You can invest a lot in getting a finished basement, but overlooking the air conditioning and cooling systems in that place can create an unpleasant and uncomfortable environment.
The basement requires quality ventilation to prevent the area from developing moisture problems and accumulating dust.
Let’s look at the basement air conditioning options that you can explore.
Can You Put an Air Conditioner in Basement Window?
Although it is not the easiest or safest option, you can place an air conditioner in the basement window.
If you decide to install one, it is crucial to consider two essential things:
Installing a ventilation system in your basement window may seem like a simple process, but it is not.
Whether it is in the renovation process or an unfinished basement, the window provides one of the crucial means of air circulation.
Besides, you do not want a window air conditioner blocking the only basement space that can provide entry and exit in an accident.
Therefore, placing a cooling system in your basement window is unsuitable for ventilation and safety reasons.
How to Put Air Conditioner in Basement Window?
Although getting a basement ventilation system to fit correctly and securely in the window can be completely overwhelming, you can install a standard one by following a crucial procedure.
Check out the following tips to know if you install the window air conditioner correctly.
Seal Air Leaks
Ensuring that you properly seal the windows in your basement is an important first step when creating a cooling system.
When placing a cooling system in a basement window, you may have to eject the bars for the HVAC unit to effectively and adequately fit in the space.
The window removal process can result in new issues of air leaks through small holes and gaps.
If the air conditioner installation leaves small spaces, it will be crucial to seal it by putting boards beneath the unit to ensure it rests on the external window sill.
Also, tilting the HVAC unit at an angle to facilitate efficient drainage is essential as it will also prevent the unit from accumulating moisture and rust.
As a result, the tilting prevents the outside unit from rusting.
Securing the Air Conditioner
It is essential to ensure that your basement air conditioner stays appropriately secured in the proper position.
Under many circumstances, window units present a challenge in securing the cooling system.
The best solution is to measure the size of your window before buying the systems to ensure you find one that suitably fits.
Besides, building a small ledge where your current HVAC can securely rest is essential.
It would be best for you to remember that it also needs to have a slight slope to facilitate proper draining outside.
Securing Your Home
Installing a basement air conditioner interferes with the lock system of the space such that it loses all function.
It is vital to ensure the safety of the entire house by fitting a board in the window frame as a cover.
The board’s role is to stop trespassers and burglars from snooping or breaking into the house through the window.
Can You Use a Portable Air Conditioner in a Basement?
The answer is yes; a portable air conditioner is one of the best cooling options for your basement.
The best part about using the portable alternative is transferring it from one room to the rest of the house or leaving it in the cellar until the hot season is over.
When using it, it is vital to ensure that it has an exhaust fan in the window to facilitate exhausting.
There are some benefits that you can get when you have a portable air conditioner:
Setting it up is easy; you avoid the lengthy installation process
Storing it is easy
The system is mobile; you can take it anywhere
Provides practical solutions for cooling single spots since their airflow is in one direction
While you can move around with the portable air conditioner, there are some potential setbacks that you may experience.
Here are the possible setbacks of portable air conditioners:
It produces a loud noise. So, you would want to go for the low-decibel model to avoid the excess noise from your portable AC
Some portable basement ACs have a hose that you need to set up close to the basement window.
The system places an additional load on the lower side of the window, thus, blocking it.
It would be best if you had a window in your basement to use the portable air conditioner in most cases. Most models are therefore impossible to use to cool basements.
Other ways of Air Conditioning Your Basement
The best way to bring maximum comfort to your basement is through the following solutions:
Dehumidifier
Air conditioning units are crucial for regulating humidity levels in every living space.
A dehumidifier is vital for eliminating excess moisture in the indoor air and across your basement walls.
Otherwise, high humidity can lead to mold growth because the humid air creates a damp environment where mold spores can thrive.
Duct-less Mini-Split System
Ductless mini-splits are the best indoor units, especially when you consider the difficulty of installing window air conditioners.
All you need is to attach it to the basement walls and connect its hose to an outside unit, and you get the cool air needed in your single room.
Upgrade Your Current System
The best choice is to upgrade your current HVAC system to access the entire house, including the additional space in your basement.
The best option is to call an HVAC contractor who will install the best HVAC system to use every square inch of your house to cover all your heating needs.
If you have an old system, it will be vital to find a larger one that will cover all the additional square footage to guarantee high performance and a comfortable environment.
A ductless system will also be a crucial solution in the long run when you cannot replace the HVAC system to manage the remaining square feet.
Choosing the best HVAC equipment for your basement based on your personal preference is crucial.
Every household with a cellar experiences different challenges, including lower temperature, cold air, and water vapor.
You can install an air purifier or an air filter as a friendly option to eliminate the stale air and ceiling fans to let in the fresh air.
Wrapping Up, Air Conditioning Your Basement Hiring an experienced general contractor to handle your basement air conditioning based on your specific needs is always a great idea.
The experts understand the local building codes to uphold and will find a great way to create energy savings for the whole unit.
However, you can always explore other options, including a ductless mini-split system, a portable air conditioner, or box fans to prevent warmer air, humidity, and low temperature from developing into a bigger problem.
