5 Best Upstairs Air Conditioners to Beat the Heat in 2024

Upstairs rooms can get uncomfortably hot, but you don’t have to suffer through the summer swelter. The best upstairs air conditioners of 2024 offer efficient cooling and customizable comfort to beat the heat. From portable units with versatile features to window-mounted models for small spaces, these top picks provide a range of solutions tailored to your cooling needs. Whether you prioritize energy-efficiency, quiet operation, or seamless installation, there’s an option that’ll keep you cool and comfortable upstairs. Intrigued? Explore the details on these leading air conditioners and discover which one is the perfect fit for your home.

Portable Air Conditioner Fan (1500ML, 3 Wind Speed, 7 LED Light)

If you’re looking for a portable and versatile air conditioning solution for your upstairs rooms or small spaces, the Fioge Portable Air Conditioner Fan could be an excellent choice. This compact and lightweight unit packs a punch, offering 1500ML of water capacity, three wind speed settings, and seven LED light options. Boasting a high-performance motor with a unique air duct design and atomization humidification holes, it delivers effective cooling through natural wind, low cool mist, or high cool mist modes. The remote control allows you to easily adjust settings from up to 16.4 feet away, and the timer function ensures uninterrupted comfort for up to six hours. With a compact design, quiet operation, and customer-approved performance, this portable air conditioner is a convenient option for keeping your upstairs spaces cool and comfortable.

Best For: The Fioge Portable Air Conditioner Fan is best for individuals looking for a compact, versatile, and effective cooling solution for small to medium-sized spaces like bedrooms, offices, or RVs.

Pros:

  • Effective cooling performance through adjustable wind speeds and mist modes
  • Convenient remote control for easy adjustments
  • Compact and portable design for use in various settings

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for larger rooms or spaces
  • Requires frequent water refills for continuous operation
  • Some users reported noise levels higher than advertised

BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner (White)

For those seeking a powerful yet portable air conditioning solution for larger upstairs rooms, the BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner (White) delivers impressive cooling capacity at 4,100 BTU (DOE). This stand-alone unit can effectively cool spaces up to 350 sq. ft., making it a great choice for bedrooms, home offices, and other sizeable upstairs areas. With its 3-in-1 functionality as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan, you’ll enjoy versatile climate control. The unit’s mobility is a major plus, thanks to its casters and side handles, allowing you to easily move it between rooms as needed. However, some users have noted placement challenges due to the exhaust hose size and room layout, so careful consideration of your space is advised. Overall, the BLACK+DECKER portable AC offers a solid balance of power, portability, and user-friendly features to beat the heat upstairs.

Best For: The BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is best for larger upstairs rooms or spaces up to 350 sq. ft. that need quick and effective cooling.

Pros:

  • Powerful 8,000 BTU (ASHRAE) cooling capacity for larger rooms
  • 3-in-1 functionality as air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan
  • Highly mobile with casters and side handles for easy relocation

Cons:

  • Potential placement challenges due to exhaust hose size and room layout
  • Blue light from display can disrupt sleep for some users
  • Some noise during operation may be an issue for noise-sensitive environments

Portable Air Conditioner/Evaporative Cooler with Remote

The Zaguren Portable Air Conditioner/Evaporative Cooler is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and versatile cooling solution for their upstairs spaces. Boasting a 1500ML water tank, it can operate for up to 10 hours on a single fill, making it a reliable companion for long, hot days. With its three cooling modes and three wind speeds, you can customize the airflow to your liking, while the remote control allows for easy adjustments. The built-in 7-color LED lights add a touch of ambiance, and the quiet operation ensures undisturbed relaxation. Whether you’re cooling your home office or keeping cool while camping, this portable air conditioner’s compact design and USB-C charging make it a versatile option worth considering.

Best For: Compact, versatile cooling for small to medium-sized spaces like home offices or camping trips.

