Difficulty
Beginner
Duration
Under 2 hours
Learn how to install a window air conditioner to cool your room. It's a good option if the space isn’t connected to central air conditioning. Or use it to supplement your centralized system. There are many varieties of portable air conditioners and smart air conditioners. Some can be rather large. Measure your window opening before shopping to select a model that will fit. Use this guide to learn how to install a window AC unit properly.
Prepare the Window and AC Unit
Before learning how to install a window air conditioner, be sure that your window is sound and sturdy. It needs to be strong enough to support the weight of the air conditioning unit. See if there’s any rot or damage around the window frame. Make any necessary repairs first.
Learning how to install a window AC unit includes deciding whether to use a support bracket. A support bracket transfers some of the weight of the air conditioner off the window sash and sill. A support bracket will minimize the chance of damage to the window, window parts or the outside wall.
Some support bracket models require no tools. They can be easily removed for seasonal storage. Other types of support brackets permanently attach to the window frame.
- Open the lower window sash.
- Attach the bracket using the provided hardware.
- Slide the accordion panels onto both sides of the air conditioner.
- Air conditioners are very heavy. Installing a window AC unit is a two person job. Carefully lift the air conditioner with a helper. Place it gently inside the open window.
- Rest the unit on the bottom of the window frame and mounting support bracket.
- Center the air conditioner in the window opening.
- Position the unit’s bottom guide, or flange, flush against the window stool.
Tip: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on how to install a window air conditioner support bracket.
Place and Secure the Air Conditioner
Most instructions for how to install a window AC unit are about the same. However, some types might have steps specific to that model. You will need help to balance the heavy unit in the open window.
- Set the air conditioner on the window frame. Pull the upper window sash down to the top of the box and behind the upper flange. This will provide additional stability.
- Use screws to attach the cabinet and/or flange guide to the window sash and window stool of the unit.
- Use a screw or screws to attach an L-shaped window locking bracket to the upper window sash. This prevents the lower sash from accidentally opening.
- Use a power drill to make a pilot hole for the screw. Tighten the bracket using a screwdriver.
Tip: Use a power drill bit to make pilot holes for any screws going into wood window frames. This prevents them from splitting. Pre-drilling also makes screwing into other types of window frames easier.
Fasten the Side Panels
Once the window air conditioner is secure, keep the warm air outside and the cool air inside.
- Extend the accordion panels from both sides of the air conditioner to the window sash track.
- Secure the side panels with screws.
- Window air conditioners often come with a foam insulating strip. Cut the strip of foam to the correct length. Insert it between the upper window sash and the lower window sash.
- Look over the manufacturer's instructions for how to install a window AC unit. Make sure you've used all the included hardware.
- Plug the air conditioner into an outlet and turn on the unit.
Tip: You can also use non-adhesive foam stripping to fill the gap between the window sashes.
Portable Air Conditioner Installation Basics
A portable air conditioner is a less-permanent alternative to a traditional window air conditioner. The unit sits on the floor. Its exhaust is vented through a panel in the window opening.
- Open the window where the portable air conditioner will be located.
- Cut foam weather stripping to length and attach to the window sash and frame.
- Adjust the AC unit’s window vent panel to extend across the width of the opening.
- Lower the window sash until it rests on top of the vent panel.
- Install an L-shaped security bracket to prevent the window from opening, if desired.
- Insert the vent tube into the vent panel.
- Attach the vent tube into the rear of the air conditioner.
- Plug the unit in and turn on the power button. Set to the desired temperature.
Installing a window AC unit is a simple DIY project. It requires minimal heavy lifting, and tightening a few screws. For a little effort you get a cool room to enjoy during the warm season. Many window air conditioners can also provide heating for a chilly room. Learning how to install a window air conditioner can have year-round benefits.
Before you install the unit, check around the area. Remove any interior and exterior objects that may block or inhibit airflow. After installation, clean the air conditioner filter regularly to optimize performance.
If you prefer to have a professional tackle the job, our HVAC installation and replacement services can help.
