Dometic • Air Conditioner / Heat Pump

Dometic Roof Top Unit

Official technical documentation and workshop diagnostics for Dometic Roof Top Unit.

Technical Specifications

Electrical120 VAC, 60Hz, 1 Phase. Compressor RLA: 12.0 A (541815A70X), 13.2 A (541816A, 551816A). Compressor LRA: 58.0 A (541815A70X), 60.0 A (541816A, 551816A). Fan Motor RLA: 3.0 A (541815A70X), 2.8 A (541816A, 551816A). Fan Motor LRA: 8.5 A (541815A70X), 29.5 A (541816A, 551816A). Minimum Wire Size: 12 AWG Copper up to 24'. Circuit Protection: 20 Amp Time Delay Fuse or Circuit Breaker. Minimum Generator Size: 3.5 KW (1 unit) / 5.0 KW (2 units). Control Circuit: 12 VDC (18-22 AWG).
Gas Or PressureRefrigerant: R-410A (18.5 Oz.). Total System Static Air Pressure (Blower at High Speed, Filter & Grill in Place): 0.55 - 1.10 In. W.C. for 541815 Series, 0.70 - 1.10 In. W.C. for 541816 Series.
Capacities DimensionsNominal Capacity: 13,500 BTU/HR (541815A70X), 15,000 BTU/HR (541816A70X, 551816A70X). Roof Opening: 14-1/4" x 14-1/4" (+/- 1/8"). Roof Cavity Depth: 2.0 In. Min to 5-1/2 In. Max. Duct Cross Sectional Area: 21.0 Sq. In. Min. Duct Size Depth: 1-1/2 In. Min to 2-1/2 In. Max. Duct Size Width: 7.0 In. Min to 10.0 In. Max. Total Duct Length: 15.0 Ft. Min to 40.0 Ft. Max. Register Free Air Area: 14.0 Sq. In.

Master Troubleshooting & Diagnostics Matrix

Error Code / IndicatorSymptom / MeaningStep-by-Step DIY FixSuggested Actions
N/A
Thermostat does not recognize system configuration changes or new zones
Possible Cause: System not reset after changing DIP switches on the electronic control module
Perform a system reset: ensure thermostat is in OFF mode, press MODE and ZONE buttons simultaneously until 'IniT' displays, then release and press ON/OFF.DIY Safe
N/A
Compressor quick cycling on the cold control, fuse or circuit breaker opening, and/or lack of cooling
Possible Cause: Improper installation and sealing of the divider plate allowing cold air discharge to circulate into the unit return air opening
Ensure proper installation and sealing of the divider plate using self-adhesive insulation to completely seal the divider plate to the sides of the roof opening.DIY Safe
N/A
Frost formation on the evaporator cooling coil, very cold output at very low air speed
Possible Cause: Dirty filter, obstructed air vents, or operating in relatively low outside temperatures
Inspect and clean dirty filters, ensure air vents are open and unobstructed, adjust thermostat control knob to a warmer setting (counter-clockwise), or operate on FAN ONLY setting until coil is free of frost.DIY Safe
N/A
Features do not work after installation
Possible Cause: Incorrect wiring or incorrect dip switch configuration
Disconnect 12 VDC and 120 VAC power supplies, verify all wiring is correct, ensure correct dip switches are turned ON, and perform a system reset.DIY Safe

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: MY ROOFTOP UNIT HAS THE ELECTRIC HEAT STRIP OPTION (NON-HEAT PUMP ELECTRIC HEAT OPTION), BUT WHEN IT GETS COLDER OUTSIDE IT DOESN’T SEEM TO MAINTAIN THE TEMPERATURE. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Electric heat strips are designed to take the chill out of the air inside your motorhome, but they are not intended to be the primary heat source for cold weather camping. When outdoor temperatures drop significantly, the heat loss of the motorhome typically exceeds the capacity of a standard electric heat strip.

Q: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A MOTORHOME AIR CONDITIONER?

An motorhome air conditioner helps maintain a comfortable indoor climate, reduces humidity levels inside the vehicle, and filters out dust and pollen, creating a more pleasant and healthy living space while traveling or camping.

Q: WHAT IS THE IDEAL AIR CONDITIONING TEMPERATURE?

The ideal indoor air conditioning temperature for an motorhome is generally between 70°F and 72°F (21°C to 22°C), balancing comfort and energy efficiency.

Q: WHAT MOTORHOME AC DO I NEED IN WARM LOCATIONS?

For extremely warm locations or larger motorhomes, a high-capacity rooftop air conditioner (such as a 13,500 BTU or 15,000 BTU unit) or a dual AC setup is recommended to adequately cool the space.

Q: HOW DOES MOTORHOME AIR CONDITIONING WORK?

Motorhome air conditioning works on the same principle as a standard home AC unit. It uses a refrigeration cycle involving a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator to absorb heat from the interior air and exhaust it outside, while blowing cooled air back into the motorhome.

Q: HOW TO RUN MY MOTORHOME AC WITH A GENERATOR?

To run your motorhome air conditioner with a generator, ensure the generator has sufficient running and starting wattage (surge wattage) to handle the compressor's startup load—typically a minimum of 2,000 to 3,000 watts depending on the AC unit size. Always start the generator and let it stabilize before turning on the air conditioner.

Q: HOW TO RUN MY MOTORHOME AIR CONDITIONER ON THE CAMPSITE?

To run your motorhome air conditioner at a campsite, connect your motorhome to an appropriate power pedestal (usually 30-amp or 50-amp service) matching your motorhomes electrical system requirements. Ensure other high-draw appliances are managed to avoid tripping the campsite breaker.