Pros:

  • Effective cooling with 3 modes and 3 wind speeds
  • Quiet operation allows for undisturbed relaxation
  • Compact and portable design suitable for various settings

Cons:

  • May not provide sufficient cooling for larger spaces
  • Requires regular water refilling
  • Some users reported concerns about cooling effectiveness

Portable Air Conditioner with Timer and Nightlight

Compact and lightweight, the RCCVEI Portable Air Conditioner offers a tailored cooling solution for your personal spaces. With its dual water tank design, you can enjoy a refreshing mist or soothing wet curtain airflow, adjusting the three wind speeds and two mist modes to your preference. The 7-color night light and timer function (2-4-8 hours) make this unit a versatile companion, while the low water protection ensures uninterrupted operation. Though not suitable for large rooms, the upgraded motor delivers efficient, stable, and quiet performance, keeping noise levels below 50 dB. While some users report effective personal cooling, others find the unit underwhelming. Consider this portable air conditioner as a supplemental option, not a replacement for traditional air conditioning, and be mindful of potential water spillage issues reported by past customers.

Best For: The RCCVEI Portable Air Conditioner is best suited for personal use in small spaces like bedrooms and offices that need supplemental cooling and humidification.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
  • Customizable cooling with 3 wind speeds and 2 mist modes
  • Includes convenient features like a timer and night light

Cons:

  • Not suitable for cooling entire rooms, only personal spaces
  • Mixed reviews on performance, with some users finding it underwhelming
  • Potential issues with water spillage reported by some customers

Frigidaire Window-Mounted Room Air Conditioner (5,000 BTU)

The Frigidaire Window-Mounted Room Air Conditioner (5,000 BTU) is a perfect choice for those seeking an effective cooling solution for compact upstairs spaces. This 5,000 BTU unit can efficiently cool a 150 square foot room, quickly dropping temperatures to comfortable levels. It features a straightforward installation process, requiring only a Philips screwdriver, and its adjustable side panels ensure a snug fit in standard double-hung windows. Users praise its lightweight design and effectiveness, with many reporting quick and significant temperature drops. While some minor issues like noise and a lack of built-in timer have been noted, the Frigidaire’s overall performance and reliability have earned it an impressive 4.4-star rating from over 17,000 customers, making it the #1 best-selling window air conditioner on the market.

Best For: Compact upstairs spaces, the Frigidaire Window-Mounted Room Air Conditioner (5,000 BTU) is a powerful and efficient cooling solution.

Pros:

  • Cools 150 square foot rooms effectively
  • Easy installation with adjustable side panels
  • Lightweight and portable design

Cons:

  • Lacks built-in timer feature
  • Some noise during operation
  • May not be suitable for cooling larger areas

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Upstairs Air Conditioner

When shopping for an upstairs air conditioner, you’ll need to consider the cooling capacity required for the space. Deciding between a ductless or window unit depends on your installation preferences and energy efficiency needs. Additionally, noise levels and whether you want a portable or permanent solution are important factors.

Cooling Capacity Considerations

Choosing the right cooling capacity for an upstairs air conditioner is crucial to ensure effective and efficient climate control. As a general guideline, you should aim for around 20 BTUs per square foot of living space to achieve adequate cooling. However, since heat rises, you’ll likely need a higher BTU rating for an upstairs room compared to the same-sized room on the ground floor.

The size of the room is a significant factor in determining the required cooling capacity. For instance, an 8,000 BTU air conditioner would typically be suitable for a 350 sq. ft. upstairs room. Additionally, consider the air conditioner’s efficiency, as a higher Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) value indicates better performance and lower energy consumption over time.

Lastly, proper insulation and strategic window placement in the upstairs area can impact the effectiveness of cooling, potentially reducing the needed BTUs if the space retains cool air well. By carefully considering these factors, you can select the optimal upstairs air conditioner for your home.

Ductless Vs. Window Units

When choosing between ductless and window units for your upstairs air conditioning needs, several key factors merit consideration. Ductless systems offer greater flexibility, allowing you to independently control the temperature in different rooms, while window units typically cool a single space. Ductless systems also tend to be more energy-efficient, with SEER ratings ranging from 16 to 25, potentially leading to lower energy bills in the long run. However, the upfront cost of ductless installation, typically between $1,500 and $5,000, is higher than the $150 to $600 range for window units.

