Best Air Conditioner for Horse Trailer

ByEquineathon

When summer heat kicks in, horse trailers can quickly become uncomfortable—even dangerous—for horses inside. Unlike hauling equipment, you’re transporting living animals that rely on you to provide a safe, cool, and ventilated environment. That’s where choosing the best air conditioner for a horse trailer becomes essential. With the right unit, your horses stay calm, your trailer stays safe, and your travels are less stressful for everyone involved.

Quick Picks

Buyer’s Guide: What to Look For

Not every air conditioner will work for a horse trailer. Here are the most important features to keep in mind:

  • Cooling Capacity (BTU): The higher the BTU, the more cooling power. For horse trailers, look for at least 13,500 BTU and ideally 15,000+ BTU if you haul multiple horses.
  • Durability: Trailers shake and rattle on the road. You need a rugged unit built for RV or trailer use.
  • Power Requirements: Check whether the unit runs on 120V shore power, a generator, or both.
  • Airflow: Even cooling is critical—look for multi-directional vents and strong blower fans.
  • Noise Level: A quieter unit keeps horses calmer during travel and while waiting at events.
  • Ease of Installation: Rooftop models are popular, but portable and split-system options are available depending on trailer setup.

Detailed Product Reviews

Dometic Brisk II Rooftop RV Air Conditioner

Who it’s for: Horse owners who want a reliable, well-rounded unit with excellent airflow for medium to large trailers.

  • Key Benefits: 15,000 BTU cooling; lightweight design; proven performance in RVs and trailers.
  • Pros: Efficient cooling, strong airflow, durable build, relatively easy installation.
  • Cons: Requires generator or shore power; louder than some premium models.

Final Verdict: The Dometic Brisk II is one of the most popular choices for horse trailers, balancing price, performance, and durability. See the Dometic Brisk II here.

Advent ACM150 Rooftop Air Conditioner

Who it’s for: Budget-conscious buyers who still want a 15,000 BTU unit capable of cooling a horse trailer.

  • Key Benefits: 15,000 BTU cooling; universal mounting fits most RV/trailer roof openings; simple design.
  • Pros: Affordable, reliable performance, straightforward installation.
  • Cons: Fewer extra features; slightly noisier operation compared to high-end models.

Final Verdict: The Advent ACM150 is a great value pick for horse owners who want cooling power without overspending. Check Advent ACM150 pricing.

Coleman Mach 15+ RV Air Conditioner

Who it’s for: Horse owners hauling multiple horses in hot climates who need maximum cooling power.

  • Key Benefits: 15,000 BTU cooling; one of the most powerful blowers in its class; rugged construction.
  • Pros: Exceptional cooling power, built to last, strong fan circulation.
  • Cons: Higher price tag; heavier than other rooftop models.

Final Verdict: The Coleman Mach 15+ is the heavy-duty workhorse of AC units, built for extreme conditions. See Coleman Mach 15+ details.

RecPro RV Air Conditioner 15K with Heat Pump

Who it’s for: Horse owners who want year-round comfort—cooling in summer, heating in cooler months.

  • Key Benefits: 15,000 BTU cooling + heating; efficient compressor; remote control included.
  • Pros: Dual-function AC/heat, modern design, energy efficient.
  • Cons: Slightly pricier than cooling-only models.

Final Verdict: A smart choice for those who travel year-round and want temperature control in all seasons. Explore RecPro pricing.

Furrion Chill RV Air Conditioner

Who it’s for: Horse trailer owners who prioritize quiet operation to keep horses calm.

  • Key Benefits: 15,000 BTU; ultra-quiet fans; energy-efficient design.
  • Pros: Quiet performance, sleek look, good for nervous or high-strung horses.
  • Cons: Slightly less airflow than Coleman or Dometic models.

Final Verdict: If quiet operation matters most, the Furrion Chill is a solid option. Check Furrion Chill availability.

Dometic Penguin II Low Profile Rooftop AC

Who it’s for: Horse trailer owners who need an aerodynamic, low-profile option for smaller trailers.

  • Key Benefits: 13,500–15,000 BTU options; sleek low-profile design reduces drag; durable construction.
  • Pros: Low clearance, efficient cooling, durable brand reputation.
  • Cons: Slightly more expensive than Brisk II; limited airflow direction options.

Final Verdict: A great fit for smaller trailers or those concerned about clearance and aerodynamics. View Penguin II details.

Comparison Table

Model BTU Rating Special Features Price Range
Dometic Brisk II 15,000 Proven RV/trailer use $$$
Advent ACM150 15,000 Affordable, universal fit $$
Coleman Mach 15+ 15,000 Strongest blower $$$$
RecPro 15K w/Heat Pump 15,000 Cooling + heating $$$$
Furrion Chill 15,000 Quiet operation $$$
Dometic Penguin II 13,500–15,000 Low profile design $$$$

FAQ Section

  • What size AC do I need for my horse trailer? For most horse trailers, 15,000 BTU is ideal. Smaller two-horse trailers may work with 13,500 BTU.
  • Can I run an AC off a generator? Yes—most horse trailer owners use a generator when parked away from shore power.
  • Are portable AC units an option? They can work, but rooftop RV units are far more effective and durable for horse trailers.
  • How noisy are rooftop AC units? Noise varies—models like the Furrion Chill are designed for quieter operation, while heavy-duty models like the Coleman Mach are louder but stronger.
  • Do I need more than one AC unit? For large living-quarter trailers or trailers carrying 4+ horses, installing two rooftop units is common for balanced cooling.

Conclusion

Keeping your horses cool isn’t a luxury—it’s a responsibility. The best air conditioners for horse trailers are rugged, powerful, and reliable. If you want a dependable all-around choice, the Dometic Brisk II is a top seller for good reason. If budget is your main concern, the Advent ACM150 gets the job done at a lower cost. For those traveling with multiple horses in hotter climates, the Coleman Mach 15+ is a heavy-duty powerhouse. Whatever your needs, the right AC ensures your horses travel in safety and comfort. Don’t wait until the next heat wave—choose the right air conditioner for your horse trailer today.