How to Self Install an Air Conditioner
When you live in an apartment or just want to cool one room in your house, an alternative to a central air conditioning system is a single-mount unit, also called a window air conditioner or room air conditioner. It can be installed on a window or through a hole made in a wall. Air conditioners are easy to install on windowsills and can make your home much more comfortable during hot weather. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Air conditioner (with manufacturer's included hardware)
- Screwdriver
- Helper
- Level
- Foam strip (as needed)
- Water-proof sealant
Instructions
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1
Measure the window opening for which your air conditioner is to be installed. Most units are about 20 inches long by 14 1/2 inches wide and 22 inches high. Investigate the window frame and sill to make sure both are in stable condition before installing the air conditioner.
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2
Open the window and install the external metal brackets with the included hardware, per the manufacturer's instructions. Screw the other end of the metal bracket to the windowsill.
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3
Add metal shims to the bottom and to the side of the unit to prevent shifting. Secure the shims to the housing structure with screws.
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4
Open the window wider than necessary to receive the air conditioner. Follow the air conditioner manufacturer's instructions to set the unit in place. Have somebody help you if the air conditioner is heavy.
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5
Using a level, make sure your air conditioner is installed evenly inside. Tilt the air conditioner by adjusting the center screw to provide drainage. Attach the drainage hose (not all units require a drainage hose).
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6
Close the window over the air conditioner. Pull out the extensions on both sides of the unit. Slide the extensions to close the gaps between the unit and both sides of your window. Fasten each extension side to the window sash.
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Secure the two window sashes to each other, using the provided angle bracket over your air conditioning unit.
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8
Seal using a foam strip (provided by most manufacturers) to fill where the sashes overlap. If this strip is absent in the shipment, you can purchase one at a hardware store and cut it to length yourself to fit.
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9
Caulk the exterior of the unit where it meets the window. The air conditioner should be ready to use.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are a tenant, have your landlord's permission in writing before installing the air conditioner.
Use another window or replace the sill if the wood of your windowsill is soft or partly rotten.
If possible, install your unit on a window not facing the sun, so the machine would not need to overwork for cooling the air.
Before purchasing, consider the unit efficiency that is needed to cool your room. Air conditioners are rated by their Energy Efficiency Rating (EER). A higher rated EER is preferable because it consumes less power. The cooling capacity for window air conditioners is in the 5,000 to18,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) range, all about 115 volts. As a guide, a unit that has 12,000 BTUs is sufficient for a 500-square-foot room.
All air conditioners include manufacturer's instructions for installation. Read and follow these steps carefully as printed.
An improperly installed air conditioner may fall from the sill when you raise the window pane, damaging the unit and objects below it.
References
- Photo Credit window air conditioner image by Aaron Kohr from Fotolia.com
