First Impressions of DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit
The DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit promises efficient RV cooling, and as someone who’s spent years sweating through summer road trips, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. Dometic is a well-known name in the RV industry, and this model, boasting 13,500 BTUs and R-410A refrigerant, claims to offer easy installation and operation. My initial goal was simple: find a reliable AC unit that could keep my family comfortable during long hauls and hot summer nights.
My old RV AC unit was a noisy, inefficient beast that struggled to cool even a small space, making camping miserable. The promises of a high-performance motor and fan and the efficient R-410A refrigerant made the DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit particularly attractive. Compared to other units I considered, such as the Coleman Mach series and the Furrion Chill, the Dometic seemed to strike a better balance between price, features, and reputation. I ultimately chose this model hoping for a quieter, more efficient, and easier-to-install solution.
The unit arrived in a robust cardboard box, well-protected with foam padding. Lifting it out, I was immediately impressed by the build quality; the plastic housing felt sturdy and well-assembled. The unit, while hefty, didn’t seem excessively heavy for its size and BTU rating. My initial impression was positive; the DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit appeared to be a well-made, thoughtfully designed piece of equipment, and I was excited to get it installed and put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit on my 28-foot travel trailer in preparation for a family trip to the Texas Hill Country. The installation was straightforward, thanks to the relatively simple design and clear instructions, although wrestling the unit onto the roof required a helping hand. Initial testing was performed in my driveway under the blazing Texas sun, with temperatures soaring into the high 90s. The unit fired up quickly and began pumping out cool air in a matter of minutes.
The DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit performed admirably, quickly dropping the inside temperature to a comfortable 75 degrees, despite the brutal outside heat. What impressed me most was the relatively quiet operation compared to my old unit. There was a noticeable hum, but it was much less intrusive and allowed for normal conversation. I did notice some condensation forming on the exterior of the unit, but that’s to be be expected with high humidity levels.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full summer of camping trips, the DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit has proven its reliability. The unit has consistently maintained comfortable temperatures inside my RV, even during extended stays in hot and humid climates. Durability has been excellent; there are no signs of cracking, fading, or any other wear and tear.
Maintenance has been simple. I cleaned the filter every few weeks, which only takes a few minutes. Compared to my previous AC unit, which required frequent repairs and struggled to keep up with demand, the DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit has been a game-changer. It has far exceeded my expectations in terms of performance, reliability, and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit
Specifications
- The DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit features a cooling capacity of 13,500 BTU. This is enough to effectively cool a medium-sized RV or travel trailer.
- It uses R-410A refrigerant. This is more environmentally friendly and efficient than older refrigerants.
- The unit is designed for easy installation and maintenance. Its straightforward design simplifies both tasks.
- The high-performance motor and fan ensure even temperature distribution. This minimizes hot and cold spots within the RV.
Performance & Functionality
The DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit excels at its primary function: cooling an RV quickly and efficiently. The 13,500 BTU rating is accurate, providing ample cooling power even in extreme heat. It maintains a consistent temperature and is surprisingly quiet for an RV AC unit.
The unit’s strengths lie in its reliability, cooling power, and relatively quiet operation. Its only weakness is its lack of smart features, such as remote control or app connectivity. It has exceeded my expectations and has made RVing much more comfortable.
Design & Ergonomics
The DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit features a clean, functional design. The plastic housing is durable and weather-resistant, and the unit is reasonably compact for its cooling capacity. The weight is manageable for installation, though assistance is recommended.
The unit is user-friendly, with simple controls and straightforward operation. There’s no complicated setup or learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit is built to last. The materials are high-quality and the construction is solid. With proper maintenance, the unit should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular filter cleaning is the only routine task required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, focusing on core functionality. It is compatible with Dometic’s CCC 2 thermostat, allowing for precise temperature control. Additionally, various aftermarket air distribution boxes can be used to customize airflow within the RV.
While there aren’t extensive customization options, the compatibility with standard RV thermostats and distribution boxes allows for some degree of personalization. This makes the unit adaptable to different RV layouts and user preferences.
Pros and Cons of DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit
Pros
- Efficient Cooling: The 13,500 BTU rating effectively cools medium-sized RVs, even in high heat.
- Relatively Quiet Operation: Significantly quieter than older or lower-quality RV AC units.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward design and clear instructions make installation manageable for DIYers.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials and solid construction ensure long-lasting performance.
- R-410A Refrigerant: More environmentally friendly and efficient than older refrigerants.
Cons
- Lack of Smart Features: No remote control or app connectivity for convenient operation.
- Condensation: Can produce noticeable condensation on the exterior in humid conditions.
Who Should Buy DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit?
The DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit is perfect for RV owners who want a reliable, efficient, and relatively quiet air conditioning solution. It’s ideal for those who frequently camp in hot climates and need a unit that can consistently maintain comfortable temperatures. DIY enthusiasts will appreciate the straightforward installation process.
Those who prioritize smart features and remote control might want to consider other options. Owners of very large RVs may need a unit with a higher BTU rating.
A must-have accessory is a good quality RV thermostat, such as the Dometic CCC 2, for precise temperature control.
Conclusion on DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit
The DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit is a top-tier RV air conditioner that delivers on its promises. Its efficient cooling, relatively quiet operation, and durable construction make it an excellent investment for any RV owner looking to upgrade their cooling system. At $1049.99, the price is justified by the unit’s performance and reliability.
I wholeheartedly recommend the DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit to anyone seeking a dependable and effective RV air conditioning solution. It has transformed my RVing experience, and I’m confident it will do the same for you. Upgrade your RV cooling today and experience the comfort and peace of mind that the DOMETIC Brisk Air II 13.5 Upper Unit provides!