10 Best Air Conditioner For Basement 2025 in the United States

The Frigidaire FFRA051WAE is a window-mounted air conditioner with a cooling capacity of 5,000 BTU, making it suitable for small basement areas. One of its strengths is the effortless temperature control, ensuring consistent comfort. The unit is equipped with an easy-to-clean washable filter, which helps maintain efficiency and air quality by capturing dust.

Its SpaceWise adjustable design with optional side panels makes installation straightforward and adaptable to different window sizes (24 to 36 inches wide). The extra-long power cord eliminates the need for extension cords, which is a convenient feature for basement setups. Another handy feature is the effortless restart that automatically resumes operation after a power outage, maintaining previous settings without needing manual adjustment.

However, the air conditioner is not Energy Star certified, which might be a drawback for those looking for the highest energy efficiency standards. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 11 is decent but not the best in class. With a noise level of 52 dB, it operates relatively quietly, which is important for creating a comfortable environment in the basement. Despite offering basic humidity control through its cooling function, it may not be as efficient as dedicated dehumidifiers in managing basement moisture levels. Suitable for standard double-hung windows, its installation type might limit use in basements with unconventional window designs. It's a solid choice for those with standard windows and who value ease of use and straightforward installation.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat offers a versatile solution for cooling and heating spaces up to 700 sq. ft., making it ideal for large basements. With a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU (10,000 BTU DOE) and heating capacity of 12,000 BTU, it is equipped to handle varying temperatures throughout the year. The unit also functions as a dehumidifier, which is essential for basement environments that often struggle with humidity control, and as a fan.

Its SEER of 6.2 and lack of Energy Star rating might indicate higher energy consumption, which can be a drawback for energy-conscious users. However, the smart features, including Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, add convenience. The 'Follow Me' remote control feature ensures precise temperature regulation by acting as a thermostat. Installation is relatively straightforward with the included window kit, making it accessible for most users.

The noise level at 54 dB may be noticeable but is generally acceptable for basement settings. Weighing 35 pounds, its portability is a significant advantage, especially if you need to move the unit between different rooms. While it has some energy efficiency limitations, its multifunctionality, ease of use, and smart features make it a strong contender for those needing a versatile air conditioning unit for their basement.

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner offers a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU (8,000 BTU SACC), which is suitable for spaces up to about 500 to 550 square feet, making it a reasonably good choice for most basements. It’s a three-in-one unit that not only cools but also acts as a dehumidifier and fan — an important feature for basements where moisture can be a problem. The unit includes a handy 'Follow Me' remote control which lets you set the temperature accurately from across the room, improving convenience. It comes with an easy-to-install window kit, so setup should be straightforward if your basement has a suitable window for venting.

The noise level is around 52 dB, which is moderate and slightly noticeable but not overly loud, allowing for reasonable comfort during use. However, it does not have an Energy Star rating and its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is 5.8, which means it’s not the most energy-efficient option available, so expect moderate electricity usage. Being portable with caster wheels and side handles, you can easily move it if needed. The water capacity for dehumidifying is 0.8 liters with auto water evaporation to reduce manual draining.

This product provides a good balance of cooling power and humidity control for a basement, though if energy efficiency or very quiet operation is a priority, there might be better options available.