Instructions on How to Install a Window Air Conditioner in a Manufactured Home
There are several different types of air conditioners that you might consider for your manufactured or mobile home. This article, however, focuses on the one type you can install yourself: the window air conditioner. With the right tools (and a friend’s steady hand), you can have a cooler home.
Things You Will Need
- Measuring tape
- Window air conditioner
- Mounting brackets
- Level
- Screwdriver
- Sheet metal screws or wood screws
- Power drill (for stone or brick sills)
- Foam weather stripping
- Angle brackets
- Plywood
- Saw
- Clear silicone caulking
- Caulking gun
- Paint
Double-Hung Installation
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Select the window the air conditioner will be installed in. Window needs to be close to an electrical outlet and near the center of the room. Northern or southern exposures are best. Make sure the sill is strong enough to support an air conditioner.
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Measure the window.
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Measure the room. Use this measurement to select an air conditioner with the appropriate power level.
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Install the mounting brackets using the screwdriver. The brackets should come with your air conditioner; if not, you will need to purchase some. Use sheet metal screws for a metal sill, or wood screws for those made out of wood or vinyl. Holes will need to be drilled in a stone or brick sill.
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Make sure the brackets are level. Do not just eyeball it, utilize your level for accuracy.
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Open the window and position the air conditioner in it. Then slide the window down.
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Pull out the accordion panels.
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Fill the gap in the window with foam insulation. This should come with your air conditioner; if not, you’ll need to purchase some. This will help keep hot air from entering the room.
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Screw angle brackets into the window. Your air conditioner should come with angle brackets; if not, you will need to purchase some. This will keep the unit from pushing the window open.
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Attach the drain hose (if there is one) to the outside of the air conditioning unit.
Casement (Crank) Window Installation
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Remove the window, using a screwdriver to take out the hardware.
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Install the mounting brackets.
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Place the air conditioner.
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Measure the opening above the air conditioner.
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Cut plywood to fit. Place the plywood in the opening and attach it with clear silicone caulk.
Tip
If plywood was used to cover gaps in your window, you may want to paint it to match your house. For safety reasons, it is best to have a friend to help hold the air conditioner in place.
Warning
Always wear goggles when using power tools. Take precautions when using power tools. Be cautious when installing an air conditioner in an upstairs window.
The Drip Cap
- There are several different types of air conditioners that you might consider for your manufactured or mobile home.
- With the right tools (and a friend’s steady hand), you can have a cooler home.
- Make sure the brackets are level.
- This should come with your air conditioner; if not, you’ll need to purchase some.
- Install the mounting brackets.
- Measure the opening above the air conditioner.
References
Writer Bio
Danica Sorber has been a commercial copywriter since 2004. She has experience writing online content for websites such as Blended People of America and Connections Magazine. Sorber has a Bachelor of Science in biblical counseling from Baptist Bible College and Seminary.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
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