Imagine this: you’re on a long haul, miles from the nearest rest stop, and your truck’s engine is off. But you still need to power your lights, your phone charger, or even a small fan. How do you do it without burning precious fuel? This is where a Truck Auxiliary Power Unit, or APU, comes in. These handy devices are becoming essential for many truck drivers, but choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze.
The truth is, picking a Truck APU can be a real headache. There are so many types, each with different features and prices. You might worry about installation, fuel efficiency, or if it will even meet your needs. You want comfort and convenience, but you don’t want to waste money on something that doesn’t work well. We get it!
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about Truck APUs. You’ll learn what they are, why they’re so useful, and how to pick the best one for your rig. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident in your choice and ready to make your truck a more comfortable place to be, even when the engine’s off.
Our Top 5 Truck Apu Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Truck Apu Detailed Reviews
1. Universal 12V RV Air Conditioner
Rating: 9.0/10
Stay cool and comfortable wherever your adventures take you with the Universal 12V RV Air Conditioner. This powerful 12,000 BTU unit is designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, including trucks, motorhomes, campers, cars, vans, and trailers. Its split design ensures efficient cooling and quiet operation, making it ideal for both driving and parked situations.
What We Like:
- Advanced Safety Protection: The air conditioner has built-in features to protect its circuits from power surges, bumps, and shaking, so it works reliably on the road.
- Ultra-Quiet Operation: Enjoy a peaceful environment. This unit runs quietly, letting you focus on driving or relax without annoying noise.
- Powerful Performance: With 12,000 BTUs of cooling power and a strong airflow, it quickly cools down your space. It’s also energy efficient.
- Fuel-Free Long-Term Use: Run it for 6 to 8 hours on a car battery without using any fuel. This is great for overnight stays or long stops, saving you money.
- Reliable Customer Support: The company offers helpful service if you have questions or need assistance with installation or use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Power Consumption: While efficient, the 350-1000W power consumption requires a substantial battery setup (480AH recommended) for extended use, which might be an additional investment for some.
- Installation Complexity: As a split unit, installation may require some technical knowledge or professional help, which could be a hurdle for DIYers.
This air conditioner offers a fantastic way to beat the heat without relying on noisy generators or expensive fuel. It’s a smart choice for anyone who spends time on the road in their vehicle.
2. 12V Air Conditioner 12000BTU
Rating: 8.5/10
Stay cool and comfortable on the road with the 12V Air Conditioner 12000BTU Mini Split. This powerful 12-volt DC AC unit is designed for big rigs, semi-trucks, RVs, and more, offering rapid cooling and significant cost savings. It’s the perfect solution for drivers and owners who need reliable climate control without draining their vehicle’s battery.
What We Like:
- Saves Money and the Environment: This AC can run on your engine or an extra battery, potentially saving you thousands each year. It’s also eco-friendly.
- Super Fast Cooling: The 20CC scroll compressor cools down your space in as little as 8 minutes, getting you out of the heat quickly.
- Smart and Quiet Cooling: It uses variable frequency to adjust cooling based on temperature, saving energy. The quiet indoor unit keeps noise below 60dB for a peaceful environment.
- Safe 12V Power: The unit automatically shuts off if the battery gets too low, ensuring your vehicle can still start. It also has protection against over-voltage and over-current.
- Built Tough: Made with strong ABS material, it resists damage and lasts a long time. Installation is made easy with included parts and instructions.
- Versatile Fit: This AC fits a wide range of vehicles, including semi-trucks, RVs, vans, boats, and even construction equipment.
- Great Support: hiberry offers quick and helpful service, responding to your questions within 12 hours.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation Complexity: While instructions are included, installing a mini-split AC system can still be a involved process for some users.
- Power Source Management: Drivers need to carefully manage the power source (engine vs. battery) to maximize savings and ensure uninterrupted operation.
This 12V Mini Split Air Conditioner offers a fantastic balance of performance, efficiency, and durability for anyone needing powerful cooling on the go. It’s a smart investment for comfort and savings.
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: 9.0/10
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, ensuring a comfortable ride and peaceful parking. Its innovative design keeps things quiet, so you can enjoy the cool air without the roar of an engine. Plus, it runs on your vehicle’s battery, saving you money on fuel and letting you relax in a cool environment even when the engine is off.
