Hi. as a a/c and refrigeration engineer in the transport world , you did a great job.

Oh man, I wish I had this video a few months ago when I started installing mine! Another great video from you. Unfortunately I've had nothing but trouble with mine. From learning how to install it, evap not programed correctly, shops filling incorrectly, and now a frozen evap valve. Tom's been helpful though and is sending a new evap. Thanks for posting this...it makes all the difference to see someone do it seamlessly to understand how to do it. Great job!

I’ve been studying this for two years. I’ve picked the same unit. It’s by far the best thing out there. Another drawback of the cruise n comfort is the hot compressor mounted inside the space your cooling.

The underbody screws concern me. I would have strongly tried to use nylok nut/washer/ bolt to mechanically prevent dislodgement due to vibration. At the very least the screws you used should be positionally marked so future visual inspections can identify any possible movement easily. Great video and info, are being filed to aid in my design. A thermal curtain to trap the cool air where sleeping will be in my design. Tip: anytime you are having difficulty drilling use the reasonably smallest possible (4mm?) carbide bit simply as the pilot hole subsequently increasing in bit size.

And this is why I did a mini split in my enclosed trailer conversion. Easy as possible installation, incredibly quiet at only 25 dB. It's 9,000BTU, and low power usage at 720W and 6.26amps. It's a 110v, so around 64amps on 12v, though I have a 24v system so it runs around 32amps. I have a 1000Ah 24v battery bank, so it can run around 30 hours on battery, with my 4000 watts of solar it'll pretty much run indefinitely, and it only cost me $750 for the mini split.

I just completed a similar install of the UndermountAC system on a '21 Transit. Many thanks for putting this detailed video together, as it served as both reassurance during the purchase and a valuable resource during install. Some observations from my experience: - They are now shipping kits with some material differences including (1) a control board integrated into the Compressor (2) new (non ProAir) Condenser (3) new digital control pad. - The documentation is just some random notes. There is no proper installation manual and some information is old (see above), ensuring you will have to seek direct support. Fortunately, he is very responsive although I can't help but think it would be easier to just write everything down in a real product manual. - After seeing this video, I elected to install the Compressor in a slot towards the rear left. This allowed for easier install (esp. since removing the control board would be tricky), easier access for fill/maintenance, and no issue with the transmission. Despite going smoothly, it was definitely a challenging install and there were moments are regretted not just getting an unpowered integrated roof model. Now that it's done, I can't wait to unleash its power this summer. Going forward, I am a little concerned about support of the ProAir components since the company is defunct, but will cross that bridge later. Good luck to anyone embarking on the journey!

At some point it would be great to insert a wifi-based thermostat into the control loop. We did this to our cruise-n-comfort because the analog control panel only uses a simple on/off switch and a fan speed dial making it easy to hack into with our ecobee. Great video, and great build. Hope to run into you guys some day.

A couple of pointers. Drill through the metal with a small 1/8 in bit first. It will go through much faster. It also makes ait easier to drill exactly where you want, without the drill bit "walking" on you. Then switch to a larger size bit to make the hole bigger. It will go through so much easier. As for the self tapping screws that are holding the condenser and fans up. Don't trust those alone for very long. They will loosen and can easily pull out. Put yourself a metal strap or two across the entire condenser. Something that will hold it up, just incase they loosen up along the way. 😉

Great video on an install of this unit but NOISE is the main reason why I am going with a mini split residential unit where the compressor is housed inside the van in the garage with a max air fan assisting for airflow (maxxair mounted on the door). It is extremely quiet. noise is my pet peeve where I could not compromise. Other than that it’s a great install video for that particular unit.

I'm thinking about installing this type/brand unit into my Sprinter 3500XD this fall. I would really appreciate your 1yr review of this particular unit and how well the undercount held up to driving conditions and how well the ducted cooling performed. Thanks for your time in both making this video and responding to viewer questions.

