Category: Air Conditioning

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How Often Do You Clean the Filter On a Window AC? – FAQ

When the summer heat is pounding down and you need quick relief and don’t want to spend a mint to do so, window air conditioners are one of the best and easiest things that you can do to keep a room cool and comfortable.

But like anything, they do come with their share of questions but you can and can’t do as well as what you can expect and how to get the best out of them.

In this short article we prepared a small window air conditioner FAQ. Enjoy.

Q: How often should I change the filter in my window air conditioner?

The frequency with which you need to change the filter in your window air conditioner depends on two things.

1.How often do you use the window air conditioner.
2. The air quality of your home

As a general rule, you should clean your filter at least once a month.

But that’s just a general rule. If you use the AC all the time, but it’s a good idea to check the filter more often.

Vice versa, If you are not using machine that often, The filter will not be nearly as dirty.

Air quality also it’s a big factor on how often did clean or change your air filter on your window AC.

If you live in an area that’s especially Dusty or if you have pets in the house, you will want to clean the AC filter more often.

Should you run a window air conditioner at the same time that a evaporative cooler is running in a different part of the house?

No, a window AC uses a different type of technology to cool the air then an evaporative cooler.

And you will likely find that the two are working against each other instead of helping.

The reasoning behind this is that the window air conditioner is a refrigerated system that condenses the humidity out of the air as a function of cooling.

But the evaporative cooler ADDS humidity to the air.

Using one machine to reduce the humidity while simultaneously using another machine that increases humidity in theory cancels both out.

But in reality, The window AC would work much harder to dehumidify, which would not only reduce the ability of the unit to cool the air, it would also cause the AC to work extra hard, which could increase the energy bill.

Is it okay to supplement a central air conditioning system with a window air conditioner?

It is possible to supplement a central air conditioning system with a window air conditioner, but it is not always the most efficient or cost-effective option.

A central air conditioning system is designed to cool the entire house, while a window air conditioner is meant to cool a single room or area.

If you are having trouble cooling certain areas of your home with your central air conditioning system, it might make sense to use a window air conditioner in those specific rooms or areas as a supplement.

However, it’s important to consider the cost of running two systems at the same time and the potential for over-cooling certain areas of the house while leaving others too warm.

A better solution would be to address the issues with the central air conditioning system such as sealing the ducts, adding insulation, and making sure it is properly maintained.

Is it okay to run a window air conditioner while using central air conditioning

Window air conditioners and Central air conditioning use the same type of refrigerated air technology to cool the house.

So as far as the two running together, you wouldn’t have any issues.

But there are other things to think about like the cost of running an extra window air conditioner alongside the central air.

Both are energy hogs, annual likely see your electricity bill spike when doing so.

Also you will experience overcooling in some areas while leaving some areas too warm.

Do window AC units have water in them?

Yes and no.

Window air conditioners remove excess moisture from the air through dehumidification.

The water you see dripping from a window air conditioner is actually water that has been extracted from the moisture in the air.

Window air conditioners do not use water as a way of cooling off the air. Nor do you have to add water to them at any point.

The water you see coming from a window air conditioner is simply a byproduct of the dehumidifying process that window ACs used to cool the air.

Central air conditioning and portable air conditioners use the same type of technology as window air conditioners.

What type of air conditioner has water in it?

Air coolers, also known as evaporative coolers, do have water in them.

They work by pulling hot and dry air through a wet filter or pad, which cools and humidifies the air.

The water is stored in a reservoir and is pumped to the filter or pad to keep it wet.

The cooled and humidified air is then circulated through the room.

As the air passes through the wet filter or pad, some of the water evaporates, which cools the air.

Evaporative air conditioners works the best in dry climates.

Using an air cooler in a moist climate will have the opposite effect of making the room feel less comfortable.

Air coolers also require you to fill them with water manually or through a hose hookup.

Do window air conditioners reduce dust?

Yes window air conditioners do help reduce dust.

This is because all the Cool air that comes out of your window air conditioner started out as warm air inside of your room.

As a function of the window AC, The air is pulled through a filter and then passed over refrigerated coils and sent back into the area.

So you will have a certain amount of dust removal when you operate your window AC.

But you have to remember that a dirty filter is one of the main reasons that a window air conditioner can stop feeling as Cool from day to day.

A dirty filter will not only impact the cooling ability of the AC, it will also cause the machine to work extra hard too keep your room cool, which will result in higher energy use and a higher electricity bill.

What are the Downsides of a Window Air Conditioner?

It’s getting hot again. It was a crazy windy spring and now it seems like we just flipped right into a scorcher.

And when it gets hot, One of the first things people seek out is air conditioning.

And window air conditioners are one of the most popular choices cooling a room.

But there are a few things to think about before purchasing a window AC, some good, some not so much.

In this article we’ll start with the “not so good” of window air conditioners

What are the drawbacks of a window AC?

1. High energy consumption:

Window air conditioners use a significant amount of energy, which can lead to a higher monthly bill.

There is no getting around it. Air conditioning is easily one of the most expensive energy users in the house.

And when you have multiple window ACs in different rooms, you can expect a significant hike in the amount of energy you will be paying for.

2. Limited cooling

Window ACs typically have a limited cooling capacity and are not as useful for large rooms or open spaces.

They are much more of a air conditioning per room solution rather than trying to cool an entire house.

