Before the weather starts to get hot, you should think about how you plan to keep the temperature in your home comfortable. One of the most affordable and effective ways to stay cool is by using a window air conditioner. However, if you’ve never used or installed an air conditioner before, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or wonder where you should start. Though some people talk about installing a window unit on their own, you may not want to handle the project on your own. If you’re thinking about purchasing an AC, read on to learn how to properly install a window unit air conditioner.
How can you properly install a window unit air conditioner?
A window unit air conditioner is an affordable way to stay cool when the temperature starts to climb, but many people don’t know what their best option is for installation. While you may think it’s a simple process and that you should do it yourself, the truth is that it’s always smarter to let a professional install your air conditioner. The risk of damaging the air conditioner itself is significant enough on its own that you should let a trained HVAC technician handle your installation. It’s important to keep in mind that improper installation can also create risks and problems in the future.
You also need to maintain your window air conditioner properly if you want it to continue to operate at peak efficiency. You definitely need to clean your air conditioner on a regular basis. This includes cleaning the filter, wiping down the grill and exterior, dusting off the fins and coil, and clearing out the tray and drain. If you don’t feel comfortable cleaning your unit, you can always call an HVAC professional to handle cleaning and servicing your window unit. At minimum, you should clean your filter on a monthly basis and use hydrogen peroxide to prevent the growth of mildew.
What else can you do to keep your home cool?
It may be tempting to leave your curtains and windows open to enjoy the summer sun, but this can cause the temperature in your home to rise. If it’s hot outside, you should keep your windows tightly shut. It’s also a good idea to invest in long blackout curtains. Not only will they prevent the sun from getting in, but they’ll also help keep the cool air produced by your air conditioner inside your home. Make sure you inspect your windows for cracks and crevices regularly, as imperfections can cause outdoor air to seep inside and make temperature regulation more difficult.
Houseplants can be a great way to boost your mood and make your home look greener, but they can also function as natural air conditioners. They generate moisture into the atmosphere through a process that is known as transpiration. There are some plants that are more heat-efficient than others: Peace lilies and rubber plants are two that are perfect for anyone looking to keep their home cool. This can even save you money on your energy bill every month.
As you can see, there’s a lot that goes into maintaining your ideal temperature indoors when it gets hot outside. The best thing you can do is find the right air conditioning solutions. A window air conditioner is a smart investment, but you should let a professional install the AC unit for you. It may seem simple, but there’s no reason to risk damaging your unit or your window, which will create an even more expensive headache for you to deal with. You can also look into other lifestyle changes and products that can help you create a comfortable environment. No matter what approach you take, you’ll definitely need to find ways to stay cool at home before the next heat wave hits.
