Yet again another idiotic question from me about a Window A/C.

[haugy]

I've got newer style windows the flip out, and allow you to clean them easily. As well as easily remove the lower sash.

The lower sash is on the inside of the window, it slides up in the window.

With my windows, if I leave the sash in, I can only get a 6500btu unit in.

With the lower sash removed, I can fit a 12,000 btu unit. I'd obviously like to have the bigger one for 1200 sq/ft shop. My question is, can I do this?

There is a front lip on the window where the sash snugs into. Does the A/C fit behind that little lip? Because without it my opening is 16", and the A/C requires minimum 15.5". So that seems that it would fit well.

I think I could slide the side vents to close off the sides, and put pipe insulation above and below to seal off the bottom and top. That lip at the bottom would keep water out.

 

[lzenglish]

I would go with the one ton unit, verses the half ton. Either way, you will be a little shy trying to cool your 1200 sqft space, depending on your insulation, and internal heat load. I would not let the unit rest on the sash lip, but add a shim to allow the unit to sit flat on it. I have not installled one in years, but when I did, I always made sure the unit extended inside to at least even with the inside wall, and was secured with a bracket, to keep it from slipping outward. Then, make sure you let the rear drop slightly off level so the condensate can drain freely. Your "closed cell" foam idea should work fine to seal the gaps, and keep the water out. Good Luck!

Wayne

 

[nehog]

I had a similar problem with my office in the basement of the house. I ended up with a piece of wood along the bottom of the upper window sash, removed the lower one (and the storm window). I used duct tape on the seams to make it air-tight. It worked well, and many summers I do install this AC if I'm going to be doing desk work (like writing books and such.)

 

[haugy]

Thanks guys, I'll be doing some creative shim work and bracing for sure. I plan on using an A/C leg (brace) as well to hold the 80lb sucker in place.

Just wanted to hear if I was insane or not.

 

[WVBrady]

I would shim it so that any condensate will drain to the outside. We have had a couple of instances where this was not noticed until the drywall was damaged.