How do I seal the space around my window air conditioner unit?

Question

My apartment came with burglar bars suited for a window unit. So I can't close the window all the way to seal the space. The window closes on top of the air conditioner, but there is space underneath.

Answer 1

Two different and easy ways.. both work

   Buy cheap towels and put them in, under and around the AC (TIGHTLY).

  Or.. use cardboard, which you cut up, and duct tape (or packing tape..) the cardboard in.

Answer 2

Go to the plumbing section of a hardware store and look for foam pipe wrapping for a 2" dia. pipe. These usually come in various length but you'll only need about 3-4 feet. This foam has a split cut into it, take it start on one end of the window, push it up on the bottom of the window then let the window down again. You just sealed your window for about $1.50 and it'll last for years and keep everything dry inside.

Answer 3

Go to a construction site and pick up some styrofoam insulation sheets from the trash.  You won't need much.  Cut it with a knife to fit all around the window spaces, wedging them tightly.  Use aluminum tape to join the pieces.  Then get a tube of NP1 caulk to match the window trim colors, and a caulking gun and caulk it into place.  If you can't get to a construction site, try using regular styrofoam from a packing carton.  You want sheet products about 1-2" thick.  You can cover it outside with plywood if you need to and pant it to match, or cardboard on the inside to paint to match the room.

Answer 4

I would use a GE silicone sealer. It's guaranteed for 10 years and it stays pliable so you can remove them very easily.

Answer 5

check with the sales help at home depot or any hardware store they should be able to recommend a good fix for it. good luck

Answer 6

Tape and foam, or spray foam. You can get both at home depot. The spray foam expands to fill the voids.

Answer 7

Lowe's and Home Depot both have a kit to insulate your A/C unit. They are strips of foam rubber that will 'squeeze' into spaces to get a snug fit.

The cells of the foam are closed so no air passes through them. One kit will do a large A/C unit.

Sorry I can't give you a price but I'm sure it is less than what you will save from air leaks.