Creating the Roof Opening for Rooftop RV SystemsUpdated 4 days ago

Introduction

Follow this procedure to properly create the roof opening for the Full Inverter Rooftop RV Air Conditioner Heat Pump. This process includes setting up the wiring and treating the opening.

Creating the New Roof Opening

Caution

• Check for wiring between the roof and ceiling before installation.
• Turn off the main power supply before you begin.
• Inattention can result in electric shock, potentially leading to serious injury or death. 

Notes

• Maintain a minimum distance of 1-1/2 feet (457 mm) from the rear of the vehicle body.
• If the opening exceeds 14-3/8 inches (365 mm) by 14-3/8 inches (365 mm), use liners or fillers to seal the remaining gap.
• If the opening is smaller than 14-1/8 (359 mm) x 14-1/8 inches (359 mm), enlarge it.

Mark a 14-1/4 inch (362 mm) x 14-1/4 inch (362 mm) ± 1/8 inch (3 mm) square on the roof, then carefully cut out the opening. Position the roof opening between the roof reinforcements and extend through both the roof and ceiling of the RV. 

Cut a hole in the ceiling that aligns with the roof opening.

Setting Up the Wiring for the Roof Opening

Notes

• All wiring methods must comply with all applicable national and local electrical regulations. 
• The power line must be on a dedicated 20A time-delay circuit breaker.
• Protect any wires entering the opening by using an appropriate conduit.

Ensure the wire extends at least 15 inches (381 mm) into the roof opening to make installing the main air conditioning unit easier.

Install a fuse or circuit breaker, ensuring proper grounding. Extend a field-supplied 12 AWG copper cable from the breaker to the front of the roof opening.

You can reuse the existing ventilator wire if it is the correct size and the fuse specification is suitable.

Treating the Roof Opening

Ensure the roof opening is properly supported, then fill the space between the roof layers with insulation.

Seal the perimeter using battens or insulating strips (at least 3/4 inch thick) to prevent air-driven vibration within the upper interlayer.

Additionally, provide an entry point for the power line. 

The 14-1/4 x 14-1/4 inch (362 x 362 mm) ± 1/8 inch (3 mm) roof opening forms an integral part of the return air duct. It must be smoothed and finished according to industry standards.