13,500 BTU High-Efficiency • R32 Refrigerant • Heat Pump to 25°F • Replaces 15K Models
The GE GRHS13XHHW represents the cutting edge of RV climate technology—a high-efficiency 13,500 BTU heat pump that delivers the same cooling power as older 15,000 BTU units while using less energy. Thanks to advanced R32 refrigerant technology, improved motor efficiency, and optimized airflow design, this unit provides equivalent performance to the ARH15AACW it replaces while drawing the same 20 amps and fitting the same roof opening.
This isn't just an air conditioner—it's a complete year-round climate solution combining powerful cooling with heat pump capabilities down to 25°F. The eco-friendly R32 refrigerant reduces global warming potential by 70% compared to R410A while maintaining zero ozone depletion. Built with GE's legendary durability—corrosion-resistant coatings, heavy-duty motor supports, reinforced screw holes, and extensive vibration testing—this unit delivers whisper-quiet operation thanks to sound-dampening rubber grommets while the UV-resistant white polymer shroud maintains its glossy appearance season after season.
Direct replacement for: ARH15AACW, ARH15AACB (R410A heat pump models - delivers equivalent cooling with improved efficiency)
13.5K BTU matches old 15K performance through improved R32 technology and motor efficiency
Provides supplemental heating down to 25°F, extending propane usage by 19-38% at 35°F
R32 refrigerant dramatically reduces environmental impact while maintaining powerful performance
Sound-dampening grommets minimize noise and vibration for peaceful RV living
You MUST purchase an upgrade kit to complete installation: REQUIRED Upgrade Kit (choose one): • RVACS-NKITW (Non-ducted, white) - Includes RGREC3A control box, RGRWT2W thermostat, RGREN1A ceiling assembly • RVACS-NKITB (Non-ducted, black) - Includes RGREC3A control box, RGRWT2B thermostat, RGREN1A ceiling assembly • RVACS-DKITW (Ducted, white) - Includes RGREC3A control box, RGRWT2W thermostat, RGRED1A ceiling assembly • RVACS-DKITB (Ducted, black) - Includes RGREC3A control box, RGRWT2B thermostat, RGRED1A ceiling assembly ⚠️ OLDER R410A AIR CONDITIONER COMPONENTS ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH R32 MODELS If upgrading from ARH15AACW or ARH15AACB, your existing controls, thermostat, and ceiling assembly will NOT work. The R32 system uses different electronics, wiring, and refrigerant that require completely new components.
This GRHS13XHHW high-efficiency R32 heat pump unit is the direct replacement for the following discontinued ARH models: Replaces (delivers equivalent cooling performance): • ARH15AACW (15,000 BTU, White, R410A Heat Pump) • ARH15AACB (15,000 BTU, Black, R410A Heat Pump) Note: Despite the lower 13,500 BTU rating, improved R32 efficiency and advanced motor design provide equivalent cooling to the 15,000 BTU ARH models while using the same power. Also Known As: GE High-Efficiency RV Air Conditioner with Heat Pump, GRHS13 Series, R32 Heat Pump AC
13.5K vs 15K BTU: This high-efficiency 13,500 BTU unit replaces older 15,000 BTU ARH models through improved R32 technology. While the BTU rating is lower, actual cooling performance is equivalent due to enhanced efficiency. If you need maximum cooling for very large RVs (40+ feet) or extreme climates, consider the GRHS15XAHW (15K BTU with R32). Heat Pump vs Cool-Only: This GRHS model includes a HEAT PUMP for year-round climate control. If you only need cooling, the GRCS13XHHW (cool-only high-efficiency R32 model) costs less. Power Requirements: Requires dedicated 20-amp circuit at 120V—same as the ARH15 models it replaces. Verify your electrical system capacity. Climate Suitability: Heat pump works down to 25°F but becomes less efficient below freezing. You'll still need your propane furnace as primary heat source in extreme cold.
