How to Install a Window AC Unit

Window AC units are surprisingly versatile. For example, they’re a great solution for spaces where you have no central AC. But you can also use one to supplement a central unit when it’s unusually hot.

In large houses or detached rooms, like a separate office or a garage, they can be a necessity.

Installing Your Own Window AC Unit

You can absolutely install your own window AC. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of how to install a window air conditioning unit. You just need to keep two things in mind before you begin.

1. This is definitely a two-person job.
2. You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

With those two disclaimers out of the way, here’s how to install a Window AC unit yourself.

1. Prepare Your Window and the AC Unit

First things first. You’re going to want to prep the area where you plan to install your new air conditioner.

Take each of the following into account.

• Clear the space around the window so you have plenty of open working space.
• Push the lower window sash all the way up.
• Check the manufacturer’s instructions to find out how best to position the unit so condensation drains correctly.
• Attach accordion panels to both sides of the AC unit.

2. Mount Support Brackets

Support brackets can transfer some of the air conditioner’s weight off the window sill. This helps to prevent damage to any part of the window or your outside wall.

Some brackets don’t require any tools. You should look for those if you want to remove and store your unit after the season ends.

3.  Position and Balance the AC Unit

Much of the weight of your new window AC unit will rest on the newly installed supports. Making sure you get everything situated correctly is critical.

• Carefully lift the air conditioner and center it inside the open window so that it rests on the outside edge of the window frame and the support bracket.
• Make sure the bottom flange of the unit is flush against the window sill.
• Pull the bottom window sash down so that it rests on top of the AC, securely behind the upper flange.

4. Secure the AC Unit

Screw the unit’s upper flange to the top window sash to prevent it from being raised. Then connect the bottom sash to the top sash by attaching L-shaped clips to prevent the lower sash from being opened accidentally.

5. Secure the Side Curtains

The side curtains on your window AC unit will prevent hot air, moisture and bugs from getting into your home.

Look over the manufacturer’s directions to find out exactly how to fasten the curtains of your particular unit. They may need to be screwed in or simply clipped in place.

6. Add Insulation

It’s important to have as much insulation as necessary for your window AC unit to provide cool air. If there are any open gaps around the unit, then they need to be filled.

Also, the side curtains that come with the unit are not always an adequate substitute for insulation. This is especially true if your window has high exposure to the sun.

• If your unit comes with a foam seal to fill space between the sashes, cut it to size and slip it into place. You can also buy the foam fillers separately if you need to.
• If the side curtains on your unit are not providing enough insulation, you can cut foam insulation board or accordion insulation panels to snugly fit the opening.

Wrapping Up

Now that you know how to install a window AC unit, you can enjoy your summer in blissfully cool comfort.