Roof Air Conditioner Gasket Reminder for RV Owners
After the first major rain of the season, many RV owners are surprised to discover water leaking from the interior ceiling assembly of their roof air conditioner. This is one of the most common—and preventable—sources of RV water intrusion.

Why RV Air Conditioner Gaskets Fail
Over time, the weight of the rooftop air conditioner compresses the foam gasket that seals the unit to the roof. As the gasket compresses and ages, normal driving vibrations and road movement can cause the seal to loosen. Once this happens, rainwater finds an easy path into the RV.
Common signs of a failing AC gasket include:
- Ceiling stains around the air conditioner
- Moisture or dripping from the interior AC shroud
- Soft or discolored ceiling material
- Musty odors after rain
Left unaddressed, a small leak can quickly turn into costly roof, ceiling, and structural damage.

Is Gasket Replacement Always Necessary?
Not always. If the gasket is still in good condition, the issue is often caused by a loose air conditioner mounting system rather than a failed gasket.
In many cases, the problem can be corrected by:
- Removing the interior AC cover
- Properly torquing the mounting bolts to manufacturer specifications
- Re-establishing uniform pressure on the gasket
This is why regular inspections are critical.

Recommended Inspection Schedule
For new RVs, we recommend:
- Inspecting and/or tightening roof air conditioner mounting bolts every six months for the first two years
- This allows the gasket to properly settle as it compresses under the AC’s weight
After that period, inspections should still be part of your annual RV maintenance routine.

When Gasket Replacement Is Required
If the gasket shows signs of:
- Cracking
- Severe compression
- Deterioration
- Water saturation
Then professional replacement is necessary. Replacing a roof AC gasket involves safely removing or lifting the air conditioner, protecting the roof membrane, installing the correct OEM or approved gasket, and reinstalling the unit to precise torque specifications. Improper installation can lead to leaks, roof damage, or AC performance issues.
Trust the Professionals
At California RV Specialists, we specialize in RV roof inspections, leak prevention, and air conditioner gasket replacement. Our technicians know what to look for and how to correct issues before they turn into major repairs.
Protect your RV, your investment, and your travel plans—schedule a roof air conditioner inspection today.
Visit Our Website for More Information
Be sure to visit our website for details on AC gasket replacement, roof air conditioner installations, system upgrades, and adding a second roof air conditioner to your RV.
Visit California RV Specialists
California RV Specialists
200 S. Cherokee Lane
Lodi, CA 95240
209-263-7040
www.calrvspecialists.com
service@calrvspecialists.com
Hours: Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Stop by or contact us to schedule RV roof air conditioner gasket service and keep your RV cool, dry, and protected.
RV Air Conditioner Gasket Kits
- Air Conditioner Gasket – 14″ x 14″ P/N 62901
- Air Conditioner Gasket Kit – 14″ x 14″ (Coleman) P/N 65526
- Air Conditioner Gasket Kit – 14″ x 16″ (Coleman) P/N 65527