Install an Air Conditioner in a Sliding Window

We finally decided we had enough with the heat, so we ordered an air conditioner off of Amazon. The problem was, this one was designed for vertically sliding windows, something we didn't realize until we tried to install it in our horizontally-sliding casement* window. As I looked at other people's creative solutions, I came up with this. Three days and going strong, so at this point, it looks like a success.
*Edit: D. Reichart pointed out to me that this is not actually a casement window. Casement windows are the ones that crank open. My apologies.
I feel I've gotta expand on my disclaimer -- please think about my design before using it in your situation. I'm sure the manufacturer would say this is a stupid idea, so proceed at your own peril. It hasn't blown up or fallen out of the window -- yet -- but I haven't thoroughly tested this. In other words, don't blame me if something goes wrong. These things are heavy!
Ingredients:
Air conditioner
One 6-8 foot 2"x2"
One 3-4 foot of 1"x4"
One package Command Adhesive Velcro strips
One 1.5" screw
A piece of plexiglass that fills the area above the AC unit
Masking tape, or something like it
Foam, if your air conditioner didn't come with any
Please forgive the choppy editing -- I got a new camera, and my video editing software isn't playing nice with the files, so I had to use Windows Movie Maker.
1-Year Update:
We finally installed it for its second summer of use (I love Oregon). It would have gone very quickly, but we needed more foam to fill the gaps, so I had to run to the store. But the installation was very easy. I just had to go back and rewatch the video to make sure I was doing it right!
2-Year Update:
Installed it again after rewatching the video as a refresher. Still no changes in the techniques I used the first year. The hardest part was washing the second story windows; other than that, it was just a matter of following directions, cutting the foam to size, and enjoying the cool air. Everything still seems to be as solid as ever!
3-Year Update:
It only took about half an hour this year, and that's with a hurt shoulder. All we bought this year was some new foam, and we were golden.
4-Year Update:
Ours went in no problem, and we still had time in the same evening to build and install a new one for a relative.
5-Year Update:
Both the relative's AC and mine are still rock solid. There was some paint loss on the window ledge of the relative's apartment (crappy paint), but with enough Command Adhesive, we got it stuck down.
Times people took my 80 degree comment seriously or comment on how hot it gets where they live: 62

[@vyws]

It’s nice that he’s still responding to comments 7 years later.

[@PacoWarabi]

I only have two videos that get regular comments, and the notification pops up on my phone, so it's not that hard. Besides, I don't really use Twitter or Instagram or Tik Tok or even Facebook, so responding here is my form of social media. Keep saying nice things, and I'll keep responding. Disagree with something in my video, and I'll have a respectful debate with you. Try to troll me, and I'll make fun of you. No matter what, I get something out of responding!

[@PacoWarabi]

@@fareehaaaa I'm still using the exact same setup, and it still works great. The only issue we had this summer was right after the massive wildfires in Oregon, we had a massive rainstorm, and for the first time in 6 years, we ended up with water leaking in. I will have to think if we will change something for next year, but this really was an unusual situation. We never get rain like that.

[@SS-kg8qw]

I think the instructions are relevant for today as well. No wonder people will keep watching this video.

[@alwaysthinking9713]

This is also a good idea for people that rent.

[@johnnhoj15]

He has a pony tail bro. Of course he responds 7 years later!

[@SunValen]

little did this person know, 8 years in the future they would be helping tons of people mitigate the soaring heat of climate change. you're awesome my dude.

[@ruthadams2413]

Thanks 10 years later and you are helping me

[@emm_bee]

I searched for ways to install a window air unit. Excellent tutorial! Thank you for sharing. When you said “up to 80 degrees” I silently chuckled/sobbed 😂 .. it’s currently 111 in Northern California right now

[@PacoWarabi]

Ouch! 111? I was driving back from the Redwoods to I-5 in Oregon, and it was 109, so I feel your pain. Also, 53

[@eaclarapowers5714]

It just amazes me that in 2021 (and climate change) we still don’t have AC units that fit in sliding windows. We put a man on the moon..

[@cmoreno12345]

Haha true

[@KentQuickstad]

We do, but they cost 3x as much.. ugh

[@teerich2011]

Depends on the width of the window but there are various sizes. His window could take a huge window unit. Sadly my windows would need a casement air conditioner (thin ac) that IS 3x as expensive and only see to be popular in the northeast part of the US. I never even knew a narrow ac unit existed till I started researching based on 15" width

[@lllllllllllllllllllll1lll1]

I shall make this my life's work.

[@radio_bug]

They just happened to be 3x the price... Oh and their planned obsolescence is much more effective....

[@RA-zu8zj]

Wow this guy made the video 10 years ago and we are sill watching it. An oldie but goody for sure.

[@PacoWarabi]

What's even crazier is he's still replying to the video ten years later . . .

