Whether you have a bedroom in your attic or use it as a playroom, being up in your attic can be quite the challenge during summers. Since it is the topmost part of your home, attics can get quite hot during summers. In such cases, you may consider getting one of the best attic air conditioners that we have stated down below based on these factors:
- Cooling Capacity: Before anything else, you first need to make sure that your attic air conditioner is powerful enough for your cooling needs. For this, you can check the cooling capacity of your attic air conditioner which is given as 10000 BTU, 12000 BTU, and even 14000 BTU where a higher BTU value results in better cooling.
- Coverage Area: Another great way to get an idea of the cooling performance of your attic air conditioner is to check its coverage area rating. Usually, you will find the coverage area rating to include options like up to 300 square feet, up to 500 square feet, and so on. You can simply pick a coverage area rating based on the size of your attic since a larger attic will need a more powerful air conditioner.
- SEER Rating: Apart from being highly powerful, your attic air conditioner also needs to be highly efficient so that you can keep your power bills in check. Thankfully, you can simply check the SEER rating of your attic air conditioner to get a pretty good idea of its efficiency. While entry level attic air conditioners may have a seer rating of around 11 or 12, higher end models can even have a SEER rating of 20 or so which results in much better efficiency.
Despite being some of the most important factors regarding attic air conditioners, you still need to consider more points. Thus, all the best attic air conditioners discussed in this list also have their primary features and options given alongside an extensive “Buying Guide”. And since we have also discussed a few important FAQs for the best attic air conditioners, picking the right one for you should be quite easy.
Best Attic Air Conditioners Chart
| Best Attic Air Conditioners | Cooling Capacity | Coverage Area | SEER Rating | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senville Attic Air Conditioners | Up to 12000 BTU | Up to 700 square feet | SEER 20.8 | Check On Amazon |
| Cooper & Hunter Attic Air Conditioners | Up to 12000 BTU | Up to 800 square feet | SEER 20.8 | Check On Amazon |
| Frigidaire Attic Air Conditioners | Up to 10000 BTU | Up to 450 square feet | SEER 12 | Check On Amazon |
| Midea Attic Air Conditioners | Up to 5000 BTU | Up to 150 square feet | SEER 11 | Check On Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER Attic Air Conditioners | Up to 14000 BTU | Up to 700 square feet | SEER 7 | Check On Amazon |
| SereneLife Attic Air Conditioners | Up to 10000 BTU | Up to 300 square feet | SEER 2.6 | Check On Amazon |
Best Attic Air Conditioners Reviews
1. Senville Attic Air Conditioners
Senville is a high-end and one of the most popular options out there when you are talking about air conditioning units since it offers quite unique AC units with amazing features.
The Senville Leto Series attic air conditioner is present in the 1st position of this list since it is the perfect all-rounder option given here. Starting with its performance numbers, this air conditioner is rated for a cooling capacity of up to 12000 BTU. And this allows this air conditioner to work amazingly in up to 700 square feet while having standard noise levels of up to 52 dB.
Despite being highly powerful, this attic air conditioner offers a highly efficient SEER rating of 20.8. But the unique thing about this attic air conditioner is that you get support for a smartphone app as well as smart assistant control. Coming back to the cooling side of things, this AC unit runs on R410A refrigerant, which is quite common. However, what’s not common with this air conditioner is that you get a 5-year warranty with it.
Best Features
- Rated cooling capacity of up to 12000 BTU
- Supports a coverage area of up to 700 square feet
- Outputs noise levels of up to 52 dB
- Features a SEER rating of 20.8 for efficiency
- Comes with remote controller for operation
- Runs on the R410A refrigerant
- Backed by a 5 year long warranty period
Pros
- Amazing all rounder attic air conditioner with unique features
- High end performance numbers despite being quite efficient
- Supports multiple control options including a smartphone app and smart assistant
Cons
- Could have used a better refrigerant at the given price tag
2. Cooper & Hunter Attic Air Conditioners
You can also consider Cooper & Hunter if you don’t have any budget issues but if you want a highly practical attic air conditioner that can easily last for a long period of time.
Copper & Hunter’s attic air conditioner is present in the 2nd position of this listicle as this is the perfect option for long-term usage given here. Apart from being highly durable and reliable, this air conditioner is also quite powerful thanks to its cooling capacity of up to 12000 BTU. Thanks to the given cooling capacity rating, this AC unit is able to work in an area of up to 800 square feet with exceptionally low noise levels of just up to 41 dB.
