Aires acondicionados Dometic Penguin para vehículos recreativos

What is the Dometic Penguin RV air conditioner and how does it differ from the Penguin II?

The Dometic Penguin is a low-profile rooftop RV air conditioner designed for reduced wind resistance and quieter operation than standard high-profile units. The Penguin II is the updated generation, with a redesigned shroud, improved airflow, and revised internal components. Both mount on a standard 14" x 14" roof opening and are available in 13,500 BTU and 15,000 BTU configurations for ducted or non-ducted systems. Always confirm your model number and existing ceiling assembly type before ordering.

Do I need a ducted or non-ducted ceiling assembly with a Penguin AC unit?

That depends on your RV's existing setup. Ducted systems push cooled air through ceiling ducts to multiple vents and are common in larger Class A and fifth-wheel rigs. Non-ducted systems deliver air directly from a ceiling assembly mounted under the AC, typical of smaller trailers and Class C motorhomes. If you run a non-ducted setup with a wall thermostat, see our Dometic ceiling assembly for non-ducted installations with wall thermostat for compatible parts.

How many amps does a Penguin RV AC draw and will it run on a 30-amp service?

The 15,000 BTU Penguin II pulls roughly 13 to 16 amps at startup steady state, and the 13,500 BTU version runs closer to 12 to 14 amps. Both will operate on a standard 30-amp RV service, though you should limit other high-draw appliances (microwave, water heater on electric) while the compressor is running. If you frequently camp at parks with marginal power, pair the unit with a surge protector and consider the right shore power adapter from our RV plug adapters collection.

Will a Penguin II air conditioner fit my existing roof opening?

Yes, in most cases. The Penguin and Penguin II are built for the industry-standard 14" x 14" roof cutout used by nearly all factory-installed RV air conditioners. The mounting bolt pattern is also compatible with most prior-generation Dometic and Coleman units, which makes it a direct replacement on the majority of rigs. Measure your existing opening and confirm your ceiling assembly type (ducted or non-ducted) before ordering, and browse related RV electronics for thermostats and control components if you are upgrading the full system.

What refrigerant does the Penguin II use?

Current production Penguin II units ship with R-410A refrigerant. Older Penguin models used R-22, which has been phased out. The system is sealed and charged at the factory, so no field charging is required during installation. If you are replacing an older R-22 Penguin, the new R-410A unit is a complete swap, you do not need to flush or modify any lines because the rooftop AC is a self-contained assembly.

Does United RV Parts offer free shipping on Penguin AC units?

Yes, we offer free shipping on orders over $100, which covers the Penguin and Penguin II air conditioners as well as most replacement parts and ceiling assemblies. Rooftop AC units typically ship via standard ground freight. If you need help confirming the right model for your RV or have questions about fitment, text or call our team at 817-984-1852.