[@beCKLEzaH]

This is probably the best thing I’ve seen in a long time.

[@PacoWarabi]

Aww, thanks!

[@MayMay-hq3xh]

I swear the whole energy just blessed my night 🙏🏼🤣

[@PacoWarabi]

@@MayMay-hq3xh Who would think that an air conditioner installation video would have that sort of power!

[@BFSarthur]

@@PacoWarabi dude you don't know how much this video made my day, you are awesome and love your style, keep doing this please.

[@PacoWarabi]

@@BFSarthur I'm so glad I made this video. I find it hilarious that I get so many compliments about an air conditioning installation video. It's essentially an instruction manual!

[@LeCathh]

So I just move and My landlord wanted to charge me $150 for installing my AC, I have been for a couple of weeks thinking how to do it myself till today when I just found this video! I showed to my husband and he went to Home Depot and now I have AC in my room in less than 2 hours and just $25 spend! Thank you for this video Omg

[@carontorliak2760]

What a legend, 11 year old video and still responding to comments.

[@PacoWarabi]

@@carontorliak2760 It would be even cooler if I were posting new videos . . .

[@perillat99]

​@@PacoWarabiyou should do a revised version of this video! I really liked and learned lots here but I want to frame around the whole window/AC unit to make it more sturdy and easier to attach plywood above unit

[@PacoWarabi]

@@perillat99 My original plan was to build an entire frame for the window. When I started building it, I realized I could accomplish the same effect with just the cross beam, and I've been using the same system for over a decade now. You're very welcome to come up with your own system and put it up on KZbin. But I'm not an air conditioner specialist - this was a hack that works well enough for my situation, so I'm sticking with it.

[@Kathryn.K]

How does that make the person a legend LOL? It all goes by when a person does Googling, it could be done a day after this video was made or 20 years later. Just because somebody is inputting something in Google that happens to relate to this person's video doesn't make this person a legend!

[@PacoWarabi]

@@Kathryn.K You know, if you don't agree with someone on the Internet, you can just not comment. Let them call me a legend if they want to. It's just their opinion, and makes me feel good. It was just a wholesome exchange - why take that away from us?

[@maryoneil1995]

THank YOU so much! I have been close to tears. I worked overtime to buy an a/c, then realized I would have to pay over a hundred dollars to hire someone to install it, and YOUR video makes me see how to do it myself, so easily, with the help of a family member. THANK YOU/ THANK YOU. THANK YOU!!!!!!!

[@PacoWarabi]

+M.T. O'Neil The number of times I've gotten this response . . . Seems like someone could make a fortune selling an a/c unit that fits in these windows. I was in the same boat as you, so I'm glad I came up with a simple way to install it.

[@phuque2]

I just got finished doing this myelf. Hard to believe how difficult it is to find an A/C unit for a sideways window. This worked really well and should be an easy 5 minute job to take it out for winter. Thank you!

[@courtneybeckel8901]

Thank you my friend. I followed your instructions exactly and made the most beautiful thing I've ever made. I am not a handy person but we were having another heat wave and I got an AC unit for free from my friend. You gave me the confidence I needed to try this simple and elegant solution. AWESOME

[@PacoWarabi]

That's so nice of you to say! I'm happy that I could make the heat wave more bearable.

[@potsasquatch1135]

Not only is this a helpful tutorial but there's a subtle silent comedy to this video and I love it.

[@PacoWarabi]

I've been in education for two decades, and spent six years as a clown. It's just how I roll . . .

[@208tristy]

8 years later and this was very helpful. Thank you. You also have a good sense of humor made me laugh a lil 😂👌

[@Shloopy420]

im just finding this now and very excited

[@PacoWarabi]

I still refer to it each year before I install my AC. Not bad for a video I slapped together in an afternoon!

[@Goo59ber]

Note from my neighbors here in Cactusland...ALWAYS turn the fan on for a couple of minutes before cold-starting any compressor. Same sequence in reverse for turning off. Cool off for a few minutes to let the compressor "rest" then the fan. I really like the simplicity of the box frame mount. Since I'm on the ground floor, I'll make the box more "secure." Great video and short, too. Just scored a freebie Zenith 5000t8! Luckily, I don't have direct sunlight on my window. Makes all the difference!

[@maxcapone3957]

Not all heroes wear capes. Some of them simply gift us with fantastic how to’s followed by cheesy puns. A thousand thanks, Paco! You are my hero!

[@thisnoteislegaltender]

I love how he’s replying to comments 11 years later. I literally used this video to install an air conditioner thank you so much! 😎👑

[@PacoWarabi]

@@thisnoteislegaltender You're very welcome! It's nice to know something I did 11 years ago is still helping people to this day.

[@thisnoteislegaltender]

@@PacoWarabi absolutely ty good sir 😎👑

[@akamego]

This is the reason KZbin used to be great 😢 Thank you for an entertaining & succinct tutorial!

