Are you looking for a cost-effective option for cooling your room but don’t want it taking up floor space? Then, a window AC is just right for you.
Window ACs have the advantages of being easy to install and portable. They’re common in temporary home settings and dorm rooms. If you rent a home or are a student living away from home, the window AC is your best bet as it saves you and the building the trouble of installing and maintaining a central air conditioning unit.
Also, using this type of AC is easy on your wallet. That said, all types of air conditioners come with their pros and cons. Here’s some insight into how window AC units function and how you can tackle three common issues that most window air conditioner owners face.
3 Common Issues and DIYs for Window Air Conditioners
The average life span of window air conditioners is ten years. However, they could give you some trouble over this period. See examples in the dropdown tabs below:
The most common complaint you hear from people who own window air conditioners is that the unit isn’t blowing cool air. When this happens, some think their AC unit needs replacing. However, more often than not, dirty air filters are to blame.
Remember to check for a clogged air filter the next time your window AC malfunctions. Ice or frost can accumulate, which restricts airflow.
You can remove the air filter, wash it, and replace it. First, turn off and unplug the AC unit to clean the air filter. Then, open the front panel and remove the filter, usually located behind the control panel. Rinse the filter under warm running water or use a vacuum cleaner attachment to remove accumulated dust and debris. Let the filter dry completely before reinstalling.
Cleaning air filters regularly can help prevent dirt accumulations leading to restricted airflow. Dirty filters make the unit work harder to push air through, leading to higher energy bills.
Another reason your window AC may not be cooling enough is a broken fan or fan motor. Debris may have entered your unit and hit the fan blade, which is likely why the fan isn’t blowing air well or is making a loud noise while rotating.
Signs of a broken fan or motor include strange noises when the unit turns on, the fan wobbling instead of spinning, or no airflow at all. Schedule a service appointment with an HVAC company to diagnose the issue. It can determine if the fan needs repair or if you must replace the motor.
Some people using window ACs face the issue of water dripping from the unit inside their homes. This problem could be due to the incorrect angle of installation. Water drips from the AC due to condensation, but you can expect it to do so through the drain pipe. If the AC is installed with a slope toward the front end instead of the rear end, you may experience leaking indoors.
You can stop the water from dripping on the inside by reinstalling your AC. Doing this may require professional help if you’re unsure how to do it correctly. The window kit should angle the AC slightly downward outside so condensation runs out the back through the drain pipe. Make sure the back of the unit tilts down just a bit.
Another cause could be a clogged drain pipe. Use a stiff wire to clear any obstructions in the drain line so water can flow freely. Pouring vinegar and water through the drain monthly can help prevent buildup.
Why You Need Annual Tune-Ups
While regular maintenance every few months is important for your window AC unit, an annual tune-up by a professional is recommended to keep your system running efficiently for its entire life span.
Air conditioners have complex working components, and you can’t fix everything on your own. That’s when professional help is advisable. An annual tune-up by an HVAC technician provides a thorough inspection and maintenance to keep your AC running efficiently.
The technician will check refrigerant levels, clean coils, lubricate parts, inspect drain lines, and ensure proper airflow. They can find minor problems before more significant issues occur. Tune-ups cost $80 to $150 but save money in the long run by identifying issues early.
You can find an independent HVAC technician or hire a company near you by typing in your ZIP code using the Same Day Pros app.
So, Is a Window Air Conditioner the Right Choice?
For cooling a single room, a window AC offers an affordable and easy-to-install option without occupying interior floor space. While central air conditioning cools an entire home evenly, a window unit focuses on the room you need. Floor air conditioners or ductless air conditioners are more options.
That said, window units come with some downsides. They’re only a temporary cooling solution, their efficiency is lower than central air, noise levels can be disruptive, and installation requires a window. Proper maintenance is necessary to keep window ACs functioning properly through a 10-year life span.
Overall, a window air conditioner is ideal for supplemental cooling if you don’t want or can’t install central air. Just be prepared for some maintenance and lower efficiency compared to a central system. If you’re shopping for a new window AC, read all about the best window air conditioners on the market.
FAQs About Window Air Conditioners
How Long Do Window Air Conditioners Last?
With proper maintenance, a window AC typically lasts eight to 10 years. Units that stay in place year-round tend to have a shorter life span of five to six years.
What Are the Disadvantages of Window Air Conditioners?
Disadvantages include lower efficiency than central air, disruptive noise, the need for a window, and not cooling multiple rooms evenly. They’re also only a temporary solution since they must be removed in winter.
Should I Get a Window AC or Portable AC?
Window units are more affordable and efficient than portable ACs. However, portables don’t require a window and are suitable for interior rooms. Consider your space and needs.
How Much Electricity Does a Window AC Use?
Window units use 500 to 1,500 watts on average. A 10,000-BTU window AC running five hours daily costs around $40 to $75 monthly. Get an ENERGY STAR-rated unit for maximum efficiency.
What Size Window AC Do I Need?
Many companies size window AC units based on room square footage, but the best way to properly size any HVAC system is using ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) Manual J heat gain load calculations — the industry standard for system sizing, required by code in many locations across the United States.
