Author: Gee! Heating and Air

Whether you’re new to the area or you’re a seasoned Georgia homeowner, you’re likely feeling the impact of summer weather. Even if you don’t mind time outdoors on hot and muggy days, you prefer comfortably cool temperatures when you’re inside your home.

If you haven’t yet updated your home with air conditioning or you need a replacement, this is your year!

For homeowners and renters who like to keep things simple and affordable, window units make an excellent cooling solution. If you enjoy DIY projects, window AC installation may be right up your alley.

To see how simple installing a window unit is, read our step-by-step guide. We’ll start with a few to-do tasks you’ll want to complete before you buy your air conditioner.

Check Out Your Windows

If you’ve never done a DIY air conditioner install, you may not know about window compatibility.

Windows either move side to side, tilt outwards, or slide up and down. The majority of room air conditioners work with double-hung windows. If you’re not sure whether you have double-hung windows, look for a fixed upper pane and a moveable lower pane.

Don’t give up on the project if the room where you plan to install the window unit has sliders or casement windows. Some manufacturers offer units designed for these windows. They’re sometimes called vertical air conditioners, but always ask before you purchase to verify you’ve selected the right one.

Make Sure You Have a Good Connection

One of the first things you’ll notice when you pull your AC unit out of the box is the three-prong plug.

If you’re living in a newer home or apartment, you shouldn’t have an issue since you likely already have the right electrical outlets. What you may have a problem with is the location of the outlet.

Window air conditioners don’t come with endless cords. Usually, you get about six feet. That means your three-prong outlet needs to be pretty close to the window.

Tip: Extension cords and window air conditioners do not make good partners. Using an extension cord could pose a fire hazard. You could also void the warranty on your AC.

Grab Your Measuring Tape

Before you buy your window AC, find your tape measure. You’ll need three measurements:

• Window Opening Height
• Window Opening Width
• Square Footage

Air conditioner packaging should indicate acceptable window sizes. It also specifies the maximum square footage the unit can handle cooling. You want to make sure you buy the best AC unit for your needs.

Tip: To measure square footage, take the length of the room and multiply by the room’s width.

Location Location Location

Finally, you’ll determine the best location for your air conditioner installation.

The ideal location is in a window that doesn’t receive direct sunlight. Installing in a shaded or partially shaded window will maximize efficiency and ensure the unit can keep the room at a comfortable temperature.

The second point to consider when choosing the location is clearance.

Window units require unimpeded airflow. Make sure you have at least 20 inches of clearance both inside and outside of your window. Avoid installing in a window where you have furniture, trees, or walls obstructing airflow.

Next, we’ll go over the preparation of the window.

Prep The Window

Before you begin air conditioning installation, take the window screen out. Clean the glass, sill, and window frame.

Next, measure the windowsill width and mark its center with a pencil.

Depending on the weight of your air conditioner, you may need to install a support bracket, which looks like either a small shelf or legs. If your unit weighs over 100 pounds, you will need a bracket.

Installing Rails And Panels

Your air conditioner may also come with mounting rails. The rails go on the top and bottom of the unit and help hold it securely in the window. If your

AC unit comes without the rails already mounted, use the screws provided and attach them per your instruction manual.

In the box, you’ll find two panels that look like accordions. Each side of the air conditioner will have a groove where you’ll slide the panel. The side panels fill in the gaps between your AC unit and the window frame sides.

Phone A Friend

DIY doesn’t always mean you have to go solo. Even though you’re working with a DIY air conditioning unit, you’ll still want an assistant. After you’ve attached the mounting rails and side panels, your assistant will help you get the window unit in place on the windowsill.

Fit the bottom mounting rail in the lower window frame. Using the pencil mark you made earlier, line up the middle of the AC unit.

Now, is when your assistant can shine! Have them hold the air conditioner steady so that you can lower the window. The top mounting rail should sit right in front of the lower edge of the window.

Final Steps for Proper AC Installation

Your air conditioner will come with L-brackets. The brackets act as a safety mechanism and keep the air conditioner secured. Follow the instruction manual for placement.

You’ll need a drill and your assistant for this part of the installation.

After you install the L-brackets, it’s time to fill the gap between the upper and lower window panes. You should find a foam seal included with your unit’s packaging. You may need to cut the seal to fit before pressing it into the gap.

Your final step is to pull the accordion panels to each side of the window frame. Find the screws included with the air conditioner and use them to secure the panels.

Need More Help With Air Conditioner Installation?