[@NikJoCandy]

This was helpful AND hilarious! 😂 I’ve been suffering through summers with a fan because I don’t like the thought of putting plywood above an AC in my side-sliding windows, but decided this was going to be the year I treat myself to basic human comfort, and this video is just what I needed to get going. Thank you!

[@PacoWarabi]

It's amazing what a difference an AC unit makes. I can't imagine going back to pre-AC days now. Good luck!

[@samhart7184]

I have to post a comment. Last year I bought a window A/C unit like your's and I encountered the same problem. I couldn't figure out a way to get this thing to securely stay in the window. Well now that summer is upon us in SoCal (101 degrees in my car today) I needed to figure out a better way of putting this monster back into the window. Took me two seconds to find this video and within two hours of watching I'm golden. Thank you so much for the post!

[@PacoWarabi]

+Sam Hart I'm so glad this worked out for you, and I'm sorry about the temperature, especially in April!

[@RaidDad]

Watched this video last year and it did me wonders. Watched it again this year and it still holds true. Thank you again for this tutorial.

[@iamPeaceToy]

Ya know what? I just like everything about your idea, your video and you. At the beginning of the video - when you were finished talking about the A/C and kind of slunk down and walked across the camera, I thought; "was that just comedy genius I saw". Then I watched more and found out that in fact it was comedy genius. Your wife has truly found a gem of a man. And thanks for the helpful video too.

[@PacoWarabi]

Thanks! A lot of the stuff wasn't intentional, but when it got to the editing process, it was just funnier that way, so I left it in.

[@JT-qj3zm]

So I saw your video about 4 years ago and thank you. Best thing I ever did. Still using this method. Thank for the video.

[@PacoWarabi]

You're very welcome! I still use this method as well.

[@myparadiseing]

I appreciated the square piece of lumber going across the unit as a safety measure against it falling out the window.

[@whiskeyhangover1438]

That AC unit is amazing that it was able to give you a haircut and a shave in the last 4 seconds of the video.

[@MJ-zn7ly]

Thank you! I used this video to help me decide on purchasing an AC for a vertical window even though mine is horizontal. I didn't have to build a support structure for mine because it came with a support bracket. I also bought a plexiglass piece as mentioned here and followed the tips for closing any gaps. Day 1 and everything is cool 😎 here.

[@billsomen7953]

The name of your AC model please !

[@Morantula5]

This helped me in absolutely no way at all because I don’t think it would be safe in my upstairs apartment, but the video made my day. Have an ice day

[@PacoWarabi]

Glad you enjoyed the video, even if this method doesn't work for you. People have built frames that fill their entire window. They're much more secure (and more complicated to build), so something like that might be better in your situation. Good luck!

[@Morantula5]

I would try your method if my apartment complex didn’t have such strict rules. My window is pretty much identical to yours lol

[@PacoWarabi]

@@Morantula5 Ah man, I'm sorry. They don't have central air, but they won't allow an installation of a window AC unit. That does make things more difficult.

[@gamjc]

Bro-Han, we’ve got 100 degree weather in Everett, WA (north of Seattle) and this tutorial helped me and my dad fit it to the window and make adjustments on the fly. Just wanted to say thanks because this def worked and praying that it stays in (ours is a bit longer than yours). Ours is sitting in the sill though bc it has stoppers.

[@Lovelyy.Jessica]

Same lol I’m in port Orchard, WA and I’m dying in this heat 🥵 we currently have no AC.

[@janellee]

saaaaaame in seattle!

[@andyzhang5550]

Yeah I was wondering why one would need the bottom mount instead of just playing the AC unit directly in the sill. I'm thinking about just doing everything in this video except without the bottom mount?

[@PacoWarabi]

​@@andyzhang5550 Sure, if that works for your window. I didn't want to put all the weight of the AC unit on the cheap window frame, which is why I added the bottom mount.

[@obgamer8831]

We are all watching this today because of Covid19 + Heat wave combo in 2021. e.g. Seattle in 108 'F :(

[@spencer3432]

Portland

[@Kate-jf6zk]

Not me watching this for this exact reason in Seattle

[@zacharypeery4082]

I couldn't believe that supposedly only 33% of homes in Seattle have central ac

[@meowk5812]

Omg me too! We never have it this hot🥵

[@blaah9999]

@@zacharypeery4082 that feels like a high estimation… (32 living in Seattle since birth)

[@PacoWarabi]

Eric, Good questions. I think it's strong enough because while gravity is pushing it out the window, it has the entire 2x2 stopping that from happening. The screws they gave me to screw it into the window frame wouldn't have anything more than that. The velcro strips are Command Adhesive strips, which in my opinion, are plenty strong. The artist tape is basically masking tape, but made for artists. It's just higher quality. And finally, just keep in mind that your results may vary.