What We Like:
- Powerful Cooling: 12000 BTUs keep your space nice and cool.
- Quiet Operation: Enjoy a peaceful environment with a noise level of only 45 dB.
- Fuel Savings: Runs on your vehicle’s battery, eliminating the need for extra fuel.
- Long Parking Comfort: Up to 6-8 hours of cooling with a 480 AH battery.
- Safety First: Multiple protection features keep the air conditioner circuit safe.
- Easy to Use: Designed for straightforward installation and operation.
- Great for Travel: Perfect for RVs, trucks, buses, and tractors.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight: At 156 pounds, it might require assistance for installation.
- Power Consumption: The power range of 350-1000W means it uses a noticeable amount of battery power.
- Specific Voltage: It’s a 12V unit, so ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s electrical system.
The Treeligo air conditioner offers a fantastic way to stay cool and comfortable on the go. Its focus on quiet operation and fuel efficiency makes it a smart choice for any traveler.
4. UAHKPA 12V RV air conditioner
Rating: 9.3/10
Beat the heat on your adventures with the UAHKPA 12V RV air conditioner. This split-type, 9000 BTU unit is designed to keep you cool in a variety of vehicles, from RVs and trucks to excavators and vans. It runs on your vehicle’s 12V DC power, making it a great option for off-grid camping and long hauls.
What We Like:
- Powered by your vehicle’s 12V DC battery, offering flexibility for camping and travel.
- Built with a high-quality, thickened shell that resists rust and deformation, ensuring durability.
- Designed for efficient cooling with hollow holes for better heat dissipation.
- Offers simple operation with a remote control and control panel, including adjustable wind speed and temperature.
- Multiple air outlets and a digital display make it easy to manage your comfort.
- Suitable for a wide range of vehicles, making it a versatile cooling solution.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires a sufficiently large car battery capacity for extended use.
- The starting current of 75A means it draws a significant amount of power initially.
This UAHKPA air conditioner provides a convenient way to stay cool wherever your journey takes you. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing reliable, portable cooling.
5. Mieligo 12V Truck Air Conditioner 10000BTU
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of sweltering in your truck cab during long hauls? The Mieligo 12V Truck Air Conditioner 10000BTU is here to save the day! This mini-split system brings powerful, 12-volt cooling to your semi-truck, trailer, or even heavy machinery like excavators and loaders. It’s designed for easy setup and quiet operation, so you can finally get a comfortable rest while parked.
What We Like:
- Easy Setup with Pre-charged Refrigerant: No need to buy extra refrigerant! It comes ready to go, making installation simple like a home AC unit.
- Clean Air Flow: The indoor unit has a special filter to keep the air you breathe clean and fresh. It also has an adjustable vent to direct the cool air just where you want it.
- Quiet and Long-Lasting Fan: The brushless fan runs quietly, so it won’t disturb your rest. It’s also built to last a long time, meaning fewer worries about repairs.
- Super Cooling Power: With a DC inverter compressor, it cools down your space quickly and uses energy efficiently. The copper evaporator helps it cool even better.
- Works in Many Vehicles: This AC fits a wide range of vehicles, from semi-trucks and RVs to boats and construction equipment.
- Great Customer Support: Mieligo offers quick help if you have any questions or problems with installation or parts.
What Could Be Improved:
- Higher Initial Cost: The use of a high-performance copper evaporator, while effective, means this unit might be a bigger investment upfront compared to other options.
This Mieligo air conditioner is a fantastic solution for anyone needing reliable cooling in their vehicle. It offers a comfortable and quiet environment, making those long hours on the road or at the worksite much more bearable.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Truck APU
An Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for your truck, often called a truck APU, is a fantastic addition. It gives you power when your engine is off. This means less idling, saving fuel and making your cab more comfortable. Let’s explore what to look for.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a truck APU, keep these important features in mind:
Power Output
- Wattage: This tells you how much electricity the APU can provide. More wattage means you can run more devices at once. Think about what you need to power: a mini-fridge, a microwave, a TV, or just your phone charger.
- Voltage: Most APUs provide 120V AC power, like your home outlets. Some might also offer 12V DC power for direct connection to your truck’s battery.
Power Source
- Battery-Powered: These APUs run on a set of deep-cycle batteries. They are quiet and produce no emissions when running. You’ll need to recharge them, usually by plugging into shore power or by the truck’s engine.
