I think I'm going to end up swapping out my front AC unit while we're travelling these next couple months. I've been reading past posts regarding the Penguin IIs and have a few oustanding questions before I pull the trigger:
1) Is anyone running their Penguin IIs with the original 5 button thermostat? I have read some comments where the poster had to also upgrade the thermostat but it wasn't clear if they had a 4-button or a 5-button. I'd like to retain my MicroAir EasyTouch 357 which is a direct replacement for the 5-button
2) Besides faster cooling, what're the practical implications of sizing up to a 15k BTU unit? Bigger footprint on the roof? Louder inside?
3) I don't need to replace both units at the same time when using the Penguin IIs, correct? My rear AC was already replaced at some point so it's only the front that needs to be upgraded.
I want the low profile nature of the Penguins, and I want to be able to do this fast since I'm travelling, which is the reason I'm not considering the Furrions instead.
Same footprint. I didn't have to change anything other than matching up the dip switches on the new unit with the old. The boards had already been changed to the newer model when the later thermostat was installed by the PO. I could see a problem with the units not having the same control board but don't know for sure. This is the thermostat that came in the coach when we bought it.
Amazon.com: DOMETIC 3314082000 Thermostat : Automotive (https://www.amazon.com/Dometic-3314082000-Thermostat/dp/B00CXB7BVU/ref=asc_df_B00CXB7BVU/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=343220073358&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8903421825479183008&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9033176&hvtargid=pla-569484818334&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=71715066689&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=343220073358&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8903421825479183008&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9033176&hvtargid=pla-569484818334)
I forgot to answer the part about cooling. It does cool better than the 13.5k.
Elliot, As I understand it, you will need to purchase the thermostat shown by Craneman. Your 357 stat would change to 350. So new thermostat will be needed.
And, the other AC will need a new board as well.
I would consult more learned persons than myself but this is what I have heard so far. Seems there is no desire by manufactures to make new stuff backward compatible.
When we bought our MH last year, both roof airs had just been upgraded to these units, and both were upgraded to 15k. We can literally hang meat inside if we want to. And in the hot/humid deep south greatly appreciate this feature of our unit. I usually just run 1 and alternate between the two, but if incredibly hot will run both just to get it cool quicker. Noise wise, we hardly hear them at all during the day, at night everything wakes me, but doesnt seem to bother my wife at all even if I run the one near the bedroom.
Footprint on the roof? as I was not able to compare as I never saw the old ones but am familiar with them. all I can say is to me they look normal size but flatter for a roof unit. As for the Thermostat I use is the same one that Crane lied you to but ours is white.
Elliott, we have the Dometic 15ks on our coach and still run the 5 button thermostat. These are original units and a little noisier than the new ones. Have considered upgrading to the Furrions like Jeff did and really like their technology, but I understand where you are coming from. I did upgrade all 3 units with Soft Starts and after 1.5 years, had 2 fail. However, will be installing the new ones sent to us by Soft Start, no charge! However, I would consider any repairs while parked rather then on a trip. Just my 2 cents worth!
I got so annoyed at our 4-button thermostat. It functioned, but it was impossible for me to see without reading glasses.
I looked at replacement thermostats like the 357, which led to looking at boards, which led to replacing all of it with the Furrions. I know that is beyond the scope of your post, but it was the route we chose.
Two 15K units was a sure thing for us. With the old units and the dash air, it would get pretty hot inside when it is sunny and over 100 outside. We had a couple of miserable days last year. We were parked and broadside to the sun. With the awnings out, it was still in the mid-90s inside. We have not tested the new units under similar circumstances, but I am confident with new ACs, a bigger rear one, and the increased efficiency we will be more comfortable.
I love the challenge of repairing problems efficiently and effectively, and with minimum cost. I also sometimes enjoy just surrendering, and replacing the whole mess with new and fancy stuff.
I replaced my rear 13500/heat pump Penguin II with a 15000/HP last August. I updated a 5 button Thermostat with the Dometic 10 button one. I also had to r/p the board in the front a/c.
The new one lost all freon this month so I am waiting on a new one to be delivered. It was a major all of a sudden hiss and all was gone.
I put the larger one in hoping for it not to have to work so hard here in the south.
Good luck and my two cents
Ron
Elliot, I wrote this last year A/C recommendations (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=43063.msg432890#msg432890)
When I was looking for a FT, there were two coaches we were considering- one had the original units and the other had almost new Dometic Penguin 2s. The one with the originals did work but wasn't as quick to cool or as cold as the Penguins. After a few weeks of having the FT, they have worked fantastic and will freeze you out, even here in Texas summer. I'm very pleased with them. They do have the heat strip but I haven't used that yet.
My opinion has not changed. I do have the same thermostat that craneman linked in post 2. I cannot comment on footprint since it was already upgraded. Noise-wise, when my wife is cooking in the kitchen and the AC is above her, it can be a little difficult for her to hear us when on the couch or chairs., so we may have to repeat or talk a bit louder,. But when we on the couch/chairs, there is not an issue talking to each other or watching TV.
It sounds like there are a few that have these. If noise is a concern, maybe someone who has these is near where you're traveling and you can check them out.