Ever wonder how long-haul truckers stay comfortable and powered up on those long, lonely stretches of road? It’s not magic; it’s often thanks to an Auxiliary Power Unit, or APU, for their trucks. Choosing the right APU can feel like navigating a maze, especially when you’re trying to save money and keep your truck running smoothly. Many drivers worry about finding one that fits their budget, doesn’t drain their main engine, and provides reliable power for their essentials.
If you’re a truck owner or driver looking to upgrade your rig with an APU, you’re in the right place. We’re going to break down what makes a good APU and how to pick the perfect one for your needs. By the end of this post, you’ll understand the different types of APUs, what features to look for, and how to avoid common mistakes. Get ready to learn how to make your truck a more comfortable and efficient home on wheels!
Our Top 5 Apu For Trucks Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Apu For Trucks Detailed Reviews
1. Mytee Products 25″ (D) x 21″ (W) x 28″ (H) Rigmaster Diamond Plated Power Inverter Model Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for Sleeper Cab Trucks Oil Capacity: 1.24 Gal (4.7L)
Rating: 8.5/10
The Mytee Products Rigmaster APU is a powerful addition to your sleeper cab truck. It provides essential power and climate control, keeping you comfortable on long hauls. This unit is built tough with a diamond-plated design and a reliable Kohler engine.
What We Like:
- It’s a fully self-contained unit that provides power and air conditioning.
- The 24,000 BTU air-conditioning system keeps the cab cool.
- The 1.24-gallon oil capacity means less frequent refueling.
- It’s EPA-approved and fits on short wheelbase trucks.
- The diamond-plated design looks sharp and is durable.
- It has a 170 Amp alternator for charging batteries.
- The auto-start feature is convenient.
- You can easily access all parts for maintenance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The average fuel consumption is 0.25 gallons per hour, which might add up over time.
- While compact, the main unit is still quite large at 25″ (D) x 21″ (W) x 28″ (H).
This Rigmaster APU is a solid investment for truckers who need reliable power and comfort. It’s designed for performance and durability on the road.
2. 12V Air Conditioner 12000BTU
Rating: 8.8/10
Introducing the 12V Air Conditioner 12000BTU, a powerful mini-split system designed to keep you cool no matter where your journey takes you. This 12-volt DC AC unit is a game-changer for big rig sleepers, semi-trucks, RVs, vans, buses, and even pickup trucks, offering rapid cooling when you need it most.
What We Like:
- Economic and Eco-Friendly: Save big on fuel costs, potentially around $6,552 per year, by using engine power or an extra battery. It runs quietly, even when your engine is off.
- Rapid Cooling Power: The 20CC scroll compressor cools your space down in as little as 8 minutes. Say goodbye to sweltering heat this summer!
- Smart Cooling Technology: Variable frequency inverter cooling adjusts to the temperature, saving energy. The ultra-quiet inner unit keeps noise below 60dB for a peaceful environment.
- Safe and Reliable: Features 12V DC power supply with low voltage protection to ensure your vehicle starts. Over-voltage and over-current protection add extra safety.
- Durable Construction: Built with tough ABS, this AC resists deformation and corrosion for long-lasting use. Installation is made easy with included parts and instructions.
- Versatile Fit: Designed for a wide range of vehicles including semi-trucks, RVs, vans, boats, and more. The flexible mounting options (horizontal or roof-top) make it adaptable.
- Excellent Customer Support: hiberry offers quick and helpful service, responding to inquiries within 12 hours for any installation or part concerns.
What Could Be Improved:
- The initial cost might be a consideration for some users.
- While installation is described as easy, some users might prefer professional installation for complex setups.
This 12V Air Conditioner is a fantastic investment for anyone who spends significant time on the road. It offers a comfortable and cool environment, saving you money and providing peace of mind.
3. Treeligo DC 12V Universal Electric RV Truck Air Conditioner Camper A/C Unit 12000 BTU Only Cooling for Motorhome Bus tractor automotive air conditioner White
Rating: 8.7/10
Beat the heat on your next adventure with the Treeligo DC 12V Universal Electric RV Truck Air Conditioner. This 12000 BTU unit provides powerful cooling for your motorhome, bus, or truck. It’s designed for quiet operation, so you can enjoy a comfortable environment while driving or parked without the loud noise of traditional engines.