[@RichardTurlington]

Was so hot yesterday - the wife & I got into an argument about my wanting to go get an AC unit from Home Depot while she stayed at home with the kids. Realizing our snappyness was probably due to the heat I bought TWO AC units. Got home and realized there was no way to put them in without special hardware. Starting looking on Amazon - then found your video. I immediately headed back out the door to Home Depot with 20 minutes left before they closed. Though they didn't have 2x2's, I bought 1 3/8 x 1 3/8 instead and it worked well. I did the install of both units in under an hour. Couldn't have been more simple or cost effective. I too live in earthquake country, so I'll also be figuring out some type of secure strap that I'll bolt to a stud in the wall on the interior... but in the mean time, as you said, "Good enough!" One last thing, I live in an apartment and drilling into the casement windows is NOT an option. This solved that problem too. :) Thank you again!

[@Nativeraiin]

Did you guys kiss and make up? :)

[@RichardTurlington]

We don't kids and tell ;)

[@jacobjoygames3999]

That Air conditioner is so powerful, it blew his beard right off his face.

[@edpablo2635]

I like this video No fooling around just straightforward video on how to install an ac unit in a slider window

[@PacoWarabi]

Well, some fooling around. I mean, did you see beard part?

[@maryenge4357]

5 years and counting that we return to see Paco’s friendly face and follow his advice! (I never always forget one detail of the setup.) Supposedly we’ll have central air, soon, but I may still need to stop by here every summer! 😂

[@KevinDurette]

Thank you from Vancouver, Washington, just over the river from Portland. It's 97 here right now, breaking our old record high for June 4th by 7 degrees!

[@PacoWarabi]

I live just south of Portland, and we just put in our AC unit yesterday. We've been hiding out inside all day. And to think it was raining on Thursday...

[@matthewross7701]

Watching this in Newberg, OR. hahaha. local heatwave bringing us all together on youtube. hilarious!

[@amb5151]

Thank you, this is extremely helpful!! Just did this myself with very minimal tools (got the wood cut at Lowe's) and practically zero home improvement skills. Got it up and working in less than an hour. I'm still a little afraid of it falling out of the window but it seems sturdy for now!

[@sophiel362]

This video has a lot of Northwest vibes🌲"The weatherman said it might get ALL THE WAY UP TO °80 TODAY 😰😌" 😂

[@PacoWarabi]

I was coming home through southwest Oregon yesterday and it was 109 degrees, so I may have understated the max temperatures here . . .

[@englishrose4388]

Thank you. I appreciate that your method doesn’t damage the window.

[@PacoWarabi]

As a renter, that was one of my primary concerns.

[@JasonTolentino]

Bro I spent so much time on Amazon trying to figure this out. I needed something simple because I only use the A/C maybe like once a month out of the year. This saved me so much $$$

[@trixsta54]

For everyone who has this problem with these type of windows can try looking up "Vertical mount air-conditioner units" believe it or not they actually do have them. Same type of unit, same price range, but made for vertical windows. This video however is great and offers great ideas for those who already have these types of units and are good at doing all the modifications.

[@PacoWarabi]

+trixsta54 Thanks for the heads up. Where are you seeing them for comparable prices? The lowest price for vertical mount air conditioners that I can find on Amazon is the Kool King 10,000 BTU air conditioner, for $396. You can get a Frigidaire 5,000 BTU for $119, or a 10,000 BTU for $306. It seems like there are very few options for slider windows. I created this video originally because I bought my A/C without knowing the difference between types of units, and got the wrong kind. If I had followed your advice years ago, I could have saved myself all the work, but wouldn't have 350k views!

[@minrey5962]

i know it's been 4 years now but we are going to try it, your video seems to explain everything so easy. Besides there are many ways to secure a window and the ac unit.

[@mary-ellenwood310]

Best fix seen so far and easy to do, the 2-sided Velcro was genius

[@morehikes]

Great solution, I used a tray platform to support the unit outside the window. I will supplement the platform support with your 2x2 board on the top. Nicely presented video and thanks for the yearly followups.

[@drrl5166]

Seattle WA here thanks God we just got our 2 ACS!! WERE READY FOR SUMMER!!

[@jenlyman123]

I Loved your idea, third year using my set up and working fantastic. I did close the window as much as possible right up against AC (accordion flaps not used) and use a sliding window lock to keep the window from being opened. I used thinnner wood pieces for the top and bottom wood to keep the gaps smaller (I have a light LG unit). This has saved my upstairs office and I'm getting ready to do it for our upstairs bedroom and get rid of our loud portable unit - yay! Thank you for sharing!

[@PacoWarabi]

I'm so glad this helped! If I were to do it again, I'd skip the accordion flaps. But since the plexiglass is already the right size, I just put them on year after year. Thumbs up for the modifications. I don't know what I'm doing, and I never intended people to copy my setup exactly. Just what I figured out when I was desperate.

