Where Should I Install Window Air Conditioners For Maximum Efficiency?

The summer heat can be brutal — especially if you don’t have central air conditioning at home. The good news is that you don’t have to spend hours at the local shopping center or a nearby café just to escape the heat. Instead, you can install a window air conditioner to keep at least a portion of your home comfortable year-round.

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Before you purchase and install window air conditioners, it’s important to know a few tips and tricks about placement to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Window Air Conditioner

Before you invest in a window air conditioner, you must be certain your home or apartment is suitable for this type of unit. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you start shopping around.

Do You Rent or Own Your Home?

If you own your own home and you're not part of an HOA, installing a window air conditioner should be no problem. If you do have HOA rules you must abide by, make sure installing any type of air conditioner unit isn't a violation.

On the other hand, if you rent an apartment, be sure to read your lease or talk to the property owners to make sure there are no restrictions or requirements for installing these units.

What Types of Windows Do You Have?

Another thing you want to consider is the types of windows you have. Most window air conditioners are specifically designed to work with double-hung windows. If you have other types of windows, such as casement windows, you must be sure to select an AC unit specifically designed to work with this type of frame.

What Size of Room Do You Want to Cool?

You also need to know what size window AC unit to purchase. AC unit output is measured by square feet, so be sure to calculate the area of the space you want to cool, such as your bedroom or living room.

Where to Install Window Air Conditioner

Once you determine a window air conditioner is right for your home, you must decide where to place it. Below is a look at a few more questions to ask when determining where to install a window air conditioner.

How Does the Orientation of the Window Affect the Performance of a Window Air Conditioner?

If possible, it’s best to avoid direct sunlight when installing an AC unit. Consider placing the unit in windows that are east- or north-facing, because the south and west sides of your home likely receive the most sunlight.

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• Hot This Summer? Here’s Everything You Need to Know to Keep Cool

• Should You Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioner?

What Are the Best Locations Within a Room or Home for Installing a Window Air Conditioner?

You also want to consider interior factors when determining where to install an air conditioner in a room. There should be at least a 24-inch clearance surrounding the AC unit. This means there should be no furniture, such as a sofa, dresser or bookcase, obstructing the airflow of the unit.

Are There Specific Safety Concerns or Considerations to Keep in Mind When Installing Window AC Units?

Never use a window that serves as a fire escape. This mistake could put you and your family in danger in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Secondly, make sure the window is secure enough to hold a heavy air conditioner. You may need to use support brackets or other tools to make sure the unit is safely secured and not at risk of falling out the window.

Finally, place the unit close to an outlet. You should only plug window air conditioners into wall outlets and never use any type of extension cord or surge protector. These items aren't designed to handle that amount of power and could increase the risk of an electrical fire.

Keeping these things in mind when purchasing and installing an air conditioner helps you maximize its use all summer long.