How to Install Portable Air Conditioner in Sliding Door
Do you have a sliding glass door that leads to your patio? If so, you may be looking for ways to cool off when the summer heat gets too oppressive. Installing a portable air conditioner in your sliding door is an excellent way to keep calm and enjoy your deck or patio even more. This blog post will give you all the details on installing a portable air conditioner on a sliding door.
Before we start, please note that manufacturers do not recommend installing a portable air conditioner in a sliding door and may void warranties. This blog post will give you information on the process but should not be considered an official recommendation or guide.
There are risks associated with installing any AC into a window or wall, so it’s up to you whether you want to do this project at home! If you’re sure about it, then let’s get started.
Things to Consider Before Installing Portable Air Conditioner in Sliding Door:
The portable AC can be installed in the sliding door. First, however, it is essential to check whether the door is strong enough to hold this appliance or not. It may also pose a problem to shut and open these doors with this extra weight.
So before installing it there, carefully examine the door for its strength and weight-bearing capacity.
1. Consider the Size of the Unit:
The size of the unit is the most important consideration. The window AC can be installed in a sliding door, but it must be the right size for the door. It should not be too small or big for the door. Ensure that the unit is neither too tight inside the door nor leave free space, making it rattle due to vibration.
2. Fixations:
Make sure to fix the unit with screws and bolts, as these are easy to install and remove. If required, you can also use zip ties for a temporary solution until you find a permanent one.
3. Check the Fit and Finish:
The entire AC unit should be fitted so that it lies flat on the door, without any space between them. The unit should not extend beyond the door as this will make it rattle when opened or closed. If you find all parts fitting perfectly and no rattling sound, you can go ahead and install it.
4. Secure the Unit from Thieves:
When going on a vacation, make sure you fix a wire or a chain to secure the unit from thieves. This will help protect your unit and save some space when traveling with it. You can keep it in storage or even in the garage if there is enough space.
5. Cleaning:
The sliding door can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Try to keep the AC away from dust and debris, as it will stick on its surface even if you use window cleaners like Windex on it. If there are any external vents, ensure they are not blocked by insects or lizards that might get inside the unit.
6. Caution:
If you are using an extension cord to power the AC, ensure that it is not placed under any heavy furniture, which might get dragged due to vibrations, thus breaking the line and creating an electrical shock hazard for its users.
7. Ventilation of Hot Air:
When installing window ac in the sliding door, ensure it is not installed directly facing the sun. If this happens, then there is a possibility that the hot air will be blown into your room.
Step by Step Guide: How to Install Portable Air Conditioner in Sliding Door
Step 1: Measure the Size of Your Portable AC Unit.
Before buying an air conditioner, ensure it will fit in your window securely. You can get help with installation if you need to cut the hole in your wall. However, you cannot return a portable air conditioner if you do not like how it looks in your window. So first, measure your AC unit’s width, length and height using a tape measure or ruler.
Step 2: Find the Perfect Location in Your Window
The A/C unit should fit evenly in your window with a couple of inches of space on each side. Place bricks or wooden blocks under the air conditioner to make it sit level with the window sill. If you use an extension cord, plug it into an electrical outlet behind your couch or desk. This will serve as the A/C unit’s power source.
Step 3: Drill Holes in Your Window Frame.
If you are hanging your portable AC on a window without an existing frame, drill two holes through the center of the window pane. Make one hole larger than the other so it is easier to slide the adaptor into place later.
Step 4: Thread the Cord Through Your Window’s Frame.
Feed the power cord through one hole in your window frame. Pull it all the way out from that opening and then thread it back into your other window frame. Make sure you leave a foot or two of excess cord to work with later on.
Step 5: Prime the Holes for Successful Installation
Using a cotton swab or Q-tip, apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the outside edge of the hole in your window frame. Apply petroleum jelly to the inside edge of both holes so that you can easily push through them. This will also remove any paint buildup on the window frame.
Step 6: Attach a Power Adapter.
Insert the power cord through your window’s hole and press the two sides of the adaptor together. This will make a clicking sound, or you can push down on one side to snap it into place. Once the power adapter is inside your window, remove the excess cord from the back of your window using a pair of scissors.
Step 7: Insert Your A/C Unit In.
Hold your AC unit outside of the window and slide it in from the top corner. Slowly lower it until it is between one and two inches from the sill. Then, tilt it up to secure it between the window and the sill.
Step 8: Plugin Your Air Conditioner and Enjoy!
Plug your extension cord into an electrical outlet above your couch or desk. Then, turn on your air conditioner and enjoy the cool breeze!
Conclusion:
Several considerations need to be made if you are looking to install a portable air conditioner in your sliding door. First, the unit’s height should not exceed 19 inches from floor level, or it will interfere with the closing and opening operation of the door. Secondly, install the unit on an exterior wall so that condensation doesn’t drip onto interior furnishings and carpets inside your home.
And finally, always use safety precautions when handling electrical equipment like this! We hope these tips on how to install a portable air conditioner in sliding doors help you find success installing a portable air conditioner in your sliding doors without any issues down the line!
