When you need to install a window air conditioner in a basement window, it can often be a struggle to get the air conditioner to fit and rest securely in the window. Basement windows are commonly not as uniform as other home windows. They can often be a problem when trying to fit with a standard size window air conditioner. Here are some tips that can help you this summer when you install the air conditioner and to keep your basement cool. When installing an air conditioning unit in a basement window, you will oftentimes have to remove the window entirely to fit the unit securely. Removing the window will in most cases present a new problem of air leaks as small as a crack to several inches, depending on the size of your window frame. If there is a bit of space between the window frame and your unit, there are several possible solutions. You can place boards under the unit so that it is resting on the outer sill. Tilt the air conditioner slightly so that it drains properly outside and prevents rust from forming.

Another option is to fill the gaps on the side or top with Styrofoam or plywood. The most important thing about basement air conditioners is that they must be securely in place. That is often the most difficult part about a window unit. If you will be shopping for a new unit, take measurements of your window before you go to the store. New or used, you may need to make a small shelf for the air conditioner to rest. The shelf should have a slight slope as well so that the air conditioner drains outside. Even with a shelf, you may still have openings around the window. If that is the case, seal them with a small board taped into place. If you have a sliding window, use tape to create a seal along the sliding portion so that you can still open the window if you want. Once you install a window air conditioner unit, your window lock will no longer function properly. To maintain security in your home, cut a board or stick the length to fit between the upper window frame and the top of the sash.

Doing so will prevent unwanted intruders from prying the window and entering your home. Using these simple tips, you can easily install your air conditioning unit and have it working to its full efficiency this summer. Be sure to thoroughly seal all of the leaks, and you will be on your way to a cool and energy efficient summer.How do you install an air conditioner in a basement window? Window measurements should be taken before buying the air conditioner, and when installing the air conditioner, it might be necessary to remove the window so the unit can fit. After the unit is in place, all air leaks should be plugged, and the window should be secured with boards. It's especially important to measure the window ahead of time because, basement window sizes often differ from standard home windows sizes. To plug up any space between the window frame and the unit, boards can be placed under the unit so that it rests on the outer sill. The air conditioner should then be titled a bit to ensure proper drainage outside.

Even with this shelf in place, there still might be openings along the side or top. These can be filled with Styrofoam or plywood. If there is a sliding window, tape can be used to produce a seal along the sliding board so that the window can still be opened.replacing central air conditioning units prices When an air conditioner is installed in a basement window, home security is also an issue because the window locks no longer function. air conditioner outside unit wont turn onTo keep a stranger from prying open the window, a board or stick should be firmly wedged between the upper window frame and the top of the sash.top rated air conditioners units The weight of a window air conditioner is another consideration.

Some portable air conditioners weigh as much as 100 pounds. A unit that's too heavy might easily get dropped during installation into a basement window. Also, an air conditioner should not be installed if the wood on the sill is rotting, because the sill might collapse from the weight of the unit. Some older windows air conditioners with external brackets require holes to be drilled in the house siding. When installing a newer model with supports that fit into the window opening, the supports should be set up according to the manufacturer's directions. There are five types of compact air conditioner units: portable, window, through-the-wall, ductless mini-split and packaged terminal. What are some companies that offer cheap fiberglass insulation? Does a dehumidifier prevent mold and mildew in the home? What are some of the features and benefits of pneumatic air compressors? Is LP gas a good option to heat a home? What is a hydrotherm boiler? Where can someone purchase a used mobile home furnace?

You purchased a window air conditioner to cool your room or apartment. Time to install it! Luckily, it only takes a few minutes and you'll be cool soon. Follow our step-by-step guide to make installing your window AC as easy as possible. Step 1: Find the Center of Your Window Step 2: Add Weather Strip if Provided Step 3: Install Side Panels Step 4: Lift Air Conditioner into Window Step 5: Install L Brackets Step 6: Extend and Connect Side Panels Step 7: Secure Unit and Start Cooling Make sure you select a window close enough to an outlet. Most window AC's have power cords between 5 and 6 feet long. See what side of the AC the cord extends from, and choose an outlet the cord reaches. Also have your owner's manual out to follow along with the manufacturer's directions. Expert Tip: Be careful removing it from the box. The back of the unit can be sharp. Remove all the pieces from your box to confirm all the parts were sent. Measure the width of your window, and mark the center with a pencil.

Marking the spot will make installation easier and ensure the side panels evenly reach both sides of your window.If a weather strip is provided from the manufacturer, install it now. These strips help block any air that may pass through tiny cracks and protects your window from possible damage when you're installing or removing of the AC. Not all models will have these weather strips, and your AC will work fine without one. Slide the panels into the appropriate place on your unit. Slide them all the way in and then secure the adjustable panels into your window AC using provided screws. Connect all the screws to avoid any gaps—which can let warm air, allergens, and pollution into your home. Expert Tip: It’s best to use 2 people for this step. Even if you can lift it yourself, it's safer to have an extra set of hands to close the window and secure the AC. Pick up your AC and center it in your window. Then tightly close your window on top of the AC; 

there should be a spot where the window easily slides into place. Most of the unit's weight will be outside, so be careful lifting it into place. Once you close the window, your AC should be securely in place. The hard part is done! Now you’re just securing everything and finishing up. Installations vary at this stage based on the manufacturer, but most models include at least one L bracket to hold the window securely in place. Screw the L bracket or brackets to the top of the opened window. This prevents the window from being pushed up, which is the main concern once window ACs are installed. If your AC doesn't come with a bracket to hold your window in place, we highly suggest you use one from your tool collection. If provided, add the window padding to the sides of your open window (top picture above). If no padding came with your model, just extend the side panels to reach your window (bottom picture above). Then attach both side panels to your window using the screws from your manufacturer.