And the bigger the room, The bigger the window AC that you will need to purchase.

Pairing the right air conditioner with the specific square footage of your room is the way to get the best out of a window air conditioner.

So don’t skip this part.

3. Noise

Some window air conditioners can be quite loud, which can be disruptive.

The noise that a window AC makes, makes it hard to do certain things like recording audio or video in the same room.

You have probably come across a YouTube video where somebody was filming with a window air conditioner running in the background.

So the noise of a window AC should definitely be taken in consideration when you’re looking for a cool air solution.

4. Installation

Window air conditioners need to be installed in a window.

Not every room is suited for a window air conditioner and not every window can accommodate a window air conditioner.

These are definitely things to think about when you are looking to buy.

5. Limited mobility

Once your window air conditioner is installed, it can be quite difficult to move it.

Window air conditioners are not portable air conditioners. Even though they can be moved from window to window, The time and effort it takes to do so is something that you do not want to do very often.

So they are really only useful in the room they are installed in.

6. Limited aesthetic appeal

Window air conditioners can be unsightly and may not add to the neighborhood appeal.

That’s another way of saying they can look kind of ghetto.

And depending on the neighborhood may affect the property value of a home.

7. Potential security risks

Window air conditioners can be easy to remove. Which from a burglar’s point of view can make it a good point of entry If they are looking to break in.

It’s worthwhile to install bars or extra structure that makes getting a window AC out of a window much less appealing for this reason.

Window AC Advantages

It wouldn’t be fair to tell you all the negatives about window ACs without at least giving you some of the positives.

Window ACs are actually very useful. And there is a good reason why they fly off the shelves during the summer months.

1. Affordability:

Window ACs can be a much cheaper option than installing a mini split system or central air for sure.

2. Easy to install

Window air conditioners can be very easy to install when you have a good window to put them.

But remember, window air conditioners can be quite heavy and it’s probably not an installation you want to do by yourself.

3. Single room cooling:

Window air conditioners can be used to cool a single room or area, making them a good option for small homes or apartments.

And not every situation requires air conditioning to be running through the entire house.

A window air conditioner is an excellent way to cool off a specific area when it is being used without having to cool off multiple rooms at the same time.

4. Easy maintenance

Window air conditioners Do not require just a whole lot of maintenance.

Occasionally pulling out the filter and cleaning it or replacing it according to which brand you own.

And making sure there’s no debris building up on the outside of the air conditioner is pretty much the whole enchilada.

5. Variety of sizes

You can purchase window air conditioners that work well in a small bedroom or you can get them to work in rooms as big as 10,000 sq ft.

But remember, purchasing the right window AC for your amount of square feet is key to getting the best out of a window air conditioner.

6 Different features

Some window air conditioners come with features such as remote control, programmable thermostats, and energy-saving modes.

Other features like dehumidifier mode can give you the option of simply reducing the humidity and the air instead of bringing down the temperature.

A feature that can be very useful when it’s not the heat that’s bugging you as much as the high humidity.

Another feature that can be integrated into a window air conditioner is a heat pump.

Having a window air conditioner that can also provide heat in the winter can be a very convenient solution for a small room.

Though not exactly suggested as a replacement for other types of heating, it can still be a very good option to consider.

Conclusion. What are the downsides of a window air conditioner?

Window air conditioners can be expensive, as well as noisy and offer limited cooling compared to other types of air conditioning like central air.

But there are definitely advantages to using a window air conditioner that can make up for the downsides.

One they’re cheaper, they’re easy to install, and they can be adjusted per room so that you can specifically dial in the temperature to your own comfortability.

How Do You Measure a Room For a Window Air Conditioner?

Choosing the right window air conditioner for your space is the number one thing you can do to make sure that the air conditioner is going to work for your circumstances.

But how do you know which size air conditioner to buy?

There are a few key things to think about, square footage, ceiling height, location, and other factors like poor insulation, etc.

How do you measure a room for a window air conditioner?

1. Square Footage

The first thing to consider when measuring a room for a window air conditioner is the square footage.

W x L = Square Footage

The size of your room will determine the amount of cooling power that you need.

To calculate the square footage of your room, simply measure the length and width of the room and multiply the two numbers together.

For example, if your room is 10 feet wide and 15 feet long, the square footage of the room is 150 square feet.

If it is a simple situation, a normal room with normal ceiling heights, then square footage is really all you need.

You can simply look on the box for the amount of square footage you need and you’re ready to go.

2. Window Size

It’s really not worthwhile to do all the measuring of a room or calculating BTUs if the window air conditioner you have in mind does not fit inside of your window.

Simply measure the size of the window and compare it to the size of the window AC to make sure that you don’t overlook this small huge detail.

3. BTUs

Another metric you can use to measure for a window air conditioner is BTUs.

BTUs are a measure of the amount of heat that an air conditioner can remove from a room.

The higher the BTUs, the more cooling power the air conditioner has.

But to calculate BTUs you still need the square footage of a room.

So BTUs (British thermal units) are most useful when there is other extenuating circumstances involved. High ceilings, oddly shaped rooms, etc.

If you prefer to use BTUs as a metric for buying a window air conditioner, simply measure the width x length x height of the room and enter that information into a BTU calculator.

That will give you the amount of BTUs to look for on the packaging when buying a window air conditioner.

Should you purchase a window AC according to square footage or BTUs?

