10 Easy Ways to Make Your RV More Energy Efficient

Want to cut energy costs and boost comfort in your RV? This guide shares 10 practical upgrades—from smart tech to simple fixes—that will make your RV more efficient.

1. Install a Soft Starter For Your Air Conditioner 

Installing a soft starter for the RV's AC significantly improves the overall efficiency of your RV. Soft starters can decrease the initial power demand by as much as 75%, enabling your air conditioning unit to operate on smaller generators without causing circuit breakers to trip. 

More advanced soft starter technology, like the kind that’s available in MicroAir’s EasyStart™ Breeze with add-on Bluetooth, plays a valuable supporting role in maintaining RV efficiency by:

• Helps detect problems early so your AC doesn’t waste power or run inefficiently
• Keeps your system up to date with the latest performance improvements through easy app-based updates
• Ensures your soft starter is set up right, so your AC runs smoothly without overworking your RV’s electrical system
• Lets you troubleshoot from your phone, saving you time and avoiding complicated tear-downs or guesswork
• Compatible with all rooftop RV air conditioners (including Dometic (Brisk, Penguin, Blizzard, FreshJet), Coleman, GE, and Furrion) and also works with basement AC units and heat pumps, making it a smart solution for your RV travels.

Learn more about the RV ac soft starter and the different types of Soft Starters in our article: Are “Plug and Play” or “No-Wiring” RV Soft Starters Actually a Soft Starter? What You Need to Know

Why AC Efficiency Matters

Air conditioners are one of the most energy-intensive units in an RV. Starting the compressor requires a large surge of electricity, often straining the system or making the AC unusable in off-grid scenarios. 

While soft starters don’t lower electricity consumption directly, they can reduce overall costs by allowing you to run a smaller generator, lessen the amperage load during AC start-up, and help extend the life of your air conditioner’s compressor motor.

Related: What Size Generator Do You Need to Run an RV AC?

How a Soft Starter Helps

A soft starter reduces the high voltage surges and power draw when the motor starts. This enables RVers to use their AC with solar inverters, smaller generators, or weak shore power. 

Here are some of the benefits of soft starters: 

• Reduces compressor startup power by up to 75%
• Enables AC operations with smaller generators
• Compatible with solar inverter setups 
• Prevents tripped breakers and extends AC lifespan

2. Upgrade to a Bluetooth Thermostat

A Bluetooth thermostat is a perfect, tech-savvy option to optimize your RV's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) usage. Smart thermostats enable more precise temperature settings, and help the RV maintain a consistent internal temperature. They optimize heating and cooling, potentially reducing energy costs.

 Selecting the best smart thermostat may be daunting. However, most RVers prefer our MicroAir EasyTouch™ Thermostat. It is a programmable and app-connected upgrade, designed with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth features, and boasts a large touchscreen display. 

The remote access and scheduling features in smart thermostats significantly help in reducing unnecessary heating and cooling cycles, leading to lower utility bills. 

Other key features include: 

• Custom temperature schedules reducing overuse
• Remote app control for efficiency when away from RV
• Improved HVAC performance

Find a Bluetooth RV thermostat for your RV.

3. Improve Your Insulation 

Insulation may be low-tech, but it is highly effective. 

A properly insulated RV system maintains a comfortable interior temperature, reducing the need for cooling and heating and ultimately minimizing strain on the RV's HVAC system. This significantly extends the life of your RV and saves on energy costs. 

Easy insulation upgrades include: 

• Thermal blackout curtains
• Reflective window coverings 
• Weatherstripping around doors/windows
• Foam vent covers.

4. Switch to LED Lighting

LEDs consume less power compared to halogen bulbs. Since LED lighting also generates less heat, your RV will be cooler. 

In short, choosing the correct lighting will impact energy draw, especially for off-grid or battery-dependent RVers.