Professional Installation Strongly Recommended Installation Steps: 1. Order Upgrade Kit: Purchase correct RVACS kit for your system (ducted/non-ducted, white/black) 2. Remove Old Unit: Disconnect power, remove existing AC and all incompatible R410A components 3. Install Control Box: Mount new RGREC3A control box using EZ Install design 4. Install Ceiling Assembly: Attach RGREN1A (non-ducted) or RGRED1A (ducted) ceiling assembly 5. Mount AC Unit: Position GRHS13XHHW on roof, secure with mounting bolts, seal properly 6. Wire Connections: Complete electrical connections per wiring diagram—R32 systems use different wiring 7. Install Thermostat: Mount RGRWT2W/B thermostat, configure heat pump settings 8. Test Both Modes: Verify cooling AND heating operation on all fan speeds 9. Check Auto Defrost: Confirm automatic defrost engages properly during heat pump operation 10. Final Seal: Apply weatherproof sealant, check for leaks
In The Box: • GRHS13XHHW Rooftop Air Conditioner with Heat Pump • Pre-Installed Roof Compression Gasket • Mounting Hardware (Bolts/Screws) • Installation Instructions • Owner's Manual • Warranty Documentation NOT Included (Must Purchase Separately): • Upgrade Kit (RVACS-NKITW, RVACS-NKITB, RVACS-DKITW, or RVACS-DKITB) - REQUIRED • Control Box (RGREC3A) - Included in upgrade kit • Ceiling Assembly - Included in upgrade kit • Thermostat (RGRWT2W/B) - Included in upgrade kit • Roof Sealant
Bottom Line: The GRHS13 high-efficiency model delivers equivalent cooling to the GRHS15 for most RVs through improved R32 technology. Choose GRHS13 for RVs up to 35 feet or to replace ARH15 models. Choose GRHS15 for very large motorhomes (40+ feet) or extreme climates where maximum BTU capacity is needed.
Download the GE GRHS13XHHW Heat Pump RV AC Owner's Manual Technical Support: GE Appliances Customer Service Phone: 1-800-GE-CARES (1-800-432-2737) Hours: Monday-Friday 8AM-8PM EST Warranty Information: 2-Year Limited Manufacturer's Warranty Covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use Warranty is transferable to new RV owners Product Support Page: www.geappliances.com
A: The GRHS13XHHW uses advanced R32 refrigerant technology and an optimized high-efficiency motor design that delivers equivalent cooling performance to older 15,000 BTU R410A units despite the lower BTU rating. R32 has superior thermodynamic properties and heat transfer efficiency compared to R410A. Combined with improved compressor design, better airflow management, and enhanced motor efficiency, the 13,500 BTU R32 system matches the cooling capacity of 15,000 BTU R410A systems while using the same 20 amps of power. This is similar to how LED bulbs provide the same light as incandescent bulbs at lower wattage. For most RVs up to 35 feet, the GRHS13XHHW provides all the cooling you need. For very large motorhomes over 40 feet or extreme desert climates, consider the GRHS15XAHW (15K BTU with R32) for maximum capacity.
A: No, the GRHS13XHHW uses R32 refrigerant and requires completely new controls that are NOT compatible with your old ARH15AACW R410A components. The R32 system operates at different pressures, uses different wiring protocols, and requires specific electronics designed for R32 refrigerant and heat pump operation. You MUST purchase an upgrade kit (RVACS-NKITW for white non-ducted, RVACS-DKITW for white ducted) which includes the new RGREC3A control box, RGRWT2W thermostat, and appropriate ceiling assembly (RGREN1A or RGRED1A). None of your existing ARH controls, ceiling assembly, or thermostat can be reused. This is a complete system replacement—budget $400-550 for the required upgrade kit components.
A: Both units use R32 refrigerant, both have heat pumps down to 25°F, both draw 20 amps, and both weigh 78 lbs. The main differences: (1) BTU rating - 13,500 vs 15,000, (2) Cooling capacity - the GRHS13 high-efficiency design delivers equivalent cooling to older 15K models for most RVs, while the GRHS15 provides true 15K BTU capacity for maximum cooling in extreme conditions, (3) Best use - GRHS13 is ideal for travel trailers and Class C motorhomes up to 35 feet and perfectly replaces ARH15 models; GRHS15 is better for large Class A motorhomes 40+ feet or extreme desert climates, (4) Price - GRHS13 typically costs slightly less. For 90% of RVers replacing an ARH15, the GRHS13XHHW provides all the cooling needed while saving money. Only choose GRHS15 if you have a very large RV or consistently camp in 110°F+ temperatures.
A: At 35°F outdoor temperature, the heat pump extends propane usage by 19-38% (based on 20,000-40,000 BTU furnaces at 75% efficiency). In practical terms: if you normally burn 2 gallons of propane per day heating your RV, the heat pump reduces that to 1.2-1.6 gallons—saving 0.4-0.8 gallons daily. At $3-4 per gallon, that's $1.20-3.20 saved per day, or $36-96 per month of cold-weather camping. The heat pump works most efficiently between 35-50°F where you need heating but conditions aren't extreme. Between 25-35°F, efficiency decreases but you still save propane. Below 25°F, the system automatically switches to furnace-only mode. For snowbirds spending winters in moderate climates (southern states, coastal areas), the heat pump typically pays for its premium cost within 2-3 years through propane savings.
