Secure a window-based air conditioner to prevent burglars from entering the home. Window air conditioning units can provide quick cooling to any room in a home, but they are also a target for burglars. Instead of just sliding the unit in, homeowners should take extra measures to protect the window. Once applied, the window will be fully operable during seasonal weather when the air conditioner is no longer needed. Some of the extra security measures can still be used on the windows when the air conditioning unit is no longer in place. Install an air conditioner bracket to the outside of the unit. The bracket not only supports the air conditioner, but it attaches to the bottom of the unit and the house, making it harder to move the air conditioner. Add a sliding window lock to each side of the window frame. Depending on the type, the locks are bolted or screwed in. They prevent burglars from sliding the window up and down. Attach the lock into the frame just above the window. Measure the length from the side of the unit to the wall.

Purchase and attach a steel corner brace to each side of the air conditioner. Connect the other end to a secure section of the wall. Use screws or bolts to secure the brackets in place. This prevents thieves from pushing the air conditioner in or pulling it out. Screw in plastic vent flaps directly to the window frame. If the air conditioner is smaller than the window, plastic vent flaps need to be pulled tightly to cover up the holes. good works auto repair tempe azThis is a vulnerable spot for burglars. how much copper is in ac unitUse three or more screws to attach it directly to the window frame. air handling units control systemsInstall a small window sensor alarm. Magnetic controls set above the air conditioner will go off if the unit is moved or the window is opened.

The high-pitched noise will alert anyone in the home and likely scare the burglar away. Window air-conditioner units are a reliable and simple-to-install solution to keep a room cool while avoiding the costly construction of a central air system. Better yet, when the summer heat dies down, these units can be easily removed for storage, and you can use the windowsill for other purposes. , walks us through the basic steps of a/c installation.Window a/c units come in various sizes and cooling capacities, and it is important to choose the one that best fits the needs of the room. "There is a formula to all of this," Vandervort says. The first part of the formula is room size. An air-conditioning calculator makes this job easy—you put in a room's dimensions and it tells you how much BTU power you need. If the room is open to an additional area, like through an arch or open doorway, make sure you include the other area in your square-foot count.Aside from square footage, there are other factors to consider.

Think about the climate of the room. "You can decrease the BTU rating by 10 percent if it is on a shaded side, or increase it by 10 percent if it is on a sunny side," Vandervort says. In addition, if the a/c unit is for a kitchen, Vandervort suggests adding 4000 BTUs to your capacity figures; if the room is to be occupied by more than two people, add 600 BTUs per person. All air conditioners are packaged with room coverage factors on the label, but it is always good to double check these numbers, and consider adding or subtracting power based on the room you wish to cool. Plus, keep in mind window size. Most units are meant to fit in double-hung windows, but there are models designed for casement windows as well.When choosing a window to place the air conditioner in, keep fire safety in mind. An air conditioner can block egress in the event of a fire, especially if the unit is in a room with only one window.Air conditioners are rated for energy efficiency. The EER (energy efficiency rating) ranges from 8 to 11.5, and Vandervort says a rating of 10 or higher is ideal for saving electricity (and lowering your bills).

However, expect to pay more for a more efficient unit. These greener units offer digital temperature controls, variable fan speeds and sleep settings, which help conserve power.Before you take the unit out of the box, make sure you have a friend handy to help with the installation. Air-conditioner units are clumsy objects, and you don't want your brand-new appliance falling out during installation and landing on the ground below.If you have double-hung widows, installation should be simple. It may be necessary to assemble the unit's window extensions; some models have these already installed. Other models utilize special brackets for window attachment, Vandervort says. In that case, you put those brackets in place first. Always check with the owner manual. While the installation of different units should be similar, there are variations between a/c designs.Raise the lower pane, and have your helper place the unit on the windowsill. Slide out the unit's extensions to fill the empty window space.

Next, level the unit according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most air-conditioner models should tip slightly to the outside to drain condensation. However, keep in mind that some units may not be designed to tilt.Fasten the unit to the brackets or lower the window pane onto the unit to lock it into place. Most models will have you secure the upper windowpane into place to prevent movement. Next, secure the extensions to the window jamb. Finally, seal the unit. On the inside, use weatherstripping provided by the manufacturer; on the outside, use calk around the perimeter to ensure a good seal.With other styles of windows, or with odd-shaped windows, you may have to get creative, Vandervort says. Use plywood boards to help seal or fit an unusual opening that the a/c's extenders will not fill.Air conditioners can use a lot of power, so keep in mind the circuit you are connecting the unit to. If the same circuit powers other high-energy appliances—refrigerators, dryers, vacuums—consider plugging it in elsewhere.