Whether you’re living the van life, building an overland rig, or converting a bus or trailer, staying off-grid no longer means sacrificing comfort. Thanks to smart electrical design and Victron Energy equipment, you can run powerful rooftop A/C systems—on 12V, 24V, or 48V setups—without needing constant shore power or noisy generators.
The Foundation: A Victron-Powered Electrical System
When it comes to mobile off-grid energy, Victron Energy is the gold standard. Here’s what a solid system might include:
Victron MPPT Charge Controller – to efficiently pull every watt from your solar panels
Victron Multiplus or Quattro Inverter/Charger – powerful enough to handle A/C loads and charge batteries from shore or generator
SmartShunt / BMV Monitor – gives precise insights into energy usage and battery health
Lithium Battery Bank (LiFePO4) – for long-lasting, high-output storage
Cerbo GX + Touch Display – a centralized brain to monitor and control everything
This kind of setup ensures your energy system is not just functional—but future-proof and flexible.
Rooftop A/C Units for Off-Grid Use: 12V, 24V, and 48V Options
🔹 48V A/C Units
Integrates seamlessly with 48V Victron systems, reducing wiring losses
Best-in-class for efficiency and performance
Ideal for full-timers, hot climates, and large battery banks
Can run true A/C (10,000–12,000+ BTUs) for extended periods with proper solar + lithium
Best-in-class for efficiency and performance
Ideal for full-timers, hot climates, and large battery banks
Can run true A/C (10,000–12,000+ BTUs) for extended periods with proper solar + lithium
The evolution of DC-powered A/C units has changed the off-grid game. Unlike traditional 120V rooftop units, these run directly from your battery bank, eliminating inverter inefficiencies and startup surges.
Here’s a quick breakdown of voltage tiers:
🔹 12V A/C Units
Best for smaller vehicles and minimal use
Lower efficiency and limited BTU output (~6,000–8,000 BTUs)
Pairs well with basic systems or weekend warriors
Example brands: Nomadic Cooling 1000, Fresair (evaporative), Cruise N Comfort
🔹 24V A/C Units
Requires a 24V battery bank or a Victron DC-DC converter
A great middle-ground for mid-size rigs or moderate climates
Better efficiency, with systems handling 8,000–10,000 BTUs
Real-World Design Considerations:
When installing a rooftop A/C system in your mobile rig, here are key questions to answer:
How many hours per day do you want to run the A/C?
What’s your total solar wattage and battery capacity?
What voltage are your batteries configured for?
Pro tip: Higher voltage = better efficiency. If you’re starting from scratch, consider a 48V lithium bank and DC A/C to minimize conversion losses and maximize runtime.
Why Tech Matters: Smart Energy = Real Freedom
Off-grid cooling isn’t just about comfort—it’s about control. When your system is designed with intelligent tech like Victron’s Cerbo GX and monitored in real-time, you’re no longer guessing. You’re mastering your energy use.
This approach:
Reduces generator reliance
Enables stealth camping
Extends your range (no shore tie needed)
Adds long-term value to your build
Ready to Go Off-Grid?
At JackCraft Ventures, we help you plan and build mobile electrical systems that work. Whether you’re building out your first van or scaling up to a 48V powerhouse, we design with Victron-grade reliability and real-world needs in mind.
Book a consultation today to start designing your off-grid electrical and cooling system.
JackCraft Ventures LLC 