Transcool E3-12V Portable Air Cooler for Camping, RVs, Trucks & Pets

Sale!

Transcool E3-12V Portable Air Cooler for Camping, RVs, Trucks & Pets

Original price was: $349.00 USD.Current price is: $279.00 USD.

Sleep Cool All Night — Without a Generator

Transcool E3 – 12V Personal Air Cooler

🇦🇺 BUILT IN AUSTRALIA

PREMIUM QUALITY • PERFORMANCE • DURABILITY

Built to perform. Built to last.

FALL SALE-  ONLY $279 DELIVERED-NO MORE TO PAY!!

Includes $98 in Accessories FREE

No Sales Tax

FREE AC Power Adapter (Value $49)

FREE External Water Tank (Value $25)

FREE Replacement Filter (Value $24)

2-Year Warranty

Built Tough in Australia since 2002

✔ Perfect to use as a Humidifier in the winter

PayPal • Apple Pay • Google Pay Accepted

🇺🇸 Fast Free U.S. Shipping

HURRY -LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE

Sale ends SEPTEMBER 20th-or until stock runs out

* If the unit is still in stock
Please Note: The Transcool E3 is a personal evaporative air cooler. It is not a refrigerated air conditioner and is designed to provide refreshing personal cooling with fresh airflow and ventilation.

Description

Transcool E3 12V portable air cooler for dogs  Transcool E3 12V portable air cooler on 4WD hood 12V air cooler for camping, RV and truck sleepers 

The Transcool E312-volt portable air cooler is a compact, robust and versatile unit designed for travelers, campers, truckers, off-roaders, and pet owners who need low-power cooling on the go. Built tough for Australian and U.S. conditions, the E3 delivers refreshing airflow while running from your vehicle’s 12V socket, a battery pack, or solar power — anywhere, anytime.


Why Choose the Transcool E3?

  • Runs from 12V or 24Volt DC, or AC Shore power (with complimentary AC adapter).

  • Low current draw – safe for batteries and solar setups.

  • Lightweight, compact, and built for travel.

  • Water efficient – up to 8 hours per fill with 1/2 gallon internal water tank

  • Add ice to internal tank for added cooling
  • No excess humidity, damp air or condensation
  • Cool air for a comfortable sleep.
  • Proven reliability worldwide since 2002.
  • Can be used in moving vehicles  (Not recommended for use in rough terrain or off road racing)

Why Not Just Use an Air Conditioner?

Portable air conditioners may sound appealing — but in real off-grid conditions they come with major drawbacks:

  • High power consumption (often 40–100+ amps)

  • Requires large lithium battery systems or generators

  • Drains batteries quickly

  • Long recharge times (often hours or days)

The Transcool E3 avoids all of this.

✔ Uses a fraction of the power
✔ Runs quietly without generators
✔ Keeps working when other systems can’t

Cooling for Every Adventure

Beat the summer heat while camping. The Transcool E3  provides personal cooling in tents or rooftop tents. Just place near a vent or mesh window for best results. Quiet enough for overnight use.

Caravans & Camper Trailers

Perfect for caravans and camper trailers where power is limited. The Transcool E3 provides low-draw cooling that won’t drain batteries, making it ideal for long off-grid stays.

RVs & Off Grid Boondocking

When rooftop A/C isn’t practical, the Transcool E3 12V Portable Air Cooler keeps you comfortable inside your RV. Pair with a portable power station or solar system for extended boondocking.

Truck Sleeper Bunks

The Transcool E3 12V Portable Air Cooler designed for long-haul comfort. Compact size fits into sleeper bunks, providing steady airflow during rest stops. Runs directly from your truck’s 12V or 24V socket or auxiliary battery.

Dogs & Pets

Help your pets stay cool at camp or while traveling. The Transcool E3-12V Portable Air Cooler provides safe airflow and evaporative cooling for dogs and cats. Always ensure ventilation, shade, and fresh water — never leave pets unattended in hot vehicles.

4WD & Van Life

Compact and rugged enough for 4WD touring and overlanding setups. A Transcool E3-12V Portable Air Cooler that is easy to run from a dual-battery system or portable solar pack for true off-grid cooling.

Boats

Compact and rugged enough for Boating when AC is not an option. A Transcool E3-12V Portable Air Cooler that is easy to run from a dual-battery system or portable solar pack for true off-grid cooling.

