How to Select a Room Air Conditioner
A room air conditioner offers a cooling option for homes without central air conditioning. The unit rests in the opening of a double hung window and uses an evaporator coil to cool the air in the room. The size of the air conditioning unit directly relates to the size of room it will effectively cool, making it one of the most important factors when selecting a unit. Consider your budget before heading to the store to purchase a new room air conditioner. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Measure the length and width of the room. Multiply these two numbers to calculate the room's square footage. This calculation will help determine the size of air conditioning unit to purchase.
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Measure the window in which the air conditioner will rest. Measure the lower portion of a double hung window that opens, which is where the air conditioner goes. Open the window all the way, and measure the height and width of the opening. Ensure the new air conditioner fits into the available opening.
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Note the power source available near the window. Consider the circuit of the outlet. Determine if the circuit can handle the additional pull of the air conditioner or if it will need its own circuit. Check with an electrician if you're unsure of the electrical capacity.
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Determine the size of air conditioner needed for the room. The air conditioner size is measured in BTUs with larger rooms needing higher BTUs to properly cool the room. Check the information on the box of each air conditioner, or ask for assistance from the home improvement staff to select the appropriate size.
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Consider the weight of the unit before making your purchase. Consider the lifting required to install the room air conditioner.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid purchasing a window air conditioner that is too large. It will cycle on and off frequently. This consumes more energy and may harm the components of the air conditioner.