[@gerrygianan2269]

QUIRKY! Dood, my coworkers and I enjoyed watching this twice. Thanks for the thorough instruction and sealant ideas! Keep up the great work and Thanks PACO!!!

[@TechOutAdam]

Beyond a pain in the rear having these windows in a house. Really, 2021 and no one can invent an a/c unit for these windows? lol

[@zacharyirving5080]

they exist, they just cost an arm and a leg.

[@zacharypeery4082]

It's really pretty basic, you don't have to think too much to do it.

[@nataliem1292]

This was really helpful. Thank you for taking the time to make this video. I almost bought one of those portable ac units to fit in my horizontal window even though I have a window unit from my last apartment. I’m glad I found this!

[@PacoWarabi]

I realized when I made this six years ago that if I was having trouble finding a solution, others probably were, too.

[@Madronaxyz]

We chuckled at the start of your video because 80F looks pretty cool to most of us in the western US right now. I'm in the Seattle area, where houses are built for neither extreme heat or extreme cold. And we've been getting both. Over 100 for days in a row. It's a great tutorial and hopefully we'll be able to put your advice to successful effect tomorrow.

[@meowJACK]

It's not very empathetic to chuckle at someone's suffering. Just because you are experiencing worse temperatures, doesn't mean that the suffering of others should be laughed at. 80F with no AC can still be very very uncomfortable, there's no need to laugh at people going through that

[@PacoWarabi]

Also, not to brag, but it got up to 117 here this last summer.

[@KentQuickstad]

@@meowJACK 80F with no A/C is objectively less suffering than 100F with no A/C, so not really sure what your statement here is trying to convey... Also to be fair, 80 degrees is extremely manageble with box fans in the windows exhausting hot air out of the house at night. 100 degrees is a different story completely...

[@TheOzthewiz]

The DEWPOINT is what REALLY matters. Here in Wisconsin (central), we can have 80degree temperature with a dewpoint in low 70s, sweat will drip from your face WHILE you are sitting. For us OLD FOLKS it even gets hard to breath!

[@PacoWarabi]

The bottom support was to keep the AC from resting badly on the window ledge. I tried without, and it looked like it might damage the plastic frame or the AC unit. And the tape instead of screws were both to stop any airflow, and because we're renting and didn't want to drill into the cheap plastic window frame. Your AC unit/ home situation will probably be different, so the techniques will be different as well. Thanks for the feedback.

[@davidinseattle2008]

Thanks Paco👍🏽! My girlfriend and I followed your advice and 40 minutes later we were having an "ice day" in 92 degree Seattle 😀

[@carlosvargas4449]

THANKS TO YOUR ADVISE I PLACE A AC FOR MY DAUTHERS ROOM TODAY 07/22/2021 THANKS AGAIN, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FROM SOME BODY THAT REALLY APRECIATE YOUR ADVISE IN WHITTIER CALIFORNIA

[@Butterfly8j8]

Wow ! you did that the hard way dude. I made a plexi-glass window in its own frame that fits perfectly in the window casing slots without having to use the cheap plastic side wings. I do have a crossbar to hold the top of the air conditioner also. NO gaps, slide the air conditioner in and out with ease, painted to match the window, and three screw ( I drilled holes at either end of metal air conditioner top metal bar. People think that I special ordered this with an airconditioner built in ) . Tee Hee, if they only knew the truth I'd be making this for everybody.

[@PacoWarabi]

C Sonier Nice idea! I would love to see a video of your design. How did you cut the plexiglass to fit perfectly?

[@bobbritt5904]

I'm w/ Paco, could you (C Sonier) make a video, or post a link to a still photo?

[@pastaramen9596]

You sir are a genius.I made the same thing today, worked like a charm.I did shave some wood off the 2x2 on top channel to fit inside the bracket a bit deeper.

[@PacoWarabi]

Thank you kindly. My original plan was much more complicated, but when I got to this step, I decided there was no point in adding the rest of the lumber and hardware.

[@davidmarek7281]

Thanks so much! I just bought an AC unit for our master, since it is going to be about 110-115 this week. We had a hell of a time trying to figure something out to keep it sturdy, this looks like a great idea! Will try tonight!

[@PacoWarabi]

Did it work? 115 is just way too hot.

[@Staplegun]

It's incredible how the AC was able to release your hair from it's knot, and even gave you a nice clean shave! :D

[@PacoWarabi]

I paid a premium for that feature. That's why I had to build the frame myself!

[@TheOzthewiz]

My Frigidaire 10 KBTU blows my 'toupe' off on the highest fan speed!

[@richard-ux7kh]

At the moment I'm saying this is the BEST DYI video ever...THANK YOU Dude!

[@PacoWarabi]

Thanks Dude! That's one of the best responses ever!

[@NoVictimHere71]

PacoWarabi I'm giving this a shot

[@Turtisland]

Still replying to comments after 7 years!! Respect!!

