Air Conditioning Options When You Have Casement Windows

Casement windows have a unique structure that doesn’t typically accommodate the basic window air conditioner. There are air conditioning options for you, though, so don’t lose hope when the temperatures outside begin to soar. There are just a few steps you need to take before you’ll be living in the lap of luxury with your deliciously cool, air conditioned home.

What is a Casement Window?

First, you should probably know what makes a casement window different from others. The defining feature of a casement window is that they are hinged on the sides and open out instead of up. There is usually a lever that needs to be cranked in order to open the window, and they usually don’t open fully. Instead, they open as far as the arm attached to it will go, making casement windows less than ideal for those who need a window air conditioning unit to cool their homes. It’s not a completely hopeless situation, however. There are units that will work, it’ll just take a little more effort on your part to find the perfect fit.

Measure Your Window

Now that you’re sure you have a casement window, you’ll want to measure it so you can find the air conditioner that will fit best. Knowing the right size will cut down on how much extra insulation you’ll need, and makes for a more efficient unit. After measuring your window and looking into your options, you may decide a window unit is not the best option. If that’s the case, consider using another window in your home or find an alternate solution, such as using ceiling fans, putting up with the heat or installing a forced air system.

Window Air Conditioner

Most window air conditioners are not made specifically for casement windows. However, there are several companies out there that carry casement window air conditioners. Just like other window air conditioners, they are easy enough to install yourself, simply follow the instructions given with the unit. Be sure to read the product description to make sure you find the right size air conditioner for the room or house you’re trying to cool. If you get a unit that’s too large, you’ll be wasting energy, but if you get one that’s too small, your room will never reach the desired temperature. Do your homework before making such a big purchase. There is a window air conditioner out there that’s right for you.

Features

What features do you want your air conditioner to have? There are several options out there. You can have a remote controlled air conditioner that you can change from across the room, or you can have a unit that shuts off after so many hours to save on energy. Some will reach a certain temperature and shut off, and others may have varying fan settings to move the air faster or slower. These are all things you should consider before purchasing your ideal window air conditioner. Other things you’ll want to look at is how many kilowatt hours the unit uses so you know how much your energy bill may raise with the installation of this new unit, if it’s a two or three prong plug in and/or if you will need to add another circuit to your circuit breaker to handle the added power of this machine.

Weatherproofing is Key to Success

If you want your new window air conditioning unit for your casement window to work as efficiently as possible, you must weatherproof it. Foam insulation works well for most units, but you might want to do a little bit more. If it’s going to be a permanent attachment, consider sealing it with a clear sealant. Without weatherproofing, warm air will leak through the cracks between the window and the air conditioner, making your unit work harder than it needs to in order to cool your home.

Calculate How Many You Need

Is this air conditioner for one room or the entire house? This will determine what size and how many air conditioning units you may need. Are all of your windows casement windows? If so, measure them all to make sure they are the same size. Many times windows will be different sizes by a matter of inches which may change which sized unit you need for each window.

Your casement windows are not holding you back from having an air conditioned home. Do the math, find what you need and get to work. You’ll be cooled off before you know it.

Resources:
http://www.air-n-water.com/casement-window-ac-installation.htm
http://www.andersenwindows.com/product/casement-windows/