How to Find Your RV AC Model Number (and Order the Right Part the First Time)
Posted by RV AC Guys on 27th Oct 2026
Why the model number matters
Most RV air conditioner parts are model-specific. A shroud, fan motor, capacitor or thermostat that fits one unit can be the wrong size, voltage or connector for the unit next to it, even from the same brand. The fastest way to get the right part the first time is to start with the model number, not the brand name or a photo of the shroud.
Keep in mind that most RV air conditioners are two components with two different model numbers:
- The rooftop unit (compressor, coils, fan motor, capacitors, shroud).
- The ceiling assembly, also called the air distribution box or ADB (vents, filter, and on many units the controls).
Order rooftop parts by the rooftop model number and ceiling parts by the ceiling assembly model number.
A rooftop unit (left) and a ceiling assembly (right). Each has its own model number.
Safety first
Turn off shore power, the generator and the inverter before removing a shroud or ceiling grille. Capacitors can hold a charge even with the power off, so don't touch the wiring while you look for the label. Only go on the roof if it's dry and rated to walk on.
Coleman-Mach
According to Coleman-Mach (Airxcel):
- Ceiling assembly: remove the plastic grille. The model number sticker is on the metal framework above the grille.
- Mach and Mach 10 rooftop units: remove the shroud. The rating plate is on what would be the driver's side of the unit.
- Mach 8 rooftop units: remove the shroud. The rating plate is on top of the evaporator cover.
- Polar series: remove the shroud. The rating plate is on the shoulder between the evaporator and the fan motor.
Coleman-Mach's installation instructions also note a silver model and serial sticker on the bottom of the base pan, which you can often see from inside by lowering the ceiling assembly shroud.
Dometic
Dometic's manual for its current 15,000 BTU rooftop units gives two locations:
- Rooftop unit: the identification label is on the bottom of the base pan. Remove the return air grille to see it from inside.
- Ceiling assembly (ADB): the rating plate is on the ceiling template. Look through the filter opening.
That means you can usually read both Dometic model numbers from inside the RV, without climbing on the roof.
Furrion, GE, Advent and other brands
Most other brands follow the same pattern: a label on the rooftop unit (under the shroud or on the base pan) and a separate label on the ceiling assembly. Check from inside first by removing the return air grille and filter, then check under the shroud if you can't find it. Your owner's manual will show the exact spot for your model.
Tips for reading the label
- Take a photo of the whole label. You'll want the model number, serial number, BTU rating and refrigerant type.
- Write down any part numbers printed on the part itself. Capacitors, fan motors and thermostats often have their own part number on them, which helps when a unit has been repaired before.
- Don't go by the shroud alone. Shrouds get swapped for aftermarket ones, so the shroud's shape or logo may not match what's underneath.
- Note the thermostat. Write down its brand, model and whether it controls a furnace, heat strip or heat pump. It matters for thermostat and control board orders.
Can't find the label or can't read it?
Labels fade and peel, especially on older units. If yours is missing, contact us with photos of the rooftop unit with the shroud off, the ceiling assembly with the grille off, and any part numbers you can read. We'll help you identify it. If the unit turns out to be discontinued, see our guides to replacing a discontinued Coleman-Mach unit and replacing a discontinued Dometic Penguin II, Brisk II or Blizzard NXT.