how to install window ac unit

I'm trying to install a window unit air conditioner, but most of the installation instructions don't seem to work with this window configuration. A little bit about the setup: The apartment is the 5th floor of a pre-war walkup building that has gone through various renovations, but none that have made it too modern. The window is about 30" wide, and is a metal frame. There are two issues that make it hard to install a window AC unit: The window sill is made out of metal, so I can't nail or screw anything into it The base of the window has a thin (about 1/4") piece of metal jutting out of the buttom that's 2" high in the interior and 1.5" high in the exterior. This means I can't rest any part of the air conditioner on the sill - it ends up just resting on that piece of metal. Most of the AC units I've looked at have brackets that get nailed into the window sill, and also require that they can sit flat against a ledge to fall into the brackets. Some examples of the instructions for the units for sale in my area are here:

Looking at my neighbors' apartments, it looks like their units have been there for decades, and some are propped up on things like phone books or 2x4s.
top residential ac unitsI'm hoping to find a safer solution than that, so I don't accidentally drop a 50 pound AC unit 5 stories.
hvac energy tax credit 2012I tinkered with it yesterday (using the LG unit), and the best I could come up with was wedging the AC in at an angle and closing the window, but that didn't seem safe or stable, and left a hole to the outside because the curtains weren't flush with the window.
my ac unit has no power Is it possible to install a window air conditioner in this setup, and how would I go about doing it? Since it sounds like it might be difficult for you to get to a lumberyard to build your own solution, you might be better off using a pre-made product.

AC-Safe, makes Universal Air Conditioner Supports that might be useful in your situation. The system requires you to screw the platform into the window sill (which may or may not be possible in your situation), then simply rests against the outside of the building to support the A\C unit. I've also seen brackets that mount to the bottom of A\C unit itself, and offer support against the outside of the building (but I was unable to find an example online. I think Thermwell makes them). I have the same NYC metal windows, and I'm using a universal bracket like the other commenter posted. I drilled two small holes in the bottom of my window frame (where the sash rests when the window is closed) and screwed the bracket into the wood below. The foot of the bracket rests on the stone window ledge. It's weird that manufacturers don't provide instructions for these windows, since they seem to be pretty common in cities. Could you use something like this? It's been working well for us!

Browse other questions tagged windows air-conditioning installation or ask your own question.Summer is only getting hotter, and you may have noticed that the box fan next to your bed just isn’t cutting it anymore. Either way, if you don’t already have air conditioning in your apartment, now is the time to install a window unit. Compared to central air, window units are relatively inexpensive, and definitely worth the investment. If this is your first time buying a window air conditioner, make sure to measure the window you plan to put it in-- air conditioners come in many different sizes. Also keep in mind that a north-facing window will provide better airflow. Make sure that the window is close to a grounded 3-prong outlet, or buy an extension cord made specifically for air conditioners. Anything else could overload your circuit. When selecting a unit, remember that more space means you’ll want an AC with a higher BTU. If the unit is not as wide as the window, make sure it has side panels that can extend on both sides to cover up the gaps.

Before you prepare to install the unit, check your lease. Some management companies require window units to be professionally installed. If that’s the case, and this is your first time buying a window AC, consider purchasing it from somewhere that offers free installation. Make sure you have a friend helping you install the unit to lessen the chance of an accident. These things can be pretty heavy. The only thing worse than your AC falling out of your window, is your AC falling on you. Remember that you won’t be able to open that window once the unit is installed. So, if you notice that the outside of the glass is looking a little dirty, whip out the glass cleaner and paper towels, and get washing. Otherwise, you’ll be looking at that unsightly dirt until September. While it may seem daunting, AC installation can be simple as long as you are prepared. Once it's in, you'll never know how you lived without it. Have you ever installed your own window air conditioner?

Share your experience with us in the comments!Window AC installation process starts with removing glass or mesh from the window. A window AC unit is heavy and requires at least 2 people for installation. A window AC unit has following parts: Outer case or frame Window AC installation requires following tools: Window AC installation steps Remove glass or mesh from window Window AC installation process starts with removing glass or mesh from the window. Fix the outer case In window AC installation, first the outer case is securely fixed in the window frame with the help of screws. Fix the inner unit The inner unit of window AC is then firmly fixed inside the outer case with the help of screws and screw driver. Fix front screen and air filter Later the front screen or the cover is gently fixed on the inner unit. Finally the air filter of window AC is inserted in place and the front cover is closed. Start and check AC unit After the inner unit of window AC is fixed in the outer case, AC unit is switched on to check if it starts properly.