How Portable A/C Works

A portable air conditioner works by pulling the warm air from the room and cooling it using refrigerant. Then it blows out the chilled air in the same room. These units also need to vent the heated air (bi-product) they have extracted. Proper venting is very important for portable A/C to function efficiently.

How To Install Portable A/C

It is better to install and vent the portable A/C through a window at your home. Here are a few steps to guide you on how to install portable A/C:

Read The Manufacturer Instruction

Before you begin installing the portable A/C, read the instructions and manual to assemble the portable A/C. Check the warranty information for future use.

The portable A/C comes with different parts that must be assembled before installation. Common parts include:

Window exhaust adapter: This adapter connects to the exhaust hose and fits into the window slider kit. It vents out the hot air from the room.
Flexible exhaust hose: The exhaust hose is attached to the window adapter and the A/C unit to vent the hot air out.
Coupling: Coupling is an airtight seal that attaches the exhaust hose to the window adapter.
Slider section vent: This is a part of a window adapter kit that adjusts to fit the width and height of the window. It secures the window adapter in place for proper venting.
Additional parts: Rivets, window lock brackets, drain hose and drain hose clamp.

Ensure the window adapter fits in your window. The window adapters are specifically designed in a way to fit all kinds of windows. In case your adapter does not fit the window you should make certain adjustments:

First, measure the window adapter and dimensions of the window, check how much gap needs to be filled.
Use foam seals to fit in the gaps of the window sliders as much as necessary to fit the adapter.
Once the seals are placed, insert the window adapter into your open window.

Why You Need To Vent Portable A/C

Venting portable A/C is important to remove the hot air collected from your room to the outer environment. If not appropriately vented, the hot air (bi-product) will remain inside the room, which will not efficiently cool the room. Improper ventilation will also hamper the portable A/C performance.

How To Vent A Portable A/C Without A Window

The portable A/C is most commonly vented through the window. It is most suitable for sliding and double-hung windows. Let us also show you how to install portable A/C without a window:

You can install and vent the portable A/C through the sliding door. The installation method will be the same as the window A/C installation process. Use a piece of plexiglas to seal the gaps in the top door.
Portable A/C can also be vented through the exterior wall. Take assistance from a licensed contractor to cut a hole in the wall. Later, install the portable A/C and put the exhaust through the hole in the wall for ventilation.
The chimney is also best for venting portable A/C. The exhaust adapter of the portable A/C can be attached to the custom fit plexiglass. You should ensure that the chimney is clean and does not have soot around.

How To Vent Portable A/C With Casement Window

A casement window has a door instead of a slider. The window is attached to the frames with more than one hinge on one side. This window, unlike sliding windows opens outward on one side. Venting a portable A/C with a casement window will need an external vent like plexiglass to hold the hose. Measure the dimension of your window and custom-cut pieces of plexiglass accordingly. Make a hole in the plexiglas to attach the exhaust hose. Then, seal the exhaust hose in the hole. This method vents the air efficiently without permanent alterations.

Maintain Your Portable A/C

Regularly maintaining your portable A/C will ensure efficient functionality. Clean and replace filters and ensure window seals and hose attachments are airtight. Regularly remove the collected water if applicable.

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How To Install and Vent Your Portable AC