How to Install Your Air Conditioning Unit in 10 Easy Steps
Usually when you purchase an air conditioning unit for your home a trained technician will install it for you. Enquire if there is an extra charge, as often it will be included in the price.
If you would like to save yourself the fee you can install it yourself…
- 1. Measure the area you want to cool and calculate the size of the air conditioner you will need.
- 2. Determine where you want to install the air conditioner and measure the window opening. (The air conditioner you buy needs to fit into the opening and all air conditioners aren’t the same size.)
- 3. Install the mounting brackets that came with the air conditioner unit.
- 4. Slide the air conditioner into the window opening and attach it to the mounting brackets.
- 5. Lower the window down onto the top of the unit.
- 6. Pull out the extensions on each side of the air conditioner and attach them to the window frame.
- 7. Use a piece of foam to seal between the top of the air conditioner unit and the window.
- 8. Attach the drainage hose (if supplied) to the outside of the air conditioner.
- 9. Caulk around the outside of the unit to help keep the warm air outside.
- 10. Plug in your air conditioner and turn it on!
Maintaining Your Air Conditioner
This is something you can do yourself. Simply keeping the components clean will help prevent against the most common problems.
Cleaning the Filter
To clean the filter, remove it from the air handler or furnace. (This is usually located inside or very near the side of the air-inlet).
Replace the disposable filter or clean a reusable filter according to the directions from the manufacturer .
Clean Evaporator or Condenser Coils
To clean the evaporator (or condenser coils) remove the access panels and either brush or vacuum the coils. You can even use a garden sprayer filled with a mixture of water and detergent to spray from the inside out (be careful not to spray the electrical components).
Rinse with a hose - being very careful to avoid the electrical parts. Also be careful not to bend the fins or damage the coils. While cleaning the evaporator, check that the condenser drain is clean.
If you accidentally bend the fins, you can buy a comb specially made for straightening them.
Cleaning the Blower’s Fan Blades
To keep your air conditioner operating quietly, clean the blower’s fan blades. Tighten the mounting bolts and lubricate any oil cups according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Please call a technician if you have a defective condenser or any problems with the refrigeration system—because this is a closed system that you should not attempt to repair yourself!