That under-mount compressor unit is DEFINITELY too loud! You’re gonna tick off plenty of neighbors in RV parks and camp grounds. Thank you for the demonstration, especially when you bent down to check out the sound from the undercarriage. That decided it for me. Low profile, quiet and efficient top-mount Houghton®️ AC unit is the way to go!

Great install. With homes costing close to a median price of $300,000 to $600,000 nowadays there are Soo many young people and seniors doing van life. Hopefully more employers realize that the young demographic prefer remote work and the tech today does not preclude a workforce that has to be based in office towers. Thanks for posting this video!!! 12:13

Thanks for this, my system is on order, expecting to begin install in a couple weeks.

$3400!? Hell nah. nice install video though. I'll go the aliexpress route and get a minisplit for $600. My chinese diesel heater has been an amazing buy and I've been running it a year.

As soon as I saw that you were using insulation around your duct work, I knew you were going to install this thing right!

Awesome system! Great demonstration for those of us who are looking to install one of these. Thank you👍

Nice job on install. I have seen other mini - split systems where the condenser could not be mounted horizontal and needed at least a minimum 15 degree tilt. Nice you could mount yours this way and avoid road debris from damaging cooling fins.

Since the AC is almost never used when driving, I think a fold-away Solar panel could be used on top of the AC unit and folded back when driving. I would like to see AC manufacturers start to think about the integration of solar into their design.

Thanks for sharing and going through the whole process. lots of work! not sure if I want to go through that... how happy are you with your batteries and invertor.

It's absolutely obscene that you don't get a variable speed compressor for the price. Outstanding video :)

Nice job! Very informative. It would be interesting to know the decibel levels of your 3 options. Also, I suppose you'd have to be mindful of blocking that intake vent in the garage.

Great video! This is what I have been seriously considering for my LC HJ45 build!

using corrugated flex hose ills your ac wind speed. pvc pipe is smooth a better but harder option.

Great video! I purchased a 24 volt mini split directly from China and paid $350. It was another $150 to ship it, but I'm located up in Alaska. So, I have a few comments and then a couple of questions. Mine is a 24 volt system (They have 12 volts as well but lower BTU rating). This one is rated at 9,000 BTU. It uses a Max of 800 watts or 33 amps. That would be 66 amps at 12 volts. Essentially it's about half the power of my air fryer or Induction cooktop. This unit uses a variable frequency compressor, so it actually never stays at full speed, and there is no way to keep it at full speed. It essentially just cycles more frequently. Controls on mine are Wi-Fi. At full blast I think I was getting similar readings to you. Somewhere around 54°, but, most of the time it's much higher than that as the compressor only stays at max for seconds. This is the way they achieve the energy efficiency. I can say up around 85°, which would put the interior of the RV at 95 to 100, It will Keep the Interior right about 70. Of course if your parked in the shade, it would do better. While the evaporator or head unit is whisper quiet, The condenser is mounted to the frame or floor of the Van and that's actually much more apparent as far as noise levels go. The company does mount the compressor itself on some rubber mounts, but I was surprised that the compressor was so much louder than the evaporator. Normally those things are mounted outside, and you don't hear anything. And while this one is technically mounted outside it's also mounted to the floor of the van so that residual vibration transfers. I think adding some extra insulation may help as well and some sound deadening mat material. I haven't done that yet. So, questions I have for you is what is the BTU rating of yours? How would you rate the noise level inside the van? And I guess it's been a year since you posted at this point so have you have any issues? At what level do you find you have to keep the unit at to keep the interior of your van cool? In other words what's the real world settings like?. I find I can turn my fan down, but I still need to keep it on Max Cooling. It probably runs 50% of the time that way, maybe 40%, but the evaporator never really shuts off, i.e. the blower is always running. That's not necessarily a bad thing as I kind of like white noise, but it does still draw a small amount of power.

Self tapping screws-the bane of RV manufacturing

I would put the air inlet higher up in the van because warmer air is lighter and in higher parts. Also, I would drain the water into a tank/container, given it is nearly distilled water and can be used for washing and cleaning. Not safe for drinking though.