What We Like:
- Powerful Cooling: With 12000 BTUs, it effectively cools large spaces.
- Quiet Operation: Enjoy a peaceful experience with a noise level of only 45 dB.
- Fuel Savings: Runs on your vehicle’s battery, eliminating the need for fuel and saving you money.
- Long Parking Comfort: A 480 AH battery can power it for 6-8 hours, perfect for enjoying cool downtime.
- Safety Features: Built-in protections keep the air conditioner’s circuit safe from surges and vibrations.
- Dedicated Support: Treeligo offers excellent customer service for any installation or usage questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight: At 156 pounds, it may require assistance for installation.
- Power Consumption: While fuel-free, it draws significant current (21-42A), so battery management is important.
This Treeligo air conditioner offers a quiet, fuel-efficient way to stay cool. It’s a great upgrade for anyone seeking comfort on the road or during extended stops.
4. Mieligo 12V Truck Air Conditioner 10000BTU
Rating: 8.6/10
Stay cool and comfortable no matter where your journey takes you with the Mieligo 12V Truck Air Conditioner. This powerful 10000BTU mini-split system is designed specifically for the demanding needs of trucks, trailers, and heavy equipment. It’s a game-changer for drivers who spend long hours on the road or workers operating in tough environments.
What We Like:
- Easy Setup: The unit comes with pre-charged refrigerant, making installation as simple as setting up a home AC. No need to buy extra refrigerant!
- Clean Air: The indoor unit has a special filter that cleans the air you breathe. It also has an adjustable vent to direct the cool air just how you like it.
- Quiet Operation: The brushless fan is super quiet, so you can enjoy a peaceful rest or focus on your work without annoying noise. It’s also built to last a long time.
- Super Cooling Power: It uses a high-performance copper evaporator for awesome cooling. Plus, the DC inverter compressor adjusts its power to keep you perfectly cool and save energy.
- Versatile Fit: This AC fits a wide range of vehicles, from semi-trucks and RVs to excavators and even passenger cars.
- Great Support: Mieligo offers fast and helpful customer service. They promise to reply to your questions within 12 hours.
What Could Be Improved:
- Higher Initial Cost: The high-performance copper evaporator, while excellent, means the initial price might be a bit higher than some other options.
The Mieligo 12V Truck Air Conditioner is a top-notch choice for anyone needing reliable and efficient cooling on the go. It offers excellent performance and user-friendly features that make it a worthwhile investment for comfort and productivity.
5. Mieligo 12V Air Conditioner 8000BTU
Rating: 9.1/10
Introducing the Mieligo 12V Air Conditioner 8000BTU, a powerful mini-split system designed for a wide range of vehicles. Whether you’re a long-haul trucker needing a cool sleeper, an RV enthusiast craving comfort, or a pickup truck owner wanting relief from the heat, this 12-volt DC AC unit delivers rapid cooling and quiet operation. It’s an economic and environmentally friendly solution for staying comfortable on the road.
What We Like:
- Rapid Cooling: The scroll compressor quickly cools down your space, making hot summers bearable.
- Energy Efficient: It saves money by using engine power or an extra battery, potentially saving thousands per year.
- Quiet Operation: Enjoy a comfortable environment with noise levels below 60dB, even when the engine is off.
- Smart Cooling: The variable frequency inverter adjusts cooling based on temperature, saving energy.
- Safety Features: Low voltage protection prevents your vehicle battery from draining, and there’s over-voltage and over-current protection.
- Durable Construction: Made from strong ABS material, it’s built to last and resist damage.
- Versatile Fit: Mountable horizontally on the roof, it fits many vehicles like semi-trucks, RVs, vans, and more.
- Excellent Support: Mieligo offers prompt customer service, responding within 12 hours for any issues.
What Could Be Improved:
- Power Requirements: Requires a sufficiently large battery (75AH or more) and a generator (90A or more) for optimal performance.
- Cable Sensitivity: Extended power cables might cause issues; using conventional cables is recommended.
- Undervoltage Adjustment: Users may need to check and adjust the undervoltage protection value.