 

Power & Runtime Options

  • Runs from vehicle sockets, deep-cycle batteries, or portable power stations.

  • Runtime per fill: 2-8 hours (depending on fan speed),  AND  you can run the E3 as a fan without water!

  • Average power draw: 8–21W. (0.7 – 1.7Amps)

  • Compatible with solar setups for continuous off-grid use.

 

WATCH YOUR TRANSCOOL BEING BUILT

“Unlike mass-produced imported coolers, every Transcool E3 is individually assembled and tested before dispatch. Many units are still running after 20+ years of service.”

 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The Transcool E3 is a personal evaporative air cooler designed to provide cooling airflow directly to people and pets.

Unlike refrigerated air conditioners, the Transcool E3 focuses on personal comfort while using very little power — making it ideal for off-grid camping, truck sleeper bunks, vans, RVs, boats, caravans and pet cooling applications.

Ideal for:

✓ Sleeping cooler in tents, rooftop tents and camper trailers

✓ Staying comfortable in truck sleeper bunks

✓ Personal cooling in vans, RVs, caravans and boats

✓ Helping keep pets comfortable in hot weather

For best results:

✓ Position the unit close to where you are sitting or sleeping

✓ Allow fresh air ventilation

✓ Use in hot, dry to moderate humidity conditions

Like all evaporative coolers, performance will vary depending on temperature, humidity and airflow conditions.

For detailed information about what the Transcool E3 will and won’t do, please see our FAQ and Product Information pages.

 

What It Will & Will Not Do

The Transcool E3 is a personal evaporative air cooler. It is not a refrigerated air conditioner.

The Transcool E3 is designed to cool people and pets by directing a stream of cooled air onto the occupant. It is not designed to reduce the temperature of an entire room, van, RV, caravan, truck sleeper, tent, or enclosed space.

For example:

✓ Keeps people cooler while sleeping.

✓ Helps keep pets cooler when positioned in the airflow.

✓ Provides personal cooling in tents, RVs, vans, truck sleepers, boats, and caravans.

✗ Does not cool an entire vehicle interior.

✗ Does not reduce the overall temperature of a van, RV, caravan, truck sleeper, or room in the same manner as a refrigerated air conditioner.

✗ Does not perform like a compressor-based air conditioner.

By purchasing this product, the customer acknowledges they have read the Product Description, FAQs, and Warranty & Returns information and understand the intended use and limitations of the Transcool E3.

FAQ'S

What is it?
Transcool E3  is a portable dual voltage, 12v or 24 volt evaporative air cooler. Pour 1.8 Quarts of water in through the slide open lid, plug the 10′ power lead into cigarette socket, select fan speed and away you go!
How cold will the Transcool E3 12 volt air cooler make my cabin or room?

The Transcool E3 is a personal evaporative air cooler. It is not a refrigerated air conditioner.

The Transcool E3 is designed to cool people and pets by directing a stream of cooled air onto the occupant. It is not designed to reduce the temperature of an entire room, van, RV, caravan, truck sleeper, tent, or enclosed space.

For example:

✓ Keeps people cooler while sleeping.

✓ Helps keep pets cooler when positioned in the airflow.

✓ Provides personal cooling in tents, RVs, vans, truck sleepers, boats, and caravans.

✗ Does not cool an entire vehicle interior.

✗ Does not reduce the overall temperature of a van, RV, caravan, truck sleeper, or room in the same manner as a refrigerated air conditioner.

✗ Does not perform like a compressor-based air conditioner.

By purchasing this product, the customer acknowledges they have read the Product Description, FAQs, and Warranty & Returns information and understand the intended use and limitations of the Transcool E3.

[
How long will the E3 water last?

Water usage with evaporative cooling varies on fan speed and ambient air temperature.

Under most conditions Transcool’s internal 1.8 Quart supply will last all night on ‘low’ speed – adequate for cool air while you’re sleeping!

The great news is that no damage will result if you run the Transcool E3 out of water during use!

Transcool can be used without water in areas of high humidity, you can even add ice!

The E3 is also supplied with an external 1.32 gallon tank for extended periods of use. The clear external tank features an ON/OFF tap and connects to the unit via hose.