- Generator-Powered: These use a small, built-in engine to generate electricity. They can run for longer periods without needing to be recharged. However, they can be noisier and produce exhaust.
Heating and Cooling Capabilities
- Integrated HVAC: Some advanced APUs have their own heating and air conditioning systems. This is a huge comfort upgrade, especially in extreme weather.
- Electric Heat/Cooling: Other APUs offer electric heaters or fans to help regulate the cab temperature.
Noise Level
- Decibel Rating: Look for APUs that are quiet. A lower decibel rating means less noise disturbance, which is important for resting. Battery-powered APUs are generally the quietest.
Fuel Efficiency and Consumption
- Fuel Type: If it’s a generator APU, check what kind of fuel it uses. Diesel is common for trucks.
- Fuel Consumption: How much fuel does it use per hour? This will affect your running costs.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
- Mounting Options: How easy is it to attach the APU to your truck? Some are designed for under-bunk installation, while others mount externally.
- Maintenance Needs: How often does it need servicing? Simple maintenance is a big plus.
Smart Features
- Remote Control: Some APUs come with remote controls or smartphone apps. This lets you adjust settings without leaving your bunk.
- Automatic Shut-off: This feature protects your batteries or the APU itself from damage.
Important Materials
The materials used in an APU affect its durability and performance.
- Durable Casing: Look for sturdy, weather-resistant materials like high-grade plastics or powder-coated aluminum. This protects the internal components from dust, rain, and vibrations.
- Quality Battery Cells (for battery APUs): If you’re choosing a battery-powered APU, the quality of the battery cells (like lithium-ion) is crucial for longevity and performance.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make an APU better or worse.
- Improved Quality:
- Reputable Brands: Stick with well-known brands that have good reviews. They usually use better parts and offer better support.
- Advanced Inverters: A good inverter converts DC power (from batteries or your truck) to AC power efficiently. This means less wasted energy.
- Robust Cooling Systems: For generator APUs, a good cooling system prevents overheating and ensures it runs smoothly.
- Reduced Quality:
- Cheap Components: APUs made with low-quality parts might break down more often.
- Poor Wiring: Bad wiring can lead to electrical problems and safety hazards.
- Lack of Safety Features: Missing safety features like overload protection can be dangerous.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your truck will determine the best APU for you.
- Long-Haul Drivers: If you spend many nights on the road, an APU is a game-changer. It provides a comfortable sleeping environment without wasting fuel by idling the main engine. You can run a small fridge, watch TV, and charge all your devices.
- Short-Haul Drivers: Even for shorter trips, an APU can offer convenience. You can power your lunch cooler or keep your phone charged during breaks.
- Extreme Weather: Drivers in very hot or very cold climates will appreciate an APU with heating and cooling. It means you don’t have to run your truck’s engine just to stay comfortable.
- Environmentally Conscious Drivers: APUs significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions compared to idling the main engine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Truck APUs
Q: What is a truck APU?
A: A truck APU is a small, separate power system for your truck. It provides electricity when your main engine is off.
Q: Why should I get a truck APU?
A: APUs save you money on fuel. They also let you use electronics and stay comfortable in your cab without idling your truck’s engine.
Q: Are truck APUs quiet?
A: Many APUs are very quiet, especially battery-powered ones. This is great for resting.
Q: Can I run my microwave with a truck APU?
A: Yes, if the APU has enough wattage. You’ll need to check the APU’s power output to see if it can handle a microwave.
Q: How much does a truck APU cost?
A: Prices vary. Basic models can start around $2,000, while more advanced systems with heating and cooling can cost $5,000 or more.
Q: Is a battery-powered APU better than a generator APU?
A: It depends. Battery APUs are quiet and emission-free but need recharging. Generator APUs run longer but can be noisier and use fuel.
Q: How do I install a truck APU?
A: Some APUs are easy to install yourself, while others might need professional help. Check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Will an APU drain my truck’s main battery?
A: Good APUs have systems to prevent this. They usually have their own batteries or smart power management.
Q: Do I need to maintain my truck APU?
A: Yes, like any equipment. Maintenance usually involves checking connections and, for generator APUs, changing oil.
Q: Can an APU heat and cool my truck cab?
A: Some APUs have built-in heating and cooling. Others might just provide power for electric heaters or fans.
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.