Window-mounted AC units represent the largest category of portable AC appliances. Other portable AC units are designed as floor models that can be placed inside a room. Window-mounted AC units are designed to fit in the bottom half of a double-hung window. This type of portable air conditioner is designed to cool the room where it's installed. Units are rated according to BTU output, from 5000-10,000BTUs. Easy to install, but not as convenient as central AC Installing a window-mounted AC unit is a fairly straightforward process that most homeowners can accomplish on their own. With the window's bottom sash lifted open, the AC unit is placed in the opening so that the unit's bottom edge rests on the window sill. The bottom sash is lowered against the top of the unit so that the mounting flange rests against the sash; then the adjustable side panels are extended to fit against the side jambs of the window frame. A window-mounted air conditioner offers an affordable and immediate solution to a room that gets too hot.

But most homeowners prefer central air conditioning systems over the use of multiple portable AC units for a number of reasons. First of all, window-mounted air conditioners are much noisier than a central AC system. Installing a window-mounted AC unit limits the view out the window and detracts from the home's exterior appearance. air handling unit structureThe window is inoperable as long as the unit is installed, so there's no opportunity to take advantage of natural ventilation (which requires no electricity) on mild days. cheap split unit air conditionerFinally, these units need to be removed and stored during winter months, then reinstalled when warm weather arrives; hvac unit in carsit's a task that no homeowner looks forward to. For homeowners who are interested in upgrading to central air conditioning but find the cost too prohibitive, a ductless mini-split air conditioning system is a very attractive alternative.

With this type of system, cool air is supplied to the room via an air-handling unit that is permanently mounted on the wall.Q: Our cooling bills are very high even though we keep the air conditioner set well up in summer. The central unit also does not cool our master bedroom well, and we often resort to sleeping in a spare room. Would window air conditioners save us money and give better cooling?A: A window air conditioner almost certainly would keep that bedroom comfortable and one or two other window units in strategic places could cut your cooling cost and improve comfort, assuming you turn off the central unit when using them.The big advantage of window air conditioners is that it is possible to cool only the space you are occupying: a bedroom, family room, kitchen or whatever. Modern window units have quick response; it is possible to cool a hot room in less than an hour and keep in cool for as long as necessary.Modern window air conditioning units are also more efficient than older ones, lighter in weight, smaller and many are less expensive than comparable older models.

Many also have remote controls, so you can turn the unit on and off or adjust the temperature without leaving your bed or chair.Window units do have some disadvantages. They can be noisy, especially when the compressor is running. They fit best in double-hung windows (two sashes that slide up and down). They should be removed from the windows and stored when colder weather arrives, then lugged out and reinstalled when hot weather returns.Window units must be fastened securely in place, since an intruder can easily push a loose one out of the way and crawl through the open window. They are banned in some developments as detractions from the appearance of the houses.Finally, they obstruct the view through the window and prevent the window from being opened and closed for ventilation in cool weather. So you should weigh the pros and cons carefully before opting for window units, though II think the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.Q: Old bathtubs can be painted, of course, but paint only lasts a few years.

Are there cost-effective ways to line a tub that will keep it looking good for a long time?A: Tough, attractive liners made of acrylics and other plastics are available to fit virtually any old bathtub. The liners are molded to fit the tub exactly, providing a new surface that can last for 15 years or more.), claim that thousands of liners have been installed in hotels and apartments. Long-term warranties are available from some dealers. Installations usually take only one day, but there can be a waiting period of several weeks between the time the tub is measured and the installation. Some manufacturers also offer matching tub surrounds made of the same durable materials. Cost estimates for a tub liner range from about $700 to $1,000, which is considerably more than a professional paint job but still a great deal less than the cost of tearing out and installing a new bathtub.Like most plastics, liners can be scratched or otherwise damaged. Some owners also complain that a thin film of water gets between the liner and the bottom of the tub, sometimes causing bad odors and mold.

Plumbing problems such as leaks around the drain are also sometimes cited. The best protection against any problems is a written warranty and experienced installers.Q: We recently had a ridge vent installed on our older house. One contractor told us we should close off the gable vents in the ends of the roof because we can't have both types of vents. Other contractors told us not to worry about it. A: I agree with those who told you not to worry. If you have adequate attic insulation, the extra ventilation provided by both types of vents should be helpful. Good attic ventilation is important year-round. In hot weather, it helps keep the attic cooler and can extend the life of your roofing. In winter, good ventilation helps prevent condensation on cold surfaces in the attic. Condensation can result in damp insulation, mold and even structural rot. or at 1730 Blue Bell Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422.Without central air conditioning running throughout the home, residents may get uncomfortably hot and sticky during the warmer summer months.

While fans can be a temporary solution, they won't do much to combat particularly high temperatures or humidity. Installing a window AC unit can be a smart choice for homeowners who are on a limited budget. Use this guide to learn more about the pros and cons of window AC units as well as the various costs associated with buying and installing them. Average Minimum Cost of Window AC Units: $150 per unit Average Maximum Cost of Window AC Units: $750 per unit Advantages of a Window AC Unit The major advantages of having a window AC unit as the primary means of cooling a space include localized cooling, low costs and simple installation. Rather than paying to cool an entire home whenever the resident feels warm, they can turn on a window AC unit and enjoy rapid cooling when and where it is needed. In addition, installing a window AC unit is straightforward, and most homeowners are able to do it themselves or with the help of a friend. Not needing professional installation can keep costs low.

Finally, the expense of buying a window AC unit is marginal compared to the cost of installing an entire whole-home split-system or ductwork to run cool air. Disadvantages of a Window AC Unit While there are advantages to have a window AC unit, homeowners should also be aware of the potential drawbacks. These include noise, uneven cooling in the home, reduced curb appeal and limited views from inside the house. The noise of a window AC unit can be frustrating, especially when used in bedrooms, as it can make it hard to sleep. Unless there are window units in every room of the house, they can also result in uneven cooling. Since window units are visible from inside the home as well as from the exterior of the home, they reduce curb appeal and limit interior views, which can both reduce the total value of the home. Choosing the Right BTU for the Space A primary factor that will influence the cost of the window AC unit will be BTU, or British Thermal Unit, that dictates how much energy is used.