Last Updated: February 26, 2024
A basement comes with limitless possibilities to expand your real estate without interfering with the setup of the rest of the house. However, maintaining optimal air conditioning in a basement is challenging, given the nature of the space basements pose. Therefore, if you plan to use the basement as an office, an entertainment room, or an extra room, it is imperative to find the right system that can effectively tackle cold, hot, humidity, and indoor air issues and bring optimal comfort to your basement.
Basement Cooling Challenges People Usually Face
A basement is an enclosed, damp space beneath the home. It has a low-hanging ceiling and is typically designed to be accessible through a stairway or a lift. Temperature imbalance is a common issue in basements due to changing weather conditions and various other factors, such as the type of insulation and humidity levels.
Some basements lack windows entirely. While others have tiny windows that are often located up high at ground level. With cold and humidity present inside, a basement can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew, a situation you want to avoid, especially if you are planning to use it as a retrofit space. Conversely, a basement can get too hot depending on where you live and its construction. It could get even hotter in the summer, especially if it has poor ventilation.
Basement Cooling Solutions (What can we do about it)
Basements tend to be naturally cooler than the rest of the house, but that alone may not be enough during the hot, humid months. So if you’re looking for better ways to beat the heat, here are some options:
Extend Your Existing HVAC System: You may consider extending the ductwork down to your basement if you have an existing centralized, ducted HVAC unit at home. Extending your current HVAC can be beneficial as it allows you to control the temperature in the whole house with one single thermostat. In addition, it is simple to use and can increase the value of your home.
If you are building a new home, there would be less of a problem because you can integrate it with the overall home design. The problem arises when the basement is unfinished or when you have an older home that was not originally designed to accommodate extra ductwork. Also, in some cases, you may need a construction permit to extend onto the HVAC system. Adding additional ductwork can also interfere with the design of your basement. Basements generally have different requirements than the majority of the house; hence using a single thermostat may be an issue. You may also need to consider if your current HVAC system is strong enough for the extra load.
Ductless mini-split system: Window units are either difficult or impossible to use in basements. These mini-split air conditioning systems are ideal for cooling a single room and only require a tiny hole in the wall for a pipe to connect to an outside unit. They are mounted directly onto the wall and quietly and efficiently cool the room. However, installing a mini ductless system comes with challenges. Ductless split systems are mostly priced as high as a traditional AC system. Hence it is essential to get the sizing right; else, it may lead to electricity overuse, an overworked system, wasted energy, and an inability to control the temperature.
Dehumidifier: Air conditioners naturally manage humidity levels in any space being cooled. However, using a separate dehumidifier may still be wise to remove even more excess moisture from the air. This ensures that humidity is appropriately managed and that your AC can run more efficiently.
Portable Basement Air Conditioner: Portable air conditioners can be remarkably convenient for many homeowners, as they provide an affordable way to bring a little cool air into your living space. A portable air conditioner is easy to set up and doesn’t require special installation. A portable air conditioner can be placed on the floor and take up very little room, but it may not be the most efficient. These units are highly portable, so you can easily move them or store them away when not in use. They are also effective for cooling one spot due to the direct airflow. Ensure that you check the decibel levels before making a purchase, as many people complain about the sound of the portable AC.
How to choose the right Cooling Option for Basement
Comfort is naturally a priority if you’re looking to use the basement as an extra living space. But then, you have to understand that achieving comfort does not mean that you have to spend more dollars than necessary.
Before choosing the cooling option, you need to determine exactly what you need. For example, how often will you be using your basement? Are there bathrooms and/or bedrooms down there? Will it be used by children and/or seniors? Do you have pets?
Area: How big is your basement? Are you also using the space for storage? Do you need to cool the entire space or some sections? If it is the latter, a portable air cooler would be ideal for cooling the basement, as it provides relief in your personal space without interfering with the rest of the room.
Budget: The best way to implement the right cooling solution that is capable of working around the structural limitations of the space and is energy-efficient and powerful enough to give you comfort and cost savings at the same time.
We evaluated how quickly a unit cooled the room and how well it dispersed that coolness throughout the space. We also looked into how easy they were to move around or lift and how easy they were to break down. We have not considered portable models with 56 decibels or higher advertised noise ratings. We evaluated what it was like to live with these machines, how intuitive they were to control, what size footprint they occupied, and what it would be like to store them in the off-season.
