Nomadic X2 Helix 12V/48V DC Rooftop Air Conditioner - Compact AC

Name: Nomadic X2 Helix 12V/48V DC Rooftop Air Conditioner - Compact AC
Brand: Nomadic Cooling
SKU: X2HELIX12VBLK
Price: 3720.0 USD
Availability: InStock

$3,720.00 USD

~~$3,765.00 USD~~ $3,720.00 USD

SAVE $45.00 SOLD OUT

Voltage: 12V 12V 48V

External Shroud Color: Black Black White

Package: AC Only AC Only AC + DIY Install Kit

Quantity

Meet the X2 Helix, a super compact, 12V/48V DC rooftop air conditioning for vans, RVs, and other small spaces.

All X2 Helix models bought from Orion now include the Premium Dual-Layer Foam Gasket. Required for peak performance.

The X2 Helix is a low-profile, battery-friendly rooftop AC built to save roof space and battery while keeping comfort steady. Control it from your phone, tablet, or watch; hold target temps with intelligent PWM modulation; and clear cabin moisture with High Humidity mode. Choose 12V or 48V and a Black or White shroud. It drops into the industry-standard 14×14 opening and is backed by US-based support. The 48V model is compatible with Ecoflow Power Kits via this 48v AC Cable, allowing direct operation from a 48V battery alongside a typical 12V/24V distribution panel.

Built on proven X-Series fundamentals, X2 Helix uses precise PWM compressor control for steady comfort with lower battery impact, spring-bushed compressor mounts to reduce vibration and noise, and a bright, high-contrast LCD with tactile buttons for glove-friendly control at the unit. Installation stays straightforward with a standard 14×14 roof opening.

Helix Highlights

App and remote control: pre-cool, create scenes and schedules, and monitor from anywhere on phone, tablet, or watch.
Smarter PWM cooling: smooth ramps, minimal overshoot, and steady temperature hold for longer runtimes and less battery stress.
High Humidity mode: accelerates moisture removal after showers, coastal drives, or hot, sticky days.
RV-C ready (optional): with the Helix AC Controller, the unit can publish status and accept commands on multiplex coach networks.
Durable construction: sealed back plate shields electronics; automotive-grade water-resistant connectors; stainless hardware for corrosion resistance.
Smaller footprint: compact 22.5″ × 28″ / shroud height ~6.9″ preserves roof real estate and headroom.
Modern refrigerant: R1234yf (low-GWP, A2L).
Peace of mind: 1-year limited warranty with US-based support.

What’s Included & Options

Choose your Voltage (12V or 48V), Color (Black or White), and Package:

AC Only:

- X2 Helix rooftop unit
- Foam gasket for standard 14×14 roof opening
- Premium Dual-Layer Foam Gasket
- Crossbars with mounting hardware
- Flush-mount metal interior faceplate
- Faceplate screws (black)
- M8 mounting studs, nuts, flat washers, lock washers
- Remote control
- Leveling strip
- Foam air separator
- Condensation drain port
- Control panel + wire harness
- Full-size 14×14 cutout template (1:1 scale)

AC + DIY Install Kit (Optional Upgrade): everything above plus an Orion DIY kit for a clean, self-install, includes:

- 15 ft power harness (2 AWG for 12V, 8 AWG for 48V; butt connector required; Anderson connectors are no longer recommended)
- Adhesive for the foam gasket
- Thermo tape for plenum sealing (foil tape not recommended)
- Threadlocker and heat-shrink
- Internal support trim ring
- Extra hardware and zip ties

Install Tips for Best Results

Dry-fit first, use the leveling strip to keep the unit horizontal, and seal the plenum with foam tape to prevent air mixing. For humid climates, route 1/2″ drain tubes with in-line check valves or use the included drain snorkels so condensation exits cleanly.

💡 Condensation & High Humidity Tips

On newer controllers, High Humidity Mode automatically lowers fan speed every ~20 minutes to help the system drain on humid days. To toggle via remote, press T-V-V-V and look for the blue droplet icon. Keep drain ports clear/filtered, avoid foil tape (use heat-resistant foam tape), and make sure the unit sits level on the gasket. These steps improve drainage and reduce interior drip risk.

