How to Install a Window Air Conditioner
Since it’s starting to feel like an oven inside your home, you know it’s time to get air conditioning. Central air conditioning can be too expensive, though, so your next best option is to install a window air conditioner unit. It’s a simple process, but you need to do it properly to get the best results.
What You’ll Need:
Window air conditioner
Foam strip
Screwdriver
Drill
Caulking gun
Waterproof caulk
Level
Measuring tape
Mounting and angle brackets
Procedure:
Measure your windows before you purchase the air conditioner unit. It’ll be unpleasant if you buy a unit, only to find out that it doesn’t fit your windows at all. Remember, windows come in different sizes and shapes, while window ACs are available in only a few widths. Find a unit that’s sized as close as possible to the size of your window.
Determine which window you’re going to put the air conditioner. It must be in good condition, so it will support the unit for a long time. It’s also a good idea to have it near an electrical outlet.
Get the mounting brackets (these may come with the unit you purchased) and install them on the windowsill. Screw one of the ends into the sill, then adjust the bracket’s center screw so the air conditioner will be level.
Open your window, as widely as possible. Carefully slide your air conditioner unit, going over the sill, an on the mounting brackets. It’s a good idea to ask someone to help you with this step, so you won’t accidentally drop the air conditioning unit. If you can, close the window on top of the AC’s casing.
Find the extensions on either side of your air conditioning unit, then pull them out, enough so they touch the sides of the window. Once they’re extended fully, use a drill to make small holes in the window sash, then use screws to fasten the extensions to the sash.
Using angle brackets, secure the sashes to each other. These can also come with the AC unit. Afterwards, get a foam strip and use it to insulate the area where the two sashes meet. This prevents the heat from coming in and the cold from going out. It’s also a good idea to install the strip at the top and bottom of the unit. This will help make your AC run quieter and lessen the vibrations coming from it.
Tilt the AC away from the window slightly, to make sure that the water drainage works properly. Afterwards, caulk the area outside the AC unit. Make sure you caulk the areas that need attention.
Plug in your AC unit and enjoy the cool air coming from it.
Some Tips:
Read the manual that came with the unit, before you start the installation process.
Never use loose objects, such as a wood block to support the AC.
Check your room area and make sure the unit you buy has the proper cooling capacity.
Installing a window air conditioner is a great and less expensive idea, compared to getting central AC. Just remember to follow these steps, and you’re on your way to getting cool air inside your home.r