You recently moved into a new place, but it seems that it doesn't have an opening for your window AC. Now you're wondering if it's possible to install a window air conditioner inside a room. We searched for the solution to this concern, and here’s what we found.
You can use a window AC unit inside a room. However, you need to apply some modifications to ensure the appliance works properly and won’t become a health hazard.
Make sure that you also have the clearance to go through with this project to avoid expensive fines. Continue reading as we talk about the steps to install a window air conditioner inside a room. We’ll also tackle a way to convert a window cooling unit to a portable AC. Without further ado, let's get into it!
Can A Window AC Unit Be Used Inside?
It’s possible to install a window AC in the house, although the task requires some modifications. Also, there will be some limitations considering the window air conditioner may have difficulty pulling and converting hot air from the outside.
Take note that it can be counterintuitive to put a window AC in a room without applying some modifications. The reason is that the appliance can make the space hotter than usual instead of bringing cold air.
Watch the video below to see how a window AC installation inside a room will typically look:
How Do You Rig A Window Air Conditioner Without A Window?
Installing a window air conditioner in a room without a window means you'll have to create a duct and tube system for the appliance. This framework allows the cooling unit to pull hot air from the outside so the appliance can convert it into cold air.
But before you continue with this project, ensure that you have the necessary clearances. If you’re the property owner, you may proceed with this operation without consulting anyone. On the other hand, consult your landlord if you’re currently living in a rented space.
Also, avoid placing the air conditioner near objects that aren’t resistant to heat. Remember that hot air blows away from the AC. Items that are susceptible to high temperatures close to this appliance may become damaged or catch fire.
Once you complete the necessary preparations, follow this guide to install a window AC unit inside a room:
What You’ll Need
- Power drill
- Leg caps
- Tinfoil
- Pan
- Portable exhaust tube
- Duct tape
Step-By-Step Guide
- Place the air conditioner on a preferred surface and drill a pilot hole on the unit's outer shell. Make sure the hole’s location isn’t near the appliance’s wires or other internal components.
- Attach the leg caps at the bottom of the air conditioner. Take note that shorter leg caps should go at the rear side with the taller ones at the front. These placements should make the AC unit tilt slightly to allow proper drainage for the excess condensation.
- Make a drain path using the tin foil, and attach it near the drain hole. The drain path's exit should allow the moisture to land in a pan or container.
- Attach the portable exhaust tube at the back of the air conditioner. If the tube is smaller than the dimensions of the AC unit, you may need to cover the gaps with duct tape.
- Connect the other end of the tube to a nearby exhaust fan. If your room doesn’t have an exhaust fan, you might need to install one for this DIY installation to work properly.
- Connect the air conditioner to a nearby power outlet and turn on the unit to check if it works as intended.
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Keep in mind that this setup won’t typically look aesthetically pleasing. But it can still work if you assemble the parts properly.
You can also watch the video below to gain additional insight into this installation process:
Also, it’s important to use an appropriately sized air conditioner to cool a room efficiently and without the risk of skyrocketing your monthly electricity bill. Read this post to learn more: 8,000 BTU Air Conditioner – What Room Size?
How To Convert A Window AC To A Portable Unit
You can fashion a window AC into a portable cooling unit with the help of some relatively common items.
Take note that the typical price of a portable air conditioner ranges from $250 to $500. So, this project can be a good choice for individuals that are following fairly strict budgets while bringing extra cooling to their spaces.
It’s also important to note that the following guide will be ideal for rooms with access to windows or exhaust fans. Think about creating and/or installing these fixtures before continuing this project to use the converted window air conditioner to its fullest possible advantage.
What You’ll Need
- Table
- Pan
- Screwdriver
- Screws
- Tinfoil
- Utility knife
- Duct tape
- Rollerblade wheels
- Rubber leg caps
- Power drill
- Tie-down straps
- Plastic container
- Portable exhaust tube
- Window air conditioner
Step-By-Step Guide
- Drill holes at the bottom of each of the table's legs for the rollerblade wheels.
- Attach the roller blade wheels to the table’s legs. Then, use the screwdriver to secure them with the help of the screws.
- Place the window air conditioner on top of the table.
- Put at least two short rubber leg caps on the appliance's rear side while the tall ones go at the front.
- Create a drain path with the tin foil while ensuring that the water exits to a nearby pan.
- Place the exhaust pipe at the side of the large plastic container, and draw its circumference with a pen, pencil, or marker.
- Cut the drawn area with the utility knife.
- Insert one end of the exhaust pipe into the hole you made in the plastic container. Then, connect the other end to the nearby window or exhaust fan.
- Secure the exhaust pipe ends with duct tape.
- Secure the window air conditioner to the table with the tie-down straps.
- Plug the appliance in and check if it works properly.
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Take note that you need to remove the exhaust pipe from the window or exhaust fan if you want to transfer this DIY portable air conditioner setup. Also, the new location of the AC unit should have a proper exhaust opening. Otherwise, you may need to create one for the appliance to work efficiently.
Take a look at the video below to see what the results of this DIY project should roughly look like:
Some DIY enthusiasts may run into some problems like leakage after converting their window air conditioner to a portable cooling unit. If so, read this post on the possible causes of that issue: Why Is My Window Air Conditioner Leaking Water?
Which Window AC Is Best For Home?
It’s worth mentioning that not every window air conditioner provides the most benefits for every household. Still, some models can work better in certain spaces than others. Some of these window AC units that can function ideally if installed in particular areas are:
1. Midea Smart U-Shaped Window Air Conditioner
One of the highlights of this particular window AC unit is its smart controls. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant through voice commands. This model’s dedicated app is also compatible with the Android and iOS mobile operating systems.
Aside from its smart features, this window air conditioner can help users save up to 35% on their energy costs. It has an ENERGY STAR certification to help prove its energy efficiency.
Check out this product on Amazon.
2. Frigidaire 10,000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner
This model is another energy-efficient window air conditioner with an energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 12. Keep in mind that a high-efficiency window AC generally has an EER of 10, allowing this particular model to offer better energy savings than many of its competitors.
Smart features are also available in this unit. For instance, it can detect if a registered user is in the immediate vicinity to adjust the temperature according to preferences.
Check out this product on Amazon.
Final Words
It’s possible to install a window air conditioner inside a room regardless of the existence of a window. Keep in mind that some modifications are necessary to do so. Also, a proper exhaust terminal, such as an exhaust fan, should be nearby to prevent the AC from becoming a health hazard.