Furrion Chill Cube 18K BTU RV AC: A Deep Dive into its Power-Saving Feature

The Furrion Chill Cube 18K BTU RV AC is making waves in the RV community, and for good reason. In this comprehensive review, we'll dissect its innovative power-saving feature, performance, and overall value. Join us as we delve into the specifications and capabilities that make this AC unit a potential game-changer for RVers looking to optimize their power consumption. Big Truck Big RV explores this unit in detail, and we're here to break down the tech. Let's get started.

Overview of the Furrion Chill Cube 18K BTU

The Furrion Chill Cube is not your average RV AC unit. As Big Truck Big RV points out, it was designed around the concept of a high-end window unit but ruggedized for the demanding environment of an RV. What sets it apart is its variable speed functionality and, most notably, the ability to limit its power draw to 50% or 75% capacity. This is an immense benefit for RVers who frequently find themselves in situations with limited power, such as when running on a generator or using shore power with amperage restrictions.

BTBRV notes that the unit they are testing is installed in a "Forest River Ibex Black Canyon Edition RV." This particular unit also includes a heat pump, adding to its versatility and making it suitable for use in a wider range of climates. The inclusion of both ducted and direct dump options allows for flexible installation and targeted cooling, enhancing user comfort.

Power Management and the "Gear" Feature

The standout feature of the Furrion Chill Cube is its ability to adjust power consumption. By using the "gear" button on the remote, users can limit the unit's power draw to 50% or 75% of its maximum capacity. This functionality addresses a common problem in RVs: the high startup surge and continuous power draw of traditional AC units, which can easily trip breakers or overwhelm generators. According to Big Truck Big RV, the unit can be throttled from its maximum draw of 1500W to around 750W.

As demonstrated in the video, reducing the power draw doesn't completely sacrifice cooling performance. The AC unit continues to blow a substantial amount of air, maintaining a comfortable environment while consuming significantly less power. This is particularly useful for maintaining climate control while the RV is in storage or when using a small generator.

Big Truck Big RV emphasizes the importance of this feature by highlighting how it allows the AC to run even on a small 2000W generator, leaving ample power for other appliances. This level of control offers RVers unparalleled flexibility in managing their power resources.

Real-World Performance and Installation

Big Truck Big RV has installed four of these Furrion Chill Cube units and reports consistently positive performance. One notable installation was in a "Forest River Surveyor" which continues to perform flawlessly. The presenter emphasizes that the tested unit was specifically requested for its features and ability to handle the intense Texas heat, further reinforcing its reliability.

The unit's variable speed compressor is another key advantage. Unlike traditional RV AC units that cycle on and off, the Furrion Chill Cube ramps up gradually, avoiding the high startup surge that can strain electrical systems. This smooth operation not only reduces the risk of tripping breakers but also contributes to quieter operation, enhancing the overall RV experience.

Installation is also made more flexible with the unit’s compatibility with both ducted and non-ducted systems. The direct dump feature allows for immediate cooling of a specific area, while the ducted system provides more even cooling throughout the RV.

Remote Control and User Experience

While the Furrion Chill Cube may not integrate directly with a traditional RV thermostat, its remote control offers a comprehensive set of features. The remote allows users to adjust fan speed, temperature, and mode (auto, cool, dry, fan, heat pump) from anywhere in the RV. Big Truck Big RV argues that this can be advantageous, as the remote effectively acts as a portable thermostat, allowing users to control the climate from their preferred location.

The remote also includes a "turbo" mode for maximum cooling power and a "sleep" mode for quiet, energy-efficient operation during the night. The intuitive interface and comprehensive controls make the Furrion Chill Cube easy to use, even for those who are not tech-savvy.

Additional Considerations and Value

Big Truck Big RV mentions the Hughes Autoformer as a valuable addition to any RV electrical system. Although not directly related to the Furrion Chill Cube, the Autoformer provides surge protection and voltage boosting, ensuring a stable power supply for all RV appliances. The ability to monitor power usage via a smartphone app adds another layer of control and convenience.

Given its advanced features and energy-saving capabilities, the Furrion Chill Cube represents a significant upgrade over traditional RV AC units. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term benefits of reduced power consumption and enhanced comfort make it a worthwhile investment for serious RVers. Big Truck Big RV notes that the price of the Chill Cube has come down considerably since its initial release, making it even more accessible.

Key Takeaways

Adjustable Power Consumption: The ability to limit power draw to 50% or 75% is a game-changer for RVers with limited power resources.
Variable Speed Compressor: Reduces startup surge and ensures smoother, quieter operation.
Remote Control with Multiple Modes: Offers convenient and comprehensive control over climate settings.
Ducted and Direct Dump Options: Provides flexible installation and targeted cooling.
Reliable Performance: Big Truck Big RV reports consistently positive experiences with multiple installations.
Potential Savings: Reduced power consumption can save money on generator fuel and electricity bills.

Conclusion

The Furrion Chill Cube 18K BTU RV AC is more than just an air conditioner; it's a smart power management solution for the modern RVer. With its adjustable power consumption, variable speed compressor, and comprehensive remote control, this unit offers unparalleled flexibility and control over your RV's climate. If you're looking to upgrade your AC system and optimize your power usage, the Furrion Chill Cube is definitely worth considering. Be sure to watch Big Truck Big RV's full video for a more in-depth look at this innovative product.