Depending on where you live, the summer season can bring about sweltering days, with temperatures climbing well into the 90s. While central air conditioning is a great choice to help keep your home comfortable during the summer, it can be expensive. A window air conditioner is a great way to cool a room without having to operate a full-sized air conditioning unit.
Window air conditioners come in a variety of sizes, so you can find one that is the right fit for your room. The best window air conditioner will be able to cool a bedroom or other space. Let’s take a closer look at using a window AC unit.
Select the right unit size.
Window air conditioners work by cooling the air in the room and blowing it out of the unit. Most window air conditioners have a cooling capacity of 5,000 BTUs, which is enough to cool a room up to 150 square feet. To use a window air conditioner, first ensure that the unit is properly sized for the room. You can do this by checking the unit’s BTU rating and making sure it is appropriate for the size of the room.
Properly install the unit.
Next, make sure the window you plan to install the air conditioner in is large enough to accommodate the unit. The window should be at least 24 inches wide and at least 16 inches high. If your window does not meet these requirements, you may need to purchase an air conditioner that is specifically designed for use in a windowless room.
Once you have determined that the window is the right size, remove the screen from the window and slide the air conditioner into the window opening. The air conditioner should sit in the window so that the top of the unit is even with the top of the window. If the unit is too large for the window, you can remove the side panels and trim them to size.
Once the air conditioner is in the window, use the included screws to attach the unit to the window frame. Make sure the unit is securely attached to the window before plugging it in. Once plugged in, turn on the air conditioner by using the switch on the front of the unit.
To adjust the temperature, use the buttons on the unit to set the desired temperature. The unit will then automatically adjust to maintain that temperature. Most window air conditioners also have a fan speed setting, which you can use to adjust the speed of the fan.
Maintain the window unit.
Window AC units can be a great way to cool a room without having to install a whole-home air conditioning unit. However, they require some regular maintenance in order to work their best. One important part of this maintenance is cleaning the unit itself. To clean a window AC unit, start by unplugging it and emptying any water that may be inside it. Next, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or dirt from the exterior of the unit. Be sure to pay special attention to the filters and coils, as these are where most of the dirt will accumulate. If the filters are removable, take them out and wash them with warm soapy water. Allow them to dry completely before putting them back in place. If the filters are not removable, you can try using a brush or compressed air to clean them instead. It’s important to have clean filters for efficient operation and improved indoor air quality.
Finally, use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the AC unit. Be sure not to get any water inside of it! Once you’re finished, plug it back in and turn it on. You should now have a clean and working window AC unit!
Window air conditioners can be a cost-effective way to cool rooms in your home, as they are less expensive to install and run than a full-sized air conditioner. By picking the right unit, installing it correctly, and properly maintaining it, you enjoy a cool space all summer long.
[Image credit: Main Photo by Rafael Gonzales]
