Air Conditioners for Basements: The Ultimate Guide
Basements can be great spaces for a variety of reasons: they can provide extra living space, a place to store your belongings, or simply another room in your house to relax in. However, basements can also get quite warm during the summer months. If you’re looking for a way to cool down your basement without breaking the bank, an air conditioner for the basement may be the perfect solution.
In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about air conditioners for basements,from sizing and installation, as well as their many benefits. We’ll help make sure that you find the perfect AC unit for your needs and budget.
Air Conditioner Sizing
When it comes to air conditioners, size matters. That being said, you’ll want to make sure that you choose an AC unit that is the right size for your basement — not too small, and not too large. If your AC is too small, it will struggle to cool down the space, and if it’s too large, it will waste energy and money.
The most common sizes are:
- 6000 BTUs - A 6000 BTU AC unit is perfect for cooling small basements. This unit is energy-efficient and operates quietly.
- 8000 BTUs - This is the perfect size for a medium-sized basement. It can cool around 350 square feet.
- 12000 BTUs - Perfect for large basements. 12000 BTUs can cool up to 500 square feet.
Measure the square footage of your basement and multiply by 25. This will give you the minimum BTU requirement for your AC unit. If your basement is heavily insulated, has high ceilings, or is used as a home office or bedroom, you may need to multiply the square footage by 30 or 35.
If your basement is used as a living space, you may need to multiply the square footage by 40 or 45. Once you have determined the minimum BTU requirement for your AC unit, choose an air conditioner with a higher BTU rating to ensure that your basement is comfortably cooled.
Installation
Air conditioners for basements can be installed in one of two ways: through the wall, or through the ceiling. If you choose to install your AC unit through the wall, you will need to have an opening in the wall that is large enough to accommodate the unit.
If you choose to install your AC unit through the ceiling, you will need to have an opening in the ceiling that is large enough to accommodate the unit and the ductwork.
What to Know Before You Buy an Air Conditioner?
Before you buy an air conditioning unit, there are a few things you should know.
1. Energy star rated
Air conditioners for basements can come in Energy Star rated models, which means they’ll use less energy to keep your basement cool. This is important, especially if you’re trying to save on your energy costs. Look for the Energy Star label when shopping for an air conditioner for your basement.
2. AHRI certified
An AHRI Certified air conditioner is one that has met the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute’s (AHRI) rigorous standards. To become AHRI Certified, an air conditioner must undergo extensive testing to ensure that it meets or exceeds the performance of similar models.
3. Warranty
When shopping for an air conditioner for your basement, be sure to ask about the warranty. A good warranty will give you peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong with your air conditioner, you will be able to get it fixed or replaced quickly and without hassle.
4. Ability to direct airflow
One of the biggest advantages of an air conditioner for a basement is the ability to direct the airflow. If you have a large space, you’ll want to make sure the unit can send air where it’s needed most.
5. Controls
Air conditioners for basements come with a variety of controls so that you can customize the temperature to your liking. Some units have digital displays that let you set the desired temperature, while others have touchpad controls that allow you to change settings with just a few taps.
6. Heat pump
A heat pump is a type of air conditioner that can both heat and cool a space. They are more expensive to operate than a standard air conditioner, but they can save you money in the long run by cooling your home in the summer and heating it in the winter.
Air conditioning units for basements can be an essential part of keeping your basement comfortable and cool all year round. By following these guidelines, you can be sure to find the perfect cooling system that best suits your needs.
What's My Plug Type and What Voltage Do I need?
Air conditioners for basements come in both standard and voltage. Make sure that you choose an AC unit that is compatible with the voltage in your area. Most air conditioners require a 230-volt outlet, but there are some units that require a 115-volt outlet.
The type of plug you will need is a three-pronged plug. If your outlet is not a three-pronged outlet, you will need to use an adapter.
Types of AC Units
There are a number of different types of AC units available on the market. The most common types are:
1
Mini-split air conditioning systems
A mini-split air conditioning system is a ductless AC unit that is perfect for basements. This type of AC unit does not require any ductwork, and can be installed in minutes. They consist of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, which means that you can cool rooms that would otherwise be difficult to cool.
2
Window air conditioners
A window air conditioner is a perfect solution for cooling small basements. This type of AC unit installs in a matter of minutes, and does not require any ductwork either. Window air conditioners pull in the hot air or warm air from the room, and release the cold air into the room.
3
Central air conditioning systems
A central air conditioning system is a perfect solution for cooling large basements. This type of AC unit cools the entire home by pulling in hot air from all of the rooms in your home and releasing cold air back into the rooms.
4
Portable air conditioners
A portable air conditioner is a perfect solution for cooling smaller basements. This type of AC unit is easy to install. These models usually rest on the floor and have wheels for easy transport.
5
Casement air conditioners
A casement air conditioner is a window air conditioner that installs in minutes. This type of AC unit is perfect for cooling small basements. It has a sleek, modern design and comes in a variety of colors to match your décor.
Dangers of an Oversized Air Conditioner
An oversized air conditioner can be dangerous. If an AC unit is too large, it can cause the following problems:
- It can short circuit your electrical system
- It can overheat and start a fire
- It can cause your energy bills to skyrocket
How to Clean an AC Unit
One important step in keeping your AC unit running efficiently, is to clean it on a regular basis. The best way to clean an AC unit is to unplug the AC unit from the wall and use a vacuum cleaner to clean the inside and outside of the unit. Be sure to remove any debris from the filters, and reinstall them correctly.
You should also clean the area around the AC unit. Make sure that there is nothing blocking the airflow to the AC unit. This includes leaves, snow, and ice.
Benefits of Air Conditioners for Basements
There are a number of benefits to installing an air conditioner for your basement:
- Comfort - The number one benefit of air conditioners for basements is comfort. An AC unit can help keep your basement cool and comfortable during the summer months.
- Energy Efficiency - Air conditioners for basements are more energy-efficient than window units or portable AC units. This means that you will save money on your energy bills.
- Quiet Operation - Air conditioners for basements operate quietly, which means that you can use them without disturbing others in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
Does indoor air quality affect the AC unit?
Yes, indoor air quality can affect the AC unit. The more contaminants in the air, the harder the air conditioning unit will have to work to cool the room.
2
Does the HVAC system need to be ducted to the basement?
In order for an air conditioner to work in a basement, the HVAC system needs to be ducted to the basement. If the HVAC system is not already ducted to the basement, it will need to be installed in order for the air conditioner to work.
3
What is the best air conditioner for a basement?
The best air conditioner for a basement is a mini-split air conditioning system. This type of AC unit does not require any ductwork, and can be installed in minutes.
4
Does AC mean cool air only?
No, AC can also stand for air conditioning. An AC unit is a device that cools the air in a room.
5
How many BTU air conditioners do you need for a 12x12 room?
You would need a 6000 BTU air conditioner for a 12×12 room. This is the perfect size air conditioner for a small basement, as it will cool the room very quickly.
An air conditioner for your basement is a great way to keep your basement cool and comfortable during the summer months. There are a number of different types of AC units available on the market, so you are sure to find one that is perfect for your needs.
Be sure to clean your AC unit on a regular basis to ensure efficient operation. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.