How to Bypass an RV AC Thermostat That’s Not Working

If you’re an RV owner, you know that your AC is a crucial part of your summer travels. But what do you do if the RV ac thermostat stops working? Don’t worry- we’ve got you covered. This post will walk you through some simple steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem. So read on and stay cool this summer!

How to tell if your RV thermostat is bad

One of the most important components of an RV is the thermostat. This device regulates the temperature inside the vehicle, ensuring that it stays at a comfortable level. 

However, thermostats can wear out over time, and when this happens, they may no longer provide accurate temperature regulation. If your RV thermostat is acting up, there are a few things you can look for to determine if it needs to be replaced. 

  • First, check the unit for physical damage. If the thermostat has been dropped or otherwise physically damaged, it may no longer work properly. 
  • Next, take a look at the wiring to see if there are any loose or frayed wires. If the wiring looks fine, then test the thermostat by turning on the RV’s heater or air conditioner and see if the unit turns on as it should. 

Common Problems with RV AC Thermostat

Temperature not reaching the desired level

One of the most common issues with an RV AC thermostat is that the temperature doesn’t seem to be reaching the desired level. If your thermostat is set to 75 degrees but it only cools the RV down to 80 degrees, there are a few things you can check. 

  • First, make sure that all of the vents in the RV are open and that there is nothing blocking the airflow. 
  • If the vents are clear and the airflow is good, then the next thing to check is the Freon levels in the AC unit. 

If the Freon is low, it will need to be refilled in order to get the AC unit working properly again.

The thermostat not turning off or on properly

Another common issue with RV AC thermostats is that they stop working completely. If your RV AC thermostat is not working at all, the first thing you should check is the batteries.

If the batteries are dead, simply replace them and see if that fixes the problem. If the RV AC thermostat still isn’t working, then there may be a more serious issue with the AC unit itself and you will need to take it to a qualified technician for repairs.

AC unit running constantly or not at all

Another issue that can arise with an RV AC thermostat is that the AC unit will either run constantly or not at all. If your AC unit is running constantly, it could be because the thermostat is set to “on” instead of “auto.” 

This can be easily fixed by simply switching the setting on the thermostat. If the AC unit is not running at all, the first thing you should check is the breaker. If the breaker has tripped, simply reset it and see if that fixes the problem. 

If the AC unit still isn’t working, then there may be a more serious issue with the AC unit itself and you will need to take it to a qualified technician for repairs.

Thermostat freeze up or malfunction

In some cases, the RV AC thermostat may freeze up or malfunction. If this happens, the first thing you should do is turn off the power to the AC unit at the breaker. Once the power is off, remove the thermostat from the wall and check for any signs of damage. 

If there is no visible damage, then the issue may be with the wiring. If you suspect that the wiring is the problem, then you will need to take it to a qualified technician for repairs.

Thermostat is not reading the correct temperature

If your RV AC thermostat seems to be reading the wrong temperature, there are a few things that could be causing the problem. 

  • First, check to make sure that the thermostat is not set to the wrong temperature.
  • If it is, then simply adjust it to the correct setting and see if that fixes the problem.
  • If the thermostat is set to the right temperature but it is still reading incorrectly, then there may be an issue with the thermostat itself and you will need to replace it.

These are just a few of the most common issues that can arise with an RV AC thermostat.

Steps to Fix an RV AC Thermostat That’s Not Working

1. Check the batteries: The first thing you should do if your RV AC thermostat stops working is to check the batteries. If they are dead, simply replace them and see if that fixes the problem.

2. Check the setting: If your AC unit is running constantly or not at all, it could be because the thermostat is set to “on” instead of “auto.” This can be easily fixed by simply switching the setting on the thermostat.

3. Check the breaker: If the AC unit is not running at all, the first thing you should check is the breaker. If the breaker has tripped, simply reset it and see if that fixes the problem.

4. Check for damage: If the RV AC thermostat seems to be frozen or malfunctioning, the first thing you should do is turn off the power to the AC unit at the breaker. Once the power is off, remove the thermostat from the wall and check for any signs of damage.

5. Check the wiring: If there is no visible damage, then the issue may be with the wiring. If you suspect that the wiring is the problem, then you will need to take it to a qualified technician for repairs.

6. Check for any obstructions: If the AC unit is not blowing cold air, it could be because there is something blocking the airflow. Check to make sure that there are no curtains or furniture obstructing the vents. Also, check the filter and clean or replace it if it is dirty.