The Transcool E3 uses an internal float system that automatically maintains the correct water level when using the external tank.

Transcool features a transparent water window to display level.

Will the Transcool work in humid areas?

The Transcool is surprisingly effective in humid areas!

The Transcool will cool down an area, but the feeling of the cool air blowing on your skin in humid areas is amazing!

How long will my battery last?

One of the most common questions we receive is:

“How long will my battery operate a Transcool or another 12-volt appliance?”

Fortunately, you do not need to be an electrician to estimate battery operating time. You only need to know:

  • The battery capacity in amp-hours (Ah)
  • The appliance’s current draw in amps (A)
  • The usable percentage of the battery

The Simple Battery Run-Time Formula

Usable battery capacity (Ah) ÷ appliance amp draw (A) = approximate operating time in hours

For example:

A 100Ah battery with 90Ah of usable capacity powering an appliance drawing 1 amp:

90Ah ÷ 1A = approximately 90 hours

This is a guide only. Actual operating time can be affected by battery age, condition, temperature, wiring, other connected appliances and whether the battery was fully charged.

Understanding Battery Capacity

Battery capacity is normally shown in amp-hours, abbreviated as Ah.

A 100Ah battery can theoretically provide:

  • 1 amp for 100 hours
  • 2 amps for 50 hours
  • 5 amps for 20 hours
  • 10 amps for 10 hours

However, not every battery allows you to safely use its entire advertised capacity.

Common Battery Types

LiFePO₄ Lithium Batteries

A LiFePO₄ battery, also called a lithium iron phosphate battery, is generally the best choice for camping, caravans, RVs, boats and off-grid power.

Advantages include:

  • Approximately 80–100% of the rated capacity can normally be used, depending on the battery manufacturer
  • Considerably lighter than an equivalent lead-acid battery
  • Maintains a more consistent voltage while discharging
  • Recharges faster
  • Usually provides many more charge cycles
  • Well suited to solar charging and frequent use

For conservative run-time estimates, we suggest calculating with 90% usable capacity.

Therefore:

100Ah LiFePO₄ battery × 90% = approximately 90Ah usable capacity

A compatible lithium battery charger or correctly configured solar controller should always be used.

AGM Deep-Cycle Batteries

AGM batteries are sealed lead-acid batteries commonly used in caravans, RVs and dual-battery installations.

They are less expensive to purchase than lithium batteries, but they are considerably heavier and generally provide less usable capacity.

To help preserve an AGM battery’s service life, it is normally best not to discharge it below approximately 50% on a regular basis.

Therefore:

100Ah AGM battery × 50% = approximately 50Ah usable capacity

Flooded Lead-Acid Deep-Cycle Batteries

Traditional flooded deep-cycle batteries are usually the least expensive option, but they are heavy, require suitable ventilation and may need occasional maintenance.

As with AGM batteries, regular discharge beyond approximately 50% can shorten battery life.

Therefore:

100Ah lead-acid battery × 50% = approximately 50Ah usable capacity

Gel Batteries

Gel batteries are another type of sealed lead-acid battery. They can perform well in deep-cycle applications but require the correct charging settings.

For a simple and battery-friendly estimate, calculate using approximately 50% of the battery’s rated capacity.

Therefore:

100Ah gel battery × 50% = approximately 50Ah usable capacity

Vehicle Starter Batteries

A normal vehicle starter battery is designed to provide a large burst of power for starting an engine. It is not designed to be repeatedly discharged over long periods.

A Transcool E3 can be operated from a vehicle’s 12-volt outlet while travelling, but extended operation with the engine switched off could flatten the starter battery and leave the vehicle unable to start.

For overnight or extended operation, we recommend a separate deep-cycle battery—preferably a LiFePO₄ lithium battery.

Which Battery Type Is Best?

For most camping, caravan, RV, truck, boat and off-grid applications, we recommend a quality LiFePO₄ lithium battery.

Although lithium batteries usually cost more initially, they provide:

  • More usable power from the same advertised capacity
  • Much lower weight
  • Longer service life
  • Faster charging
  • More consistent performance

A 100Ah lithium battery can provide almost twice the practical usable capacity of a 100Ah AGM or conventional lead-acid battery.

