You have probably been wondering if there is a unique device that would suit you for both summer and winter camping, right? We have great news – there are tent air conditioner / heater combos.
We have selected and reviewed three options for you based on price, cooling/heating output, and mobility. These portable ac units are great for portability, efficiency and versatility.
Our top 3 choices are:
- SereneLife SLACHT108 – AC/Heater Combo – Budget-Friendly Option
- BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner Heater – 8,000 Btu – Our pick
- Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP 12,000 BTU – AC/Heater Combo – Most powerful option (family-sized tents)
Let’s go through quick reminders to check and then a detailed review of each product.
Tent air conditioner heater combo - short buyer's guide summary
Before picking our preferred unit, we recommend checking the following items:
- Does your preferred campsite have electric output? Or do you have a suitable portable battery?
- What size AC and Heater do you need? We prepared articles detailing it – check what size AC you should have for your tent and what heating output you require for your tent.
- What are the noise levels that each unit produces (preferably try to pick a unit with less than 55dB)
- Wheels are mandatory for your portable AC – it will facilitate maneuvering and location.
We highly recommend reading our detailed buyer’s guide if you have any doubts.
Tent air conditioner heater combo - 3 options to make your camping days better!
SereneLife SLACHT108 - AC/Heater Combo
SereneLife SLACHT108 – AC/Heater Combo is our budget friendly choice.
Even though this unit costs less than other options, it is still a piece of great equipment. It comes with four options: cooling, heating, dehumidifier (forget about tent condensation!), and a fan.
Pay attention, though – only models with 10,000 and 12,000 BTU come with heating optionality. For your convenience, it features a remote control that allows you to operate from a distance and regulate the desired temperature.
You can choose to activate the fan swinging option, which will improve air circulation in your tent. With operating noise levels around 55dB, it provides up to 12,000 BTU in cooling and heating power, ideal for middle to large tents.
The most potent model weighs 70.3 pounds, whereas the 10,000 BTU only weighs 56.5 pounds. Both models have the same dimensions – 17.4 x 13.4 x 32.1 inches.
Pros
- Great Value for money
- Efficient air conditioning and heating
- Dehumidifier option will eliminate tent condensation
Cons
- There have been some complaints around noise levels and water leaks
BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner Heater – 8,000 Btu
BLACK+DECKER BPP08HWTB comes with heating and cooling mechanisms that are very efficient and will ensure a cozy night in both summer and winter.
The device is able to bring the environment’s temperature down to 61 Fahrenheit degrees and heat up to 88 Fahrenheit Degrees, ensuring a comfy room under your tent.
It measures 33.5 x 44 x 69cm and can be easily transported with its wheels and handlebars. BLACK+DECKER BPP08HWTB comes with different cooling capacities (from 5950Btu to 8000Btu), and you can buy with or without the heating function.
It produces 54dB in the sleeping mode (it is not the quietest model, but not the loudest as well). Maintenance is easy, with its washable filter easily removed and installed back.
It also comes with 4 different options: air conditioning, heating, dehumidifier, and fan, which ensures that you can use this device all year round.
Pros
- Ideal for mid to large sized tents
- Durability
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Eco-friendly refrigerant
Cons
- Noise levels can impact your night
Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP
Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP 12,000 BTU is another alternative for your combo alternative. What we liked about this device is its auto drain function that exhausts water automatically and decreases humidity levels in your tent.
With 12,000 BTU output, this model will suit better large-sized tents. It comes with remote control to facilitate remote operation, and you can easily control fan speed and temperature.
Its dimensions are significantly smaller than the previous options – 16 x 17 x 29.5 inches, while it provides significant cooling capacity. However, it does not come with wheels, making mobility and transportation a hassle.
From all tent ac heater combo options, it has the lowest noise levels are the lowest(<52dB).
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Suit large tents
- Low noise levels
- Compact
- No water leaking
Cons
- Pricey
- No wheels
FAQ
I have a small tent. Which tent ac heater combo is the best?
All these units are oversized for small tents. We recommend looking at battery powered ac units and a portable heater, such as Mr. Little Buddy.
Are portable air conditioner heater combos safe to use in a tent?
Yes, they are. These are electric devices that will work perfectly inside your tent.
We recommend monitoring overheating when using the heating function, though.
Will a portable air conditioner heater combo increase condensation in my tent?
All the units above come with dehumidifier options, which will control humidity levels and mitigate condensation risks.
Verdict
You will be well-served with any unit detailed above. Overall, our pick is BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner Heater – 8,000 Btu, given it provides excellent efficiency at a great value for money relationship.
However, both SereneLife SLACHT108 – AC/Heater Combo and Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP 12,000 BTU are also good options for your camping adventures.