Either or. You can use square footage to purchase as a metric to purchase a window AC or you can use BTUs.

Or a little bit of both.

It is generally recommended to buy an air conditioner based on the square footage of the room you want to cool.

However there are different circumstances like ceiling height and how many people will be in the room at a time that will affect how large of a window AC you will want to purchase.

For these reasons, it’s always best to use square footage as a starting point when selecting a window air conditioner,

and then adjust the BTUs based on any additional factors that may impact the cooling capacity needed.

Other circumstances

Like we mentioned above, there are other factors that can affect the amount of BTUs you need for your room.

Tall ceilings

If your room has tall ceilings, you may need to increase the number of BTUs to compensate for the additional volume of air in the room.

For rooms with ceiling heights of 10 feet or higher, you should add an additional 1,000 BTUs for every 2 feet of additional height.

For example, if your room has a ceiling height of 12 feet, you would need to add an additional 1,000 BTUs to the recommended number for your square footage.

Hotter Rooms

If your room is located in a hotter part of your home, such as a kitchen or a room with a lot of windows that get direct sunlight, you may also need to increase the number of BTUs.

In general, it is recommended to add an additional 4,000 BTUs for rooms that get a lot of sun or are located in kitchens.

Location of the air conditioner

When installing your window air conditioner, it is also important to consider the location of the unit.

If your air conditioner will be sitting in direct sunlight, you may need to increase the number of BTUs to compensate for the additional heat gain.

Poor insulation

If your room has very poor insulation, you may need to add additional BTUs to compensate for the additional heat gain.

Proper installation

Always, it is important to ensure that the air conditioner is installed securely in the window to prevent air leaks and to maximize efficiency.

Body Heat

Body heat can be an issue if you’re planning on using a window AC where there is going to be multiple people a lot of the time.

If for instance you are going to use the AC for a conference room you would want to step up the size of the AC to compensate for the amount of body heat that having so many people in one place can generate.

Insulation

It’s not really useful to take all the steps to carefully measure a room and then leave gaps in the installation.

Its also important to note that these are general guidelines, and you may need to adjust the recommended BTUs based on your specific circumstances.

Conclusion. How do you measure for a window air conditioner?

The basic formula for measuring a room for a window air conditioner is to find out the square footage of the room.

W x H X L

The square footage of a room will give you the basic knowledge you need to purchase a window air conditioner.

Window size

The second thing you’ll need to know is the window size. Is a pretty important part of the equation. If your window is not big enough to hold the window air conditioner, you may have to go with a smaller air conditioner or even a different type of air conditioning.

Measuring a room for a window air conditioner requires consideration of the square footage, ceiling height, location, and other factors that can affect the amount of cooling power that you need.

By following these guidelines and taking into account your specific circumstances, you can choose the right air conditioner for your space and stay comfortable in even the hottest weather.

FAQ.

Let’s take a look at some examples of different sized rooms and the amount of BTUs each would need:

How many BTUs Do you need for a 10×10 room

A small bedroom with dimensions of 10 feet by 10 feet (100 square feet) would require an air conditioner with 5,000 BTUs.

How many BTUs do you need for a room that is 15×20 but has 9-ft ceilings?

A living room with dimensions of 15 feet by 20 feet (300 square feet) and a ceiling height of 9 feet would require an air conditioner with 8,000 BTUs.

How many BTUs does a kitchen that is 10×15 but is also sitting in direct sunlight need?

A kitchen with dimensions of 10 feet by 15 feet (150 square feet) and a lot of windows that get direct sunlight would require an air conditioner with 9,000 BTUs (5,000 BTUs for the square footage plus an additional 4,000 BTUs for the heat from the sun and kitchen).

How many BTUs does a 20×25 ft room with 10 ft ceilings and an open concept need?

An open concept space with dimensions of 20 feet by 25 feet (500 square feet) and a ceiling height of 10 feet would require an air conditioner with 14,000 BTUs (adding an additional 2,000 BTUs for the taller ceiling).

How many BTUs for a big bedroom that is 15×15 sq feet?

What about if it’s a second floor bedroom?

A master bedroom with dimensions of 15 feet by 15 feet (225 square feet) that is located on the top floor of a two-story house would require an air conditioner with 7,000 BTUs (adding an additional 1,000 BTUs for each additional story of the house).

Will Rain Damage a Window Air Conditioner?

When it comes to window ACs, One of the things that people often worry about is how they will withstand the weather, specifically rain.

With summer coming in fast, it’s the right time to ensure that your air conditioner is in good shape and can handle any weather that comes its way.

Will rain damage a window air conditioner?

No. Window air conditioners are designed to withstand and handle rainfall. But there is a difference between rainfall and severe weather. Severe weather with high winds can bring along with it falling debris that potentially can damage a window AC. But rain itself is not a problem.

Are Window Air Conditioners Waterproof?

Window air conditioners are not completely waterproof, but they are designed to be weather-resistant.

That means they can withstand the rain and still function properly.

That means that they are designed to handle rain,

While window air conditioners are designed to handle rain, they are not meant to be submerged in water.

Should You Cover Up Your Window Air Conditioner to Protect It from Rain?

Covering your window air conditioner may seem like a good idea to protect it from rain, but covering an window air conditioner can actually do more harm then good.

How’s that?

