How To Install a Window Air Conditioner Without Screws

A window AC is a functional home unit that helps cool ambient temperatures. If you don’t have an HVAC unit, installing a window AC unit yourself is an easy DIY project you can embark on. While the traditional installation procedure requires you to place brackets on top of the lower sash of your window and attach it to the upper strap with screws, you may not want to ruin your window with the holes the installation screws create.

So, how do you install a window AC without screws?

This article will walk you through installing a window AC without screws. Also, we will share tips along the way to help you navigate some common challenges while installing a window AC.

Step-by-Step Guide To Install a Window AC Without Screws

Most window air conditioners weigh well over 50 pounds. As such, if you want to install it successfully without screws, it is vital to get suitable materials. However, often you only need a little to install a window AC other than a screwdriver, measuring tape, weatherstrips, a support bracket, and possibly someone to help you support the unit’s weight as you fix it.

Step 1: Choose the AC Unit Accordingly

The first thing you’d like to do is choose a suitable air conditioner. Unfortunately, not all air conditioners can be installed on windows without screws because the window AC units you can install without screws are often lightweight. Aside from that, you should also choose an AC unit that is powerful enough for the room.

According to the Department of Energy, an AC needs 20 BTU per square foot of living space. The British Thermal Unit (BTU) is a rating used to indicate the amount of heat to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one Fahrenheit. Aside from the size, other essential factors like the room height, shading, local climate, and window size can affect how much power you need from the window AC unit.

Step 2: Prepare the Space for the Installation

After getting a suitable window AC, prepare your space for the installation. With a measuring tape, locate the central point of your window sill. Next, measure the sill length and mark the middle with a marker. Repeat this same procedure with the AC unit, making the central point. These two marks should line up when installing the window AC.

Next, you will need a weather strip to seal the window. With the weather strip, the AC unit will not leak around its edges. But ensure that the weather strip seals the contact points of the window frame, so there wouldn’t be any gap between the AC and the window frame.

Step 3: Prepare the AC and Side Panels

After preparing the space, you should also prepare the AC. Check the manual that comes with the AC unit and ensure you have all the right parts to install it, including adjustable side panels. The panels behave like an accordion you use to seal the window entirely.

You need to install the window side panels at the desired width. The side panel often comes with a tension screw which you can use to adjust the width of the panels. It is at this point you will need to use the screwdriver. After installing the side panels, leave the width open so that after placing the AC unit on the window, you will tighten it to see any gap between the unit and the window.

Step 4: Install the Support Bracket

For safety reasons, ensure you get a quality bracket that can support the weight of the AC. The support bracket is installed on the outside wall by connecting it to the windowsill using the hook on the inside wall.

Most support brackets make the AC unit tilt approximately 1.5 in. This tilt is helpful as it lets you slightly tile the unit outside so any condensation on the drip tray stays outside and does not leak over your interior floor. So, ensure the support bracket is securely anchored on the wall and hooked firmly on the window before finishing the process.

Step 5: Place the AC Unit

With the space and AC unit prepared, you can now place the AC unit on the window. Considering the unit’s weight, you will need someone to assist you. Ensure that the marks from earlier in the steps are correctly aligned. That way, you know that the window AC is in the correct position.

Ensure the window is behind the frame of the window and the side panels are extended to touch the weatherstripping you installed on the window. On the support bracket, allow the AC unit to sit on it securely and tilted slightly.

Step 6: Connect the AC to a Power Source

Now that the AC unit is in place, the next thing is to connect the power cord. If the power cord is not long enough, get an extension cord to help you reach the nearest power outlet. For example, i you have a small room that draws less than 7.5 amp of electricity, you can plug the AC unit into any 15 or 20-amp power outlet that is not shared with other major appliances.

Conclusion

Overall, it is easy to install an AC unit without screws. All you need is to consider these few things in this guide. Check with local laws regarding support and installation. Local law may stipulate you use extra support if you stay at a high-rise building. So, always check with your local authority and install it correctly the first time to save yourself a lot of trouble.