Similar to the previous Senville air conditioner unit, this one also has a great SEER rating of 20.8 for great efficiency. You can use and control this attic air conditioner fairly easily as well, thanks to the included remote controller. As for its refrigerant, this AC unit also uses R410A despite its high-end price tag. That being said, the given price tag does result in a 7-year long warranty period which makes it excellent for long-term usage.
Best Features
- Rated cooling capacity of up to 12000 BTU
- Supports a coverage area of up to 800 square feet
- Outputs noise levels of up to 41 dB
- Features a SEER rating of 20.8 for efficiency
- Comes with remote controller for operation
- Runs on the R410A refrigerant
- Backed by a 7 year long warranty period
Pros
- Exceptional attic air conditioner unit for long term usage thanks to its warranty
- Works great in large spaces while being highly efficient
- One of the most silent attic air conditioner options out there
Cons
- Quite an expensive and high-end attic air conditioner unit
3. Frigidaire Attic Air Conditioners
Frigidaire is another highly popular brand of attic air conditioners that is known for its affordable and entry-level AC units that can be great for most users out there.
This Frigidaire FHWC104WB1 attic air conditioner is present in the 3rd position of this article because this is one of the best value-for-money options out there. Despite the given price tag of this AC unit, you get a pretty good cooling capacity of up to 10000 BTU. Thanks to the given cooling capacity, this window air conditioner is able to work well in an up to 450 square feet area while having noise levels of up to 54 dB.
Even though this is an entry-level window AC unit, you get decent efficiency from it thanks to its SEER rating of 11. Although this is a Windows AC unit, it does not come with a remote controller and requires you to rely on onboard controls. That being said, it uses the R32 cooling refrigerant, which is considered one of the best. You also get a 1-year warranty with this air conditioner which is pretty amazing for the given price.
Best Features
- Rated cooling capacity of up to 10000 BTU
- Supports a coverage area of up to 450 square feet
- Outputs noise levels of up to 54 dB
- Features a SEER rating of 11 for efficiency
- Comes with onboard controls for operation
- Runs on the R32 refrigerant
- Backed by a 1 year long warranty period
Pros
- Quite an amazing value for money attic air conditioner thanks to its performance
- Uses a high-quality refrigerant for better recycling
- Small and compact unit thanks to its window AC design
Cons
- Does not include a remote controller in the box
4. Midea Attic Air Conditioners
Midea can be another great option for those who are on a budget and looking for an entry-level option when it comes to air conditioner units that can be used in the attic.
The Midea attic air conditioner is given in this list since it is the cheapest option discussed here, making it perfect if you are on a tight budget. And considering the given price tag of this air conditioner, its given cooling capacity of up to 5000 BTU is to be expected. Similarly, this air conditioner has a coverage area rating of up to 150 square feet along with a noise level rating of up to 54 dB.
Thankfully, Midea has not compromised a lot in terms of the efficiency rating of this air conditioner unit since it has a SEER rating of 11. That being said, it only has onboard controls and does not come with any remote controller, which is quite common with entry-level window AC units like this one. Fortunately, you do get other good things with this air conditioner, like its R32 refrigerant, which has a lower maintenance cost. You also get a decent 1-year warranty with it which is quite great on a budget.
Best Features
- Rated cooling capacity of up to 5000 BTU
- Supports a coverage area of up to 150 square feet
- Outputs noise levels of up to 54 dB
- Features a SEER rating of 11 for efficiency
- Comes with onboard controls for operation
- Runs on the R32 refrigerant
- Backed by a 1 year long warranty period
Pros
- Extremely affordable and budget friendly attic air conditioner unit
- Uses a cheap to maintain refrigerant which is also easier to recycle
- Decent build quality and warranty period for peace of mind
Cons
- Not the most powerful attic air conditioner unit out there
5. BLACK+DECKER Attic Air Conditioners
While Black Decker is primarily known for its power tools, it also makes a few electrical appliances like its air conditioner unit, which we have discussed below.
Black Decker’s attic air conditioner is given in this listicle as it is not only a portable option but also one of the most powerful. Compared with most other attic air conditioners, this one has an even higher cooling capacity of up to 14000 BTU. And with the given cooling capacity, this AC unit can offer a coverage area of up to 700 square feet and noise levels of up to 54 dB, which is almost the same as other high-performance options out there.
Although this is a portable air conditioner unit, it only has a SEER rating of 7, which means that it is not the most efficient unit out there. Thankfully, you won’t have any issues controlling this AC unit since it comes with a remote controller, which is highly important for a portable AC unit. It also uses the R32 refrigerant inside it, which ensures great performance over time. Since Black Decker is a reputable brand of power tools, it also offers a 1-year warranty with its AC unit.
