Ok So I'm installing a window air conditioner in a hole in the wall instead of a window. There used to be another air conditioner there but it broke. So this window air conditioner is a bit smaller (about 2" on either side and an inch above) than the hole that was professional cut through the concrete and gyproc and edged in plain molding.
How do I install this air conditioner (step by step) so that it will fit in this hole, be sufficiently guarded against the cold weather and not require me to cut into the wall? Right now I have pieces of foam up against it and some weather stripping but that won't be enough and there are still gaps.
Any ideas?
2006-08-10 22:28:33 · 3 answers · asked by Kitia_98 5 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
Use plywood cut to the exact size of the existing hole so that it will fit very tight. Cut out the center for the a/c unit on 3 sides (top and both sides). Put caulk on the plywood and fit into existing hole. The caulk will ensure that you have an airtight fit. Go out side and caulk where the plywood meets the existing cutout to make sure it is rain proof. Now mount your a/c unit. You can also use molding on the inside for looks. Note, it wouldn't hurt to use the solid foam that you can buy in sheets to fill in the outside gaps as well - it only has an R rating of about 3 but is waterproof and will also help guard against cold air infiltration.
2006-08-11 04:52:29 · answer #1 · answered by smgray99 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would go to the hardware store and have them cut me 2 one inch pieces of wood (or whatever the EXACT sizes are) for the sides of the AC and then an inch piece above and wedge them in the hole. You can attach the wood to the wall with nails if possible or since its concrete you might have to use a masonary bit on your drill to attach the wood to the wall. Then to make sure its really air tight, I would use a caulking gun to fill in any possible holes. Good luck!
2006-08-10 22:37:52 · answer #2 · answered by scorpio2644865 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First use some expandable foam sealant to insulate, it comes in aerosol cans and by the description two cans will do. using the little straw that comes with the sealant fill in all gaps. Then I would trim the air gaps interior and exterior with 1x4 hem fir, paint both sides to match existing finish. then caulk the exterior side with a clear silicone to seal against water damage....you need to do this after paint because paint will not stick to silicone sealant.
2006-08-11 00:14:23 · answer #3 · answered by Jon 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