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Home > Industry News > How to Choose Parking Air Conditioner for Truck: Rooftop VS. Split?

How to Choose Parking Air Conditioner for Truck: Rooftop VS. Split?

May 30, 2025

During summer transportation, the heat inside a parked truck can become unbearable. Running the engine to power the cabin air conditioner leads to higher fuel consumption and engine carbon deposits. Therefore, parking air conditioners have become the preferred choice for many truck drivers.

1. Why Parking Air Conditioners Matter

Modern trucks often offer optional parking air conditioners from the factory, and aftermarket specialists like Anchor Group provide retrofit solutions for any model. These systems cool the cab without idling, saving fuel and reducing engine wear.

2. Rooftop vs. Split: The Two Main Types

The two most common parking cooler designs are rooftop and split systems. Each has distinct power supply options, installation requirements, and performance characteristics.

2.1 Rooftop Parking Cooler

Pros:

Simple installation, high integration

– One-piece design: all components sit on the roof of the cab, ensuring the full space of the cabin
– Pre‑installed sunroof models avoid additional drilling, preserving cab sealing and structure.

Cons:

Louder noise and more expensive

– Integrated compressor on the roof generates more noise during operation.
– Typically higher unit cost than split systems.

Limited flexibility

– A failure in any part often means servicing or replacing the entire rooftop unit.

2.2 Split Parking Cooler

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Pros:

Stronger cooling performance

– Indoor evaporator sits nearer to the driver; outdoor condenser can be larger for extra power.

Quiet operation

– Compressor and condenser are installed outside, keeping the cab noise to a minimum.

Lower initial cost

– Separate components usually make the split system more affordable.

Cons:

More complex installation

– Drilling holes to run refrigerant lines between indoor and outdoor units can be time-consuming and causes greater damage to the cab.

Potential leak points

– Additional refrigerant connections increase the chance of leaks if not installed properly. Furthermore, the perforated areas may be excessively worn and leaked due to long-term exposure to wind and sun, affecting the sealing of the cab.

3. Choosing the Right System for Your Needs

Situation Recommended System
Budget-friendly & fast install Rooftop
Quiet comfort & modular service Split
Long-haul sleepers needing low noise Split
Day-cab or occasional cooling Rooftop

4. Best Practices for Aftermarket Installation

1. Select established brands and companies:

    • Anchor Group products meet global safety and quality standards.

2. Use certified workshops:

    • Ensure HVAC-certified technicians handle refrigerant and structural modifications.

3. Confirm power requirements:

    • Some units run off chassis batteries, others need auxiliary power packs or diesel generators.

Conclusion

When selecting a truck parking air conditioner, balance your budget, noise tolerance, and installation preferences. Whether you opt for the integrated ease of a rooftop unit or the quiet power of a split system, choose trusted suppliers like Anchor Group and qualified installers to ensure reliable performance.




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