Calculating Battery Operating Time

Step 1: Find the Battery Capacity

Look for the battery’s Ah rating—for example:

100Ah

Step 2: Calculate the Usable Capacity

Use the following simple guide:

  • LiFePO₄ lithium: approximately 90% for conservative calculations
  • AGM: approximately 50%
  • Gel: approximately 50%
  • Flooded lead-acid: approximately 50%

For a 100Ah LiFePO₄ battery:

100Ah × 90% = 90Ah usable

Step 3: Find the Appliance Amp Draw

The electrical label, manual or product specifications should show the current draw in amps.

If only watts are shown, use:

Watts ÷ volts = amps

For example, a 12-volt appliance using 24 watts:

24W ÷ 12V = 2A

Step 4: Divide Usable Capacity by Amp Draw

Usable battery capacity ÷ amp draw = approximate operating hours

Transcool E3 Operating Time

The Transcool E3 is extremely energy efficient and draws approximately:

  • Low speed: 0.7 amps
  • High speed: 1.7 amps

The following examples use a fully charged 12V 100Ah LiFePO₄ battery with a conservative usable capacity of 90Ah.

E3 on Low Speed

90Ah ÷ 0.7A = approximately 129 hours

That is approximately:

  • 5.4 days of continuous operation, or
  • 16 nights when operated for 8 hours per night

E3 on High Speed

90Ah ÷ 1.7A = approximately 53 hours

That is approximately:

  • 2.2 days of continuous operation, or
  • 6–7 nights when operated for 8 hours per night

E3 Run-Time Comparison Using a 100Ah Battery

Battery typeEstimated usable capacityE3 low at 0.7AE3 high at 1.7A
LiFePO₄ lithium90AhApprox. 129 hoursApprox. 53 hours
AGM deep-cycle50AhApprox. 71 hoursApprox. 29 hours
Gel deep-cycle50AhApprox. 71 hoursApprox. 29 hours
Flooded deep-cycle50AhApprox. 71 hoursApprox. 29 hours

These calculations assume the Transcool E3 is the only appliance drawing power from the battery.

Lights, refrigerators, water pumps, phone chargers and other appliances must also be included when calculating total battery usage.

Calculating Several Appliances Together

Add the current draw of all appliances operating at the same time.

For example:

  • Transcool E3 on high: 1.7A
  • Camping refrigerator: average 2A
  • LED lights: 0.5A

Total average current draw = 4.2A

Using a 100Ah LiFePO₄ battery with 90Ah usable capacity:

90Ah ÷ 4.2A = approximately 21 hours

Remember that refrigerators cycle on and off, so their average current draw may be lower than the maximum figure shown on their electrical label.

Important Information

Battery run-time calculations are estimates only. Actual results will vary depending on:

  • Battery age and condition
  • Battery state of charge
  • Ambient temperature
  • Cable length and thickness
  • Charging system
  • Battery management system settings
  • Other appliances connected to the battery
  • Actual appliance operating speed

For the most efficient operation, connect a 12-volt appliance directly to a suitable 12-volt supply whenever possible. Using an inverter to convert battery power to household AC power introduces additional energy losses.

Always use suitable wiring, the correct fuse protection and charging equipment recommended by the battery manufacturer.

The Simple Rule to Remember

Usable battery amp-hours ÷ total appliance amps = approximate operating hours

For regular camping or off-grid use, a quality LiFePO₄ lithium battery provides the best combination of usable capacity, low weight, long service life and reliable performance.

How much noise?

The sound level produced by the Transcool E3 Evaporative air cooler is similar to that of a car air conditioner/heater fan. This ranges from 46db (low fan speed) to 59db (maximum fan speed) at 1 metre.

The tone Transcool produces is a relaxing, steady weary drone – perfect to help dilute any annoying outside noises.

The Transcool evaporative air cooler can be used in nearly any environment and vehicle!

The Transcool E3 comes with all the accessories and components you need to get started, including a free external water tank and a free power transformer to use it with a regular power point.

Can I get spare parts for my Transcool?

Yes, we have any spare parts you may need for your Transcool.

Warranty terms and conditions

* Transcool warrants 24 months from date of purchase any E3 that does not perform correctly due to defects caused by faulty workmanship or materials. Our obligation assumed under this warranty is to the repair or replacement of the parts, without charge, which are defective and have not been misused, carelessly handled or defaced by repairs made or attempted by others. Consequential damages due to this product are not covered.