Our Pick – Best Portable Air Conditioners For Basement Without Windows
1. Trustech Portable Air Cooler, Cool & Humidifying with 3 Speeds –
The Trustech Evaporative Air Cooler is equipped with the latest evaporative cooling technology to provide cool air in your area without drying the air like traditional A/C.
In addition, the machine offers two ice boxes; you could put them or ice cubes into the water tank, which helps cool the air faster and let you enjoy a cooler atmosphere. The machine features a 4-liter water tank that enables the distribution of cooler air for a long time.
The Trustech Evaporative Air Conditioner features three wind speeds that can deliver a stream of smooth, comfortable, and cool air dependent on your needs. In addition, the machine comes with cooling and swing modes, whether you are doing paperwork, studying, sleeping, or anything else.
Trustech Evaporative Cooler has a maximum 12-hour timing setting, ensuring you can enjoy a relaxed and peaceful night without interruptions. In addition, the portable air cooler comes with a remote control panel, with a control range of up to 26.25 ft. It allows you to adjust the portable evaporative cooler’s function from a long distance without moving.
Trustech portable air conditioner features a bladeless design that prevents scratching or twisting, especially in families with kids and pets; besides, the bladeless fan is easy to disassemble and clean, unlike traditional fans.
Pros
- Sturdy build
- The bladeless design adds safety
- No Noise
Cons
- The little pads that fit the base should be attached to the fan.
2. AGILLY 3-IN-1 Windowless Portable Air Conditioner –
This summer, enjoy the ultimate coolness with the Agilly 3-in-1 cooler, whether in the office, bedroom, living room, basement, or patio, to beat the heat and leave you feeling comfortable all day and night.
Agilly portable air cooler is based on the “evaporative cooling” technology. While it evaporates, water will cool the air around the room. It doesn’t use Freon-like liquids, making it environmental friendly. Unlike traditional portable air conditioners that require large drain holes and rumbling noises, you can push the agilly freestanding cooler anywhere, no installation required; just plug it in and use it.
The Agilly 3-in-1 cooler comes with three fan speeds, low/medium/high to choose from, and four programmable normal/natural/sleep/cool wind modes to maximize energy efficiency. With 60°oscillating wide-angle powerful blow, this portable ac is not only suitable for personal use but also perfect for the whole family to enjoy together. You’ll also have three cooling fan speeds to choose from and several programmable features to maximize the cooling performance and energy efficiency.
Agilly’s 3-in-1 cooler features a 1.3-gallon removable water tank that holds enough water to last for 8-hour between refills, reducing the hassle of carrying the cooler to the bathroom or jugging water to the tank. Additionally, you can also remove the water tank for easy washing.
The Agilly 3-in-1 cooler comes with a remote and screen-off function. Try standing 20 feet away from the swamp cooler, and it will still take your commands! The remote control will be very useful when you are sleeping or lying on the couch. You could also use the screen-off function in the dark to eliminate light while the machine is working. This feature is especially great for users with young kids and other sensitive sleepers.
The inclusion of a timer means you can fall asleep in a comfortable microclimate and not worry about your room cooler being left on all night. It is easy to set up, and you can customize it to suit your needs. The manufacturer recommends to clean evaporative media pad twice a month with warm water and mild soap. With easy access to the air cooler’s media pad, it won’t be a problem. Agilly portable air conditioner equipped with closable wind blades and power cord storage design, preparing for you for off-season storage.
Pros
- Large tank
- Multiple cooling options
- Easy to install and use
- Handy remote control
Cons
3. FANCOLE 2 IN 1 Windowless Air Conditioner, 3 Speed Cooling Fan, 4 Ice Packs, 5.28Gal Large Water Tank & Scroll Casters –
The Fancole L242J 2-in-1 portable swamp cooler fans out cool air during the summer months and humidifies dry air. The windowless air conditioner features an upgraded big turbine motor and a 15-inch large wind outlet that can cover 700 square feet in seconds and generate a max wind speed of 23.6ft/s with an air volume of 2100CFM. So keep your room, apartment, dorm, garage, warehouse, basement, outdoor pool parties, backyard barbeques, and sunroom comfy and pleasant.