That Anderson connector was so cool.

Nice job but Other then it looking nice. I think a regular window unit with a soft start would do about the same and cost a lot less. Plus the window unit is much quieter.

Cool video. I think I'll stick with a rooftop, or even a mini-split, A/C.

That duck bill that drains the water (at 32.12), will cause you issues because the small end opening will get gunked up with dirt and cause the water to not drain. I had a similar thing happen. Better to use a bigger drain pipe.

Great video, Just one comment i got is the self tapping screws u got to use locktide to jam them up nicely because they will vibrate and become verry loose overtime. Overal great video!

We have a 43 foot retired city bus that’s extremely hot inside especially in Arizona. It gets to 125 degrees inside.

I live in a van full time. I need an air conditioner because I work the night shift. I've got a simple normal air conditioner. 6000 btu's. Uses 600 watts or 50 amps/hr. I've got a lithium phosphate 300 amp battery pack. After the sun goes down I can have six hours of air conditioner. I've got 600 watts of solar coming in. Even in hot temperatures, around 80°f, the air conditioning keeps up easily since the van is insulated for 4 seasons. Cost me 200$ for the air conditioner with also a remote control.

Cool install. I guess it never goes anywhere dirty? Everything underneath would be packed in mud on a trip up the North Klondike Hwy. I'm still pressure washing my van.

Damn that is loud haha ! Thanks for the video man !

yes-is the compressor a rotatary or scroll compressor/i chose a scroll compressor-it is more efficient-from my research/i have a van i am customizing/my unit will have eco-mode/an i plan to catch the condensate water to use for other uses/how much solar do you have/anyway great job/neat work too/thanks much

Awesome setup you guys are building there. New to the channel and plan to continue to follow along. The under belly AC system looks great but makes me nervous putting in underneath in salt county.

Great video I have been thinking about this for my truck

The condenser is not supposed to be upside down, refrigerant should go through the lowest tube in liquid state, but now it is highest. It can work, but you will be absolutely stunned, when you fill the difference.

You must purch charging house also. Before you start charging refrigerant

Awesome job! The benefits of having the roof clear and the weight low on the vehicle is apparent. I’m curious if the evaporator could have been mounted vertically on the wall so as to save space and make the ducting more natural with less bends? Thanks! Very through explanation in your video. Helps a lot!

$4k for this A/C is insane and a total ripoff

Apollo 13, revisited! I want you two to, eventually, help me build an electric van class b.

yeah convinced me this is the best route.

Thanks for the detailed video. I wonder if the condenser unit can be used on the back of my truck camper instead of mounting it underneath. I noticed that many 18-wheelers have their AC's mounted flat against the rear cab wall also.

You did a nice job on the install , but issues I see. Its Loud, susceptible to damage and sucking hot dirty air from the ground,

Omg l love it ,that van that u just did thats my van 🎉

Thanks for tacking the time to make a vidoe about this gave me in insprason to do mine thanks agane

Exceptional job!

I'm glad I watched this. I'm definitely not doing that kind of air conditioning. All that work and then you have all that noise

Nice video! seems like a lot of work for one extra solar panel on the roof though..🤔

Did you do a vacuum on the lines? And the refrigerant charge as well

Can anyone explain why these aren't more efficient???? 12000btu / 900W = 13.3 EER ... I thought residential mini splits can get 20 or 30 EER.

"excellent work bruh!"

All that expensive A/C equipment and you use Channel-Locks as a substitute for wrenches?

Hello thanks for the great install video. Wondering why you chose the 109 condenser instead of the 105? Thanks!

Bro come to gulf we do have numerous ideas to keep cool this van😄

Hi Guys, really great informative channel - you'll grow subs well with content like this. I've seen mixed reports when researching the unit, so thought i'd check with you - is the Compressor unit also working off the house batteries? - so on DC 12v or 24v. Seen a couple of diy'ers say it only works when van is idling.

Thank you for sharing your knowledge!! Why did you not go with a mini split (senville senl-09cd 9000 btu ductless mini split air conditioner and heat pump)?