In terms of noise, ductless systems often operate at a quieter 19-30 dB, whereas window units can produce disruptive noise levels between 50-70 dB. Additionally, ductless systems require less maintenance, as they don’t have the same condensation issues that can lead to water leakage and require regular filter and drainage system cleaning associated with window units.

Energy Efficiency and Costs

Amidst the array of air conditioning options, energy efficiency and costs emerge as pivotal factors when selecting an upstairs unit. Look for a model with a high SEER rating, as it’ll provide better cooling per energy consumed, potentially slashing your electricity bills. Choosing a programmable or smart unit allows you to schedule operation only when needed, further reducing energy usage and operational costs.

Properly sizing the air conditioner is crucial – an oversized unit can lead to short cycling and higher expenses, while an undersized one may struggle to effectively cool the space. Regular maintenance, like cleaning or replacing filters, can significantly enhance efficiency, ensuring your system runs optimally and uses less power. For the most savings, opt for ENERGY STAR certified units, as they meet stringent guidelines for energy efficiency, often translating to lower annual costs.

Quiet Operation Preference

For an upstairs air conditioner, quiet operation is often a top priority, as unwanted noise can disrupt peaceful moments of relaxation or restful sleep. Consider models with noise levels between 34 dB and 54 dB, as lower decibel levels indicate less noise. Look for units specifically marketed for quiet operation, especially those designed for personal use or small spaces, as they typically employ sound-dampening technology and efficient motors.

When evaluating options, pay attention to user reviews that mention noise levels during operation. Models that receive positive feedback for quiet performance may be preferable for upstairs locations where noise can be more noticeable. Compact and portable units often produce less noise compared to larger window or central air conditioners, making them suitable for bedrooms or other areas requiring minimal disturbance. Features like “sleep mode” or “quiet mode” may further reduce noise during nighttime operation by adjusting fan speeds and compressor activity.

Portable or Permanent Install

Ultimately, your preference for a portable or permanent air conditioning solution will depend on your unique needs and circumstances. Portable air conditioners are an excellent choice if you need temporary or supplementary cooling or if permanent installation is impractical. However, keep in mind that they typically have lower cooling capacities and operate at higher decibel levels compared to their permanent counterparts.

On the other hand, permanent installations like window-mounted or central air conditioning systems offer more powerful and efficient cooling, making them ideal for larger spaces. These systems may require a more complex setup and structural modifications, but they’re generally quieter in operation.

When deciding, consider the availability of power sources and electrical requirements. Portable units typically rely on standard outlets, while permanent solutions may need dedicated circuits. Weigh the trade-offs between convenience, cooling capacity, and noise levels to find the best fit for your upstairs cooling needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Energy Efficiency Rating of Each Model?

The energy efficiency rating for each model varies, but you’ll want to look for ones with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) scores to ensure maximum energy savings and lower utility bills. Be sure to compare ratings before making your purchase.

How Often Do These Air Conditioners Require Maintenance?

The maintenance requirements for these air conditioners can vary, but you’ll typically need to clean or replace the filters every 1-3 months to keep them running efficiently and maximize their lifespan.

Can They Be Programmed to Turn on and off Automatically?

Yes, these air conditioners can be programmed to turn on and off automatically. Many models offer smart home integration and scheduling features, allowing you to set customized temperature preferences and timers to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency.

Are They Compatible With Smart Home Systems?

Yes, many modern upstairs air conditioners are compatible with smart home systems. You can connect them to your voice assistant or home automation platform to control them remotely and integrate them into your smart home setup.

What Warranties or Guarantees Come With These Products?

The warranties or guarantees you’ll find on these products typically cover parts and labor for 1-5 years, ensuring your investment is protected. Many also offer extended coverage options for added peace of mind.

Conclusion

When choosing an upstairs air conditioner, consider your room size, energy efficiency, and desired features like portability and quiet operation. The best options in 2024 offer a balance of cooling power, convenience, and cost-effectiveness to keep you comfortable all summer long. Whether you prefer a window unit or a portable model, you’ll find the perfect solution to beat the heat upstairs.