A: The RVACS upgrade kit includes three essential components: (1) RGREC3A control box - the electronic brain designed specifically for R32 refrigerant systems with different operating pressures and control logic than R410A, (2) RGRWT2W/B digital thermostat - programmed for heat pump operation including defrost cycles, mode switching, and temperature management, (3) RGREN1A or RGRED1A ceiling assembly - designed for R32 system airflow and mounting requirements. You need the upgrade kit because R32 and R410A are fundamentally different refrigerants operating at different pressures with different thermodynamic properties. Using old R410A controls with R32 refrigerant would cause system failure, potential safety hazards, and immediate warranty void. The wiring harnesses, communication protocols, and sensor calibrations are all different between the systems. Think of it like trying to use a diesel engine control module on a gasoline engine—they're incompatible at a fundamental level.
A: Yes, the GRHS13XHHW works fine on 30-amp RV service. It draws a maximum of 20 amps, leaving 10 amps available for other devices. However, you cannot run high-draw appliances simultaneously with the AC. Avoid using the microwave (12-15 amps), electric water heater (12 amps), or second air conditioner while the heat pump is running. On 50-amp service, you have two separate 50-amp legs providing plenty of power to run the AC plus other appliances without load management concerns. Power management tips for 30-amp RVs: (1) Switch water heater to gas mode when running AC, (2) Don't use microwave when AC is running, (3) Avoid running multiple high-draw devices simultaneously, (4) Consider an energy management system to automatically shed loads. Both cooling mode and heat pump mode draw the same 20 amps, so these restrictions apply year-round.
A: Yes, the GRHS13XHHW is perfect for a 32-foot travel trailer. The high-efficiency design with R32 refrigerant provides equivalent cooling to older 15,000 BTU units, which is more than adequate for RVs up to 35 feet. Factors that confirm this will work well: (1) Modern RVs have better insulation than older models, (2) R32's superior heat transfer efficiency means each BTU works harder, (3) Improved motor design moves air more effectively, (4) The unit you're replacing (likely an ARH15 at 15K BTU) was probably oversized anyway. The only situations where you might want the GRHS15 instead are: very large Class A motorhomes 40+ feet, RVs with poor insulation, lots of windows, or dark exterior colors, or consistent camping in extreme heat (110°F+ desert conditions). For your 32-foot trailer in normal conditions, the GRHS13XHHW will keep you perfectly comfortable while saving you money on the purchase price.
A: While experienced DIYers can install this unit, professional installation is strongly recommended for heat pump systems, especially when upgrading from R410A to R32. Here's why: (1) R32 systems use different wiring protocols and control logic than R410A—one wrong connection can damage expensive components, (2) Heat pump systems are more complex than cool-only units with additional wiring for reversing valves and defrost sensors, (3) Proper refrigerant handling requires EPA certification—R32 is a different refrigerant class than R410A, (4) The 78-lb unit requires careful roof work—falls cause serious injuries, (5) Improper installation voids the warranty. If you do self-install: follow ALL wiring diagrams precisely, use proper sealant application to prevent roof leaks, test both cooling and heating modes thoroughly, verify all electrical connections meet code requirements. Most RV service centers or mobile technicians charge $400-600 for complete installation including removal of the old unit, which often proves worthwhile given the complexity and warranty protection.
A: The GRHS13XHHW includes a 2-year limited manufacturer's warranty from GE Appliances covering defects in materials and workmanship. Covered components include: compressor, reversing valve (heat pump component), fan motors, control boards, structural components, and all factory-installed parts. The warranty is transferable when you sell your RV. To maintain coverage: (1) Register the product with GE within 90 days of purchase, (2) Keep all receipts and installation documentation, (3) Use authorized GE service centers for warranty repairs, (4) Follow proper installation procedures per the manual. NOT covered by warranty: improper installation (use a qualified technician), power surge damage (always use an RV surge protector), operating with wrong refrigerant or incompatible controls, refrigerant leaks caused by road vibration or impact damage, cosmetic damage to the shroud from hail or debris, normal wear items, or damage from operation outside specified voltage/temperature ranges. Professional installation is recommended as improper installation is the most common reason for warranty denial.
A: Choose the GRHS13XHHW heat pump if: (1) You camp in temperatures between 25-60°F where heating is needed—spring, fall, or winter camping, (2) You want to significantly reduce propane consumption (savings of 1-2 gallons per day in moderate cold), (3) You're concerned about running low on propane during extended trips or boondocking, (4) You're a full-time RVer or snowbird needing year-round climate control, (5) You frequently camp in shoulder seasons when days are warm but nights are cool, (6) You want the flexibility of heating without running your sometimes-noisy furnace. Choose the GRCS13XHHW cool-only if: (1) You only camp in warm/hot weather (summer only, southern states year-round), (2) You have unlimited propane access and aren't concerned about consumption, (3) Budget is your primary concern—cool-only costs $200-400 less, (4) You rarely need heating or prefer using your propane furnace exclusively. The heat pump typically pays for itself within 2-3 years for regular users through propane savings, making it an excellent investment for four-season RVers.