Hello everyone, welcome to Soundproof Nation. In today’s tutorial on installing a window air conditioner, we’ll address some common challenges encountered during this process.
The initial issue I faced was having a window that slides from side to side rather than the typical up-and-down motion. Most window air conditioners are designed for vertically sliding windows, creating a compatibility problem. The second challenge arose due to living in a rental property with strict regulations against drilling holes or using screws.
How To Install a Window Ac Unit in A Horizontal Sliding Window?
Before starting the installation process, it’s crucial to verify if the unit functions properly. There’s nothing more frustrating than investing time and effort only to find out the device doesn’t work when turned on.
Once confirmed that the air conditioner is operational, the initial step involves removing the window screen. Screens usually come out easily, employing various mechanisms like springs, tabs, or sliding components.
For those living in higher floors, caution is necessary to prevent the screen from flying away or the air conditioner falling onto cars or pedestrians below. Using magnets or careful maneuvering can aid in screen removal in such scenarios.
Windows that slide sideways require a bracket to support the air conditioner’s backside. While metal brackets are available for purchase, I opted to construct a sturdy wooden frame under permission. This frame was affixed to the window frame with screws, intending to easily patch up any holes upon removal.
Upon unpacking the air conditioner, standard hardware like screws, brackets, foam insulation, and plasticine are included. The process involved aligning the unit, attaching accordion-style panels, and sealing gaps with foam insulation to prevent air or debris ingress.
Additionally, ensuring a sloping angle is crucial for proper drainage if rainwater enters the unit. Attaching plexiglass or a custom-cut plywood piece, based on window measurements, sealed the top opening.
The installation omitted the use of screws attached to the window, focusing on insulation to seal gaps effectively. Notably, plugging the air conditioner directly into a dedicated outlet is recommended to avoid using extension cords.
Regarding maintenance, storing the unit during winters is advised, although using window air conditioner covers can suffice. Testing the unit confirmed its efficiency and quiet operation, especially the self-evaporating feature.
Lastly, those considering the drio portable air conditioner might find it suitable for smaller spaces, while tower fans by drio have been performing well for us. However, individual experiences may vary.
If you have any inquiries or wish to share your experiences, please leave a comment below.
Step 1: Tools and Materials Required
- Plywood is a necessity for this setup as it serves to bridge the spaces between the sliding window opening and the window frame. Opt for a thicker plywood, approximately 3/4 to 1 inch in thickness. This ensures ample insulation to block outdoor heat from infiltrating the room.
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- 12 deck screws
Step 2: Removing the Window Screen
Begin by fully sliding open one side of the sliding window frame. Remove any insect or dust screens present in the window. The window needs to be entirely open to accommodate the installation of your window air conditioner.
Step 3: Detach the AC Housing
Carefully unscrew the housing from the internal components of your air conditioner unit. Set aside the rest of the unit, and focus on the housing. Attach the metal brackets to the housing where the support brackets will be affixed.
Step 4: Align and Fix Brackets
Align the housing of the air conditioner with the window frame. Mark the spots where you’ll drill to install your AC unit securely in the sliding window. Outside the sliding window, install the steel support brackets, slightly tilting them outward.
Step 5: Measure for Plywood
Measure the significant gap between your air conditioner and the window frame. These measurements will guide the cutting of plywood pieces. Knowing the window’s width helps determine the right thickness of plywood for a tight seal.
Cut the plywood to match the window gap, marking pilot holes and thinning it out for drilling screws when installing the air conditioner in the sliding window.
- 7 silent through the wall ac’s
- How to quiet a noisy window air conditioner
- Air conditioner noise reduction
Step 6: Apply Foam Insulation
Place foam insulation on all four sides of the window pane, including the base near the window sill. This insulation keeps the cool air indoors while preventing warm outside air from entering.
Step 7: Assembly
Position the plywood in the gap, using insulating foam to fill any remaining gaps or looseness. Securely screw the air conditioner into the pilot holes and fasten the metal bars for the support brackets. Make sure every component is tightly secured in place before placing the internal parts back into the housing.
Step 8: Reassemble the Unit
Clean the housing of your air conditioner by vacuuming or using a blower to remove debris and sawdust from the installation process. This prevents future issues. Carefully reintroduce the internal parts into the housing and secure the air conditioning unit by screwing the housing back in place.
Step 9: Power Up
Plug in your unit and test its functionality. If the unit doesn’t perform optimally, inspect the installation for loose screws or misalignment and make necessary adjustments. For complex AC issues, contact our technicians at Luce Aircon for professional diagnosis and assistance.
Meet Mike O’Connor, (a DIY enthusiast), living in Cincinnati, a city ranked as the noisiest in the USA.
As a work from home dad, I have a first hand experience of how noise can truly affect your well being.
Soundproofing isn’t something that should be taken as a hobby, it should be a skill that every homeowner should be equipped with.
Most of the work documented on this blog comes from purely first hand experience, and the products recommended work as indicated.