When do air conditioners need good air flow to be able to function properly. Covering the air conditioner can restrict the air flow which will make it work harder, get hotter, and use more energy.

And also make a big difference on how well the unit is cooling.

If the covering is too tight, it can restrict the air flow to the point of the AC overheating and shutting off.

Additionally, covering up a window AC can provide a great environment for mold to take root.

What If Rain Is Getting into Your House Through the Window Air Conditioner?

First of all if rain is getting into your house, you should address the problem as soon as possible.

1. The first step is to make sure that the air conditioner is installed properly.

Most window ACs require that you tilt the air conditioner slightly downward in the rear so that the condensate water that the air conditioner creates drains towards the drain hole.

And you definitely do not want the water to drain towards your house.

2. Damaged or missing seal

If there’s rain getting into your house through the window air conditioner, it may be coming in around the air conditioner because of a broken or missing seal.

If that’s the case, then weather stripping or other types of foam seal can be purchased and placed around the air conditioner to keep any moisture from coming in to your house because of a broken or missing seal.

3. Side panels broken

The plastic side panels that come with window air conditioners could be broken.

This can happen over time because they are exposed to the sun and weather 24/7. And plastic Will begin to break down eventually from direct sunlight.

If you inspect your side panels and find that there is a crack or hole, then you can purchase new ones at a local Home improvement store.

Alternatively, you can DIY some side panels fairly easy out of some wood, or other water resistant material you have around.

4. Regular maintenance

it’s also important to regularly clean and maintain your air conditioner.

This includes removing any debris that may accumulate around the unit and cleaning the filters regularly.

By taking these simple steps, you can ensure that your window air conditioner is in top shape and can withstand any weather that comes its way.

Conclusion. Will rain damage a window air conditioner?

Generally, rain won’t harm a window air conditioner that is designed to be weather-resistant, but if the unit is not installed properly or the seal is damaged, water could potentially cause damage to the unit.

It’s important to ensure the air conditioner is properly installed, and the seal is in good condition to prevent water from getting into the house.

Window air conditioners are designed to withstand and handle rainfall. Severe weather on the other hand does not fall under the category of good old rainfall.

The question that usually comes up when people are worried about it raining on their window AC is whether or not they should cover it up.

Even though that sounds like a great ideal, it’s actually a bad idea.

Covering up the rear of a window AC can restrict the air flow and cause your AC not to work properly.

It will even cause it to overheat and turn off if it is too tightly covered.

Which all results in a higher energy bill.

And remember that even though they are designed to withstand the weather, specifically rain, that does not mean they are waterproof.

Completely submerging a window AC in water will potentially ruin the AC, and create a shocking hazard.

Will a Window Air Conditioner Work When it’s Raining?

Window air conditioners are an excellent way of cooling off a room.

But they also present a few challenges and concerns that a lot of people don’t think of.

One of the things that brings up a lot of concern is the fact that half of the machine is sitting outside.

Wouldn’t the weather have a big impact on how the air conditioner works?

For instance

Will a window air conditioner work when it’s raining?

Yes, a window air conditioner can work when it’s raining, but it may be less effective than when it is not raining.

The air conditioner’s performance may be affected by the humidity in the air, and if it is raining heavily, the humidity level may increase significantly.

The air conditioner’s ability to cool the room is based on its ability to remove moisture from the air.

When it is raining, the air already contains a lot of moisture, so the air conditioner has to work harder to remove that moisture, which can affect its cooling capacity.

Also, if rain is entering the room through the window where the air conditioner is installed, it could damage the unit or create a safety hazard.

For this reason, it is essential to make sure the window and the area around the air conditioner are properly sealed to prevent any water from entering the room.

It’s worth noting that rain generally brings down the outdoor temperature which means it’s not as useful to be running a window air conditioner while it’s raining.

So even though yes it is technically possible to run a window air conditioner in the rain, it is probably not needed as much and not worth the possibility of rain blowing inside the unit while it’s connected to the power.

Heavy rains and wind.

Heavy rains especially with wind pose a different level of danger when it comes to running a window air conditioner when it’s raining.

If rain gets into the unit while it is running it can cause damage to the unit or a safety hazard.

It is also very imperative that the air conditioner is sealed correctly so that rain does not blow into your house through the opening of the window air conditioner is sitting in.

Also remember that high winds can cause objects to shift and falling debris.

Conclusion

Will a window AC work when it’s raining?

A window air conditioner will work when it’s raining but The added humidity that comes along with rain well likely diminish the capacity of the AC to do its job well.

That’s because window ACs reduce the humidity as they cool as a primary function of creating a comfortable temperature.

And because rain usually brings the outdoor temperature down anyway, there is really no specific need to run a window air conditioner at the same time.

Also if the rain is particularly heavy and blowing, there is the possibility of rain getting inside of the air conditioner while it is plugged in which could cause damage to the air conditioner and create a safety hazard as well.

The best policy is to stay safe. Since the air conditioner will not be able to work efficiently and there is some risk to doing so, it’s best to turn the air conditioner off while it’s raining.

Will a Window AC Work in a Garage?

The garage is one of the areas of the house they can be one of the most useful and at the same time be the hardest to keep at a temperature that makes you want to use it for anything other than parking your vehicle.

Finding an effective way to air condition a garage can be challenging. The question often asked is “will a window air conditioner work in a garage?”

Will a window AC work in your garage?