[@PacoWarabi]

It's a habit I just can't seem to break.

[@HalleJane]

thank you so much for your video.among the 100s,yours was short and simple.i needed to install my air conditioner with this 109F(43C) degrees!! you saved my life!

[@stevenmorgans931]

That part about using plexiglass, never thought of that! I've held off getting one of these because I see so many installed with plywood above. I also like that you made it completely removable after the 7 or 8 days a year that it's actually hot enough to need one in the PNW.

[@PacoWarabi]

Steven Morgans I saw the same thing with the plywood. I wasn't willing to lose that much light, so plexiglass seemed the way to go. We use ours for a whole month in Oregon. Must be hotter here :-)

[@PacoWarabi]

Kody Petkovich Yeah, it's time for some A/C.

[@maudyswisher9275]

Min 4:24 when the AC so cool it lets his hair down. Job well done.

[@jadenkim1654]

and gives him a clean shave 😂

[@codyhelm1174]

Just tried this and it worked perfectly with just a few liberties taken by me. Thanks for the great idea man

[@PacoWarabi]

Very happy it worked, and very happy you made your own modifications. This was never meant to be followed exactly!

[@hannahdine2973]

I just spent $52 on a bracket and spent an hour and a half putting that together only to realize this bracket will not work in my window 😫😭. Now I am going to have to trade in the bracket for the wood and other pieces to do this. I wish I had found this video 2 hours ago! Either way I appreciate the how to!

[@PacoWarabi]

Sorry I couldn't have gotten to you sooner. But to be fair, I did post this six years ago.

[@mollyjr3]

We attempted to use two different brackets trying to get our small window to work and was about to give up on the window altogether when I found this video and it is 100x more stable than any of the brackets, less gaps overall very happy to have given this hack a try. Thanks! Saving lives and sanity

[@PacoWarabi]

Oh yay! Since we're renting, brackets weren't even an option, but glad that this works even better. It was in the 40s today in Oregon, so it's not even close to AC season yet. Stay cool!

[@PacoWarabi]

As long as it doesn't fall out of the window and kill you (no guarantees that my design will stop that from happening). . . But seriously, thanks for the compliment. It's nice to know that it's making a difference.

[@kdl8932]

Great vid! Thanks for taking the time to make it... helps dummies like me.

[@kaiconic]

Summer of 2022 and this is actually immensely helpful-- thank you

[@PacoWarabi]

Oh yes it was. This is the summer I broke 2 million views, and for good reason.

[@Overton_Windows]

Plexiglass instead of plywood is a great call. I wouldn’t have thought of that.

[@JordanOMara]

I used this exact method to install 2 window units in my townhouse. Great instructions!

[@PacoWarabi]

I believe it's the Frigidaire FRA052XT7 5,000-BTU Mini Window Air Conditioner. It's the #1 bestseller on Amazon, has good reviews, and is currently under $120. I don't know if I'd trust my hack to an AC unit much larger than this, but it seems to be holding up pretty well.

[@1christine1001]

I closed the windo to contact the air-conditioned, and but a 1"×1" to prevent the window from opening wider. That eliminates the need for the plastic sides that accordion open. Made a screen for the remaining window so I can remove the plexiglass and get a some fresh air in the room.

[@PacoWarabi]

Great modifications. If I were to do it again, I'd remove the accordion wings as well, and I love the idea of adding the screen. Way to take the basic idea and make it better!

[@last7509]

You have saved my life sir. And all of humanity.

[@PacoWarabi]

AC makes such a huge difference. I may have not been the first person to do this, but I was among the first to put it up on KZbin. I'm glad this is helpful.

[@randhawakaran22]

Hey man thanks u are an inspiration i had my ac sitting and waiting to be installed, but than i watched ur video and intatalled it myself in less than 5 mins

[@christopherjones6273]

Thank you so much for this, I feel so much better about life now and I am so glad you are alive and that there are people like you out there! THANKS

[@PacoWarabi]

Well thank you! That was a very kind thing to say. I try to make videos when I search for things and can't find what I'm looking for, or see a new way of doing things. I'm glad that some of them really fill a need, like this video did.

[@MimsymomerathShop]

This looks like a solid plan to me! Better than any of the other videos I watched.

[@rockycolo340]

How do you make sure the a/c tilts down so that it drains properly? I am so glad I found your video. I am a renter and landlord gave permission to install a window a/c in slider window. So happy to do it without permanently modifying the window.

