A large percentage of households utilize a window AC unit, including 58% in the Northeast.
Many old houses can only accommodate window units and some people just want extra AC in a room. It’s easy to overlook the fact that you should be prepared when purchasing a window AC.
Being prepared means avoiding injury and damaging your new unit and home. You don’t want to have any costly mishaps, so you should understand some tips for installing a window air conditioning properly. Here are 5 things you should avoid when installing AC units:
1. Avoid Purchasing Before Measuring
It can be a major hassle or return or exchange an AC unit, so make sure you’re buying the exact AC unit you need. This means you should always measure your window’s height, width, and square footage.
After you have these measurements, you’ll be able to order the correct size window AC with confidence.
2. Don’t Forget to Seal After Installing AC
Many new window air conditioning units include extensions that fill the rest of the window space, but others do not.
You can expect there to be empty spaces for air to get inside between the window sash and the unit. This is why it’s important to seal the spaces with foam or other proper material if your window unit doesn’t come with extensions.
3. Make Sure That You’re Installing the Correct Unit
Some older window AC units require installing an external bracket. These brackets often require you to drill holes into your home’s siding. Make sure that you have these capabilities, check if your new AC unit requires a bracket and install it carefully if so, or just simply avoid it altogether.
4. Don’t Use an Extension Cord
Your window AC unit will typically include up to six feet of cord with a three-prong plug. Window AC installation could pose a fire hazard and void of warranty when connecting to an extension cord. So make sure you avoid this and assure that your AC unit is going into a window in close proximity to a three-pronged outlet.
5. Avoid Heavy Lifting
Many window AC units weigh nearly 100 pounds, and you don’t need to risk an injury with window ac installation. Check the AC unit’s dimensions and weight before purchasing. If it’s more than you can comfortably carry, make sure that you get someone to help with the heavy lifting.
Cool Down With a Window AC
Now that you know the common mishaps and things to avoid when installing AC, you can enjoy the cool benefits. Make sure that you take note of these tips so that you don’t risk an injury or break a brand new window AC unit. Avoiding these mistakes can also save you a ton of costs and damage to your home, and you’ll be able to enjoy the cool with zero stress.
Interested in reading more tips and lifestyle articles? Check out the San Antonio Express-News blog articles on home remodeling and everything under the sun.
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