X2 Helix — Datasheet Snapshot

Item	12V Model	48V Model
Current — ECO	38 A	9 A
Current — MAX	64 A	19 A
Rated Power	947 W	986 W
Rated Cooling Capacity	9,586 BTU/h	9,974 BTU/h

Voltage	12V DC	48V DC
Roof Opening	14″ × 14″ (industry standard)
Overall Size	22.5″ L × 28″ W × ~6.9″ H
Weight	~36.38 lb
Refrigerant / Oil	R1234yf @ 400 g ± 30 g / POE68
Fan Speed Range	1,000–3,000 RPM
Interior Faceplate (cutout)	~16.375″ × 16.375″
Noise	< 81 dBA
Operating Modes	Auto / ECO / Full AC / Fan
Min–Max Temp Settings	61–86 °F
Warranty	1-year limited

Compatibility

Runs on 12V or 48V DC battery systems (no shore power or generator required).
Standard 14×14-inch roof opening.
Suited for camper vans, RVs, overland rigs, and off-grid builds.

Install, Fit & Downloads

Fit: 14×14 roof opening; compact exterior footprint 22.5″ × 28″; low height ~6.9″.
Basic install sequence: Prep and dry-fit → seat gasket and place unit → install leveling strip if needed → secure crossbars/hardware in a criss-cross pattern to 3.7 ft-lbs → install air separator and faceplate → connect DC and harness → commission and verify airflow/hold.
Condensation: Use drain snorkels or 1/2″ tubes with check valves; keep outlets clear and angled off the roof plane.
X2 Helix Install & Operations Guide (PDF)

Tips: dry-fit before sealing; plan wire routing; evenly compress the gasket; seal plenums with foam tape; set a “Quiet Night” scene in Helix for low-RPM hold while sleeping.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) — click to expand

1.What’s different about the X2 Helix vs. older models?

X2 Helix adds app/remote control through the Helix ecosystem, refined PWM control logic for smoother ramps and steadier temp hold, High Humidity mode, and sealed, service-friendly connections, all while keeping the compact X2 footprint.

2.Can X2 Helix run from batteries only?

Yes. It’s a DC rooftop unit that runs directly from 12V or 48V battery systems without an inverter, generator, or shore power. Many users pair it with solar and lithium storage for off-grid stays. The 48V model is compatible with Ecoflow Power Kits via a custom 48v cable, allowing direct operation from a 48V battery alongside a typical 12V/24V distribution panel.

3.How do I choose between 12V and 48V?

Match your house battery voltage. 12V integrates with common van/RV banks; 48V pairs best with larger systems and reduces current on longer cable runs.

4.Will it fit my roof opening?

Yes. X2 Helix is designed for the standard 14″ × 14″ opening used on most vans and RVs.

5.What does the Helix app control?

Start/stop, set temperature, fan/compressor behavior, scheduling and scenes, High Humidity mode, display and chime, and basic diagnostics like coil temperature and voltage.

6.What’s the difference between AC Only and AC + DIY Install Kit?

AC Only includes the rooftop unit, faceplate, controls, and mounting hardware. The DIY Kit adds wiring, adhesive, trim ring, and accessories to streamline a clean self-install. See the lists above.

7.Does X2 Helix support RV-C / multiplex control?

Yes. With the optional Helix AC Controller, X2 Helix can publish AC status and accept commands on standard RV-C networks, enabling coach-wide UIs while still operating standalone from local controls.

8.What’s the warranty?

One-year limited warranty with US-based support.

Get a CAD-Verified Roof Layout

We understand that every van setup is unique. That's why we offer CAD-verified roof layouts for customers who have purchased or plan to purchase an Orion roof rack - so you can maximize space and fit exactly what you need, where you need it. Request a layout here ›

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Nomadic X2 Helix 12V/48V DC Rooftop Air Conditioner - Compact AC | 12V / Black / AC Only | $3,720.00

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Setup was super easy. The ECOFLOW Gen 2 is basically plug-and-play, everything is clearly labeled. Also ORION has been super helpful with any questions along the way!

