S1 Helix is a 12V|48V split sleeper-cab air conditioner—an electric APU alternative designed for engine-off comfort. The outside condenser mounts on the back wall / rear bulkhead, while the interior evaporator cools right where you sleep. Pair with Helix for pre-cool, night schedules, and remote status on phone, tablet, and watch. Also fits vans/RVs and expedition trucks that want quiet, interior-mounted cooling and a clean exterior profile.

• Engine-off comfort: idle-free cooling through rest windows and short stops.
• Split & quiet: back-wall condenser outside; low-noise interior evaporator inside.
• No height change: clearance-friendly install—no roof cuts or rooftop hardware.
• Remote that reaches: Helix pre-cool, schedules, status from anywhere (not Bluetooth-bound).
• Cab-first airflow: targeted delivery at the bunk for steady, calm cooling.
• Fuel relief: replace overnight idling with battery-friendly HVAC (payback tools below).
• Road-tough build: stainless hardware; sealed electronics; automotive-grade connectors.
• Service-minded: R1234yf or R134a refrigerant path; clean pass-through and tidy harnessing.
• US-based support: Elkhart, Indiana — level-one techs and engineers.
• Options: 12V or 48V.

Bottom line: Quiet, clearance-friendly split cooling with real remote control—for sleeper cabs first, and for vans/RVs/expedition builds where a split interior solution makes more sense.

S1 Helix is a 12V/48V split sleeper-cab air conditioner—an electric APU alternative for engine-off rest. The condenser mounts outside on the back wall / rear bulkhead, while the interior evaporator cools right where you sleep. Pair with Helix for pre-cool, night schedules, and remote status on phone, tablet, and watch. Primary fit is over-the-road trucks, with clean crossover to vans/RVs and expedition trucks that prefer interior-mounted cooling and a tidy exterior profile.

Where S1 Helix shines

• Engine-off comfort for trucks: parked cooling without idling or a portable generator.
  
• Quiet, split layout: heat/compressor noise stays outside; the bunk stays calm and cold.
  
• Clearance-friendly: no roof cuts, no height change—back-wall condenser.
  
• Phone-first control: pre-cool, schedules, and status via Helix (beyond Bluetooth range).
  
• Vans & RVs: interior module near the bed; roof stays open for solar/racks and stealth.
  
• Expedition builds: rear-bulkhead flexibility and targeted, off-grid cabin comfort.
  
• Electrical fit: 12V or 48V to match owner-op and fleet standards.
  

What’s new in S1 Helix

• Field-custom lines (EZ-Clip): measure/cut/crimp to exact length—no messy coils, cleaner routing, service-friendly connections.
  
• Updated PWM compressor: still DC/PWM, now tuned closer to X-Series behavior for smoother ramps and steadier overnight hold.
  
• Minimalist interior panel (display-only): sleek face shows status/codes; control via app/remote—ideal for higher or furniture-adjacent installs.
  
• On-board diagnostics: adjustable LVP, live voltage, inlet/outlet air temps, regulation voltage, and fault codes on the front display for faster commissioning and service.
  

Built on S-Series fundamentals

• Battery-friendly DC cooling: precise modulation maintains comfort with less battery stress.
  
• Road-ready build: stainless hardware; sealed electronics; automotive-grade, water-resistant connectors.
  
• Clean install ethos: pass-through grommet, insulated lines, tidy harnessing—repeatable, pro results.
  
• Service path: R1234yf or R134a refrigerant and sensible access points.
  
• US-based support: Elkhart, Indiana—level-one techs and engineers.
  

Options & support

• Voltages & finishes: 12V or 48V; Black (exterior condenser), neutral white interior module.
  
• Ecosystem: Hardware by Nomadic Cooling; control by Nomadic Controls (Helix)—both under Nomadic Innovations.

