Q&A: Do you recommend window or through-the-wall air conditioners? We're going to buy some new room air conditioners and are choosing between through-the-wall units that require a sleeve and window-mounted units. Which do you recommend? If sleeves are installed in your exterior walls, use through-the-wall, or sleeve-type, air conditioners. The sleeves simplify installing and removing the units, and some people prefer the look of through-the-wall models. But sleeve-type air conditioners typically cost more, and you'll have fewer choices when shopping. A couple of things to remember about through-the wall models. The sleeve can restrict airflow or possibly contribute to recirculation of the warm exhaust air back into the louvers on the sides of the units. What's more, unless there's a tight seal inside the room between the sleeve and the air conditioner, warmer outdoor air could enter your home. Both of these problems will cause your air conditioner to work harder and run more, driving up your electricity bill.

If there are no air-conditioner sleeves at your home, go with window-mounted air conditioners. You could add the sleeves, though you'll likely want or have to pay a pro to do the work. No matter which type you choose, be sure you properly install and secure it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Another option is to install a split-ductless air-conditioning system (story available to subscribers). refrigerant recovery unit for sale australiaThis setup offers some advantages over other room air conditioners and won't cost that much more to install than adding sleeves for through-the-wall models.   wall unit ac heat pumpWhen you're ready to shop for your A/Cs, use our free buyer's guide to air conditioners and check out our updated ratings (available to subscribers). split unit ac installation guide

To take advantage of a cash for appliances rebate, see our interactive map to determine whether incentives are available in your state. Essential information: Maintain your air conditioners and learn how to cut your cooling costs.Fire Marshal warns against using extension cords to power air conditioning units Trying to beat the searing temperatures by using a window air conditioner powered by an extension cord can spark another of the afflictions currently plaguing the area — fire. Fire Marshal Clyde Ellis, Ardmore Fire Department, said within the past 30 days local firefighters have responded to three residential fires.  All three fires were caused by the same combination of exceptional heat and window air conditioners powered by extension cords. “First off, window air conditioners are not meant to run off extension cords — that’s dangerous in itself and it’s never a good idea. What’s adding to something that’s already dangerous is the high temperatures, which is causing window air conditioners to not cycle properly.

These units aren’t able to sufficiently bring the temperature inside the room down so the compressor continues to cycle instead of turning off at regular intervals. That continuous cycling causes heat to build up and eventually that causes the cord to burn out and a fire to start,” Ellis said. Extension cords may seem to be a quick fix when someone installs a window air conditioner only to discover there is no electrical wall outlet close enough to plug in the unit’s power cord. Price quotes from area electricians about the average cost of having a wall outlet installed ranged from $85 to $350. While certainly the safer alternative, the installation costs may not be financially feasible. For some, the question then becomes weighing the health risks associated with living in stifling heat against the risk of a potential fire. It’s a dilemma Ellis understands. And while he strongly recommends having a wall outlet professionally installed, he said there is a short term alternative that can provide a measure of safety.

“Don’t use a common household type extension cord. Use one made for commercial purposes — one with at least 10-gauge wire and use the shortest cord possible,” he said. To ask questions concerning safely operating window air conditioners call Ellis at (580) 221-2550.HomeBecoming a TenantLeasing ProcessAbout Your ApartmentPossible Maintenance IssuesRental Applications and Lease FormsFloor PlansAmenitiesPricingFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)About UsLocal InterestsMaintenance RequestContact UsDirectionsAbout UsContact UsFloor PlansPricingAmenitiesBecoming a TenantFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)DirectionsLeasing ProcessPossible Maintenance IssuesMaintenance RequestAbout Your ApartmentRental Applications and Lease FormsLocal Interests Before purchasing or installing window air-conditioning units, please read King & Queen Apartments’ Rules & Regulations regarding Air-Conditioning (section E, pg. 11 (2016)). Always have an assistant to help you. Never attempt to install any window air-conditioning unit alone.

You risk the possibility of hurting yourself or injuring others by attempting to install the unit alone. You also run the risk the possibility of dropping and damaging the unit, and causing damage to other property below. Checkpoints Prior to Installation Carefully remove the unit from the packaging case and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions; DO NOT use nails, screws or brackets to secure the unit to the wall, window sill, window, window jamb or window sashes. DO NOT install or attach a support bracket(s) underneath the air-conditioner and onto to the building. If an extension cord is required, the cord must be 12-gauge electrical extension cord to handle the electrical load from the air-conditioning unit. DO NOT plug the unit in until after it is fully installed. Assemble and prepare the air-conditioning unit per the owner’s manual and installation instructions. Before installing the unit, carefully set the A/C Drip Pan (provided in apartment and located in the linen closet) onto the window sill as shown.

The A/C Drip Pan is required for all window air-conditioning units at King & Queen Apartments to prevent condensation from the unit from dripping onto the building. Install the unit in the window, making sure that the A/C Drip Pan is underneath the window air-conditioning unit and that the unit is holding the A/C Drip Pan in place. Be sure to center the unit in the middle of the window. Holding the unit, carefully pull down the window sash. The window should rest on the unit behind the window filler panel frames. Extend the side panels to both sides of the window, against each window frame. To better insulate the window, the window unit and your apartment, it is recommended that you try one or more of the following: Use the foam strips provided by the manufacturer of the air conditioning unit, or purchase foam strips to install at the window. Use rigid foam panels or side insulating panels to cover the sides of the air-conditioning unit. Use duct tape only to tape joints on the side panels for air leaks.

DO NOT use duct tape to secure the side panels of the unit to the wall, window sill, window, window jamb or window sashes. DO NOT drill holes, screw, nail or attached anything to the wall, window sill, window, window jamb, window frame or window sashes. If holes are drilled, screwed or nailed into the window sash, you will be charged the cost of replacing the damaged sash. To secure the window from being opened from the outside, insert security tension rod (provided in apartment and located in the linen closet) between the lower sash (when raised above the air-conditioning unit) and top of the inside of the window. Twist rod to adjust length. Checkpoints Prior to Removal Remove unit from window or seal it up completely on the inside after the cooling season is over; otherwise, air will leak through the unit itself. Before removing the unit from the window, be sure that it is not longer holding any water in the evaporation pan. If water is still in the pan, it could drain out into the interior of the apartment when the unit it taken out of the window.

Before removing the unit, be sure to: Unplug the power cord, Remove the wooden dowels between the lower and upper sash, Lay a towel onto the floor onto which to set the unit. While holding pressure on the unit where the window rests behind the window filler panel frames so it will not fall backwards on its own weight, carefully pull window sash up. Keeping pressure on the top of the unit, carefully pull the unit from the window, while also keeping the A/C Drip Pan from falling. Set the unit onto the towel and pull the A/C drip pan from the window sill. * If you do not feel comfortable either installing window air-conditioning units yourself, please feel free to contact one of our approved installation contractors, Shalom Improvements (757-592-1903) or Williamsburg Hammer Works at (757-969-2760), to set up a time to install and/or remove your window unit(s).  You will be charged a service fee at the time of installation and/or removal, payable directly to the contractor at time of service.