I have an extra-small window that opens horizontally with only a 16-inch gap that I am going to need to install an air conditioner in. Is it safe to install an air conditioner sideways? There is no way I'll be able to fit it the normal way. All of my other windows are that dumb crank out kind that wouldn't work at all....
2007-04-29 13:12:10 · 13 answers · asked by Nicki Lee 6 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
Never sideways.
See if you can get someone to remove both panes of the window.
Perhaps call a handyman that can remove one of the crank windows, and put in the AC with a board to cover the hole. It should cost about $25 to get it done right.
2007-04-29 13:42:01 · answer #1 · answered by edjumacation 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Nope.
Two main reasons:
1- The Freon also has lubricating oil in it. While the Freon gas in compressible, this oil is not. Gravity is used to keep the oil from entering the compressor piston area. Or the piston will jam and ruin (blow up) the compressor.
2- When operating the air conditioner extracts humidity from the room. It also uses gravity to collect the water and drain it outside. Mounting sideways would no doubt have the water running down your walls as it dripped from the "new" bottom of the unit!
You can mount one in a hole in the wall. Or select one of the roll-around types that vent through hoses. Make sure you select one that evaporates the water through the hose, or else you will be stuck emptying a bucket or needing a drain hose.
2007-04-29 21:36:17 · answer #2 · answered by KirksWorld 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are narrow air conditioners made specifically for narrow windows. Look for one like that. They have the same components just arranged in a skinnier package. Ask in a large A/C place or look on the web for casement window A/Cs.
2007-04-29 23:33:24 · answer #3 · answered by Rich Z 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Absolutely not, compressor needs to remain upright to function correctly: lubrication and keeping out air embolisms. If you only have a 16 inch gap you may be able to find avery small unit for that opening but may require some leg work to find one. Just remember the smaller the unit the smaller the btu's, power and cooling ability of the unit. It will depend on the size of the room you are trying to cool and how effective you want it to be...
2007-04-29 20:28:54 · answer #4 · answered by Nick S 2 · 5⤊ 1⤋
I think you'll be better off to have someone cut a hole in a wall and install it to the outside. Also, I looked for a small a/c online for my kitchen because I too have a teeny window or one the slides side ways. I found a small square a/c and they wanted an arm and a leg for it. So, we grill outside. No, to ans. your question you cannot do that, it has to do with the freon. Um have you considered replacing a window?? That would work.
2007-04-29 20:19:34 · answer #5 · answered by dtwladyhawk 6 · 2⤊ 2⤋
no, the compressor is made to set upright. if you install it sideways, the oil will not be distrubited properly which will make the compressor blow. much like a car engine. they do make extra narrow ac units for casement windows which is what you need, it sounds like. check around, they are going to be a little pricey, but that's the only thing that will work.
2007-04-29 20:15:46 · answer #6 · answered by oona121571 2 · 5⤊ 1⤋
Yes,then rotate the wall 90 degrees.
Seriously, the compressor has to operate in the position it was designed, other wise you can destroy it or blow it up.
2007-04-29 20:37:06 · answer #7 · answered by pappy 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
a water cooler may be installed side ways maybe but certainly not an air conditioner. air conditioners have stuff in them that can leak out I think
2007-04-29 20:17:28 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 4⤋
no i doubt it will work 'cause an air conditioner needs to drain water so it has to be sat up normally other wise the water might drain out over the motor (not Good)
2007-04-29 20:17:28 · answer #9 · answered by ~*AMANDA*~ 2 · 0⤊ 3⤋
as long as it fits
2007-04-29 20:32:13 · answer #10 · answered by chucknorris905 2 · 0⤊ 5⤋