Warranty excludes air filter and external water tank.

The warranty is only valid if purchase receipt is supplied.

Warranty is not transferable with secondary sale of Transcool after original purchase, warranty is only valid with original purchaser.

The product can be returned free of charge (for warranty repairs) by you using our  prepaid return postage feature.

Return terms and conditions

Refund only valid within 7 Days of purchase, Refund is unit purchase price less 30%  restocking cost which includes the 10% USA tariff  charged we pay to get the unit to you when originally shipped. 

There are no refunds on items demonstrated by and purchased from us at show, as the customer has seen and felt the units abilities in person.

(*refund does not include shipping cost if applicable)

Buyer is liable to pay return shipping

Item must be unmarked, complete and with copy of purchase receipt.

Unit will be inspected by us upon return before refund is given.

RETURNS & CHANGE OF MIND

Please read all Product Descriptions, FAQs, Specifications, and Operating Information carefully before purchasing.

Returns are not accepted because the customer expected the Transcool E3 to cool an entire room, vehicle, caravan, RV, truck sleeper, tent, or enclosed space. The Transcool E3 is clearly described throughout this website as a personal evaporative air cooler and not a refrigerated air conditioner.

If you are unsure whether the Transcool E3 is suitable for your application, please contact us before purchasing.

Which is right for you?

Which cooling solution suits your setup?

Choose a portable compressor A/C if you:

  • Need refrigerated cooling + dehumidifying

  • Can seal a small space reasonably well

  • Have a large battery system + inverter / 110V power

  • Are OK with high power draw and potential startup surge

Choose the Transcool E3 if you:

  • Want true low-draw 12V cooling (0.7–1.7A)

  • Camp off-grid and want longer runtime

  • Prefer simple setup (no inverter sizing headaches)

  • Want a cooler built to last (we often hear 15–20 year stories)

Specifications

The Transcool E3  12 V portable air cooler 

Use  with 12 volt, 24 volt or 110v AC shore power.

Runs on 12V at just 0.7–1.7 amps.
That’s roughly 8–20 watts (depending on fan speed) and no startup surge — startup is only 1.7A too. Ideal for off-grid camping where battery life matters.

Low -0.7 Amps (8 Watts)

    • High -1.7 Amps (21 Watts)
    • Compact-
    • Length – 9.5″
    • Height – 8.6″
    • Width – 8.6″
    • Lightweight 4 lbs weight
    • Powerful moisture proof electric fans with 70,000+ hours life span
    • Power fan capable of moving over 240 CFM of air at a velocity of over 2187 ft/m
    • Can deliver air up to 50% cooler (at the vent) than ambient air temperature (when using ice water)*
    • Durable evaporative filter pad with increased air velocity & life span (500+ hours)
    • Easy fill slide lid with overfill protection
    • 4 Directional air vents-open or close any of these vent nozzles to customize airflow
    • Variable speed fan
    • Semi Baffled for use in moving vehicles-(However these are not for recommended for use in rugged and rough off road conditions such as ATV’s etc.
    • 9′ power lead with plug for cigarette lighter socket
    • Fan noise level generally equivalent to your average car air conditioner
    • 24 month warranty (excluding filter pads and external water tank)
    • Condensation build up is not an issue using Transcool with adequate ventilation
    • FREE return postage if warranty work is required
    • Worldwide Warranty Service Centers

Warranty & Returns

RETURNS & CHANGE OF MIND

Please read all Product Descriptions, FAQs, Specifications, and Operating Information carefully before purchasing.

Returns are not accepted because the customer expected the Transcool E3 to cool an entire room, vehicle, caravan, RV, truck sleeper, tent, or enclosed space. The Transcool E3 is clearly described throughout this website as a personal evaporative air cooler and not a refrigerated air conditioner.

If you are unsure whether the Transcool E3 is suitable for your application, please contact us before purchasing.

There are no refunds on items demonstrated by and purchased from us at show, as the customer has seen and felt the units abilities in person.

* Transcool warrants 24 months from date of purchase any E3 that does not perform correctly due to defects caused by faulty workmanship or materials. Our obligation assumed under this warranty is to the repair or replacement of the parts, without charge, which are defective and have not been misused, carelessly handled or defaced by repairs made or attempted by others. Consequential damages due to this product are not covered.