Here is a comparison between LED and traditional bulbs: 

If you haven't opted yet for LED lighting, we recommend switching right away for an inexpensive, fast, and energy-saving option. 

5. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

Another way to save energy and fuel consumption is to regularly check your tire pressure. Not only a key safety measure, proper tire pressure is crucial for fuel efficiency. Over or underinflated tires can lead to reduced fuel economy, steering and handling issues, and tire blowouts. 

6. Use Reflective Roof Coatings or Covers

An exterior-focused upgrade can also enhance your RV's efficiency. Reflective roof coatings or covers can significantly enhance energy efficiency and potentially improve the RV roof's lifespan. 

Some tips:

• Use white or reflective elastomeric roof coatings
• Insulate the roof vent cushions
• Install temporary RV covers.

The coating on these products helps reflect sunlight, reduces heat absorption, and keeps the interior cooler, leading to lower air conditioning costs. 

7. Add Solar Panels For Auxiliary Power

Adding solar panels to your RV is a game-changer for energy efficiency. They keep your batteries charged without relying on shore power or a noisy generator—ideal for boondocking or off-grid trips. 

Solar lets you run essentials like lights, fans, and appliances more sustainably, reducing fuel use and extending battery life. When paired with a soft starter, solar can even help power your air conditioner more efficiently, making it easier to stay cool without overloading your system.

Learn more about running RV AC with solar power.

8. Minimize Phantom Power Loads

Phantom loads are hidden energy consumers that are plugged in but not in use. By limiting these phantom energy sources you will reduce the energy consumption in your RV, potentially saving costs. 

Phantom power culprits include:

• Phone chargers 
• Satellite receivers 
• TV and sound systems 
• Microwave clocks. 

We recommend using:

• Master on/off switches 
• Smart plugs 
• Power strips with kill switches

Each time you get into your RV, check for phantom energy. You will notice the difference in your consumption! 

9. Plan Routes and Weights Strategically

Smarter driving involves planning routes to minimize traffic and elevation changes. Avoid congested areas and opt for routes with gradual inclines to maximize fuel economy. Similarly, reducing unnecessary weight within your RV will also lead to better gas per mileage. 

Practical tips to adopt:

• Use apps to plan routes that have fewer elevation changes
• Don’t travel with full freshwater or waste tanks unless necessary
• Minimize unnecessary cargo

10. Embrace Preventative Maintenance

Regular inspections, timely repairs, and maintenance schedules can significantly limit the risk of costly repairs and major breakdowns. While preventive maintenance may seem like an expensive option, it ultimately saves money by reducing the need for emergency repairs while enhancing overall performance. 

Regular Maintenance (Monthly/Seasonal) 

• Inspect for roof seals and seams for signs of leaks and damage 
• Inspect all exterior seals for damage or cracks 
• Monthly, clean AC filters and vents

Pre-Trip Checklists 

• Ensure all windows are properly secured and latched
• Inspect battery connections, charge, and fluid levels if applicable 

Annual Maintenance

• Service the generator. This includes changing the oil and filter 

HVAC components function more efficiently when the entire system is properly maintained and serviced. 

Why AC Efficiency is Key to Making an RV More Energy-Efficient 

Improving your RV’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to be complicated—small changes can lead to big savings on power, fuel, and long-term maintenance. From insulation to solar panels, each upgrade plays a role in creating a more comfortable and cost-effective travel experience. 

But if you’re looking for the single biggest impact, start with your air conditioning system. Upgrading with a soft starter and smart thermostat can dramatically reduce power draw, prevent system strain, and make off-grid cooling possible. It’s a smart move that supports all your other efficiency efforts and helps you travel farther, quieter, and with greater peace of mind.

Learn more about the EasyStart Breeze RV Soft Starter and EasyTouch RV Thermostat Replacements to further enhance RV AC efficiency! 

Note: This article is for informational purposes only; Micro-Air does not make recommendations or provide support outside of Micro-Air products.