Thanks, AJ! Easy setup, clear labels, real support. Enjoy the system and the extra off-grid time.

I'm excited to start using this panel in my off grid system I'm building. I have a truck tool box I have 3 lifepo4 100ah batteries and a victron 100-50 charge controller. 3000watt power inverter. I will have 120 and 12 volt out puts. and all the wiring and fuses and switches I need for my build. This panel I will mount to the top of the box. Only thing I could gripe about is the corners of the panel are very sharp and a concern about cutting myself is the only thing I can complain about but that's not really a issue. Kinda wish the panel would at least have came with basic mounting hardware. It ships with just the panel and nothing else not even a spec sheet. Over all I'm happy to complete my project using this high quality panel.

Thanks for the review, and glad the panel is a good fit for your off grid build, that sounds like a solid setup. Good callout on the corners. They’re aluminum and can feel sharp out of the box, so we always recommend handling with gloves during install. On the specs, they’re on the sticker on the back of the panel.

The Comvolt 4200 (with AC/DC PDU and 7-inch screen) is a game-changer for any setup.
Super easy install—mostly plug-and-play with minimal wiring. No fuss, no extra components to hunt down.
It’s compact, portable, and incredibly versatile: works flawlessly off-grid in a van, car, shop, home, or anywhere else. Everything’s built right in, so you get clean power without the headache of piecing together a bunch of parts.
Expandable too if you need more juice later. Hands down one of the most convenient, reliable portable power stations out there.
Nice work, Comvolt team—I love it! Highly recommend.
Thank you Orion Van Gear
Reds Custom OffRoad

Thanks so much for the great review. We’re stoked you loved the Comvolt 4200 and really appreciate the shout out. Also loved your YouTube video on it, great walkthrough. For anyone reading this, be sure to check out Reds Custom OffRoad’s YouTube video to see the system in action.

Nice addition to our awning’s lifespan.

Great side ladder for Ford Transit! We've got a 2023 Ford Transit 350 High Roof XL AWD with the Orion Van Gear Stealth rack and just installed the side ladder to go with it. It fits nicely with the side profile of the van and has been rock solid on two road trips so far. If you've got a roof rack and need an easy way to climb up to it, this is a great fit.

Thanks, Travis. Happy to hear the side ladder has been a solid fit on your Transit and is holding up well on the road. Appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.

Great roof rack for Transit! We've been rocking the Stealth Roof Rack on our 2023 Ford Transit 350 High Roof XL AWD for a year now and it's been excellent. No noise, vibration, wind drag and it's designed nicely to snug up against the roofline. We ordered ours with the 2X scene (rear flood) lights and I highly recommend that. It's a nice easy way to shine some light on your loadouts and load-ins at night or while the sun is coming or going!

Stoked to hear the Stealth rack has been treating you well and staying quiet even after a year of use. The rear scene lights are a great call, super handy for night load-ins and early mornings. Appreciate you sharing the feedback.

Great rack for my 2023 Ford Transit 350 High Roof XL AWD! Have had it on for a year now and have no noise, vibration or wind drag issues. It's solid and nicely designed to lay flat against the roofline.

I am adding an extra battery to my system. The Ecofliw has been a great system. This will double the capacity. It was very easy to adopt and it is working flawlessly. Shipping was quick and I didn’t have any issues.

Thanks for the feedback. Glad to hear the EcoFlow system has been solid for you and that adding the extra battery was easy. Doubling the capacity makes a big difference. Appreciate you sharing your experience.

I had no issues with the installation of this fan. I was removing a Maxxair fixed vent unit in my car trailer and the opening was 14¼" x 14¼". An opening any larger and **** down the new unit would have been difficult. The only reason for 4 stars and not 5 is that the IR beam on the remote control is very narrow and has to be pointing directly at the unit in order to operate - I was hoping to use the remote while it was seated in the wall holder near the door, but no big deal.

Thanks for the detailed feedback. Glad to hear the install went smoothly and the fit worked well. The remote can be a bit finicky, but as you noted, it works when pointed directly at the unit. Appreciate you sharing the honest notes.

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