7. Check the Freon levels: In some cases, the AC unit may not be blowing cold air because the Freon levels are low. This is a job that should be done by a qualified technician.

8. Replace the thermostat: If the RV AC thermostat is not reading the correct temperature, there are a few things that could be causing the problem.

  • First, check to make sure that the thermostat is not set to the wrong temperature.
  • If it is, then simply adjust it to the correct setting and see if that fixes the problem.
  • If the thermostat is set to the right temperature but it is still reading incorrectly, then there may be an issue with the thermostat itself and you will need to replace it.

9. Take it to a qualified technician: If you have tried all of these steps and the AC unit still isn’t working, then it is time to take it to a qualified technician for repairs.

These are just a few of the most common issues that can arise with an RV AC thermostat. By following these simple steps, you should be able to fix the problem quickly and easily.

How can an RV thermostat go bad?

There are a few different ways that an RV thermostat can go bad. The most common issue is that the thermostat gets stuck in one position and is unable to adjust the temperature. 

This can be caused by dirt or dust buildup, which prevents the mechanism from moving. Another possibility is that the sensor itself is defective, which would prevent it from accurately detecting the temperature. 

In either case, a bad thermostat can make it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your RV. If you suspect that your thermostat is going bad, it’s important to have it checked by a qualified technician. 

Otherwise, you may find yourself dealing with extreme temperatures that can damage your RV or make it uncomfortable to use.

Can you install a house thermostat model in your motorhome?

You might be wondering if you can install a house thermostat model in your recreational vehicle (RV). The answer is maybe, depending on the type of RV you have. If your RV has central heating and cooling, then you may be able to install a house thermostat.

However, if your RV only has a furnace, then you will likely need a different type of thermostat designed specifically for RVs. Either way, it is best to consult with an RV specialist to figure out which type of thermostat would be best for your particular RV.

How to replace a broken RV AC thermostat?

Replacing a broken RV AC thermostat is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a matter of minutes. 

  • The first step is to turn off the power to the RV AC unit. 
  • Next, remove the old thermostat from the wall and dispose of it. 
  • Then, take the new thermostat and mount it in the same location. 

Finally, reconnect the wires to the new thermostat and turn on the power to the RV AC unit. That’s all there is to it! 

By following these simple steps, you can easily replace a broken RV AC thermostat.

Why you should Upgrade Your RV Thermostat

If you own an RV, then you know how important it is to keep your rig in tip-top shape. After all, your RV is your home away from home, and you want to make sure that it is as comfortable as possible. 

One way to do this is to upgrade your RV thermostat. A good RV thermostat can help to regulate the temperature inside your rig, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. In addition, a quality thermostat can help to improve the efficiency of your RV’s heating and cooling system, saving you money on your energy bills. 

So if you are looking for ways to improve your RV’s comfort level, then consider upgrading your thermostat. It is a small investment that can make a big difference.

Conclusion

If your RV air conditioner isn’t working, the first thing you should do is check the thermostat. If it’s not set to the right temperature, adjust it and see if that fixes the problem.

If the thermostat is reading correctly but the AC unit still isn’t blowing cold air, then there may be an issue with the Freon levels. This is a job that should be done by a qualified technician.

If you have tried all of these steps and the AC unit still isn’t working, then it is time to take it to a qualified technician for repairs.

FAQS: 

Q: Can you install a house thermostat model in your motorhome?

A: You might be wondering if you can install a house thermostat model in your recreational vehicle (RV). The answer is maybe, depending on the type of RV you have. If your RV has central heating and cooling, then you may be able to install a house thermostat.

However, if your RV only has a furnace, then you will likely need a different type of thermostat designed specifically for RVs. Either way, it is best to consult with an RV specialist to figure out which type of thermostat would be best for your particular RV.

Q: How Do I Reset My RV Thermostat?

A: If your RV thermostat is not working properly, you may need to reset it. To do this, simply turn off the power to the unit at the breaker box. Then, remove the thermostat from the wall and disconnect the wires.

Reconnect the wires and replace the thermostat on the wall. Turn the power back on at the breaker box and see if the unit is working properly. If it is not, you may need to consult with a qualified technician for further repairs.

Q: How much does it cost to replace the Thermostat?

A: The cost of replacing an RV thermostat will vary depending on the make and model of your RV. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 for a new thermostat. You may also need to pay for labor if you have the unit installed by a qualified technician.

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