[@new-knowledge8040]

My apartment windows are also side sliding windows. The total height of the window, was twice the height of the air conditioner. So what I did was remove the side expansion panels, bolted the two of them together, and mounted them on top of the air conditioner. They were a tad bit taller than the air conditioner, and so they also fit into the window slide notch at the top, and thus were being properly held in place. Fortunately, when bolted together, they were exactly the same width as the air conditioner, plus a tad bit more. That allowed the panel to also fit into the window slide notch at at one side, and thus it was again being held firmly in place. Once finished, I just slid the slide window on over to meet up with the air conditioner and the bolted side panels. Job done. The way in which the conditioner itself was mounted for stability, took a little bit of work. But, it is basically Earthquake proof, and it required no additional parts. Everything I used had come with the conditioner.

[@PacoWarabi]

Very nice! That would make a great video as an alternative to my technique. I like that you don't need all the extra wood in your system, which doesn't just require the wood, but woodworking tools as well.

[@new-knowledge8040]

It seemed bizarre that the extra odds and ends that came with the conditioner for different vertical sliding window types, was all that I needed to make it mount to a horizontal sliding window type. Drill a few holes, bend a piece of metal, and that was about it. I had to make sure that it was mounted rock solid because below my window is an apartment entry door. But that position also meant that water would be dripping on peoples heads as they enter. So I took an old dead AC adapter and turned it into a sort of square cup. This cup catches the water than drips out of the air conditioner. From the square cup, I have a rubber tube that redirects the water flow off to a safe area. With is set up, I can at any time pull the air conditioner from its frame to service it or clean the inside. Otherwise I would have to get a ladder to disconnect the tube on the outside first, and do the same again to reconnect it later on.

[@PacoWarabi]

I really want to see a video of your setup. It sounds like you came up with a very elegant solution.

[@new-knowledge8040]

imgur.com/a/DEDBtcP My apartment window is divided into a large upper window, and a smaller lower window, which is where I mounted the air conditioner. I took the two expanding side panels, bolted them together, and placed them above the conditioner, and it was a perfect fit. So the window is completely filled. Sliding the sliding window, which is on the left side, on over to meet up with the conditioner, is what takes care of matching the air conditioner width. On the outside, there is a cement ledge, so I have two adjustable posts that sit on the ledge. In turn, there is no force being applied to the window. On the left side of the air conditioner, there is a white "U" channel. The sliding window handle actually can be moved up and down, and so I moved it down such that is mostly inside the "U" channel. It's a snug fit, and so that keeps the sliding window always in its proper place.

[@new-knowledge8040]

Recently my air conditioner developed a growth of slippery slimy clear goo that led to blockage of water flow. But problem solved. I gave it a dose of mouth wash, and that killed the slippery transparent goo.

[@anthonyfxbb9040]

This is gonna come in handy today! Going to be 109 this Friday in Fontana Ca! 🥵 thanks for the tip!

[@PacoWarabi]

@@anthonyfxbb9040 We just got ours installed again last night, and I went back and watched my own video to remember how to do it. We're hitting 100 degrees in the next couple of days, so it was about time!

[@smang7866]

Napa valley ca here, I managed to survive the 118 on Wednesday. I finally found an ac unit small but mighty enough to fit in my 15 in, side sliding window, to be delivered today. Thanks for the vid cuz no one else understood the assignment 🤣

[@parkdaniel3980]

Hey bro..im in rialto...and doing the same thing hahaha

[@anthonyfxbb9040]

@@parkdaniel3980 it’s hot today! Stay cool out there!

[@HumiEddington]

So far, this is the easiest way of encasing an ac with a sliding window. Thank for the info.

[@PacoWarabi]

You're very welcome

[@jamaliadai4561]

Out of all videos I’ve watched, you’ve made it look so simple. I’m currently waiting to hear back from the owner of my house to see if they can arrange installing a split AC. If not, this might be an alternative 😩 Australian summers are deadly honestly. It’s 100 degrees and I can’t believe this house doesn’t have an AC.

[@PacoWarabi]

I lived in a place that regularly got over 100 degrees. I feel your pain. I much prefer where I live now, where 100 degrees is unusual. Glad this video was useful. Keep cool!

[@johnmimms9167]

i love the end of the video. he is silly!

[@kathiejl1]

Short, sweet, easy-to-understand and funny! Just how I like my How To videos! Thank you Very Much! Bravo!

[@PacoWarabi]

Thanks! You should see my Scotch Broom basketry video. Long, hopefully easy to understand, but boring. I guess it's sweet?

[@Vynyard]

Thank you!!!! You totally gave me the confidence to try this. I got it done!

[@PacoWarabi]

@@Vynyard That is absolutely wonderful! Having an AC unit is a life changer. So glad this helped!

[@randykidd5549]

Paco is an incredibly creative guy. This is done with an eye for craftsmanship.

[@PacoWarabi]

Thanks! I don't know how much slapping a few pieces of wood together count as craftsmanship, but I'll take it!

