Let’s Get Real About Mobile Home HVAC
Look, mobile homes have come a long way since the 70s. But when it comes to HVAC systems? I still see folks relying on window units, overworked space heaters, and undersized split systems that can barely cool a living room—let alone an entire trailer house.
I’ve installed hundreds of mobile home HVAC systems over the years. And here’s what I can tell you: whether you’ve got a single-wide, double-wide, or modular prefab, your comfort depends on choosing equipment that’s made for your space, installed the right way, and serviced by someone who knows mobile setups inside and out.
So let’s break down:
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What kind of air conditioning for mobile homes actually works
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The best options for mobile home HVAC units and package systems
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How to choose a mobile home air handler and furnace
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What’s the best heating and cooling system for mobile homes
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And how a 3-ton R-32 system might be your next best upgrade
What Makes Mobile Home HVAC Different?
If you’re new to manufactured or mobile home ownership, you might think you can just throw in the same central air unit your cousin put in his ranch house. But here's the deal:
“Mobile homes need HVAC systems that are specially built for tighter spaces, lighter construction, and ductwork that’s often more compact or shallow than in site-built homes.”
Key Mobile Home HVAC Differences:
| Feature | Mobile Home | Site-Built Home |
|---|---|---|
| Ductwork | Narrow, low-clearance | Deep and spacious |
| System Mounting | Downflow or package | Upflow or horizontal |
| Framing | Lighter, modular | Standard framing |
| Venting | Often in floor | Often in ceiling |
| Air Handler Size | Compact, vertical | Full-size or multi-position |
This means the AC in your mobile home has to fit tighter, cool faster, and run smarter—or else it’ll short cycle, break early, or just not do the job.
What Kind of Air Conditioning Works Best in a Mobile Home?
Let’s go through your options for mobile home air conditioning—from entry-level to high-efficiency.
🪟 Window Units (Bare Minimum)
Sure, mobile home window AC units might work for one room. But they’re noisy, inefficient, and don’t do anything for humidity control or even cooling. You’ll be running multiple units and still sweating by dinner.
Best for: Tiny single-wide homes or temporary use
Cost: $150–$600 per unit
Efficiency: Low (8–10 EER)
🌀 Ductless Mini-Splits
These work great for add-ons, sunrooms, or homes with no ductwork. But they cost more up front, and most mobile homes already have ducts in place—so you might not need this level of retrofit.
Best for: Non-ducted homes or zoned cooling
Cost: $3,500–$7,000+
Efficiency: High (16–20+ SEER2)
👉 Want more info? Energy.gov breaks down ductless systems here
❄️ Central Air Conditioner for Mobile Home (Split System)
If your mobile home already has ducts (most do), a 3 ton mobile home air conditioner in a split system setup is your best long-term choice. It uses a mobile home furnace and air handler inside and a condenser outside. You’ll get strong, efficient cooling with excellent humidity control.
Best for: Double-wides, large single-wides
Cost: $5,000–$8,000 installed
Efficiency: Medium to high (14–17 SEER2)
Check out the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Bundle for a great example of a mobile-home-friendly split system.
📦 3 Ton AC Heat Pump or Gas Package Unit for Mobile Homes
If you want the simplest install—and all your ductwork is underneath or already set up for downflow—go with a 3 ton package unit for mobile homes.
You get:
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One box outside that handles both heating and cooling
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Fewer parts to maintain
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Easy access for repairs
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Works great with underfloor ducts
Best for: Minimalist installs, roof or pad-mounted systems
Cost: $4,500–$9,000 installed
Efficiency: 14–16 SEER2
👉 Need help choosing a package system? Mobile Home Parts Store has a solid guide here
How Big Should Your Mobile Home HVAC System Be?
You’re going to hear all sorts of formulas out there, but here’s a rough cheat sheet from my years in the field:
| Home Size | Recommended Tonnage |
|---|---|
| 600–900 sq ft | 1.5 – 2 tons |
| 900–1200 sq ft | 2 – 2.5 tons |
| 1200–1600 sq ft | 2.5 – 3 tons |
| 1600–2000 sq ft | 3 – 3.5 tons |
So if you’ve got a double-wide mobile home, chances are a 3 ton mobile home AC unit is your best bet—especially if you’re in the South or Southwest.
What About Mobile Home Furnaces and Air Handlers?
Don’t skimp here. Your mobile home furnace and AC need to be properly matched. Most modern mobile homes have electric furnaces with integrated blowers, but you can also go with gas, oil, or heat pump air handlers depending on your setup.
If your system is more than 15 years old or your mobile home HVAC system came with the house, it might be underpowered or mismatched. Get it checked before dropping in a new condenser.
👉 Mobile Homes Ideas covers mobile home furnace options
Why R-32 Refrigerant Makes a Difference in Mobile Homes
The Goodman system mentioned earlier uses R-32 refrigerant instead of outdated R-410A. Why does that matter?
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🧊 It’s 30% more efficient at heat transfer
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🌎 It has a global warming potential (GWP) 70% lower than R-410A
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💸 It requires less refrigerant, which lowers install cost
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🧰 It’s easier to service with future regulations in mind
When space, airflow, and noise control are critical—as they are in mobile homes—R-32 gives you a quieter, faster-cooling, and more environmentally friendly performance.
How Much Does It Cost to Install HVAC in a Mobile Home?
Here’s a real breakdown of what you might spend on mobile home HVAC installation:
| System Type | Equipment | Installation | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window Units (2–3) | $300–$900 | DIY | $300–$900 |
| Mini-Split | $2,500–$5,500 | $1,000–$2,000 | $4,000–$7,000 |
| Split System (3 Ton) | $3,000–$5,000 | $2,000–$3,500 | $5,000–$8,500 |
| Package Unit | $3,500–$6,000 | $1,500–$3,000 | $5,000–$9,000 |
Things that affect price:
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Ductwork condition
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Whether you need electrical upgrades
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Whether it's a new install or replacement
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Access for pad or rooftop placement
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Local code and permit fees
Tony’s Maintenance Tips for Mobile Home AC Units
Want your system to last 10–15 years? Do this:
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Clean your air filters monthly
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Wash the outside condenser every spring
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Get a pro tune-up once a year
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Keep the area around your AC package unit clear of leaves, mulch, and fencing
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Make sure supply registers are unobstructed—mobile homes are notorious for furniture blocking airflow
Bilingual Note: Aire Acondicionado para Mobile Homes
For our Spanish-speaking friends:
¿Busca un aire acondicionado para mobile home? Lo más importante es elegir una unidad que sea del tamaño adecuado para su casa móvil y que funcione bien con su sistema de calefacción actual. Los sistemas divididos y los paquetes de 3 toneladas son opciones confiables, dependiendo de su clima y espacio disponible.
👉 Aquí puede leer más sobre opciones de calefacción y refrigeración eficientes en Energy Star
Tony’s Final Word: Get the Right Size, the Right Setup, and the Right Crew
Here’s what it boils down to:
“The best heating and cooling system for mobile homes isn’t about brand names or high-end tech—it’s about getting a system that’s sized right, built for your layout, and installed by someone who gives a damn.”
If you’re looking for a dependable, energy-efficient system for your manufactured home, I highly recommend starting with something like the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Bundle. It’s got everything you need: the blower, the coil, the outdoor unit—matched and ready for modern mobile home ductwork.
No fluff, no overpriced bells and whistles—just solid performance.
Until next time—stay cool, stay smart, and check those filters. – Tony Marino
