How do you store a window air conditioner?

Answer 1

Window air conditioner units should be removed from a window for the winter, mainly to cut back on cold drafts but also to prolong the life of the air conditioner. The best place to store an A/C unit is in the basement, not the garage.

After removing the unit, you can also clean the air conditioner by taking it outside, removing the cabinet and spraying down the insides with a garden hose (or follow the manufacturer's suggestions).

When ready to store, place the air conditioner in a large plastic bag - such as a heavy-duty trash bag - to keep it dust free. Put it on blocks up off of the floor, especially if you tend to get water in your basement. Be careful not to damage the fragile coils or fins.

If removal is impractical, wrap the exterior of the unit in a canvas or plastic bag made for air conditioners to lessen drafts and protect the unit. These bags are available at home improvement stores. You may also need to seal the interior of the window with a weather-stripping kit to further prevent drafts. Most adhere to the window via an adhesive strip or are melted on with a heat source such as a hair dryer.

In mild southern climates, such as Florida, Texas and coastal California, window air conditioners may be left in place the year 'round, although you may want to cover them as described above.