Colorado summers can be quite harsh, although this state is not known for high temperatures. The area around Grand Junction has a dry climate and more cloudy days than the rest. It results in the subjective feeling of heat that is much higher than the actual temperature.

For this reason, households in Grand Junction need reliable air conditioning. Window AC units are affordable and the easiest way to bring a touch of freshness into your home. What is especially good about them is the easy installation. With some DIY skills and professional tools, you can set this device in a day.

Sure, if you don’t have time or will to handle this DIY project, you can call professional AC installers. On this page, see how to find and hire them. But if you decide to install a cooling device on your own, expert tips will be of great help to get the best unit performance.

Get Permits

This may not seem like the best initial step, but it can save you a lot of time and prevent you from paying penalties. You can’t just put a window AC unit anywhere. If you live in a single-family home, this is feasible. But if you live in a building or condo complex, you will need a project and a permit. There’s a chance that your request will be rejected, as some complexes don’t allow window ACs due to aesthetic reasons. Check Room Size

If you get a permit, you can move on. The next thing you need to do is to get the right room size. Also, you have to measure the height and width of the window case. These dimensions will help you choose the most appropriate device for your needs.

AC experts from airstreamplumbingandheating.com  agree that a properly sized device and its cooling capacity are crucial. According to them, 20 BTUs is enough for one square foot of space. Models ranging from 5,000 to 25,000 BTU are most common on the market.

Both too big and too small AC units won’t work for you. Logically, a small device doesn’t have enough power to cool a room. But a too powerful device won’t bring the desired result either. The air will be too cold and humid. Besides, the larger unit is loud and consumes more energy than a properly sized window AC device.

Choose the Best Device

After measuring your room and the window where you plan to install an AC device, go shopping. Sure, everyone wants a device with the best performance so they can enjoy uninterrupted comfort even when the outside temperature is super high. But the choice will mostly depend on your budget.

Window ACs are generally affordable, but you can always look for high-end or more budget-friendly models. As demand for these devices grows, manufacturers are constantly lowering prices and updating their offerings. If you do some research, you may come across some pretty good deals. You should also get a warranty, as no reputable brand or dealer would mess with that.

You should get the right information about the product before purchasing it. You can check the manufacturer’s website. Next, you should read some online reviews. The users could write about their negative experiences with particular brands, point out more affordable AC models, give installation tips, etc.

Pay Attention to Device’s Features

The price and features of window AC units will differ from brand to brand. Plain models are usually the cheapest, but if you want units with the latest features, such as timer, dehumidifier, or app control, be ready to pay up to a thousand dollars. Some of these come in handy, while others are just bells and whistles.

What you need to pay special attention to is the energy rating of the device. Modern appliances are eco-friendly and consume less energy. They also have helpful settings like a digital thermostat or fan speed control, which also come in handy to save even more power.

Assess the Window

You can’t install a window AC device on any house opening. For the best performance, these should be in shady, well-ventilated places. Direct exposure to the sun significantly increases energy consumption, as more power is needed to cool the room. Ensure there is nothing to impair airflow from and to the unit.

Although the process of installing window AC itself is not complicated, you could use another pair of hands. These devices are bulky, and you will often need someone to hold them while you tighten or fasten something. Also, two heads are smarter than one, so the help of a friend will come in handy as you read the installation instructions.

Start the Procedure

The AC unit must be hermetically placed in a window case. Make sure that all necessary adjustable extensions and holders are included in the package. For larger and heavier devices, you will most likely need an additional metal bracket for outdoor mounting.

The lower sash of the window will support the AC unit, so you need to secure it additionally. Make sure your helper holds the device firmly during this time. Place the AC unit in the middle of the windowsill and install the L-holders. They will prevent the sash from lifting. Depending on the model of the AC device, you may need to additionally fasten it with short screws.

Then, install the side panels that will close the space around the unit. You have to secure them with screws (the strips found in most kits won’t be enough). The device should be slightly tipped outwards so that condensation could go out. Plug the unit into a circuit with no other appliances that use too much energy (fridge or oven) to avoid network overload. Here you can read about common installation mistakes and how to avoid them.

Window AC units are handy things when you need to cool off during the dog days of summer. They are easy to install and remove when you don’t need them. You don’t have to call professional installers every time. You can take matters into your own hands and enjoy pleasantly cooled rooms.