With this window air conditioner installation guide, you can install your unit with confidence. A properly installed unit will operate safer and quieter. We will look at installing the unit in a standard double hung window. The same basic procedure can be adapted for installing in a casement window. Some basic tools such as screwdrivers, tape measure, level, and a small adjustable wrench are required.
Before you install your air conditioner, you should ensure that you have the proper unit. Ensure that the unit has the required cooling capacity in BTU/HR. You must also ensure that it has the proper electrical characteristics such as the voltage and the amperage as well as the frequency. This is usually accomplished by matching the electrical plug on the unit with the receptacle that you intend to use.
Next, you should make sure that you have the proper unit for the type of window you have such as casement/sliding windows or double hung windows. Special units are required for casement/sliding windows and not all manufacturers make them.
Now that you have the proper unit, you must find the proper location. There are several things to consider. First of all, you should find a window with an electrical receptacle close enough so that the cord from your unit can plug directly into the receptacle. (It is not recommended to use an extension cord with a window air conditioner because it could pose a fire hazard.) Next, you should ensure that the flow of outside air to the condenser coil will not be obstructed by things such as fences, bushes, etc. If possible, you should install the unit in a window that is located near the center of the room. This will provide for improved air circulation in the room and potential energy savings.
The next step in your window air conditioner installation is to measure and mark the center of the window. You should measure the width of the window and divide that number by two. Then place a mark on the window sill at the midpoint. You should do the same thing with the air conditioner cabinet.
You should remove the air conditioner from its' case. This is typically done by removing the front grille and then removing a couple of screws that hold the unit in the case. Then, the unit can be slid out of the case.
At this point, you should install the curtains/frame to the case if the unit did not come with them already assembled. Some manufacturers send these parts as an installation kit.
Now you are ready to place the cabinet into the window opening. Then, close the window until the sash slides into the frame on the top of the unit. Then, stretch out the curtains and attach them to the frame of the window with screws. You should use screws to fasten the case to the window sill from the inside of the case. Continue your window air conditioner installation by installing the sill support. These very with the manufacturer but basically they are a bracket with a leveling bolt that is placed on the outside of the window between the bottom of the case and the window sill. It is usually attached to the case by screws via the inside of the case.
The sill support should be adjusted by tightening or loosening the bolt. The unit should be adjusted to where it is sloping approximately 1/2 of an inch lower at the back of the unit as compared to the front. this ensures proper condensate drainage.
Now, the air conditioner can be placed back into the case. Simply reverse the process you used to remove it from the case.
Next, there should be a strip of foam with the unit. This foam strip should be cut to the width of the window and placed in the gap between the upper and lower panes of the window. This will prevent hot air from the outside entering the room.
Next, you should install the window locking bracket. This is usually a piece of metal in the form of an L. It is usually attached to the upper and lower sashes of the window on either side of the opening. This prevents the window from being operated which enhances the security of the home.
The final step of your window air conditioner installation, is to plug the unit in and test its operation. A unit that is properly installed should have very little vibration or noise.