Great video! Very detailed and informative.

Damn that price difference between the Chinese AC and the other ones is crazy.

wonder if rugged enough for overlanding? Thoughts?

Do you not own wrenches? Channel locks on a $2500 unit seem risky.

If it is a brand new system that has never been charged, what is being recovered from the system before charging. Why not just charge vapor on the low side?

I like the flexibility of the system, but I'd still be concerned about those condenser coils and the absolute filth they are going to be subjected to. You've seen how dirty the underside of a car gets, right? It may be fine, but I'd keep a pretty routine maintenance schedule on running water thru the coils just to be safe.

This seems to be a sweet build. The DC should be more electrically efficient than an AC unit thru an inverter. Do they make these units for 24 or 48 VDC systems (the current and wire size would be smaller.)? What is the SEER Rating? Is this a heat pump too, or just AC? I really like the cleanness and stealth of the hidden components. It’s good to think outside the box from what the rest it the herd is doing 👍. What is the contact info for manufacturers & vendors? Thanks 🙏😎

I know warranty on the van/ac is a concern but I wonder if using the van’s condenser would work instead of mounting an additional and then you get the added bonus of it being up front so quieter and already mounted.

I personally couldn't put up all that noise inside or out but to each their own

Amazon has the 12v system .. around $800, less than a 1/3 of this price

A year in, it would be nice to have a review.

1 Trip in muddy way and whole system will chock-up if condenser mount under side..

What about all the crap that flies up from tires? What about all the grime from road fog in heavy traffic on a rainy day. I can't imagine how insanely dirty that unit will be in one full season.

I have an Embassy RV. Here are the major downsides of this unit after 2 years. 1. LOUD! Loud inside and even worse outside. To the point that if you are at a campground with generator bans you will get people complaining. It is as loud as a typical on board generator. And inside its much louder than something like a Houghton roof AC that I have heard. 2. About a year and a half in the undermount unit broke. We always tried to keep it clean as we could but it was incredible how dirty it would get. Hard to imagine that it will ever have a very long service life.

Is this a heat pump? Does this heat and cool? Great video

Is this extra ac? If the van already has ac can't that be used to cool the whole van.

Gotta love Tredeau's import duty and taxes

Nice job

Thank you so much

Why this style of AC rather than a roof top unit? Thnx.

I'd like to know how it works NOT in California, with it's mild temperatures (85, haha) and 0 percent humidity. Try somewhere east of the Mississippi in August.

Do you have videos on your build. I have a 2021 promaster that I made into a mobile barber shop

Thank u for sharing. Can you just leave it on and let the power run from the engine?

In your video, you reference a seven speed evaporator fan, do they still supply those?

Can you do an update of this air conditioner? Like how it’s doing how customer support has been

Tim, I'm about to do a very similar install, but I had some questions. How is your compressor mount job holding up to road abuse? Did it end up seeming sturdy enough? Have you had any issues with the compressor and wiring facing the front of the van such as rain, etc.?

So the fans are mounted under van exposed to mud rain stones and road debris. So the fans get caked with road dust mud and road debris and you thought this a good idea?

didn't purge the yellow hose

This awesome

Very nice van! Did you have any issues acquiring vehicle insurance?

Nice ad.

Hii ..what the size off betery you us?DIN66L?

Would it be much cheaper to buy the components separate from PRO AIR? Do you know where I can find a list of the part numbers?

AC must be blowing from the top as hot air is high up than cold air Low down

There are 2 kinds of crimp rings, the kind that leaks and the kind that will leak.

How about giving us a 12 month review ?

ac vents should be as high up as possible

What kind of amp draw do you see from this unit ? Thanks

Nice install but does the system tolerate the weather conditions, road maintenance solutions, debris on the road, etc. when traveling??? Seems very exposed to me.

Why don’t I bleed the service hose?

What air vent/registers are you using with the 2.5" hose? Having trouble finding some that fit. Thanks!