Warranty excludes air filter and external water tank.

The warranty is only valid if purchase receipt is supplied.

Warranty is not transferable with secondary sale of Transcool after original purchase, warranty is only valid with original purchaser.

The product can be returned free of charge (for warranty repairs) by you using our  prepaid return postage feature.

Returns are accepted as per ACCC consumer laws which states a refund is only given if the item is faulty or does not match product description – so please read FAQ’s carefully as we outline exactly what the Transcool will, and will not do.

Refunds are given within 7 days of purchase, provided the product is returned complete, undamaged, and in as-new condition. A 30% restocking fee applies. This is also taking the 10% USA tariff we are charged. Original shipping charges are non-refundable and return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer.

The shipping cost we initially paid to ship to you will not be included in the refund. We will supply a copy of the postal invoice showing the shipping  cost we were charged for your unit delivery when you purchased it.

Buyer is responsible for return shipping costs

Item must be unmarked, complete and in well protected packaging with copy of purchase receipt.

Unit will be inspected by us upon return before refund is given.

How long will my battery last?

How Long Will My Battery Last?

One of the most common questions we receive is:

“How long will my battery operate a Transcool or another 12-volt appliance?”

Fortunately, you do not need to be an electrician to estimate battery operating time. You only need to know:

  • The battery capacity in amp-hours (Ah)
  • The appliance’s current draw in amps (A)
  • The usable percentage of the battery

The Simple Battery Run-Time Formula

Usable battery capacity (Ah) ÷ appliance amp draw (A) = approximate operating time in hours

For example:

A 100Ah battery with 90Ah of usable capacity powering an appliance drawing 1 amp:

90Ah ÷ 1A = approximately 90 hours

This is a guide only. Actual operating time can be affected by battery age, condition, temperature, wiring, other connected appliances and whether the battery was fully charged.

Understanding Battery Capacity

Battery capacity is normally shown in amp-hours, abbreviated as Ah.

A 100Ah battery can theoretically provide:

  • 1 amp for 100 hours
  • 2 amps for 50 hours
  • 5 amps for 20 hours
  • 10 amps for 10 hours

However, not every battery allows you to safely use its entire advertised capacity.

Common Battery Types

LiFePO₄ Lithium Batteries

A LiFePO₄ battery, also called a lithium iron phosphate battery, is generally the best choice for camping, caravans, RVs, boats and off-grid power.

Advantages include:

  • Approximately 80–100% of the rated capacity can normally be used, depending on the battery manufacturer
  • Considerably lighter than an equivalent lead-acid battery
  • Maintains a more consistent voltage while discharging
  • Recharges faster
  • Usually provides many more charge cycles
  • Well suited to solar charging and frequent use

For conservative run-time estimates, we suggest calculating with 90% usable capacity.

Therefore:

100Ah LiFePO₄ battery × 90% = approximately 90Ah usable capacity

A compatible lithium battery charger or correctly configured solar controller should always be used.

AGM Deep-Cycle Batteries

AGM batteries are sealed lead-acid batteries commonly used in caravans, RVs and dual-battery installations.

They are less expensive to purchase than lithium batteries, but they are considerably heavier and generally provide less usable capacity.

To help preserve an AGM battery’s service life, it is normally best not to discharge it below approximately 50% on a regular basis.

Therefore:

100Ah AGM battery × 50% = approximately 50Ah usable capacity

Flooded Lead-Acid Deep-Cycle Batteries

Traditional flooded deep-cycle batteries are usually the least expensive option, but they are heavy, require suitable ventilation and may need occasional maintenance.

As with AGM batteries, regular discharge beyond approximately 50% can shorten battery life.

Therefore:

100Ah lead-acid battery × 50% = approximately 50Ah usable capacity

Gel Batteries

Gel batteries are another type of sealed lead-acid battery. They can perform well in deep-cycle applications but require the correct charging settings.

For a simple and battery-friendly estimate, calculate using approximately 50% of the battery’s rated capacity.

Therefore:

100Ah gel battery × 50% = approximately 50Ah usable capacity

Vehicle Starter Batteries

A normal vehicle starter battery is designed to provide a large burst of power for starting an engine. It is not designed to be repeatedly discharged over long periods.