Yes, a window AC unit can work in a garage.

However, there are a few things to consider before you make the leap to purchase one.

1. Do you have a window in the garage?

It may sound like a silly question but there is a lot of inquiries on the internet about whether you can use a window air conditioner without a window.

And while technically there are many people that have come up with some clever ideals to use a window air conditioner without a window,

A window AC unit will work much more efficiently when it’s used properly. Not to mention there are other options available rather than modifying a window AC or the space that it’s in.

Window air conditioners are meant to be installed in a window.

The primary reason that window air conditioners need a window is that they exhaust heat from the rear.

If they are not sitting in a window with the rear of the air conditioner outside of the room, then the heat that the unit expels we’ll basically mix with the cool air that it creates and cancel it out.

So number one, a window air conditioner can work in the garage if your garage has a window to put it in.

2. Insulation

Garages are typically not insulated.

Window ACs work well when they are sized appropriately for a room that is insulated.

If your garage is not insulated, then you are not going to have the success you want out of any type of air conditioning in the garage.

Unfortunately, insulating the garage is the first step to being able to cool it or heat it.

3. Properly sized unit

As mentioned before, window ACs can work very well when they are sized correctly for the area that they are cooling.

But there are several examples of where you may need a larger window AC than simply calculating the square footage and comparing it to the AC packaging.

A hot kitchen or room with high ceilings to name a couple.

Garages fall into that category.

Not only are they not usually insulated or very well insulated,

Garages are typically used for parking your car. Which means that they have a huge door that gets opened and closed.

So you may need to factor in the fact that every time the door is opened and closed, you are either letting a huge amount of cool air out in the summer, or heat in the winter.

But remember also that it is possible to get a unit that is too big depending on your space.

And a window air conditioner that is too big will short cycle and not effectively reduce the humidity enough to cool efficiently.

4. Properly maintained

Garages are not the cleanest area on the property.

They are much more dusty and dirty than the rest of the house.

That means that the window AC will be that much more dusty and dirty as well.

So keeping a window AC in the garage clean has a higher priority on it than a unit that is sitting in a bedroom window for instance.

The filter in a window air conditioner that is sitting in a garage window will collect us much faster.

5. Power

Window air conditioners use a lot of energy. Space heaters also use a lot of energy.

Couple that with the fact that many garages do not have more than one circuit that is powering multiple outlets,

You could easily find yourself in a situation where you are blowing breakers.

In some circumstances it may be a requirement for you to have an electrician come in and run another electrical circuit to your garage to keep up with the extra load.

But overall, a window AC unit can work in a garage, as long as you consider these facts first.

Air Conditioning Options for the Garage.

Fortunately window air conditioners are not the only types of air conditioning that can work in the garage.

There are a few other types that you can install that may be a better option for you.

Portable air conditioners

Portable air conditioners can be a decent option for the garage because they can be moved around.

They still require a window or attic entry, etc to exhaust the heat.

But if you were not trying to cool off the entire garage, and maybe you just need air conditioning in your specific corner of the garage, a portable air conditioner is a good option.

Mini-split systems

Mini-split air conditioners consist of an indoor unit mounted on the wall and a outdoor unit which is comprised of the compressor.

They are not as easy to install and they usually take a dedicated circuit to power them.

But they do a very good job of cooling and do it very quietly since the compressor is separated outside.

The expense of purchasing and installing a mini split air conditioner system in your garage is not worth it if your garage is not insulated.

Evaporative coolers

Also known as swamp coolers, evaporative air coolers are a good choice for dry climates.

They work by circulating air over a wet pad, which cools the air as it evaporates.

Kind of a breeze blowing over a pool or river kind of feeling.

Very easy to install but they require continual maintenance in the form of filling them with water.

One particular downside of evaporative coolers is that they do not do well in humid climates.

Shop fans.

Though a fan does not have the same cooling as air conditioning, creating airflow with a big shop fan can’t make a significant difference in the way your garage feels.

Conclusion

Using a window air conditioner in the garage is a good idea when you have a garage that has a window and is insulated.

But remember that garages may fall under the category of needing to oversize your AC to keep up with the amount of cold air that exits when you open the garage door.

Having a power source that can keep up with the extra energy is also a key aspect.

If your garage does not have more than one electrical circuit, then you may have to have a electrician install one to be able to run the AC without it blowing breakers

Do Window Air Conditioners Overheat?

A Window AC unit can overheat for a variety of different reasons. A a dirty air filter, condenser coils that are clogged or covered , and a malfunctioning thermostat are the most common.

There is a segment of working-class people who work in shops that have less than desirable air conditioning. I know, because I was one of them for a very long time.

The shop I worked in had a entire wall made of glass doors which magnified the Sun shining on the building and making it nearly unbearable.

And on top of that none of the walls were insulated.

So a solution to get some air conditioning ( admittedly not a very good one) was to take a window air conditioner and install it with the heat blowing inside of the wall. When I say inside of the wall, I mean the air would exhaust into the space between the inside wall and outside wall.

The idea was that the heat could exhaust into the wall because there was no insulation.

And if you got it right, it worked well enough to get some cool air into your little area of the shop.

But on the other hand if you press the air conditioner too far into the wall, it would not cool and the air conditioner would overheat fairly quickly.

Why was that? After some experimentation I realized that the unit simply did not have enough area to exhaust the heat from the rear. So the heat that the window AC was making naturally was causing the unit to overheat. Since the heat had nowhere to go.

