How to Insulate Around a Window Air Conditioner

If you are new to the world of window-based AC units, you may wonder how to insulate around a window air conditioner. The best air conditioners, after all, are only as good as their insulation. So why insulate and what are the varied ways to do it? Keep reading to find out.

Why Insulate Around Window Units?

Once you’ve learned how to install window air conditioning brackets, you should start thinking about insulation. A properly insulated window unit not only helps maintain a reliable temperature in the room it is placed in but also helps cut down on energy consumption, as you’ll be using the unit less.

How to Insulate Around a Window AC

Luckily, maintaining a window AC is easier than learning how to install a central A/C and how to maintain a central air conditioner, and insulation is no different. Plus, it can help make your window A/C colder. To that end, there are a variety of ways to properly insulate your AC, ranging in cost, difficulty level, and general efficacy. Here are a few ideas.

STEP 1Use Foam Insulating Panels

Your first step is to purchase and install foam insulating panels, which are relatively budget-friendly and available at both hardware stores and popular online marketplaces. These panels typically come in large sheets, so you just cut them down to size and then arrange them around your window unit. Be sure to measure the overall dimensions of both your window AC and the window itself before cutting into these foam panels. Some panels come in precut dimensions, so measure before even making a purchase.

STEP 2Use Spray Foam

If you only need to fill minor cracks to fill in some space, choose spray foam. Many of these spray foam products are designed specifically for this task, but you should still work slowly and carefully so as to avoid spilling the foam in unwanted areas. Spray foams sets in almost immediately and can be very difficult to remove. Also, wear protective gloves and eyewear and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

STEP 3Use Caulk

Besides newspapers and cardboard, another cheap option is to fill up gaps using standard caulk and a caulk gun. This stuff works best outdoors, however, so you may want to think about a combination of caulk and spray foam to cover your indoor and outdoor needs. As with the spray foam, work slowly and carefully while operating the caulk gun.

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