How to Install a Window Air Conditioner in Vinyl Windows

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When it comes time to replace old single pane wooden windows, many people opt for double pane vinyl windows. They are cost effective and durable. Fortunately, most new window air conditioners fit into vinyl windows. Within a few minutes, you can have your air conditioner installed and you can be ready to cool down.

Step 1

Slide the adjustable window spacers onto each side of the air conditioner and secure the spacers to the air conditioner with the supplied screws and a screwdriver.

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Step 2

Secure the moisture barrier strip to the top and to the bottom of the air conditioner. The moisture strip has an adhesive backing on it. Pull the backing off the strip and stick the strip onto the air conditioner. Not all conditioners provide a strip for the bottom.

Step 3

Open the vinyl window as high as it will go and place the air conditioner into the window. Use the help of a second person if needed.

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Step 4

Position the air conditioner in the window opening so the spacers rest on the inside edge of the window frame and tilt the air conditioner backward slightly to force condensation outside.

Step 5

Slide the window down tight onto the air conditioner and spread the spacers out to close the gaps between the air conditioner and the window frame.

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Step 6

Secure a garden hose to the drain port located on the back of the air conditioner and route the hose away from the foundation of the home. You can forgo this step if you do not want to run a drain hose or if your air conditioner is not on the first floor of the home.

Step 7

Support the backside of the air conditioner with an air conditioner pedestal if the air conditioner is on the ground floor.

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