Finding the best off grid air conditioner can be crucial for maintaining comfort in remote locations without reliable electrical power. This guide reviews top air conditioners ideal for off grid use, including battery-powered rooftop units, portable evaporative coolers, and Wi-Fi enabled window units. Each product balances energy efficiency, cooling power, and portability to fit different off grid scenarios such as RVs, cabins, and small rooms.
| Product | Cooling Capacity | Power Source | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outequip RV 12V 10,000 BTU | 10,000 BTU | 12V Battery Powered | RVs, Trucks, Campers |
| GE Window Air Conditioner 5,000 BTU | 5,000 BTU | Standard Electric | Small Rooms, Bedrooms |
| Ashihoti Portable Evaporative Cooler | Cooling by Evaporation | Plug-in Electric | Personal & Small Rooms |
| Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window AC | 5,000 BTU | Standard Electric | Small Rooms |
| GE AWCS12WWA Smart Window AC | 12,000 BTU | Standard Electric | Large Rooms, Medium Spaces |
Outequip RV 12V 10,000 BTU Battery-Powered Off Grid AC
The Outequip RV Air Conditioner offers reliable 12V battery-powered cooling, perfect for off grid living in RVs, campers, and trucks. It provides 10,000 BTU cooling capacity, efficiently cooling spaces within 15 minutes. When paired with a 12V 480Ah battery, it cools up to 8 hours, and with a 600Ah battery, it can last 10 hours. Its durable ABS construction, UV resistance, and zinc-coated condenser ensure it withstands harsh outdoor conditions. This rooftop unit is designed specifically to be quiet and low-profile, making it an excellent choice for mobile or off grid applications requiring dependable cooling without standard AC power.
GE Window Air Conditioner 5,000 BTU for Small Rooms
The GE 5,000 BTU mechanical window air conditioner is ideal for efficiently cooling smaller spaces up to 150 square feet, such as bedrooms or home offices. It includes a manual adjustable fan and a simple installation kit for quick setup. This unit emphasizes low noise operation, making it suitable for nighttime use in quiet environments. While it requires a conventional power outlet, its compact design and energy-efficient operation make it a practical option for users visiting off grid cabins equipped with solar or generator power sources able to support window AC units.
Ashihoti Portable Windowless Evaporative Air Cooler
The Ashihoti evaporative air cooler offers a portable, windowless solution that requires no hose or vent installation. It features a 2-gallon water tank and an ice box for an enhanced cooling effect, using energy-efficient evaporation technology to cool rooms without compressive refrigeration. Its 3 modes and 3 speeds offer customizable airflow, supported by a 12-hour timer and remote control. Consuming just 65W of power, it’s suitable for off grid locations with limited electricity. While not as intensely cool as a compressor AC, it effectively lowers room temperature by up to 16°F in dry climates.
Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote
The Frigidaire 5,000 BTU window AC provides customizable cooling with 6-way directional airflow, three fan speeds, and a remote control. Designed to cool rooms up to 150 square feet, it supports easy maintenance with washable filter alerts and includes energy-saving modes like Eco and Sleep mode to reduce power consumption. While it relies on grid or generator power, its quiet operation and efficient cooling make it suitable for small off grid spaces with reliable electricity sources.
GE AWCS12WWA 12,000 BTU Wi-Fi Enabled Window AC for Large Rooms
The GE AWCS12WWA smart window air conditioner rates at 12,000 BTU, suitable for larger rooms up to 550 square feet. Besides cooling capacity, it integrates smart controls through the SmartHQ app and voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for easy operation. It includes a convenient installation kit, quiet operation, and energy-efficient features. Although designed for grid power, its smart energy modes can help optimize power use in solar-powered off grid homes capable of supporting standard window AC units.
Buying Guide for Off Grid Air Conditioners
Choosing the right off grid air conditioner depends on several factors beyond cooling capacity. Consider these key points before purchase:
Power Source and Energy Efficiency
Battery-Powered vs Plug-In: Off grid air conditioners vary between 12V battery-powered models (like rooftop RV units) and plug-in window or portable units that often require generators or solar inverter systems. Battery-powered ACs are ideal for mobile or fully off grid setups with large battery banks. Plug-in models are better for cabins or homes with solar or generator support. Energy-efficient units with Eco modes or evaporative technology significantly reduce power consumption.
Cooling Capacity and Room Size
Ensure the air conditioner’s BTU rating matches the size of the space you need to cool. Small rooms up to 150 sq ft can be serviced by units rated around 5,000 BTU, while larger off grid homes or spaces require 10,000 BTU or more. Evaporative coolers are best suited for dry climates and smaller zones.
Portability and Installation
Rooftop RV air conditioners or portable evaporative coolers offer high portability. Window units require window mounting and may not be practical in all off grid structures. Portable models without hose requirements provide flexible placement but may cool less effectively than compressor-based ACs.
Durability and Weather Resistance
For off grid environments exposed to elements, choose units with weather-resistant construction, UV protection, and corrosion-resistant materials to ensure longevity.
Smart Features and Ease of Use
Modern units may offer smart controls via apps and remotes, timer functions, and multiple fan speeds to optimize comfort and power usage, beneficial for managing limited energy resources efficiently.
Overall, selecting the best off grid air conditioner boils down to your specific power availability, cooling needs, and portability preferences, balancing efficiency, durability, and ease of use for your unique environment.