AC units that demand generators or shore power, 12V air conditioners operate on your van’s battery, making them perfect for boondocking. They’re energy-efficient, lightweight, and compatible with solar setups, aligning with the needs of offgrid use.
Top 12V Rooftop AC Units for 2025
1. Nomadic Cooling X2
The Nomadic Cooling X2 is a top-tier 12V air conditioner designed specifically for vans and campers. With a cooling capacity of approximately 8,000 BTU and a power draw of 25-65 amps (Eco to Powerful mode), it’s built for durability with stainless steel components inspired by marine applications.
Key Features:
Cooling Capacity: ~8,000 BTU
Power Draw: 25-65 amps
Weight: Approximately 80 lbs
Dimensions: Fits standard 14″ x 14″ roof openings
Noise Level: Moderate, quieter in Eco mode
Additional Features: Eco mode for efficiency, robust construction for off-road use
Why We Like It: At Nordic Vans, we choose the Nomadic Cooling X2 for its rugged durability and ease of installation. Its compatibility with standard 14″ x 14″ roof openings simplifies integration into our builds, saving time and ensuring a seamless fit. The stainless steel construction withstands harsh conditions, making it ideal for adventurers tackling rough terrains. While it draws more power than some competitors, its cooling performance is exceptional, and it pairs well with a robust battery and solar setup (e.g., 200 Ah lithium battery with 400W solar). Our customers love its reliability and straightforward design.
2. Dometic RTX 2000
The Dometic RTX 2000, originally designed for commercial trucking, is a solid option for van conversions. It offers 6,824 BTU of cooling power and draws 19-58 amps (Eco to Turbo mode). Its variable-speed inverter compressor ensures efficient and quiet operation.
Key Features:
Cooling Capacity: 6,824 BTU
Power Draw: 19-58 amps
Weight: 72.6 lbs
Dimensions: Requires a 14.5″ x 14″ roof opening
Noise Level: Whisper-quiet with two-cylinder compressor
Additional Features: Remote control, adaptive automatic mode, operates in 41°F to 126°F
Why It’s Notable: The Dometic RTX 2000 excels in energy efficiency and quiet performance, making it great for smaller battery systems. However, its non-standard 14.5″ x 14″ roof cutout can complicate installation, especially on curved van roofs. At Nordic Vans, we find it less versatile than the Nomadic Cooling X2 for our builds, but it’s a strong choice for its efficiency.
3. OutequipPro 12V Rooftop Air Conditioner
The OutequipPro 12V Rooftop Air Conditioner is a newer model with a high cooling capacity of 11,500 BTU and a unique heat pump function for both cooling and heating (down to 36°F). It fits standard 14″ x 14″ roof openings.
Key Features:
Cooling Capacity: 11,500 BTU
Power Draw: Not fully specified, requires robust lithium battery and solar setup
Weight: Approximately 85 lbs
Dimensions: Fits standard 14″ x 14″ roof openings
Noise Level: Moderate
Additional Features: Heat pump function, single-zone thermostat
Why It’s Notable: The OutequipPro’s heating capability is a standout for year-round campers, but its higher power demands can strain smaller battery systems. As a newer product, its long-term reliability is less proven than the Nomadic Cooling X2, making it a secondary choice for our builds at Nordic Vans.
Why Nordic Vans Prefers the Nomadic Cooling X2
After testing various 12V air conditioners, Nordic Vans recommends the Nomadic Cooling X2 for several reasons:
Ease of Installation: Its compatibility with standard 14″ x 14″ roof openings makes it a plug-and-play solution for most van models, reducing installation time and complexity.
Durability: The stainless steel construction, inspired by marine-grade materials, ensures longevity even in rugged off-road conditions, perfect for our adventure-ready customers.
Powerful Cooling: The ~8,000 BTU output cools vans quickly and effectively, even in high temperatures, providing comfort for our clients across diverse climates.
Customer Satisfaction: Our clients appreciate the X2’s robust performance and straightforward maintenance, making it a reliable choice for long-term van life.
Versatility: While it draws more power than some units, it pairs well with the larger battery and solar systems we often install, ensuring consistent performance.
Compared to the Dometic RTX 2000, the Nomadic Cooling X2 offers easier installation and greater durability, though it sacrifices some energy efficiency. The OutequipPro’s heat pump is innovative, but its higher power demands and unproven track record make it less ideal for our standard builds.
Conclusion
For a comfortable and reliable van life, choosing the right 12V rooftop AC unit is essential. The Nomadic Cooling X2 stands out for its durability, ease of installation, and powerful cooling, making it the top choice for Nordic Vans’ custom conversions. While the Dometic RTX 2000 and OutequipPro units have their merits, the X2’s rugged design and compatibility make it our go-to for adventure-ready vans.
Ready to start living the good life with an AC unit in your van? Reach out below and so we can get you rolling!