Because it fixes the problems that stop real rest: idling, rooftop clearance, and one-size-fits-all installs. S1 Helix is a 12V/48V split sleeper-cab air conditioner—an electric APU alternative with a rear-bulkhead condenser and interior evaporator for engine-off cooling that’s quiet, serviceable, and easy to live with.

Engine-off comfort you can actually sleep through

• No-idle sleeper cooling: park, shut down, and keep the bunk cold—without a generator.
• Fuel you stop burning: replace overnight idling with battery HVAC—real diesel saved each rest window.
• Bunk-first airflow: the interior-mounted evaporator targets where you rest for steady, calm temps.
• Lower in-cab noise: heat and compressor live outside; the cabin stays quiet.
• Clearance preserved: no roof cuts, no height change—ideal for fairings and low bays.
  

Install tech that builders prefer (and fleets can repeat)

• Field-custom lines (EZ-Clip): measure → cut → crimp to exact length—no hose coils, tidy routing, cleaner service loops.
• Small, clean pass-through: a protected route for lines + harness keeps interiors finished and serviceable.
• Automotive-grade connectors: water-resistant plugs and sealed electronics stand up to the miles.
• Service-minded path: R1234yf or R134a and sensible access points for real diagnostics.
  

Smart power & diagnostics (protects batteries, saves downtime)

• Adjustable LVP with live voltage display—set the floor that protects your bank.
• Commissioning at a glance: inlet/outlet air temps and regulation voltage visible at the unit.
• Clear fault codes: front-panel codes speed real troubleshooting for owner-ops and fleets.
  

Works where rooftops don’t (van/RV & expedition ready)

• Van/RV interior-mounted A/C: keep the roof free for solar/racks; place the evaporator near the bed for quiet sleep.
• Expedition truck A/C: rear-bulkhead flexibility, targeted off-grid comfort, and fewer exterior compromises.
  

Fit, options & support

• Layout: two-piece split—rear-bulkhead condenser outside, interior evaporator inside.
• Voltages: 12V or 48V DC to match your electrical architecture.
• Finishes: Black condenser; white interior module.
• Support: US-based tech team in Elkhart, Indiana.
  

Choose S1 Helix if you want no-idle sleeper-cab A/C that doesn’t raise your vehicle height, installs cleanly with EZ-Clip lines, safeguards your batteries with smart protections, and extends naturally to vans/RVs and expedition trucks that prefer an interior-mounted solution.

Specs matter—but rest is what you feel. Here’s what S1 Helix owners call out the first time they run it.

• Park, shut down, sleep cool: no-idle (engine-off) sleeper cooling—no generator drone or fumes.
• Quieter bunk by design: rear-bulkhead condenser outside, interior evaporator inside keeps cabin sound low.
• Set point stays steady: DC/PWM control glides to temp and holds it through the rest window.
• Pre-cool that actually pays off: use Helix to start cooling before you park; return to a cab that’s already comfortable.
• Morning fuel gauge moves slower: you didn’t burn diesel idling overnight—see the difference after one rest.
• Sharper start: better, uninterrupted rest helps you feel more alert when you roll out.
• Real remote check-ins: glance at status on phone/tablet/watch—add Helix Eye to check on pets during a shower, fuel stop, or loading queue.
• No clearance anxiety: day one, you notice…nothing on the roof—no roof cuts, no height change.
• Clean interior look: slim, display-only panel blends in—no bulky bezel or buttons to bump.
• Commissioning & battery confidence: front display shows live voltage/LVP, inlet–outlet temps, and fault codes for fast setup and peace of mind.
  

Result: calmer nights, steadier comfort, and control that follows you—engine-off cooling, no roof compromises, and a cabin that feels dialed from day one.

Until verification is complete, the figures below are provisional estimates derived from our S-Series comparison data; final certified numbers will be posted after testing.

Model & Fit

• Model: S1 Helix
• Voltages: 12V DC or 48V DC
• Type: Split System DC air conditioner
• Finishes: Powder Coated Black

Estimated Performance (averages across 70–100+°F)

Why these numbers matter: We publish averages across 70–100+°F, not a single “best-case” spike. That makes comparisons fair and closer to real use. Final certified figures will replace these estimates after verification.