Best Features
- Rated cooling capacity of up to 14000 BTU
- Supports a coverage area of up to 700 square feet
- Outputs noise levels of up to 54 dB
- Features a SEER rating of 7 for efficiency
- Comes with remote controller for operation
- Runs on the R32 refrigerant
- Backed by a 1 year long warranty period
Pros
- One of the most powerful attic air conditioners in terms of its cooling capacity
- Unique portable design for practicality and ease of use
- Easy to use remote controller with multiple buttons and options
Cons
- Could have been slightly more efficient in terms of its SEER rating
6. SereneLife Attic Air Conditioners
SereneLife is another reputable brand of air conditioners that you can keep in mind if you are looking for something which is definitely powerful.
This SereneLife attic air conditioner is given in this article because it is one of the most compact options available. And considering the given size of this air conditioner unit, it still offers pretty great performance thanks to its cooling capacity of up to 10000 BTU. Since this is a compact air conditioner unit, it is ideal for rooms with an area of up to 300 square feet and noise levels of up to 57 dB.
Unfortunately, the small size and the fairly cheaper price tag come at the cost of this AC being inefficient, with a SEER rating of just 2.6. Similar to most other attic air conditioners, this one also has a remote controller in the box for ease of use. Another similarity between this and other AC units is that it uses the R410A refrigerant. You also get a 1 year warranty with this AC unit which is the same as others.
Best Features
- Rated cooling capacity of up to 10000 BTU
- Supports a coverage area of up to 300 square feet
- Outputs noise levels of up to 57 dB
- Features a SEER rating of 2.6 for efficiency
- Comes with remote controller for operation
- Runs on the R410A refrigerant
- Backed by a 1 year long warranty period
Pros
- Quite a small and compact attic air conditioner unit
- Decently powerful in terms of cooling capacity consider the given size
- Handy and easy to use remote controller included in the box
Cons
- Extremely poor efficiency rating compared to most other air conditioner units
Buying Guide for the Best Attic Air Conditioners
When selecting the best attic air conditioner for your home, it’s crucial to consider several key factors to ensure that the unit you choose meets your needs effectively and efficiently. The attic, being a space that can significantly heat up, especially during summer, requires careful consideration of the air conditioner’s capabilities to ensure a comfortable environment throughout your home. Below, we discuss essential factors to consider:
1. Cooling Capacity
Why it Matters: Cooling capacity is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) and is a critical indicator of an air conditioner’s ability to cool a space. The right cooling capacity is essential for efficiency and effectiveness; too little power and the unit will struggle to cool the space, too much power and you may face higher energy bills and uneven cooling.
What to Look For: Determine the square footage of the area you need to cool and select a unit with the appropriate BTU rating for that size. As a general guideline, you will need approximately 20 BTUs for every square foot of living space. However, factors such as ceiling height, window size, and room insulation can affect this requirement. It’s advisable to consult with a professional to get an accurate assessment of your needs.
2. Coverage Area
Why it Matters: The coverage area of an air conditioner refers to the maximum space that it can efficiently cool. Ensuring that the unit’s coverage area matches or slightly exceeds the area of your attic is essential for achieving optimal cooling performance without overexertion of the air conditioner.
What to Look For: Look for an air conditioner that explicitly states its coverage area in square feet. This figure should closely match or be a bit higher than the square footage of your attic. It’s important to avoid significantly overestimating the coverage area needed, as this can lead to inefficient energy use and higher operating costs.
3. SEER Rating
Why it Matters: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating measures the cooling output of an air conditioner over a typical cooling season, divided by the energy it consumes in Watt-Hours. A higher SEER rating indicates greater energy efficiency, which translates to lower electricity bills and a reduced environmental impact over the unit’s lifespan.
What to Look For: In the United States, the minimum SEER rating for new air conditioning units is 14, but models can exceed a SEER of 20. For attic air conditioners, selecting a unit with a SEER rating of at least 14 is advisable, but aiming for a higher rating, such as 16 or above, can offer better energy savings in the long run. Keep in mind that higher SEER ratings often come with a higher initial cost, so consider the balance between upfront investment and long-term savings.
4. Noise Level
Why it Matters: The noise level of an air conditioner, measured in decibels (dB), is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and quiet environment in your home. Attic units, in particular, should have a low noise level to prevent sound from traveling through the ceiling and into your living spaces.
What to Look For: Air conditioners typically range from about 40 dB (which is very quiet) to 60 dB (comparable to a conversation in a restaurant). For attic air conditioners, look for models that operate at the lower end of this spectrum to ensure minimal noise disturbance. Specific noise-reducing features, such as insulated compressor compartments or noise reduction fan blades, can also be beneficial.