This Mieligo 12V Air Conditioner offers a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and durability for anyone needing reliable cooling in their vehicle. Its thoughtful design and robust features make it a valuable addition for drivers and travelers alike.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Truck’s Best Friend
So, you’re looking for an “Apu for Trucks”? That’s a smart move! An APU, or Auxiliary Power Unit, is like giving your truck its own personal power source when the engine isn’t running. This means you can run your air conditioning, heating, lights, and even your electronics without burning a drop of fuel or making a lot of noise. Let’s dive into what makes a great APU for your truck.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an APU, keep these important features in mind:
- Power Output: How much power does it give you? You need enough to run your essentials. Look for units that can handle your AC or heater, plus some extra for charging devices.
- Fuel Efficiency: A good APU saves you money. It should use very little fuel to produce a lot of power.
- Quiet Operation: Nobody wants a noisy truck. A quiet APU helps you rest better and is friendlier to the environment.
- Ease of Use: The controls should be simple and easy to understand. You shouldn’t need a degree to operate it.
- Durability: Trucks work hard. Your APU needs to be tough and built to last in all kinds of weather.
- Maintenance: How often does it need service? Less maintenance means more time on the road and less downtime.
Important Materials
The materials used in an APU affect its strength and how long it lasts.
- Stainless Steel: Many good APUs use stainless steel for their frames and casings. This metal is strong and won’t rust, even in rain or snow.
- High-Quality Plastics: For electrical components and smaller parts, durable, weather-resistant plastics are used. These keep the delicate parts protected.
- Copper Wiring: Inside, good APUs use copper wiring. Copper is an excellent conductor of electricity, meaning it handles power well and is less likely to overheat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make an APU better or worse.
What Makes an APU Better:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often use better parts and have more experience building reliable APUs.
- Warranty: A longer warranty shows the manufacturer believes in their product. It protects you if something goes wrong.
- Advanced Technology: Some APUs have smart features that help them run more efficiently or automatically adjust to your needs.
- Professional Installation: Getting your APU installed by experts ensures it works correctly and safely.
What Can Reduce APU Quality:
- Cheap Parts: Using low-cost materials might save money upfront but can lead to breakdowns.
- Poor Design: A poorly designed APU might be hard to use, noisy, or not powerful enough.
- Lack of Support: If the company doesn’t offer good customer service or technical help, it can be frustrating.
- Rough Installation: A bad installation can damage the APU and your truck.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people actually use APUs? They make life much easier for truck drivers.
- Resting Comfortably: Drivers can run their air conditioning or heater while sleeping without idling their main engine. This saves fuel and reduces wear and tear.
- Powering Electronics: Want to watch TV, charge your phone, or use your laptop? An APU provides the power you need.
- Extended Stops: During long breaks or while waiting to load or unload, an APU keeps you comfortable and powered up.
- Reduced Emissions: By not idling the main engine, APUs help lower pollution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Truck APUs
Q: What is an APU for a truck?
A: An APU for a truck is a small, separate power unit that provides electricity when the truck’s main engine is off. It lets you run things like air conditioning, heating, and electronics without using fuel from your truck’s main tank.
Q: Why do I need an APU for my truck?
A: You need an APU to save fuel, reduce engine wear, and stay comfortable when your truck is stopped. It also helps you run your devices and keeps the air clean by reducing idling.
Q: How much power does an APU typically provide?
A: APUs vary, but many provide enough power to run essential items like AC, heating, lights, and small electronics. Some higher-end models offer more power.
Q: Are APUs noisy?
A: Most modern APUs are designed to be very quiet. They are much quieter than a truck’s main engine idling.
Q: What kind of fuel do APUs use?
A: Many APUs run on diesel fuel, which is convenient because your truck already has it. Some might use gasoline or be electric.
Q: How much does an APU cost?
A: The cost can range from a few thousand dollars to over ten thousand dollars, depending on the brand, features, and power output.
Q: Is installing an APU difficult?
A: Installation can be complex and often requires professional help. It involves connecting the APU to your truck’s fuel, electrical, and exhaust systems.
Q: How much fuel does an APU use?
A: APUs are very fuel-efficient. They use a fraction of the fuel that idling a truck’s main engine would use.
Q: Can an APU run my microwave?
A: Some larger APUs might have enough power to run a microwave, but you need to check the unit’s specifications carefully to be sure.
Q: How long do APUs typically last?
A: With proper maintenance, a good quality APU can last for many years and tens of thousands of hours of operation.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.