Can window air conditioners overheat?

AC units, including window units, can overheat if they are not maintained regularly, or if there is an issue with the unit itself.

What happens when a window air conditioner overheats?

When a window air conditioner overheats it will usually run for a little bit but won’t get cold. Then it will shut off. Or it will blow the breaker.

To turn it back on you will either have to push the reset button which is normally located on the plug of the window air conditioner, or locate the breaker and flip back on.

But if you haven’t figured out while the AC is overheating and fixed it, it will overheat and turn off again.

And will potentially damage the unit.

How do you prevent a window AC from overheating?

The usual culprits when a window AC is overheating are:

1. A dirty air filter

2. Clogged condenser coils

3. Malfunctioning thermostat

4. Wrongly Sized

1. Air Filter

The air filter is the first thing to check on a window AC or any other type of air conditioner when you are having a issue with it cooling properly.

It’s not uncommon for someone to call a air conditioning technician to come to their home or office to fix a air conditioner that is not cooling. Only to have the repairman change the filter for you, and charge you the $80 an hour fee plus the price of the filter that has been marked up with profit.

If that is happened to you, you were not alone.

But it is a valuable lesson.

If your air conditioner is not cooling or overheating, check the filter and make sure it’s clean first.

It’s also not uncommon that a person that has no experience with air conditioners, and does not know to keep the air filter clean,

let the air filter get so dirty that the machine cannot get any air flow and will simply overheat and shut off.

2. Clogged Condenser Coils

The condenser coils located in the rear of the window air conditioner can gather debris over time and get to the point that they are so clogged that the air conditioner will not cool and eventually overheat.

I have seen a window air conditioner that was so covered in debris that birds had built a nest on it.

Cleaning the debris off of and out of the rear of a window air conditioner can be as simple as taking the garden hose and spraying it out.

It’s rare that it can get so dirty that you have to take the air conditioner apart, but in extreme cases, it may have to be taken out of the window and disassembled to clean it properly.

Before going down that road, hosing it down or taking an air compressor to blow the debris out is a much simpler route.

And remember that window air conditioners were made to have air flow in the rear where they sit outside. So don’t put them in a place where they can’t exhaust the heat, or cover the rear up with blankets or something that does not allow the heat to dispel like it should.

3. Malfunctioning thermostat

In rare cases, The thermostat itself can malfunction and simply not allow the air conditioner to cycle on and off, which will cause the window AC to keep running till it overheats.

Or cause the thermostat to turn on and off to frequently, which is referred to as short cycling.

If you have properly sized your air conditioner and it’s still running continually, the thermostat may be the problem and the reason the AC is overheating.

And on the flip side, If the air conditioner is properly sized but is turning on and off frequently, it can also indicate a problem with the thermostat.

4. Wrongly sized window AC

If you are using a window AC that is too small for the room that you are trying to cool, it will not only have a much harder time cooling the area, it will run much harder and longer to attempt to do so.

Which can result in a overworked window air conditioner that overheats and shuts off.

It’s important to properly size a window AC to the amount of square footage that you were trying to cool.

A window AC that is too small can overwork till it overheats.

A window AC that is too big will short cycle, which means it will turn on and off too frequently.

And reduce the air conditioner’s ability to dehumidify which is a major component of how a window air conditioner is able to cool an area.

Overview

Do window air conditioners overheat? A Window AC unit can overheat for a few different reasons.

Some of the most common causes of overheating include dirty air filters, clogged condenser coils, and a bad thermostat.

A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing the AC to work harder and overheat.

Clogged condenser coils can prevent the AC from being able to exhaust the heat from the rear which will cause the heat to build up inside of the AC.

A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the AC to turn on and off too frequently, leading to overheating. A bad thermostat can also cause the compressor or not cycle on and off as much as it should.

It’s important to keep in mind that window ACs are designed to cool a specific square footage.

A window AC that is too small for The area that it is trying to cool can overheat by simply overworking.

A window air conditioner that is too big can overheat by short cycling, which is a term that means “turning on and off”, which can also lead to getting diminished results from an air conditioner and eventually overheating.

To prevent overheating,

It’s important to keep the AC unit clean and free of debris. Which includes pulling the filter out and washing it regularly.

That also means keeping the area around the unit clear of debris and dust, after all, a filter will Get less dirty when it has less to filter.

It’s also very important to keep the portion of the air conditioner that sits outside clean and free of debris as well as making sure that it is not covered to the point where the compressor cannot exhaust the heat efficiently.

Finally keep in mind that, that window AC’s are designed for a specific room size and if you use it in a larger room it will have to work harder to cool the room.

An AC unit can overheat for a variety of reasons such as a dirty air filter, clogged condenser coils, or a malfunctioning thermostat. To prevent overheating, it is important to properly maintain your AC unit and have it inspected by a professional if you suspect an issue.

Can You Install a Window Air Conditioner On Its Side?

Have you ever had a window air conditioner that was just too big for the window that you wanted to install it into if it were sitting horizontally.

But you realize that if you were to turn it on its side you can make it work.

But even though it seems like the perfect solution, there are a few reasons that make the solution not quite as genius as it seems.

Can you install a window air conditioner on its side?

