Handy peeps - air conditioner installation

[ponyfitness]

So I'm going out tomorrow to buy one. I live in an apartment and have sideways sliding windows, which is fine - can't find a unit that will fit but that's easy to work around. I'm just wondering about suggestions to seal the upper part of the window (side part will slide in to close and I can caulk it). Some sites say plexiglass, but that sounds a little complicated, or wood which probably doesn't have the best seal.

Or should I just spring for the portable? $400 for a portable = no installation or $200 for a window unit. At this point it's a tossup. Damn I'm lazy.

 

[Creepusmaximus]

Go high class, plastic with duck tape.

Honesty with a side ways window I would worry about it falling out so make sure that doesn't happen.

 

[gonelifting]

I hear the portable ones aren't that great, but I have no experience with them.

Just get the plexiglass cut to the exact size you need it and stick it in there after the fact. Or maybe you can cut it yourself. I don't see a problem with using plexiglass. It's light and will definately do the job better than wood.

You can also get a sponge-like foam or pipe insulation or something to place next to the window and plexiglass instead of the caulking.


Also, don't get too big of a unit. Get it sized properly to decrease humidity in the room instead of just chilling you to your clammy death. good luck