RecPro 13.5K RP-AC3501
A low-cost, complete 13,500 BTU cool-only unit for travel trailers that run on hookups.
Amazon $959.95$959.95
The RecPro 13.5K RP-AC3501 rates 3.8 among 12,000 to 14,000 BTU RV air conditioners; the Dometic FreshJet 5 High Efficiency rates 2.8 among under 12,000 BTU ones. The RecPro 13.5K RP-AC3501 costs $335.04 less ($959.95 vs $1,294.99).
Dometic FreshJet 5 High Efficiency
For small trailers and vans on 15 A or generator power that want a low profile; it trades capacity for a lower current draw.
Camping World $1,294.99$1,294.99
Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Scores side by side
These two sit in different size classes (12,000 to 14,000 BTU and under 12,000 BTU), and each is scored against the reference points for its own class, so a rating says how well each does among its own size peers. How we rank explains each factor.
| Factor weight | RecPro 13.5K RP-AC3501 | Dometic FreshJet 5 High Efficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 2.8/5 |
| Value 30% | 80 $71.11 per 1,000 BTU ($959.95, 13,500 BTU) | 45 $117.73 per 1,000 BTU ($1,294.99, 11,000 BTU) |
| Efficiency 20% | 66 12 A running, 0.9 A per 1,000 BTU | 49 10.8 A running, 1 A per 1,000 BTU |
| Starting current 15% | 50 starting current not published (neutral score used) | 36 55 A to start |
| Noise 10% | 76 59.7 dBA rated inside | 80 59 dBA rated inside |
| Warranty 25% | 50 2-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| RecPro 13.5K RP-AC3501 | Dometic FreshJet 5 High Efficiency | |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling and power | ||
| Cooling capacity | 13,500 BTU | 11,000 BTU |
| Heat | No | Heat strip |
| Running current | 12 A | 10.8 A |
| Starting current | - | 55 A |
| Soft start built in | No | No |
| Inverter compressor | No | No |
| Install | ||
| Ceiling setup | Ducted or non-ducted | Ducted or non-ducted |
| Ceiling assembly included | Yes | No |
| Height above roof | 13.7 in | 10.5 in |
| Weight | 73.7 lb | 93 lb |
| App or remote monitoring | No | No |
| Noise and warranty | ||
| Noise | 59.7 dBA | 59 dBA |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
| Released | - | 2025 |