Portable air conditioners are a great alternative to regular air conditioners because they are easy to install and can be moved from room to room. Portable air conditioners work by cooling hot room air with a cooling machine, then expelling the hot air out of the room through a hose. For this appliance to function properly, you must ensure that the hot air can be vented outside, for example through a window that faces directly outside the house. The following guide will teach you the correct way to install a portable air conditioner, as well as to remove the hot air generated through windows or other exhaust lines.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Installing Portable Air Conditioning Vents Through Windows
Step 1. Read the instructions for use that are included in the packaging of the purchase of the portable air conditioner carefully
Save the manual along with the warranty card for later use.
Step 2. Select the installation location of your portable air conditioner
- Place air conditioners near windows and power outlets.
- Make sure the air conditioner is not at risk of tripping over you and that airflow is not blocked by furniture, potted plants, etc.
Step 3. Determine if the window adapter kit is suitable for installing in your windows
Most portable air conditioners come with an adapter kit to dissipate hot air through the windows. However, if these tools are missing or don't fit the shape of your windows, improvise a little.
- In order to function properly, the space between the adapter kit and the window sill must be sealed tightly.
- Measure how far the window can be opened to ensure that the window adapter kit can be extended or shortened accordingly.
- If the window adapter kit that came in the sales box is missing or doesn't fit in your windows, measure the window openings carefully to find the right size, then purchase a piece of acrylic glass that fits that size at the nearest home supply store.
- You can also use a piece of plywood or cardboard to cover the gaping space. This option does make the adapter kit used less pleasing to the eye, but this method can make it work optimally.
Step 4. Connect the drain hose inside the purchase unit to the air conditioner
This hose is usually in the form of a single hose with an already installed connection. If not, you will have to manually connect the hose connectors and then attach them to the air conditioner. Follow the installation instructions on the packaging.
- Connect the connection bracket found on the window or adapter kit to the other side of the heat dissipation hole, if it is not already connected.
- Thread the drain hose into the window, then place the connection brackets or window adapter kit out of the open window.
Step 5. Secure the drain hose connection in place
Adjust the supplied window adapter kit or special panel so that all of the space between the connection brackets and the side of the window is covered.
- If you are using acrylic glass, simply slide the appliance onto the window sill next to (or above) the drain hose connection, then ground it in place until the window is closed.
- Close the window to clamp the drain hose connection and hold it in place.
- Sometimes, you may need to use tape to seal the space around the drain hose connection in the window and keep it from moving.
Step 6. Plug in your air conditioner
The tool is now ready to use!
Method 2 of 2: Installing Portable Air Conditioning Vents in a Windowless Room
Step 1. Install the portable air conditioner vent through the sliding glass door
The installation is similar to how to install ventilation through a window. However, you will need to purchase a piece of acrylic glass to seal the space between the heat dissipation hose and the top of the sliding door. It should be noted that this will make the door less comfortable to use.
Step 2. Install air conditioning vents through the ceiling
- In office areas where windows are inaccessible, air vents for portable air conditioners can be made through holes in the ceiling. Commercial ceiling ventilation kits can be purchased online or at your nearest home ventilation supply retailer.
- This procedure carries various risks and tends to be inefficient. So, make sure you have coordinated with the building management staff before installing it.
- You can also make portable air conditioning vents in the attic. However, to prevent property damage or cause certain areas of the house to become hot, it is best to consult a ventilation specialist before starting to do this.
Step 3. Install air conditioning vents through the walls of the house
If it's not possible to use windows for ventilation and you want to install semi-permanent ventilation, hire a licensed contractor to drill small holes in the walls and create a heat dissipation path for your portable air conditioner.
Step 4. Use the chimney as a ventilation line for the portable air conditioner
If you have a chimney in your home, you can use it as a heat dissipation vent for a portable air conditioner.
- Use the built-in window adapter kit or customized acrylic glazing to seal the space around the heat dissipation hoses and gaps in the fireplace.
- Make sure the chimney in your home is clean, free of soot, and open.
Tips
- The heat dissipation hose from the air conditioner will radiate heat in the room. Place the heat sink as close to the window as possible and do not extend the hoses.
- Use an air conditioning unit that fits the size of the room in your home.
