Hi Keith, We had some very warm weather a few weeks ago, and it was miserable. My wife is pregnant, and I would like to make it more comfortable for her as the summer continues. We do not have central air conditioning, and I’d like to surprise her with a window air conditioner, could you walk me through the steps?
—Bryan, H., Ann Arbor

Hi Bryan. Installing a window air conditioner unit is a relatively simple project for any homeowner. Deciding and agreeing on which room, of course, can be the biggest challenge.

handyman

First, be sure to measure the room or area you want to cool prior to purchasing the unit. The room’s square footage will help determine the size of the window air conditioner you need. This is measured in BTUs, (British Thermal Units per hour).

Purchasing the correct unit for your room is vital. If it’s too small, it will not cool the room, and if it is too large, you will waste energy. For example, according to Consumer Energy, to cool a 100-150 square foot room, (10x10 or 10x15 feet) you will need a 5,000 BTU air conditioner.

To ensure you get the proper size AC unit, click here: EnergyStar. Additionally, purchasing an EnergyStar unit will help save on energy costs. Also measure the width and height of the window opening to ensure you purchase a properly-sized unit.

As with any appliance installation, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions prior to putting it in place. Be sure the window has a dedicated ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) plug nearby. If there is not one, contact a licensed electrician to have one installed for you.

Remove the unit from the box and connect the top railing and the side filler panels. Some of the panels look like a vinyl accordion, and they are used to fill each side of the gap in the open window of the air conditioner.

Most newer models are installed by setting the unit in place and ensuring proper alignment and balance. This step is best completed with a second person. (If you have an older model, you may need to have an additional support to the back end on the exterior side of the unit prior to installation.) Then extend the filler panels and secure to the side of the window frame according to the manufacturer's instruction.

Also to help keep the critters out and keep the cool in, fill in any air gaps between the unit and window with foam or backer rod. A handyman tip:  If you have a large gap, especially at the top of the window, I like to use a ridged foam pipe wrap; it is sturdier and will last longer than most of the foam pieces that are included with the air conditioner.

I hope your wife and child will enjoy the cool and low-humidity summer!

Paul is a State of Michigan Licensed Builder. Paul serves as President and founding member of Nationally franchised HandyPro Handyman Service, servicing Washtenaw, Wayne and Oakland Counties. www.HandyPro.com . Listen to Paul every Saturday at 11 a.m. on “It’s Your Business, Make It Happen” WAAM Talk 1600AM. Email questions or comments to kpaul@handypro.com.