Unfortunately No. The main problem with installing a window air conditioner on its side is the the compressor. The compressor is the main mechanical part that makes the air conditioner work. And It is meant to sit in a specific upright position.

Window air conditioners are designed to be installed in a specific orientation, typically with the front of the unit facing outward and the back facing inward.

Turning it on its side can cause the lubricating oil in the compressor to flow into the refrigerant lines,

which can cause damage to the compressor. And in turn, cause the window AC do not cool efficiently.

And even though there are window air conditioners that have compressors that can sit in any position,

If you were going to buy a new window air conditioner, there are different styles of window ACs that are meant to sit in their windows.

Another thing, is that window air conditioners create condensation which is made to drain out of a specific hole.

Turning the air conditioner on its side could potentially make the drainage system less effective, which also may result in water leaks and additional damage to the AC unit.

Is there any time you can use a window air conditioner on its side?

Some window air conditioners have compressors that are designed to be able to sit sideways.

If you were in the market for a window air conditioner, seeking out this type of air conditioner may be a good ideal.

But remember that there are different types of window air conditioners that are made for different types of windows,

And a vertically sliding window type of window AC would probably be a better solution if you have yet to decide which type of window air conditioner you want.

In some cases, manufacturers may provide instructions for installing a window air conditioner on its side,

But it’s important to remember that this is not just an alternative to sitting it horizontally.

The air conditioner must be specifically designed to be able to sit it on its side.

So unless you have a specific type of window air conditioner with specific instructions on how to install it on its side,

The best money is not to do it. Because you will eventually be throwing away the money that you put into the window AC in the first place.

Conclusion

Can you install a window AC on its side?

Even though it would be a very convenient solution in many situations to be able to install a window AC on its side,

It is not recommended to do so.

The reason is, the compressor of a window air conditioner is meant to sit in a specific orientation. And the compressor is the main component of the AC.

If it is not sitting right, there is a chance that lubricating oil can get into the refrigerant lines.

That would diminish the ability of the window AC to cool and potentially damage the air conditioner.

Window air conditioners are designed to drain condensation specific way also.

Installing one on its side can potentially cause water leaks and other types of damage.

But if you were in the market for a window AC, there are a few that do allow sideways installation.

It may be worthwhile to consider purchasing this type If you foresee any kind of situation in your future where you may need it.

But if you are purchasing a new window AC for a narrow window, window air conditioners come in different styles for all types of windows.

The best money is to buy the right type of window AC for the type of window you have and not try to get away with installing it on its side.

Can You Use a Window Air Conditioner Without a Window?

Can you use a window air conditioner inside a room?

Yes, you can use a window air conditioner without a window inside a room. Though there is not any type of professional conversion kit you buy, there are some very good DIY methods.

Rather just purchase a portable AC that you do not have to modify? Check out the Black & Decker 12000 BTU portable AC with you dehumidifier and fan Here.

A lot of people say that window air conditioners can not be used other than through a window.

But that’s not my experience.

I have seen them modified to work in shops, garages and basements.

The thing is you’ve got to know a little about how a window AC works before you can make it work without a window.

But it is actually not as difficult as you may think.

The main things you need to know are how to vent it and how to capture the condensate.

The first thing you need to know is that heat is generated and expels out of the entire back of the unit when it is running.

That means you are not going to be able to bring the unit in and put it on the table, then turn it on and have it cool off the room. I wish it were that easy.

The heat it creates will overtake the cool air coming out and you’ll end up with a hotter room everywhere except right in front of the air conditioner.

“You’re going to have to fashion a way to capture the heat coming out of the rear and vent it somewhere. Preferably outside or into the attic. A closet would even do if there isn’t any thing in it that the heat would effect.”

Sometimes using a window air conditioner without a window may be as easy as cutting a hole in the wall and setting up the window AC the same way you would if it were in a window.

That is probably a good option if you’re committed to keeping it there.

But if you want to preserve your walls, there are other ways.

How to Vent a Window Air Conditioner Without a Window

In the example here, a storage bin is modified to fit around the rear of the AC and flexible duct is used to vent the heat into the attic.

The lid is cut and duct taped around the opening to create an air tight seal.

The reason a storage bin works is that it gives plenty of room for heat the to go.

That’s important because if the heat gets trapped, the AC will overheat and will not cool down.

Another important thing to remember is to leave the side grills open.

The grills and the sides are basically there to allow fresh air in to help cool off the AC. So make sure that they are not drawing air from the vented heat.

Does a Window Unit Have to be in a Window?

On the bucket part of the storage bin, there is a vent box cut into and duct taped to the plastic.

That makes it easy to connect the flexible duct, but it’s completely optional. You can get away with taping the duct straight to the plastic.

The duct is fished into the ceiling. Which is fine because it is a garage.

If you having to vent off into a closet or another room, you can use cardboard to fill the space around the flex duct.

Flexible duct fished out the door or closet. (Alternate method)

As for the condensation,

Since the air conditioner is sitting on a wooden frame to elevate it to the level of the lid on the storage bin.

This leaves plenty of room to put something underneath the air conditioner to capture the condensation runoff.

It is also possible to rig up some sort of hose for the condensation run off to drip into.

Something you might see on evaporative cooler.

Convert Window AC to Portable

Basically the whole thing is a DIY conversion of a window air conditioner into a portable air conditioner.

Portable air conditioners run exactly like window air conditioners except for they already have the flexible duct connected and come with ready-made kits to vent them out windows and doors.