The Fancole L242J 2-in-1 evaporative cooler features 2 modes: normal and cooling. The portable air cooler combines the natural cooling properties of water with a steady breeze to lower temperatures. The built-in handle of the swamp cooler air conditioner makes it easier to carry it around. In addition, the swamp cooler features four versatile universal 360°wheels making the compact evaporative cooler convenient to move around. You can lock 2 of the wheels to keep the cooler fan stable once it’s in place.
The Fancole L242J 2-in-1 evaporative cooler comes with a built-in 5.28-gallon large water tank that can keep the evaporative cooling fan cooling for 10 hours. The machine’s intuitive Low-Max water line helps you monitor the water level for timely toppings up. The portable air cooler comes with 4pcs ice packs, which can help you enjoy ultra-coolness in seconds. The Fancole L242J 2-in-1 evaporative cooler includes three upgraded cooling pads, generating 60% more power to evaporate water than average cooler fans.
The Fancole L242J enables top filling, and you can also directly release the water through the connecting hose (not included). The machine features a bladeless design for safety protection and dust prevention. This outdoor air conditioner can do auto-Swing horizontally and manual-Swing vertically, meeting a variety of needs and lowering your energy bills.
Pros
- Powerful Cooling
- Easy to Install
- Easy to move
Cons
- Might add a bit of humidity
4. VAGKRI 2100CFM, 120°Oscillation Swamp Cooler with Remote Control
The Vagkri evaporative air cooler provides you with much-needed relief from the heat. This portable swamp cooler can handle spaces of up to 700 square feet, puts out 2100 cubic feet of cold air a minute, and effectively distributes the cold air throughout the space.
You can use the Vagkri portable swamp cooler with or without water, and it has three different speed settings, which offer you a variety of cooling levels and experiences. The air cooler’s automatic horizontal oscillation feature allows you to adjust it for a 120-degrees setting. You can also adjust the vertical flow with manual louvers for maximum cooling effectiveness.
The VAGKRI air cooler features three-sided intake panels that allow faster cooling and super cool air, delivered powerfully. It also has an ice compartment for ultra-effective cooling. Its locking caster wheels will enable you to easily move it into any room in the house or the garage, patio, or workshop. The machine comes with a carry handle for easy mobility and flexible placement, including indoor and outdoor, up and down stairs.
Featuring a large 8-gallon water tank, the Vagkri evaporative cooler will provide continuous cooling for hours. You can manually add water from the top or attach a garden hose for uninterrupted cooling without needing to be refilled. The machine uses an electronic control panel to ease of use and long-term reliability, letting you select between 3 fan speeds and 1-24H timer settings. The device also comes with a full-function remote control and a 7.2ft extra-long power cords that help you minimize the limitations of power sockets.
Pros
- Great Build Quality
- Locking Wheels
- Lightweight and portable
- Top filling
- Remote Control Functioning
Cons
- A little loud
FAQs
Question 1. Are there any air conditioners that don’t need to be vented?
Evaporative air coolers offer a ventless portable air conditioner option. These portable AC units don’t have a hose and deliver cool air to your home by evaporating water. Unfortunately, these add moisture and humidity to the air. They are efficient in dry climates but less effective in humid areas.
Question 2. Do ventless air conditioners work well?
There is no refrigeration process or compressor to produce hot air like an air conditioner that must be vented. An evaporative cooler does not reduce the overall temperature inside a room or dry the air in the same way and air conditioner does
Question 3. What is the most eco-friendly option for cooling a finished basement?
An evaporative air cooler would be the most eco-friendly solution for cooling a finished basement. It uses evaporation for cooling and consumes very little electricity as well.
Question 4. Which basement cooling option is the most efficient?
If your goal is to get the whole space to a freezing temperature, a ductless split system, an extension, or an upgrade to your HVAC system can be an option. If you want to create a personal cooling area for one during hot weather, the portable air cooler will get the job done.
Question 5. How can I cool a room with no windows?
You can follow the steps given below
- Strategically Angle Fans
- Install a Ceiling Fan
- Use Some Ice and Fans to Cool Things Down
- Install a Ductless Air Conditioner
- Keep Appliances Off
- Replace Your Incandescent Lights