To install a window air conditioner with a storm window, you need to ensure that the air conditioner angles outward for proper drainage.
Storm windows can help you control the interior temperature of your home and help your electrical appliances to be more energy-efficient.
However, these storm windows can alter the process of installing a window air conditioning unit slightly, but this is possible if you have the right tools and materials. Alternatively, you can also consider other options.
The benefits of storm windows
Whether you made your storm windows yourself or you had them professionally manufactured and installed on the inside or outside of your home, storm windows are an excellent way to improve your house’s energy efficiency and overall comfort.
Windows play an integral role in your house’s heating and cooling properties and installing storm windows can help eliminate the leaks and drafts that can commonly occur if your house has single pane windows.
An additional bonus: storm windows can help reduce outside noise, providing a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment.
How to install a window air conditioner with a storm window
Even though having storm windows can be quite beneficial for improving the energy efficiency of your home, they can make the installation of window air conditioning units much more complicated than it would usually be.
Window air conditioners need to be angled outwards slightly so that the unit can drain fluid properly.
Most window air conditioner manufacturers include installation kits with the air conditioner when you buy it, and you can also buy window kits separately, like this Air Jade Window Air Conditioner Surround Insulated Foam Panels.
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| Buy it on Amazon |
However, when you have a storm window, the artificial lip created by the storm window’s frame is a factor you need to take into account.
In order to drain properly, a window air conditioner needs to tilt at an angle of one to four degrees or about half a bubble, if you use a level tool, for the draining system to function properly.
To get around this, you effectively need to create a bracket that lifts the front of your window air conditioner, so that you can maintain this tilt to the outside.
To create this bracket, you need something, like a piece of plywood, on which the air conditioner can rest, as well as other tools and insulating materials.
If this process feels like too much trouble, there are other air conditioners that you can try that may work better than the window air conditioner.
What you will need to install a window air conditioner with a storm window
It is a good idea to gather all the tools and materials that you will need before you get started with the process of installing your window air conditioner in a storm window. These tools and materials include:
- A tape measure, notebook and pen to record the measurements of your window
- A wooden plank that is thick enough to create a two degree angle (at least) with your storm window frame, for the air conditioner to rest on, and a handsaw to cut the wood to size
- A level tool or angle finder
- A window air conditioner bracket to support the unit
- Weather stripping and foam board to insulate the air conditioner from wind and leaks
How to install the window air conditioner in your storm window
The process to install a window air conditioner in a storm window is more complicated than that of a regular window, because you are essentially creating an artificial window frame for the front of the air conditioner to fit in that will be slightly elevated and compensate for the higher storm window’s lack of outside-leaning angle.
The process for this is as follows:
- Step 1: Ensure that when you lean your window air conditioner from the wooden plank to the frame of the storm window and outside, that the angle is large enough for proper drainage. This will be between one and four degrees, or half a bubble
- Step 2: Measure the length of the window and cut the wooden plank to size
- Step 3: Install the window air conditioner bracket as instructed, but use the new plank that you have cut as the artificial window ledge on the inside, to elevate the front of the unit
- Step 4: Use the weather stripping and foam board to insulate any gaps between the air conditioner and the window frame
Air conditioner alternatives
This process may seem daunting and complicated, but there are some alternative cooling solutions to window air conditioners that may work better for you if you have storm windows, such as:
| Alternative | Where to purchase it | Price |
| Portable air conditioner |  |
$379.99 |
| Buy it on Amazon | ||
| Air cooler |  |
$37.99 |
| Buy it on Amazon | ||
| Whole room tower fan |  |
$49.99 |
| Buy it on Amazon |
When considering alternatives, it’s essential to evaluate factors such as the size of your space, climate, energy efficiency, installation requirements, and of course, budget, or the upfront and ongoing costs associated with each cooling solution.
Each option has its advantages and limitations, so choosing the one that best suits your needs is key. Keep in mind that the best cooling solution for one person may not be the ideal choice for another, so tailor your decision to your unique circumstances.
By carefully considering these factors and consulting with HVAC professionals, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your needs, preferences, and budget