Congratulations! You’re ready for your first DIY AC installation.

Although the process isn’t too complicated, you may have questions about getting the right size window air conditioner or help to choose the best unit for your needs.

Whether you need advice or have other HVAC service issues, get in touch with us, and book an appointment.

Is Your Air Conditioner Leaking Water? Wondering Why That Is?

Well, here’s how it goes. Your AC unit contains an evaporator coil, which cools the warm air blowing over it. This created moisture on the coil. The condensation drips into a drain pan, and further into a drain line that leads outside of your home.

Somewhere within this process – a malfunction occurs, causing your AC to leak.

However, this is a very simple way of looking at the problem. So let’s take a closer look at the reasons behind your AC leaking water.

Why Is the Air Conditioner Leaking Water?

In the most common of cases, the reasons remain the same:

1. Your drain line has been disconnectedx
2. Your drain pan is clogged or broken
3. Your evaporator coil is frozen
4. Your coil is damaged or dirty
5. Your condensate pump is dysfunctional
6. Your condensate line is clogged

Looking over these 6 common causes – they all have something in common. The problem stems from the coil or drain unit. But you never know, you might have to get a full AC replacement, because it’s just that time.

If you are considering looking at your own air conditioner – you MUST take these steps first to PREVENT further damage.

1. Turn off the air conditioner system. This prevents water flow and protects equipment from further damage.
2. Clean up water that has leaked to prevent further damage to the environment.

Alright, let’s take a look at some of the reasons for leaking water in-depth.

Clogged Condensate Line

This is a potential DIY issue, but we always recommend contacting a specialist who has experience in solving these issues first-hand.

This is what the general process would look like if you hired a professional:

1. The specialist would locate the PVC pipe near the air handler drain pan. In most cases, a 90 degree angled pipe with a cap on top.
2. They would unscrew the cap and pour or drop a specialized unclogging/cleaning agent down the drain line, ex. slime pill.
3. If the second step doesn’t solve the problem after a short while, the specialist will proceed with deep cleaning and removing the clog within the unit. Removing all algae and fungi.
4. They will also locate the outdoor condensate line, connect a wet-dry attachment to a specialized vacuum, and proceed to clean from there.

Depending on your situation, there may or may not be more or fewer steps than the ones outlined above.

Practically all of the newer air conditioning systems have an automatic switch for when an air filter or condensate line is clogged. If the A/C doesn’t turn off, your specialist will check the air filter and drain line before doing everything.

Frozen Evaporator Coil

Speaking of checking the air filter – the next step is a frozen evaporator coil. If the air filter is clogged, air won’t be able to pass through, causing your evaporator coil to freeze.

And because of this lack of proper airflow – ice will form, dripping water over time. However, a frozen evaporator coil can also be caused by a blocked vent or register, a broken motor, or a lack of refrigerant.

If you still don’t get what a frozen evaporator coil is – then keep reading. A frozen evaporator coil means that your current air conditioner can no longer take in any heat from the home. This leads to a lack of air and future compressor problems if left untreated.

If you realize that your coil is frozen, turn the machine off and don’t turn it on – until the problem has been resolved.

The bottom line is: you are able to avoid a frozen evaporator coil by changing your air filter on a regular basis of 30 to 90 days. And remember to allow airflow through the vents and registers, thus not blocking them.

But if it’s the summer – it is recommended to switch the air filter more often, as your unit is probably already running on an extended schedule. Once a month is more than enough.

But if the problem is not solved by changing the filter, your A/C charge might be low – so the services of a specialist are unavoidable.

Drain Pan Issues

The drain pan is directly under your air handler, which has the evaporator coil within it. The pan catches the condensation, hence the name.

Now that your unit is turned off, inspect your pipe and drain pan for leakage. Clean out any overflowing water, and begin to inspect the corner, edges, and bottom.

If your drain pan is cracked or corroded through – you have to get a replacement, as any other DIY solution can have a negative effect on your health over time.

But remember that you probably have more than one drain pan. One is fixed under the evaporator coil, and the other is removable under the unit. If the problem is within the removable pan, you can just buy a new one.

And if it’s the permanent pan – there is no other way than to contact a specialist, as the pan will probably be welded in place.

Say Goodbye to Your Air Conditioner Leaking Water

Now that you have a considerable understanding of the common causes for your air conditioner leaking water. You are well on your way to either resolving the issue on your own, which is generally not recommended.

Or contact a specialist who will be able to resolve and maintain your device to the best of their ability. Returning your air and cleanliness back to order – provisioning a more enjoyable at-home experience.

