Reviewer Profile
Tested Performance
Visual Highlights
Cooling Performance: Reaching a peak draw of 26 A and 342 W on turbo mode while dumping air directly down into the fifth wheel cabin space.(9:40)
Noise Level: Peaking around 69 to 70 db on maximum turbo setting while attempting to cool down the space as fast as possible.(9:50)
Power Consumption: Managing a maximum amperage of 26A directly from the lithium battery bank without an AC inverter.(9:20)
Off-Grid Runtime: Enabling climate control on a small solar and battery arrangement where traditional 110V units fail completely.(12:19)
Recommendation: Essential game changer for travelers facing comfort limitations during multi-state boondocking challenges.(11:58)
Detailed Analysis
Preparing the Roof and Removing the Old Vent
The creators embarked on a rigorous cross-country boondocking challenge spanning North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Utah, and Washington. To survive the extreme temperatures, they integrated the OutEquipPro into their Fifth Wheel RV. The conversion started by removing the standard roof vent fan.
The installation steps required careful physical work:
- Using a paint scraper gently to remove old lap sealant without scratching the PVC or fiberglass roof.
- Exposing and removing all mounting screws around the 14x14 inch vent opening.
- Cleaning away sticky butyl residue using isopropyl alcohol to ensure a clean sealing surface.
- Discarding thin stock vent wires to prevent severe voltage drop, resistance, and potential fire hazards.
Addressing RV Wall Thickness and Hardware Modifications
Because the unit is originally designed with van profiles in mind, installing it on a thick-walled fifth wheel required custom hardware adaptations. The creators faced several spacing discrepancies:
- The factory-provided threaded rods were too short to bridge the gap across the thick RV ceiling sandwich.
- Custom extensions were fabricated using extension tubing and cut-down all-thread rods.
- Smaller 6-32nd all-thread pieces were utilized and snipped off to secure the control module framework.
- Plans were made to build a wooden sleeve with an internal air barrier to prevent short-cycling between intake and output ducts.
Overcoming Inverter Limitations for True Independence
The vehicle setup relies on a minimal electrical architecture featuring a single solar panel, a couple of lithium batteries, a generator, and propane. Without a high-capacity inverter capable of converting 12V to 110V AC power, traditional air conditioners remain completely unusable.
By connecting directly to the DC system, the OutEquipPro drew a peak of 26A and 342 W on turbo mode while registering a sound output of 69-70 decibels. This breakthrough eliminates the primary comfort barrier, ensuring that extreme weather will not derail their cross-country expedition.