5. Refrigerant
Why it Matters: The type of refrigerant used in an air conditioner affects its environmental impact and efficiency. Some refrigerants, like R-22, have been phased out due to their ozone-depleting properties. Modern air conditioners use more environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R-410A, which do not deplete the ozone layer.
What to Look For: Ensure that the air conditioner uses a refrigerant with a lower environmental impact, such as R-410A, R-32, or similar alternatives. These refrigerants not only help protect the environment but are also designed to meet or exceed current efficiency standards, contributing to a more sustainable operation and potentially lower energy costs.
6. Control Options
Why it Matters: The ability to easily control and program your attic air conditioner contributes to both comfort and energy efficiency. Modern units offer a range of control options, from traditional thermostats to smart controls that can be operated via smartphone apps.
What to Look For: Look for an air conditioner with flexible control options that suit your lifestyle. Programmable thermostats can help save energy by adjusting temperatures according to your schedule. Smart air conditioners offer the convenience of adjusting settings remotely, monitoring energy usage, and even receiving maintenance reminders, providing a more user-friendly and efficient experience.
7. Warranty
Why it Matters: A comprehensive warranty can protect your investment and provide peace of mind. The length and coverage of the warranty can vary significantly between models and manufacturers, affecting your long-term satisfaction and the potential costs of maintenance or repairs.
What to Look For: Examine the warranty details closely, focusing on the duration of the warranty, what components are covered, and any exclusions or conditions that apply. A longer warranty period, such as 5 to 10 years on major components, is indicative of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Additionally, some manufacturers offer extended warranties at an additional cost, which may be worth considering for added protection.
Attic Air Conditioners – FAQs
Ans: If you want the perfect sized attic air conditioner for your attic, you should first calculate the area of your attic in square feet. After that, you need to check and compare the coverage area rating of your attic air conditioner. And as long as the coverage area rating of your AC unit is equal or higher than the size of your attic, it will be more than enough.
Ans: Since attic air conditioners are supposed to be highly powerful, you may even think of using them for cooling two floors at once. In that case, you will be glad to know that it is definitely possible if you have an AC unit with a high-end BTU rating. Although you are cooling a much larger area, it will take a long time to cool down multiple floors at once.
Ans: As you keep using your attic air conditioner, its air filter will get clogged up over time, affecting the efficiency of your attic air conditioner. Hence, you should regularly clean or replace the air filter of your attic air conditioner. While most attic air conditioners suggest replacing it every 45 days, the maximum you should go is 90 days.
Ans: Out of all the parts of an AC unit, the compressor is the most important for cooling performance. Thus, it is essential that the compressor unit lasts for as long as possible. Fortunately, most AC unit compressors can last for 12 to 15 years, including the one in your attic air conditioner, which should be long enough for most.
Conclusion
As you can most likely guess by the name, an attic air conditioner is an AC unit made specifically for cooling down attics. This is due to the reason that attics receive a lot of direct sunlight, which can heat them up quite a lot. Because of this reason, we have already discussed a few of the best attic air conditioners in this article. With all of these best attic air conditioners, we have also given their key specifications and features. In fact, we have also given a detailed buying guide and some common FAQs for the best attic air conditioners. And keeping all of this information in mind, here are our ideal picks for the best attic air conditioners:
- Those of you who are on a tight budget and want to get something affordable can go with the Midea attic air conditioner since it is the cheapest option given above. And for the given price, this attic air conditioner gives you a cooling capacity of up to 5000 BTU and a coverage rating of up to 150 square feet. Considering the given price, this AC unit has a decent SEER rating of 11 and a noise level rating of up to 54 dB, which is pretty good. Midea even features a 1-year long warranty, which is great for the given price.
- But if you want a highly powerful yet portable attic air conditioner, you can go with the Black Decker attic air conditioner. Compared to other options, this one comes with a much higher cooling capacity of up to 14000 BTU and a coverage rating of up to 700 square feet. Since this is a portable AC unit, the given SEER rating of 7 and a noise level of up to 54 dB is to be expected. That being said, you do get a standard 1-year warranty with this AC unit for your peace of mind.
- However, if you don’t have any budget restrictions, then you can go with the Senville Leto attic air conditioner since it is one of the best all-rounder options out there. Starting with its performance numbers, you get a cooling capacity of up to 12000 BTU and a coverage rating of up to 700 square feet. More importantly, you get an amazing SEER rating of 20.8 and a noise level of up to 52 dB. However, the unique thing about this attic air conditioner is that it not only comes with a remote controller but also supports a smartphone app and even smart assistant control. You also get a 5-year warranty with this attic air conditioner for excellent reliability.