A Transcool E3 can be operated from a vehicle’s 12-volt outlet while travelling, but extended operation with the engine switched off could flatten the starter battery and leave the vehicle unable to start.

For overnight or extended operation, we recommend a separate deep-cycle battery—preferably a LiFePO₄ lithium battery.

Which Battery Type Is Best?

For most camping, caravan, RV, truck, boat and off-grid applications, we recommend a quality LiFePO₄ lithium battery.

Although lithium batteries usually cost more initially, they provide:

  • More usable power from the same advertised capacity
  • Much lower weight
  • Longer service life
  • Faster charging
  • More consistent performance

A 100Ah lithium battery can provide almost twice the practical usable capacity of a 100Ah AGM or conventional lead-acid battery.

Calculating Battery Operating Time

Step 1: Find the Battery Capacity

Look for the battery’s Ah rating—for example:

100Ah

Step 2: Calculate the Usable Capacity

Use the following simple guide:

  • LiFePO₄ lithium: approximately 90% for conservative calculations
  • AGM: approximately 50%
  • Gel: approximately 50%
  • Flooded lead-acid: approximately 50%

For a 100Ah LiFePO₄ battery:

100Ah × 90% = 90Ah usable

Step 3: Find the Appliance Amp Draw

The electrical label, manual or product specifications should show the current draw in amps.

If only watts are shown, use:

Watts ÷ volts = amps

For example, a 12-volt appliance using 24 watts:

24W ÷ 12V = 2A

Step 4: Divide Usable Capacity by Amp Draw

Usable battery capacity ÷ amp draw = approximate operating hours

Transcool E3 Operating Time

The Transcool E3 is extremely energy efficient and draws approximately:

  • Low speed: 0.7 amps
  • High speed: 1.7 amps

The following examples use a fully charged 12V 100Ah LiFePO₄ battery with a conservative usable capacity of 90Ah.

E3 on Low Speed

90Ah ÷ 0.7A = approximately 129 hours

That is approximately:

  • 5.4 days of continuous operation, or
  • 16 nights when operated for 8 hours per night

E3 on High Speed

90Ah ÷ 1.7A = approximately 53 hours

That is approximately:

  • 2.2 days of continuous operation, or
  • 6–7 nights when operated for 8 hours per night

E3 Run-Time Comparison Using a 100Ah Battery

Battery typeEstimated usable capacityE3 low at 0.7AE3 high at 1.7A
LiFePO₄ lithium90AhApprox. 129 hoursApprox. 53 hours
AGM deep-cycle50AhApprox. 71 hoursApprox. 29 hours
Gel deep-cycle50AhApprox. 71 hoursApprox. 29 hours
Flooded deep-cycle50AhApprox. 71 hoursApprox. 29 hours

These calculations assume the Transcool E3 is the only appliance drawing power from the battery.

Lights, refrigerators, water pumps, phone chargers and other appliances must also be included when calculating total battery usage.

Calculating Several Appliances Together

Add the current draw of all appliances operating at the same time.

For example:

  • Transcool E3 on high: 1.7A
  • Camping refrigerator: average 2A
  • LED lights: 0.5A

Total average current draw = 4.2A

Using a 100Ah LiFePO₄ battery with 90Ah usable capacity:

90Ah ÷ 4.2A = approximately 21 hours

Remember that refrigerators cycle on and off, so their average current draw may be lower than the maximum figure shown on their electrical label.

Important Information

Battery run-time calculations are estimates only. Actual results will vary depending on:

  • Battery age and condition
  • Battery state of charge
  • Ambient temperature
  • Cable length and thickness
  • Charging system
  • Battery management system settings
  • Other appliances connected to the battery
  • Actual appliance operating speed

For the most efficient operation, connect a 12-volt appliance directly to a suitable 12-volt supply whenever possible. Using an inverter to convert battery power to household AC power introduces additional energy losses.

Always use suitable wiring, the correct fuse protection and charging equipment recommended by the battery manufacturer.

The Simple Rule to Remember

Usable battery amp-hours ÷ total appliance amps = approximate operating hours

For regular camping or off-grid use, a quality LiFePO₄ lithium battery provides the best combination of usable capacity, low weight, long service life and reliable performance.