Why this matters: we publish averages by real temp bands, not a single best-case spike. Final certified figures will replace these planning numbers after verification.

• Full AC —12V: ~10,216 BTU/hr • COP ~3.4 • ~879 W • ~61 A
  
• ECO — 12V: ~6,304 BTU/hr • COP ~3.8 • ~486 W • ~33.7 A
  
• Full AC — 48V: ~11,132 BTU/hr • COP ~3.4 • ~948 W • ~17 A
  
• ECO — 48V: ~6,875 BTU/hr • COP ~4.5 • ~451 W • ~8 A

Components & Control

• Two-piece split system: rear-bulkhead condenser outside + interior evaporator at the bunk.
• Exterior condenser: powder-coated metal housing, stainless hardware, DC/PWM compressor with variable-speed fan, sealed electronics, automotive-grade water-resistant connectors.
• Interior module: slim, modern face with swinging louvers for even air; quiet variable-speed blower; display-only status (live volts/LVP, inlet–outlet temps, fault codes); washable intake filter.
• Line set & pass-through: EZ-Clip cut-to-length lines (no hose coils), insulated runs, compact ~2.25 in grommeted pass-through, tidy service loops.
• Refrigerant path: R1234yf or R134a service-minded setup (pro evac/charge); POE oil—tech-friendly maintenance.
• Helix control: pre-cool, scenes, schedules, remote status on phone/tablet/watch—beyond Bluetooth range.
• IR remote: quick in-cab temp/fan changes; app remains primary.
• Protections & diagnostics: adjustable Low-Voltage Protection with live voltage, temperature readouts, and clear fault codes for faster commissioning and service.

Dimensions & Weight

• Exterior condenser (rear-bulkhead): 17.83″ W × 23.68″ H × 8.36″ D (overall). Plate/body width (inside tabs): 17.01″.
• Interior evaporator (cabin module): 24.26″ W × 13.07″ H × 7.52″ D (overall).
• Pass-through (line set/harness): 2.25″ hole (keep run straight; grommet & seal).
• Clearances: condenser—about 4″ free area around vents; evaporator—about 6″ around the unit; max install slope ≤5°.
• Hose lengths (kit): 10 ft + 10 ft refrigerant lines (cut-to-fit) and 7 ft drain.
• System ship weight: ~74.9 lb (condenser + evaporator, boxed).

S1 Helix is a two-piece split air conditioner—an exterior condenser on the back/rear wall and a quiet interior evaporator in the sleeper/cabin. It is not a rooftop unit. Use the quick notes below for planning; detailed steps are in the linked guide.

Fit & options

• System type: Split layout (outside condenser + inside evaporator); back/rear-bulkhead mounting is typical for trucks and works equally well in vans/RVs and expedition rigs.
• Condenser clearance & level: Keep ≥4 in open space around vents; mount within 5° of level; avoid exhaust/heat sources. Backing plate recommended for thin metal/high-vibration installs. MOLLE panels are OK if properly rated.
• Evaporator clearance & drainage: Leave ≈6 in around the unit; route the condensate drain with a continuous downward slope (no kinks/P-traps).
• Pass-through port (line set): Drill a 2.25 in wall hole for the bundled lines, drain, and harness; use the supplied 2-piece grommet or an equivalent sealed port.
• Power: 12V (100A breaker/fuse) or 48V (30A breaker/fuse) on the + line, placed within 18 in of the battery; size cable to keep ≤3% voltage drop.
• Commissioning (HVAC tech): Evacuate to ≤500 microns and charge/tune with R134a or R1234yf (nominal 500 g ±30 g; final by gauges). Owner wiring is fine; refrigerant work must be done by a licensed tech.

