As the Fourth of July holiday weekend approaches, Americans are preparing for a weeklong heatwave. The National Weather Service recommends wearing light clothing, staying hydrated, and ensuring access to air-conditioning or other cooling areas. For those in older homes or apartments without central air, window air conditioning units are a common alternative.
Darcy Carbone, vice-president of sales at APA HVAC Technologies, explains that these units cool, circulate, filter and dehumidify air. Robert Polchinski, a professor at the New York City College of Technology, notes that most people choose window units because they are affordable. Double-hung windows are most suited for these units, while portable ACs may be better for windows that crank outward, though they are typically more expensive and less effective.
Proper maintenance is key to longevity and safety. Clean the filter at the beginning of the season by removing the front panel, washing it with mild dish detergent, and rinsing. Polchinski advises washing filters once a year, or more often in dirty environments. Check the evaporator and condenser coils using a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove dust and debris before installing the unit.
Condensation must drain properly to prevent issues like mould or mosquito breeding. Some units require a level position, while others need a slight backward tilt. Incorrect storage can damage the compressor; store the unit upright when not in use. Amy Li, an assistant professor at the University of Waterloo, warns that poor drainage can lead to mould growth.
Window unit filters catch dust and dander but do not act as air purifiers unless specifically designed. Brent Stephens, a professor at Illinois Institute of Technology, notes that these filters do not remove particles very effectively. Additionally, window units do not draw fresh air from outside, which can increase indoor carbon dioxide levels.