[@shanegates6329]

Also in Oregon, ty for this guide, I did the same thing (ordered a fridgidaire off Amazon in a fit of heat induced mania at 3 am) and am now preparing to chill myself

[@PacoWarabi]

Our first summer here, we made it with no A/C, and then decided it wasn't worth trying to control temperature with just opening windows. Good thing these last few days, with the near record temperatures and then not opening windows last night due to the smoke. We've been running the AC nonstop.

[@Soulzjd2]

5 plus years and is still a common issue, someone needs to invent something for this issue and make millions :P

[@PacoWarabi]

Seriously. Too bad I have no stomach for business.

[@josegarza5103]

Yes I need a better solution

[@SouthofIllusion]

I love how you let your hair down at the end Also this is one of the most useful videos on KZbin. Thanks! My wall mounted AC broke weeks ago and landlords won't get off their lazy butts to fix it. Came into a window unit for free but only have side opening windows and it's still over 100° here. This looks totally doable (and damage free for a renter like me!) 😊

[@PacoWarabi]

As a fellow renter, I fully empathize. It's why I put the video up in the first place! I like to joke about how my most popular video is about air conditioner installation, but it really is very important information to have out there.

[@SweetHart..]

My housemate built a frame for ours. Worked perfectly and protected the back part of the air conditioner from the rain. Put it in the window in late Spring and left in there until Fall. The frame fit in the window perfectly with plastic window above the conditioner.

[@jonnycrono8694]

Look at him, enjoying the air on his face like a satisfied DIY enthusiast. Haha nice job man. Thank you for this useful video. :D

[@Massachusettshvacandmore]

Best video I’ve seen on how to install a window air conditioner into a sliding window.

[@PacoWarabi]

Thanks! I was just trying to figure out something that would work, and decided to share it. Glad I did.

[@williamcostello5231]

@@PacoWarabi hey, is the 1x6 crucial for structural integrity? Was thinking about skipping that and just using a 2x2 as the ledge part. It still creates a small incline with just the 2x2. Thanks again!

[@slydegaming1932]

Plexiglass looks a lot better than plywood too.

[@hunnybee271]

While turning it on he had a bun and facial and after he didn’t 😭😭if my a/c don’t clean me up like that I don’t want it

[@PacoWarabi]

It's all about the details. Check the reviews before you buy.

[@lorrief.257]

😂😂😂😂

[@Reggeroni]

Thanks very much for making this video. I followed your directions step by step and.. viola! It came out el perfecto!

[@NoMoreNoob1]

Awesome solution for someone looking to install into a rental and the fact that it is all very temporary makes it ideal for folks like myself who are renting.

[@PacoWarabi]

That's why I did it. I couldn't make any permanent changes to the house that I'm renting, so everything being removable was what I needed.

[@asilreyom5191]

I like this guy! No long drawn out preliminaries just straight to the point! Thanks! Oh and he's funny too.... Now I just need to get a husband who can do these types of things around the house.

[@PacoWarabi]

Lisa Moyer I'm glad I could help with the air conditioner, but I wouldn't be so good helping you find a husband. That's a little more complicated . . .

[@marywemigwase3354]

Oh my god there is hope for my oven apt yet! Thanks for your time

[@PacoWarabi]

I was so excited when I got my AC, and so disappointed when I realized it wouldn't fit in the window. Hope this hack helps you find a way to make it work. Air conditioning is amazing!

[@lostpockets222]

I don't understand why they don't just make one that works for sliding windows

[@kendallconstable7861]

its so frustrating

[@frostflower5555]

Yea most homes aren't made in 1950.

[@dannyhunter607]

They do make them for horizontal sliding windows. Just look up horizontal sliding window air conditioner.

[@lostpockets222]

@@dannyhunter607 No they don't. I have looked it up. All the Window AC units require custom framework to work with sliding windows. I have seen one model that fits, but it still lacks the vertical support. It can work with sliding windows, but it's not long enough to fit most windows vertically. This could be solved by including a window shade. Interestingly, I have seen traditional Window AC units come with additional window shades to block air from the Left and Right. But I have not seen any modern AC unit that works with sliding windows..

[@dannyhunter607]

That's funny because I just looked it up 5 seconds ago and found an entire page of nothing but windows that fit in a horizontal slider. and by the way, I work on and install Windows for a living and I can tell you that they make Windows for horizontal slider AKA a casement window. Just because you're too lazy to do the research, doesn't mean it doesn't exist.

[@michellesimpsons356]

Thank you. I never thought about the plexiglass. I’am so excited to try this myself. wish me luck. .

[@PacoWarabi]

Good luck!

[@PacoWarabi]

I think it was somewhere around twenty bucks. I got the thinner plexiglass instead of the thicker one, because I mainly just wanted to fill the space. It seems to insulate well enough.

[@calvinphan6030]

Thanks for sharing your idea to install window A/C. It works out great. No damage to my window.

[@PacoWarabi]

+Calvin Phan You're very welcome. In another week or so, it will be time to take it down again, and it's still going strong after three summers.