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

Regular price $3,720.00 USD
Regular price $3,765.00 USD Sale price $3,720.00 USD
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Voltage: 12V
External Shroud Color: Black
Package: AC Only

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:

  1. 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)
  1. 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 ›

Shipping & Returns

We offer free shipping to the lower 48 states on all products. Orders shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, or international destinations may have additional shipping charges calculated at checkout or quoted separately. Local pickup is also available at our McMinnville, Oregon warehouse by appointment.

Most purchases can be returned within 30 days of purchase if they are in new, resalable condition with original packaging. A 20% restocking fee applies; return shipping is the customer’s responsibility, and some items are final sale or not eligible for return. For full details, please see our Shipping Policy and Return Policy.

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