How to Use Window Units Instead of Central Air
- 1). Measure the cubic footage for every room where you want to install a window air conditioner. If you want one conditioner to cool multiple rooms, add together the square footage of those rooms. For example, if you want to install an air conditioner in your living room, and you want it to cool the dining room and kitchen, as well, you need the combined square footage. To obtain the square footage, multiply the width and the length of each room. Then add up the square footage of the three rooms. You need the square footage to find an air conditioner that's the right size.
- 2). Measure the width and height of the window where you want to install the air conditioner. If the air conditioner will cool more than one room, choose a window that will allow the air to blow straight into the other rooms. Keep in mind that the window unit can blow cool air only straight ahead. It cannot effectively cool rooms to the left or right of the rooms where it's directed.
- 3). Purchase window air conditioners that meet the minimum space requirements and fit the window. Air conditioners are rated in British thermal units, and the packaging will tell you what area the conditioner will cover, based on the square footage you have already calculated.
- 4). Place the air conditioner in the window frame, and lower the window on top of the air conditioner to hold it in place. You may need someone to help you, as an air conditioner is heavy. The air conditioner will tip backward slightly to allow condensation to flow from the back of the unit. You may need a brace outside the window to support the unit.
- 5). Pull out the side louvers, and add weather stripping where the air conditioner meets the window frame.
- 6). Secure a garden hose to the drainage port on the back of the air conditioner, and then route the hose away from your foundation.
- 7). Plug the air conditioner into a power source, and then turn on the air conditioner.
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