They also have a bucket to capture the condensation.

But most of the supplies you need to do your own DIY indoor window air conditioner are usually around the house or don’t cost too much

And if you’re on a budget a low in window air conditioner even with the DIY supplies to convert it is cheaper than the low in portable air conditioner.

You can find them in garage sales and tucked away in storage sheds quite often too.

Plus it’s pretty fun when you get it done and it works good.

Good luck.

Not for you?

Fashioning a way to use a window air conditioner without a window can be a lot of work.

And if you don’t have a window AC sitting around somewhere that needs to be used, it’s work that you may not want to do anyway.

Portable air conditioners already have everything you need built into the unit and apart from finding a place to vent it to, are ready to go.

Another option is ventless portable ACs.
This type of air conditioner does not require any type of vent to exhale the heat, but it does require adding water regularly.

Here are a few choices we recommend if you decide to purchase a portable AC rather than go through the trouble of converting a window AC to use inside a room or house.

MIDEA 3 in 1

This is a small portable air conditioner that combines a air conditioner, dehumidifier, and a fan. Also features a remote control and window conversion kit.
The unit also has a Eco sleep mode that automatically adjust the temperature while you sleep. Check out the MIDEA 3 in 1 Portable AC Here

DeLonghi 3 in 1

This portable AC unit includes a air quality sensor that they call “Eco Real Feel”. The sensor monitors and controls the functions of the AC including cooling and dehumidification to provide the ultimate comfort. Eco Real Feel can save you as much as 30% in energy consumption.
Click here for More Info on the DeLonghi 700 Sq Ft portable AC

ComfyHome 2 in 1 Evaporative Air Cooler and Fan

Evaporative cooler for a small to medium sized room.
Unique design without the standard air conditioning blades in the front. This Ventless portable AC comes with the remote and a timer that can be set up to 8 hours. ComfyHome Air Cooler – Click Here

Evaporative coolers function by blowing air over water which makes it work like a humidifier in the process.

This AC comes with ice packs to put in the water so that the air being blown it’s not just blowing over water, but ice cold water.

What Can Happen if a Window AC is Too Big For Your Room?

If you’re in the market for a window air conditioner, making sure that you purchased the right size for your room it’s probably the most important information that you can have.

Sizing the air conditioner to your specific square footage will make all the difference.

But what happens when you have an old window AC in the shed that you’re wanting to pull out and use?

Is there any consequence to having the wrong size window AC?

The results of using a window AC that is not correctly sized for your room may actually have more impact than you would have thought.

What can happen if your window AC is too big for your room?

If your window AC unit is too big for the room it’s intended to cool, it can cause multiple negative consequences. Inefficient cooling, short cycling, higher energy bills, and increased wear and tear on the unit. It simply will not work at top performance and will cost much more up front and on your bill.

Here’s a little better breakdown:

1.Inefficient cooling:

An oversized AC unit will cool the room quickly, but it won’t remove enough moisture from the air.

This can leave the room feeling damp and clammy. And since humidity is usually one of the primary reasons the air is hot in the first place,

Using a window air conditioner that is too big can actually end up defeating the purpose.

2. Short cycling:

Short cycling is when a window air conditioning unit turns on and off frequently rather than running continuously.

This can cause you a few problems:

a. Inadequate cooling:

When the air conditioner short cycles, it doesn’t run long enough to properly cool the room.

b. Increases energy bill

Short cycling causes the unit to turn on and off more frequently,

Which means more power is being used, and more power results in a higher electricity bill.

c. Shortened lifespan

When the AC short cycles, it is frequently turning on and off.

Which can shorten the lifespan of the air conditioner simply by causing it to run much harder than it is intended to in the right space.

d. Dehumidifier doesn’t work well

Short cycling also means that the unit doesn’t have enough time to remove moisture from the air.

Window air conditioners reduce humidity as they cool the room.

That is one of the primary ways that a Window AC works.

Which will result in the room feeling humid.

What happens if you use a window air conditioners that is too small for your room?

As you may have guessed, having a window air conditioner that is too small for your room is not good either.

In fact you will end up having some of the same consequences using a window AC that is too small as you would when you have one that is too big.

1. Not enough cooling power

A window air conditioner that is too small for a room simply will not have enough power to cool off the room and keep it at a comfortable temperature.

2. Overworking

And though it doesn’t cause short cycling as in the case of an air conditioner that is too big,

When an air conditioner is too small it will continuously run to try to keep up. Which will eventually shorten the lifespan of the air conditioner.

3. Higher energy bill

An undersized AC will consume much more energy because it will work so much harder to try to keep the room cool.

Conclusion

What can happen if a window AC is too big or too small for your room?

You may think that a window AC that is too big would actually cool off a room faster and work better.

Unfortunately it doesn’t work that way.

A window air conditioner that is too big will short cycle. Meaning it will turn the compressor on and off much more frequently.

The result will be that it will not dehumidify like it should and decrease its cooling capacity.

Not only will it not cool like it’s supposed to it will end up jacking up your energy bill because of the amount of power that it uses to turn on and off.

A window AC that is too small will simply not be able to cool the room because it doesn’t have the power.

And it will also raise your energy bill because it will continuously run trying to keep up with a demand of cooling off your room.

The best money is on sizing the room specifically for your square footage.