Learn the Essential Steps to Correctly Install Your Portable Air Conditioner

Venting a portable air conditioner is an essential step for achieving optimal cooling efficiency. While the process of venting isn’t difficult, it is important to correctly install the unit in order to eliminate hot air from entering the cool space. Therefore, a proper venting system is necessary for the effective and safe use of a portable air conditioner.

If a window is present in the area you are looking to cool, the easiest setup is to use the venting kit that came with the unit. Generally, it contains a sheet of plastic with a hole pre-cut, a long corrugated tube, and adapters that you can use to make air-tight seals between the exhaust components. To install this setup, first measure the window opening and cut the plastic to the appropriate size. Then, slide the plastic with the hole into the window opening and use the adapters to make the necessary connections. When sliding the window closed, ensure the kit is securely wedged in the window frame in order to maintain the airtight seal.

If there are no windows in the room and you are looking to cool, you will require a wall or ceiling vent. First, measure and mark the spot for the vent hole and use a drywall saw to cut the hole. Next, cut the end of the exhaust hose to fit the hole and secure it with an adapter. The rest of the installation process is the same as mentioned above.

Even if you have a window available, you may have hinged or casement windows that are incompatible with a traditional vent kit. In that instance, place a sheet of plexiglass window in the opening and attach the kit to this plexiglass sheet. Similarly, you can use plastic visqueen curtains to cover the window opening and attach the vent kit to this covering.

Additionally, test for airtightness around the hose openings with a soap and water mixture. If you find any leaks, add additional padding and weather stripping to better secure the kit and hose. Once everything is properly secured, you will be able to plug in your portable air conditioner and start using it to cool any area of your home or office.