Air-conditioning units in windows are reliable and easy to install. They provide the solution to keeping your room fresh without the extra expenses of a central air system.
Better still, when the heat in summer has subsided, these air-conditioning units can easily be removed for storage, and you can use the windows for other purposes. There are various ways to install air-conditioners. Read on to learn the basics of its installation.
Size the room
Window Air conditioner units are available in varying sizes and cooling abilities, therefore it is necessary to make a pick of the best one that suits the needs of your room.
Consider the square footage of the room to be cooled and match it to the window AC unit. If the room is too cold or hot, adjust the air-conditioning for more cooling capacity.
Check your window
Some of the units are designed to fit into double-hung Windows; however, there are other models meant to provide casement windows too. In your choice of a window to put your air conditioner into, put fire safety at the back of your mind. An air conditioner can block off the exit of a fire, most especially if it is in a room with just one window.
Consider energy efficiency
The rating for air conditioners is energy efficiency. The Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) ranges from 8 to 11.5. The energy rating of 10 or something higher is great for saving electricity and reducing the bills. Check out for features like digital temperature controls, sleep settings and variable fan speeds which conserves power.
Installation
The task of installing a window air-conditioner is one to be done by two people. These units are often heavy and bulky, and the last thing you want to happen is your AC unit falling off the window to the floor.
It’s easiest to install a double-hung window. Some air-conditioning units come with a kit with components such as mounting brackets and window extensions. They ensure tight air fitting and keep the window secure. The best thing to do is to pre-fit the various attachments to your window before drilling holes.
First of all, raise the lower pane and put the unit in the window sill. Ensure you don’t release it until it is tightly in place. If the window sill isn’t wide enough to give support to the air conditioner, buy a bracket that attaches under the unit and exterior wall.
Then, slide out the extensions to fill the space in the window. Next, level the units with the manufacturer’s instructions. Specific air conditioner models are designed to tilt; however, some are not.
Lower the windowpane or fasten this unit to the bracket to lock it in place. Then secure the extensions tightly to the window and seal the unit. Inside the house, use the water strip provided by the manufacturer, and outside, use chalk around the perimeter for better sealing.
If you don’t find a good seal, you can opt for plywood boards to help in the sealing or fit an opening that won’t be filled by the AC extenders or you opt for a unit with long extenders.
Power it up
Air conditioners consume much power; therefore, it is essential to bear in mind the circuit you intend connecting. If other high energy appliances like dryers, refrigerators, vacuums etc., are supplied with electricity from the same circuit, plug it somewhere else.
The cord should say ”major-appliance cord” or ”air conditioner cord.” They are rated to carry heavy current imposed by an air conditioner. Use a short cord as the shortest will do the job. Check the air filter every month when using it and ensure it is without obstructions.
Air conditioners offer comfort and relaxation, and as such are essential for a house. It is therefore important to know how to properly carry out air conditioning installations to prevent damage to you, your unit or your wall.