How to Install Portable AC in Horizontal Sliding Window

Installing a portable air conditioning unit is often done on vertical sliding window frames, but there are ways to install portable air conditioners in homes with modern horizontal sliding window frames. Here's our guide to installing your portable AC into a horizontal opening:

How to Install Portable Air Conditioner in Horizontal Sliding Window: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Read Your User's Manual

First, read the user's manual that came with your portable AC unit as the user's guide should have proper installation steps, as well as kit inclusion, warranty information, warnings, and other relevant details related to your unit. Keep the manual in a safe location to refer to it later on, particularly with error codes and troubleshooting.

Step 2: Check Your Window Kit

Lay out all the parts included in your window kit, and inspect them for damages and completion. Depending on your brand and model, your window kit should include sliding sections for your horizontal window adapter, an exhaust or vent hose, host adapters, and various screws and rivets to secure your AC unit to the window frame.

Step 3: Select Your Location

Figure out where you would like to install your unit. Avoid placing the unit near doors and open vents as they may decrease the cooling power of your portable air conditioner. Select a horizontal sliding window near an electrical outlet that isn't too high so your exhaust hose can be set at a suitable level.

If you have a horizontal double hung window, choose the side closest to the electrical socket to keep your unit secure. Take note that installing your portable air conditioner in a sliding window may reduce the functionality of your double hung windows.

Step 4: Set Up the Window Adapter

Next, set up your window adapter to fit the window frame. Piece the sliding sections together to form the adapter, and place it by your window opening to measure out the window frame. Remove the adapter. Measure the window, and cut out appropriate strips of foam seal included in your kit. Apply a foam seal to keep the draft and dust out.

Place the Window Adapter into the Window

Fit the adapter right into your sliding window opening, and slide the window closed, making sure the window is firmly closed. Adjust the foam seal as needed, and secure the window frame with lock brackets to prevent the window from loosening and opening up. Screw in the lock brackets.

Connect the Exhaust Hose

Connect the cylindrical exhaust hose to its adapter, and connect the adapter to the window adapter. Use duct tape or electrical tape to create an airtight seal around the connection where the exhaust hose and adapter intersect.

Step 5: Attach the Exhaust Hose to Your Portable Air Conditioner

Take the other end of the exhaust hose, and connect it to your portable air conditioner. Secure an airtight seal using duct tape, and connect the drain hose to your portable AC unit as well to complete the installation process.

Step 6: Plug in Your Portable Air Conditioner

Plug in your portable air conditioner, and check for any problems or leaks. Your portable AC should blow cool air into the room, and detour the hot air outside. Check for leaks in the hoses and vents, and see if all parts have been secured properly.

Step 7: Adjust Temperature and Humidity Settings

Once you've determined your portable cooling system has been installed properly, you can now adjust the temperature and humidity settings to your own preference.

Video References

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FAQs

#1 Will portable air conditioners work with vertical sliding windows?

Most portable air conditioners work with any standard sliding window - both vertical and horizontal. When purchasing your unit, inform your supplier of the type of window you have so they can provide the correct window kit plate, and guide you through the proper installation procedure.

#2 Can I install a portable air conditioner in a sliding glass door?

While you can install a portable air conditioner in a sliding door, we do not recommend it as most units work best with windows. Installing your portable air conditioner in a sliding door will require some plywood or plexiglass to fill in the gaps, which may require basic construction know-how.

#3 What do I do if my window kits are missing parts?

If your window kit is missing parts, it is best to contact your supplier immediately, or purchase the missing parts at your local hardware store. At Luce, our team is well-versed in different brands and models of air conditioners, and we can help you purchase your unit, and inspect for a complete set of tools as well!

Choose Portable

Choosing to use a portable air conditioner saves you the hassle of having larger units installed in your small space. From buying to aircon installation, and even cleaning, let us at Luce be your air conditioning partner to maintain the condition of your portable aircon!

Check out more aircon buying and troubleshooting guides in our blog!