Window AC too tall for the bottom window, remove top window and close with.....what??

[haugy]

Yet again, learning lesson on my shop. I put in 3x3 windows not thinking about the size of the A/C unit that I planned to put in. The sliding window allows a 15.5" gap. Which will get me up to 12,000 BTU. Not too bad, but was hoping to put in an 18,000 BTU A/C unit. I have the 240 plug already in place for it.

I know I can remove the top and bottom windows with some work. And then the AC will fit. But what can I use that won't look like total **** to close off the remaining gap above the ac? I thought about some plywood with a small piece of siding to cover it and help it blend with the outer wall. I also have to worry about sealing it up tight too.

Thoughts? Has anyone done this before?

 

[domain]

Hmm. Would it be possible to frame in a smaller window above the unit? I would look into that if it were my shop.

 

[p_mori7]

go get a piece of clear plexiglass at Home Depot or Lowes.

 

[787B]

Is mounting the A/C through the wall not an option? 18k is mighty big to be hanging out a window IMHO.

What about twin 10k's? More total capacity, fit your windows, run on 120, stage the thermostats so just one running will keep it cool and dehumidified, with the secondary available on really hot days and when you want to cool it "right now!".

 

[haugy]

I don't think I could frame in a proper window for closure.

The plexiglass is not a bad idea.

I thought about doing two 12,000's. I've got a mounting location for a support leg for weight. I will be doing one for whichever AC unit I get.

 

[rickairmedic]

How about framing in a Glass Block window in the opening left above the AC unit .

Rick

 

[KCarGuy]

My House is an Older Home with Hot water in the floor radiators.
Great for winter...but no forced Air.

So every Year we have to break out Window Air Conditioners and Put them in.
In the Back room (a 3 season room) we have crank out windows (3 high and 3 across) on 2 walls.

every year, I remove one of the windows and I have a special cut 5/8" Painted Plywood board that fits into place. (it has the proper sized hole cut out for the unit, with extra bracing). The Unit goes in and it screwed to the board, then a 2" foam board fits around it to seal it even more.

Strong, Sealed, Silent, looks good on the inside as well as the outside.
The others are alot easier.
Good luck!

 

[haugy]

My House is an Older Home with Hot water in the floor radiators.
Great for winter...but no forced Air.

So every Year we have to break out Window Air Conditioners and Put them in.
In the Back room (a 3 season room) we have crank out windows (3 high and 3 across) on 2 walls.

every year, I remove one of the windows and I have a special cut 5/8" Painted Plywood board that fits into place. (it has the proper sized hole cut out for the unit, with extra bracing). The Unit goes in and it screwed to the board, then a 2" foam board fits around it to seal it even more.

Strong, Sealed, Silent, looks good on the inside as well as the outside.
The others are alot easier.
Good luck!

Any chance of getting a picture? I think I see what you're describing in my head. But my brain is also fried.