What’s included for install

• Exterior condenser with mounting brackets & hardware; interior evaporator.
• EZ Clip fittings/cages + in-line service valves (8 mm & 12.7 mm).
• Refrigerant hoses: 10 ft liquid line (8 mm) and 10 ft suction line (12.7 mm)—cut-to-fit.
• 2-piece wall pass-through grommet + foam sleeve; 7 ft drain hose; insulation tape.
• Control/communication wire harness & remote control.
  
  (See parts page in the guide for the complete kit bill-of-materials.)
  

Basic install sequence

1. Plan & bench-test the unit; confirm structure, cable size, and breaker placement.
2. Mount condenser: attach brackets; mark/drill; rust-proof; seal and tighten in a criss-cross pattern; maintain clearances/level.
3. Mount evaporator: direct to structure or on a backer board; ensure level and drainage path.
4. Install pass-through: drill 2.25 in hole; rust-proof; install/seat grommet and seal.
5. Fabricate line set (EZ Clip): cut to length, add in-line service valves, crimp per sequence, and inspect each joint.
6. Make connections: TXV conversion joints at evaporator (torque 8 N·m), 90° fittings inside; straight fittings at condenser; insulate joints.
7. Route/secure bundle: lines + drain (bottom) + harness through port; keep slopes smooth; seal inside & outside.
8. Electrical: run DC cables, install 100A (12V) / 30A (48V) protection, connect to condenser studs (+ / –) and weatherproof lugs.
9. Commission (HVAC): vacuum ≤500 microns; weigh in ~500 g R134a/R1234yf; verify by pressures/superheat/subcool; leak check.
10. Owner test run: power on with remote/app; verify cold air, condenser fan, and no errors.

Pro tips

• Use a backing plate for thin sheet metal; keep service valves accessible.
  
• Avoid routing between separate moving panels (e.g., opposing rear doors); if unavoidable, leave slack for the full motion.
  
• Keep refrigerant lines and drain kink-free; re-insulate any spots that sweat.
  
• Create a Quiet Night scene in Helix once commissioned for low-RPM hold.
  

Downloads

• S1 Helix Install & Operations Guide (PDF) — full parts, dimensions, install & troubleshooting.
  
• S1 Helix Dimensions Sheet (PDF) — condenser/evaporator diagrams & hole sizes. (coming soon)
  
• Shipping, Returns & Order Policy (Nomadic Innovations).
  

S1 Helix is priced for long-term ownership—not disposability. You’re paying for engine-off sleeper cooling that replaces generator idle, a 12V/48V DC split system that fits trucks without a roof cutout, and a control platform (Helix) that actually reaches you on phone, tablet, and watch.

• Engine-off comfort (APU alternative): sleep cool with the truck off; rear-bulkhead condenser outside, quiet interior module at the bunk. (Check local anti-idle rules for your route.)
  
• Battery-friendly DC: 12V or 48V options match real over-the-road electrical systems; PWM modulation glides to set point and holds it with less battery stress.
  
• No roof penetration: keep overall height unchanged; ideal for sleeper cabs, expedition trucks, vans/RVs that need roof space for racks or solar.
  
• Helix remote control: scenes, schedules, and true remote access—pre-cool before you park, check status from anywhere, and pair Helix Eye for quick pet/cabin check-ins.
  
• Quieter nights: interior module focuses air where you sleep; create a Quiet Night scene for lower RPM/fan while resting.
  
• Moisture & heat handled: targeted airflow plus ECO/FULL modes keep cabins crisp across temps and humidity swings.
  
• Service-minded build: EZ-Clip cut-to-length lines (no ugly coils), R1234yf service path, stainless hardware, sealed electronics, tidy access points.
  
• On-board protection: adjustable Low-Voltage Protection (LVP), live voltage/temps, and clear fault codes for faster diagnostics.
  
• US-based support: real techs and engineers in Elkhart, Indiana who know off-grid and over-the-road installs.
  

Total cost of ownership: fewer idle hours (fuel + wear), quieter sleep, and a maintainable platform that grows with your rig—value measured in miles, not seasons.