How to Install A Window Unit

3.15.19

How to Install A Window Unit

I’m from the deep south, so window units are pretty familiar to me. I was shocked to find out that a lot of people in the northern states don’t really bother with them. But as global warming and climate change become more pressing, more and more people are having to get them. Luckily for them, Happys Appliances Outlet also provide them! If you wanna save a little money, you can install one yourself, so without further ado let me give you step by step instructions for doing it safely!

Step 1 – Choose the location

First off, you need to choose a window that’s above or near to a grounded outlet. Most of these units come with a 220 volt three prong and a bulky power pack that holds the emergency off and reset buttons. As a preference, I would choose a window that has the outlet slightly to the side since if you’re not careful, water can blow or leak onto the wall–though if you do it right that shouldn’t be an issue.

Step 2 – Measure your window and room

Next you need to measure not only the window, but the actual room too. A lot of people don’t do this and get a bit confused as to why the room is too hot. Or too cold in some cases, though this one can be easily corrected by using the temperature control. You’ll likely need nothing more than a tape measure and a pen and paper. You’ll want to be as accurate as possible, but don’t stress too much. Being a centimeter or millimeter off isn’t really that big of a deal.

Step 3 – Choose the right unit and attach the rails

You’ve got your measurements, so now you need to choose the unit that will fit the room and window. Once you choose the unit that’s the best fit, you’re gonna have to start some assembly. For the most part, they come almost completely together, but you are gonna have to attach the top rail on your new a/c. Doing this is imperative since it allows you to place the fillers on the side and securely close the window on it. For that you’ll likely need only a Phillips head screwdriver.

Step 4 – Place the a/c in the window

Depending on the size of your new a/c you’re going to need at least two people to begin placing it into the window. I suggest three if possible so that one of you can stand on the outside and help hold it in place. This is the most important part of your adventure; you have to do this correctly or you’re going to damage your unit or window. And you can possibly cause leaks later on if it rains. You’re going to want to place the bottom rail of your a/c on the outside of the window frame or sill. Once you have that positioned, you’re going to want to line up the top rail so that when you pull down the window pane, it rests just behind the top rail. After that you’re going to have to securely attach the fillers’ frames to the sides of your window. For that you’ll need a drill or Phillips head screwdriver. Depending on your window you may need to install something that will keep the window from opening. Any other gaps can be fixed with weather sealant. Once all of that is done, take a level outside and make sure the unit has a slight tilt so that it can properly drain. If you don’t do that you’ll likely have water back-flowing into the house. And let me tell you, it’s not fun to clean up–at all.

Conclusion

After that you’re good to go! Start up your a/c and enjoy relief from the burning heat of summer! I know that all of this seems like it’s hard and will take up so much time, but that’s not the case at all! This should take you about 30 minutes to an hour and the benefits are immediate. So get out there and get your window unit!