When the weather turns hot in Brooklyn, the best option to cool down at home is to run an adequate air conditioner in your home. Most residential installations use a window-based unit because it is an affordable and practical way to create comfort.
Some homeowners may also have the option to install a central air conditioning system.
This guide takes you through the first option since you can complete the work in under a couple of hours. The second option may require changes to your home’s HVAC system, which means it may need professional installation to comply with your insurance and warranty.
Before you purchase a window air conditioner, measure your window opening first. It would help if you had the length and width figures to find a model that works for this space. After buying the unit, come home to follow these steps.
Steps to Follow When Installing an Air Conditioner
1. Prepare the air conditioner and window for the installation.
Your window frame must be sturdy and sound to support the weight of the air conditioner. If you discover damage or rot, it must get repaired before completing this job.
Some air conditioners require a support bracket that gets sold separately to provide a “helping hand” with the unit’s weight. Installing one is a best practice because it prevents the product from falling out of the window.
Open the lower window sash. Attach the bracket according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Then slide the accordion panels onto the sides of the air conditioner if it didn’t come pre-assembled.
2. Carefully lift the air conditioner into place.
Air conditioners are surprisingly hefty. It usually requires two people to lift the unit into place on the windowsill. Place it inside the open window, resting the bottom on the frame. If you installed a support bracket, slide the product outward to a point where it can connect.
It helps to keep the air conditioner centers using the flange to stay flush against the windowsill. One person must remain inside while the other goes outside to connect the bracket.
If you live in a multi-story building, the bracket must get connected from the window instead. Connect a safety harness to a sturdy item in the home, lean out without the accordion panels in place, and finish the job. Then place the panels as needed.
3. Secure the air conditioner to the frame.
After the air conditioner is safely resting on the frame, pull the upper window sash down to the top of the unit to provide more stability. Use the included screws to attach the flange or cabinet to the sash and stool at the indicated areas along the top and bottom.
Next, attach the L-shaped window locking bracket to the upper window sash. This step prevents the window from being accidentally opened. You may need to drill a pilot hole for the screw before tightening the bracket to the installation.
4. Connect the side panels to the window frame.
Once the air conditioner is secure, extend the accordion panels to connect with the sash track along both sides of the unit. Screws are usually necessary to secure this part of the product.
After the panels are secure, install the foam insulating strip between the upper and lower window sash. You could use non-adhesive foam stripping as a substitute if your air conditioner didn’t come with this product.
It helps to review the installation instructions one more time at this point to ensure you’ve included all of the necessary hardware for the installation. If you are satisfied that the window unit is secure, remove the Energy Guide yellow tag from the front. Plug in the air conditioner to see if it works.
Most window air conditioners start blowing in cold air within a few minutes of operation.
What Happens if Condensation Starts Forming?
The modern air conditioner doesn’t cause condensation to form on the inside unless there is a maintenance issue to address with the unit.
If your new air conditioner starts dripping water on the floor, one of three issues is likely.
It may have a clogged line, a broken ban, or a malfunctioning float switch. You’ll need to replace faulty equipment to stop the issue. If there is mold or algae grow blocking things, blowing out the unit could resolve the issue.
As with any home chore, please remember to contact a professional installer if you’re unsure of your skills. Installing an air conditioner can make your home more comfortable, but it shouldn’t come at the price of structural damage.
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