Window air conditioners have several advantages that make them popular for cooling smaller spaces or individual rooms. For one, they are less expensive than central air conditioning or ductless mini-split systems. This makes them a cost-effective solution for cooling specified areas.

The air conditioners are also simple to install, especially if you have a window that fits the unit’s specifications. Most units come with installation kits and instructions, allowing many homeowners to install them without the assistance of a professional.

Modern window air conditioners include energy-saving features such as programmable timers, energy-saving modes, and adjustable thermostat settings. This enables you to regulate the cooling output and save money on energy.

Is this the first time you are installing these units? Here are valuable tips you should consider to ensure that you live with the unit for a long time without any issues:

Place the AC on the right window.

Choose a large enough window that provides appropriate support and is close to an electrical outlet. Using an extension cord is not advised. Small window units work with normal 120-volt outlets, but bigger units and ones with heating require a 240-volt wall outlet.

Before making a purchase, AC repair services recommend that you review the manufacturer’s specifications. ​

If you haven’t already purchased a unit, measure the window to guarantee it will fit. Also, measure the room’s square footage to obtain the correct unit size to cool the space. ​

Correctly install the AC unit.

You should install your AC according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can install a smaller window unit on your own, but many units are large (40 to 100 pounds) and require assistance.

If you are installing the unit alone, request assistance from a family member, friend, or neighbor.

Charity organizations are a good place to find help as they tend to have handyman programs for older individuals; check with your local senior center to see what is available in your region.​

After installation, lower the window so it is flush with the top of the air conditioner. Extend the unit’s side panels to close the gap between the unit and the window frame, and fasten the panels with screws if necessary.

To prevent air leaks, use foam insulation or weather-stripping tape to fill residual gaps. Consider installing window locks for further security.​

Keep the air filters clean.

Dirty air filters can obstruct airflow, limit cooling performance, and raise energy expenditures. To ensure this doesn’t happen, clean the filter once a month or as the manufacturer directs.​

The filter inside the AC unit is washable, but most people never clean it or do it irregularly, which is wrong. ​

You can easily clean your filters by removing the covers from four window units, removing the filters, washing them in the sink, and thoroughly air drying them before reinserting them.

You can clean the filters by yourself, but let an experienced professional help you for the best outcome. The beauty of hiring a professional is that in addition to cleaning the filters, they also will inspect the window unit and fix any issues that might be present.

Regularly inspect the unit for mold.

Mold can form on the evaporator coils, drain pan, air filter, and ductwork of a window unit, owing to dampness in the unit. Mold can reduce efficiency, limit the lifespan of a device, impact indoor air quality, and cause health issues. ​

You should inspect and clean the interior, filter, and drainage system for mold at least once a year, before or after the cooling season. During the inspection, look for irregularly shaped black, green, white, or orange spots and a musty stench. ​

If you find mold, use a mold remover or warm soapy water to clean the area. This is simple to do on your own, although older persons may be more prone to respiratory problems caused by mold exposure due to weakened immune systems.

If you are older, hire a professional. You also should consider doing it if the mold growth is widespread or inaccessible. As a preventive strategy, inspect and remove mold from window units at least once a year, before or after the cooling season.

You also should consider spraying a mold inhibitor on the unit’s components. ​

Have a support bracket.

A window unit, especially a bigger one, may require a mounting bracket to support and maintain its level. The manufacturer’s instructions will specify and supply a bracket if necessary. Install the bracket first because it will assist in keeping the unit stable throughout the installation. ​

Before installing it, check your local building codes and laws. Several ordinances require the use of support brackets at all times for safety concerns.

Ensure you have great drainage.

Water damage from a leaking unit can ruin your windowsills. To ensure that your unit isn’t leaking, examine the condenser drain for debris that could cause a clog or a water leak.

You should check that the unit is slightly slanted toward the outside and that the drain hose is correctly attached and oriented away from the windowsill to drain properly.​

Confirm the unit is working before installation.

Before you install your unit, make sure it functions properly. You should turn on the air conditioner and set the thermostat to the lowest. If it doesn’t seem to be cooling or you hear strange noises, you should contact HVAC repair companies Smithtown.

Poor performance may indicate a refrigerant leak, but detecting one is not normally a do-it-yourself activity. In such a case, let an experienced HVAC specialist look at it.

Parting shot

You should do these things to ensure that your window conditioning unit is ​installed correctly and functioning optimally. You can do the installation and care yourself, but let an experienced professional do it for the best outcome.

When hiring technicians, ensure they have been around for a long time and know what they are doing. The last thing you want is someone that causes more problems than were originally there.