How to Make My Window AC Colder

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Updated February 11, 2023

During those dog days of summer, it is all too easy to ask, “how to make my window AC colder.” The best air conditioners, after all, are hampered by several external factors. Some of the simplest ways to cool down a window A/C include closing windows and doors, cleaning or changing the air filters, moving the unit to a smaller room, and properly insulating the window.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Make your window air conditioning unit colder by closing any windows and doors leading to the room of operation.
  • Consider moving window units to a smaller room if they are portable and struggling to cool down adequately in a larger space.
  • You should also maintain the air filter and insulate the window itself to make an air conditioner colder.

Steps To Making a Window Unit Colder

Keep in mind that a lot of these tips depend on the particular design of your AC, like when you are learning how to make a portable air conditioner quieter. With that said, we’ve provided detailed steps to implement these universal as quickly as possible.

Insider Tip

Also, consider running ceiling fans to help assist with the cooling abilities of your favorite window air conditioner.

STEP 1 Close Windows and Doors

The first you should do is close any obvious windows and doors, as this will increase the overall efficiency and efficacy of your window AC. It’s obvious to close windows, but a lot of people forget about the doors leading to their bedroom or whatever room the air conditioning unit is located in. It may seem annoying to keep the door to your bedroom closed when the AC is in use, but it goes a long way to keeping things cooler. Moreover, it’ll prevent your A/C from working so hard; that way, you won’t have to reduce the noise of your air conditioner, which can be a challenge.

You’ll also want to get the right amount of BTUs for your window A/C. Otherwise, it’ll be working too hard. Additionally, if the A/C is working harder, it’ll create more condensation, and it’s a challenge to stop an air conditioner from leaking water, which can cause mold in the walls.

STEP 2 Move it to a Smaller Room

Depending on the power and overall design of your air conditioner, you may need to learn how to move the AC unit. You see, air conditioners are only made to cool off a pre-measured location, and some smaller units really struggle to adequately cool down larger rooms. So if you are having trouble with the AC in the living room, for instance, consider moving it to one of the bedrooms.

STEP 3Change or Clean the Air Filters

Always keep up to date with air filter maintenance needs. Replace them or clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally speaking, you should switch out or clean your air filters once every one to three months, though this varies depending on use and how dirty your air is.

STAT: Whether your home is cooled by a central air system or window units, your air conditioner works by pulling outside air into your home and cooling it while transferring warmer indoor air to the outside. (source)

STEP 4 Insulate the Window

Insulating the window on both the outside and the inside, eliminating any cracks, is a great way to make your AC colder. Start by installing foam side panels and perform surgical work by using spray foam or even caulk. This will help seal gaps around your window air conditioner. Newspapers and cardboard also work, but they are less efficient when compared to purpose-built insulators. Insulating the window A/C is also a great way to prevent bugs from coming through into your home.

F.A.Q.S

What makes air conditioners cold?

Air conditioners get cold due to a chemical reaction involving freon, so refrigerant levels matter when considering temperature control.


What is the coldest temperature for an air conditioner?

This really depends on the design of your window air conditioner and the size of your room. Use ceiling fans to help with temperature, and avoid using a dirty filter.


Does shade help an air conditioner?

Absolutely, shade helps with window units, increasing the efficacy of a window air conditioner, so avoid direct sunlight. Ceiling fans also help, allowing you to use the AC less and save on energy bills.


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