If you’re located in Gainseville, Georgia, or anywhere within a 40-mile radius, we ([company_name]) would gladly come to take a look and help you out with any of your HVAC problems. Book your appointment online now.

Summer is coming, and you don’t want to be left with an old air conditioner unit that doesn’t beat the heat. Southern households use their air conditioners nearly twice as much as all other regions.

Are you wondering if your old air conditioner unit is going to make it? Here are some signs you need an air conditioner replacement to save time and money.

1. You See Moisture Around the Unit

It is normal to have some condensation around the air conditioner, but if you have excess leakage, you have a problem. If you notice large pools of water or a refrigerant leak, you need to address the issue immediately.

Excessive water leaks can damage your furnace and floors, and may even lead to mold growth.

2. Your Energy Bills Have Increased Significantly

If you have noticed your bill has increased, this means that your unit may be working harder than it should and expending more energy. AC units that work properly should run effectively and efficiently and you should not see sudden spikes in your monthly bills.

Unless there was a drastic weather pattern change that goes with the bill increase, you most likely need to call a professional because there is some underlying issue.

3. Your AC Unit’s Age

Newer HVAC units have energy ratings to measure energy efficiency. If your unit is more than 10 years old, you probably do not have an energy-saving system. This means the performance may not be as good as it could be with a newer unit.

The average well-maintained AC unit lasts about 12-17 years (depending on make and model), so you need to take that into consideration when making repairs. See if it is worth repairing or if you should get a new unit.

You could save up to 40 percent on a monthly energy bill with a more efficient unit. Newer units are also easier to use and can be programmable to help save additional money.

4. Air Isn’t Blowing Through Vents Hard Enough

Your AC unit should push enough air through your home to cool it to the desired level. If you notice that the airflow out of your vents has decreased significantly, this could be a sign that your compressor is shot.

If that’s the case, you may want to replace the AC unit to save on additional expenses and emergency calls.

5. You Hear Unusual Noises

If you start to hear some loud grinding sounds from your AC, there is definitely an issue. The same is true for squealing, rattling, and banging. You should turn off the unit immediately and contact an expert if you hear loud and strange noises.

These noises could be a sign that a belt is slipping or the motor bearings are broken. If you let the unit continue to run, you could have an even costlier repair or replacement.

6. Your AC Needs A Lot of Repairs

If you are having consistent problems and your unit is no longer under warranty, replacement may be the best option. Think about all the money you are paying for repairs, and not to mention, your energy bills are most likely higher each month as well.

All these costs can add up quickly. Expensive repairs needed after a warranty is one of the most common signs that it is time to replace your unit for a newer, more efficient model. Buying a new unit will cost more money upfront, but it will end up saving you money in the long run.

7. Your House is Not Cooling Evenly

Sometimes this could just be an issue with your thermostat and not the main cooling unit. A broken thermostat prevents your system from cooling all the areas of your home.

If some rooms feel okay while others are still too warm or cold, you should have a professional check your unit, thermostat, and possibly vents. It could be one of these simple problems, but it could also be your unit is starting to break down and you may need a new system.

8. Poor Air Quality

If you have an old system, it may be adding additional allergens, dust, excess humidity, and even mold into your home. If you change your filters regularly but still notice issues with the air quality, you may need to have a professional inspection to see if the unit is the culprit.

If you notice that you begin to sneeze when your AC runs, this could be a sign of air quality issues. Other issues include respiratory problems like coughing and stuffy noses.

If you have any mold in the unit, you will need a new unit immediately because it is nearly impossible to fix that issue.

9. Your Home Is Not As Cool

This may sound like one of the most obvious reasons, but if your home is not getting cool air, there is something wrong with your unit. It could be low Freon levels or even a broken compressor.

There could be several issues causing the problem, so it’s best to have a professional out immediately.

10. Getting Ready to Sell Your Home

If your AC unit is old, you may want to consider modernizing before you put your house on the market. Homebuyers may deduct large amounts of their offer if they think they have to repair units. You may save money by doing it yourself, and it is also a good selling point to sell your home faster.

Are You Considering An Air Conditioner Replacement?

If your AC unit has any signs it is ready to go or not running efficiently, we are here to help you find the right air conditioner replacement. You don’t want to keep an old unit longer than you should and waste more money than necessary.

Get a free quote today and let our experts help you keep your home or business cool this summer. We can also inspect your unit to see if a repair will do the job or if a newer unit makes more sense.