Window is coming out of frame? Installing window AC

Hi there,

With summer heat approaching, I purchased a window AC unit from Costco to help keep our bedroom cool. Unfortunately, I have those pesky horizontal sliding windows that aren't built to house window ACs.

I've found a few guides online that provide some guidance on installation.

However, last year, I noticed that my windows in the bedroom were coming apart from the frame(?) I'm not sure if that's the case, or if the windows aren't really a cause for concern. The windows feel secure when i push against them, but considering there will be a 70lb AC unit tipping to the outside, I really would like to avoid a potential nasty accident.

The windows appear to be coming apart from the wall and causing gaps across the left, right, and top edges of the window & wall.
I'm not sure whether this is an issue of expansion/contraction, or just a poor install.
My understanding is that the windows were installed about 7 years ago.


The AC will be installed on the second floor of my place. Right below the AC installation area is my porch roof (tin roofing). The tin roofing is slanted towards a mildly busy sidewalk. My fear is that the AC/Window will fall out from the frame, onto the roof, slide down the tin roof, and land on someone or against a parked car.

I recognize that pictures may not be enough to tell, but I'm hoping someone could share some insight as to whether I should be concerned, or if I'm just paranoid.



Here are some photos of the windows.


AC Window left side-- notice cracks along the window and wall/frame (esp. at the top)

AC Window right side-- notice cracks along the window and wall/frame

Smaller window frame (left side) to demonstrate issue

Smaller window frame (right side) to demonstrate issue

Smaller window frame (top) to demonstrate issue


Do you feel that that they need some work? or is this a superficial issue?

Should I trust these windows to hold a 70lb AC?


Thank you

 

It certainly doesnt look good... probably a very poor "slam-bam" install. I would certainly not trust hanging an AC on the window and putting all of its weight on the frame. If you were able to put a 2x4 across the jamb, (the jamb is the wide trim on the room side of that gap) and fasten that 2x4 on the ends to the jamb, and tested the clip of your AC on that, I would have more faith in that than in anything you would block the slider window with. They also make support legs for the AC box, that help rest / balance the weight against the outside of the building.

 

Thanks for the response!

Is there any fix for these windows? Or do I need to install new ones?
Also, is there any risks in keeping these as-is with no additional weight against them, or should I get them taken care of ASAP?

I'll consider a long 2x4 against the jamb, but not sure if it'll have enough overhang for proper drainage.
I'll look for an alternative -- perhaps might have to settle for a portable AC instead.

Thanks again!

 

When you slide the window open you should see 2 or 3 screws through each side of the window frame. (Left and right sides) Or possibly the holes were drilled and plugged. If the window moves in when you pull on it, (as if you were trying to close that gap) then the window was not secured very well. If it's a masonry building a shoddy installer may not have even tried to secure it.

A portable AC would probably be the best solution for a slider window because you could make a panel for the ductwork and slip it into the open window.

But no, there is no risk in not doing anything, but they might be drafty.

 

Thanks again!

I took a look at the holes -- the window earmarked for the AC is missing screws on the right side, and has one on the left.

The smaller window has screws on either side

Neither window moves loosley when I pull the window towards me ("close the gap"). There is very very slight movement, but I feel it'd be attributed to the elasticity of the plastic/vinyl of the window casing?

And yes, this is a masonry building.

Might abandon hope on the AC. It hasn't arrived anyway, so might be a good idea to just cancel my order, and try a portable unit instead. Unfortunately, the portable units we've had in the past have been very inefficient and didn't really do a good job of cooling a 600sq ft room. My window unit was supposed to hit up to 750.
I'll explore some creative solutions before I abandon completely. I considered going jamb to jamb, but I think too much of the AC will be inside, venting hot air back into the room.

Photos of the installed screws below

AC Window Right

AC Window Left

Small Window Left

Small Window Right

 

Yeah, those screws will not be very secure. They are simply sitting in a masonry hole... not really threaded into it. Nothing to worry about overly much... it's about what I expected you would find.

 

Can't help you much with your window problem but if you are considering a portable A/C...... get one that uses the dual outside lines.

A single line A/C discharges the hot air from the condenser using cooled room air.
A dual line A/C draws fresh air in one line and discharges hot air out of the other line.