Remodeling a Home

Window-mounted air conditioning units are both convenient and inexpensive, and they are ideal for use in smaller areas such as outdoor workshops or basements. Modern day window units are designed to be efficient and use condensate to cool the evaporator coil; however, since the condensate doesn't drain, it can accumulate to higher-than-normal levels in humid climates and create leaks. If you live in a humid climate and use a window unit for your air conditioning needs, you should take extra care to prevent possible leaks. Below is what you can do:

Be sure your window unit is properly tilted

Your window unit should be installed so it has a slight tilt toward the back end; the manual will specify how much tilt should be present. If water leaks from the front side of your unit and runs down the inside of the wall, then it is possible the unit is not properly installed.

To correct the problem, revisit the installation procedure described in the instruction manual. Be sure the proper installation technique and materials were used, and remove and reinstall the unit from the beginning if necessary.

If you can't find a problem with your installation, then it is possible the surrounding window frame or sash isn't level. In that case, you will need to add a thin strip of plastic or metal in the bottom of the frame or sash to force the front end up. If the unit has bracing to help support the weight, adjust the bracing to pull the rear end downward; however, be careful not to unbalance the unit and cause it to slip or even fall from its mount.

Drill drainage holes

For some units in certain climates, a proper tilt may not be sufficient to prevent problems. In optimal conditions, the condensate inside the window unit will be splashed inside the unit and evaporate. However, since the rate of evaporation slows when ambient humidity levels are high, your unit may not be able to dispose of all the accumulated condensate in a timely manner. This means you will need to add supplemental drainage to your unit so the accumulating water can be removed.

It is a simple procedure to add supplemental drain holes, but you will need to exercise care to avoid damaging your unit. Begin by turning off and unplugging your air conditioner to prevent possible electrical shocks. Next, drill three ¼-inch holes in the bottom end of the back side of the unit. Be careful not to drill the holes too deeply to avoid drilling into the internal parts.

Periodically clean the unit

Another way to prevent an over-accumulation of condensate is to clean the internal parts of the unit on a regular basis. If the evaporator coils are dirty, then the splashing condensate will not evaporate due to the insulating effect that dirt has on the coils. In addition, dirty internal parts will also cause the condensate to become filled with debris and will result in clogged drain holes, if they are present.

To prevent this problem, begin by unplugging the air conditioner and allow the internal components to cool down. Next, locate the sheet metal screws holding the top cover in place and remove them. Carefully lift the cover off the unit's housing and set it aside.

Inside the unit, use a soft cloth to wipe down the coils and other parts. However, be careful not to damage the delicate fins that cover the coils. Once you have wiped it down, use a water hose set to a low flow rate to rinse down the parts, but be sure not to aim the flow into any area containing electrical components. Following that, inspect the drain holes to see if they are plugged, and push a piece of wire through the holes to remove any clogs present. After you finish, replace the top cover and plug the unit back into the outlet.

For more information, or for help with maintenance, work with a local air conditioning company like Jones Air Conditioning & Electric.