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When outside temperatures soar, oneway to keep coolis to install a window air conditioning unit.
Portable and ceiling fans help, but for truly cool comfort, an air conditioning unit is necessary.
Most window unit ACs can be installed in less than an hour.
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Before You Begin
Ensure the window opening is the right size for the AC unit.
Removestorm windowsand window screens.
The back of the AC unit must be free and clear, and it must exhaust to the exterior.
Nothing should be below the AC unit that might be damaged by water.
Safety Considerations
A groundedelectrical wall receptaclewithin reach of the power cord is required.
Many units cannot be used with anextension corddue to the high power draw.
Becausewindow AC unitsare not just heavy but unwieldy, work with a capable assistant.
Each of you should be able to lift at least 50 pounds.
Place the rail on top of the unit.
Align the holes in the rail with the matching holes in the AC unit.
Screw the rail to the AC unit using the provided machine screws.
Tip
Be careful not to roll out the rail backward.
The horizontal section of the rail should be pointed toward the exterior.
This is normal since AC units need to maintain a slight backward pitch for water to drain correctly.
Retract the Filler Panels
Push the filler panels toward the AC unit, as close as possible.
Ensure the AC unit is sloped backward about 3 or 4 degrees with a bubble level.
Secure the Filler Panels
Expand the filler panels as far as possible.
Attach the filler panels to the window sill using the provided metal frame locks and locking screws.
Before driving the screws, create 1/8-inch pilot holes to prevent the window sill from splitting.
The sash lock prevents the window from opening.
A combination of safeguards ensures that the AC unit will not fall out of the window.
Another safeguard: AC units usually have a metal brace on the back that attaches to the exterior wall.
If you have acasement window, you will need to purchase anAC specifically made for casementor slider windows.