THE OFFICIAL BLOG OF ABT

Ranges Mattresses Small Kitchen Appliances TVs Headphones Laundry

• Home Tips

How To Store A Window Air Conditioner After Chicago Summers

By: Megan

Content Writer

10 min read

As the summer comes to an end and cooler temperatures become more regular, it’s time to start preparing for the winter. As you begin the necessary preparations, understanding how to store a window air conditioner is important. These appliances are an investment, so you’ll want to be sure that your unit is properly removed and cleaned before putting it away for the season. Thankfully, the process of removal is the same, regardless of which model you have.

Step One: Safety First

Before the process begins, the most important step is safety. AC appliances are heavy and typically range between 40 to 70 pounds. Some models even weigh over 100 pounds. Asking your roommate, family member or a friend to help is highly recommended to ensure that no one gets injured during the removal and storage process. For a smoother experience, try to have everything ready to go before transferring the unit from the window. This includes a towel, a non-abrasive cloth and a vacuum with a brush attachment. You'll also want the box the appliance came in or a box that can comfortably hold it with additional padding. Once everything is ready, we can dive into how to store a window air conditioner properly.

Step Two: Preparing the Appliance

To start, take the towel and place it on the floor directly under the unit. If you’re concerned the towel isn’t large enough, place a second one next to it. This protects your floors from any water that might drip from the condensation tray. Once the towel is placed, unplug the unit and maneuver the cord in a way so it won't get caught on anything when you remove the appliance from the window. This can either be on top of the unit or wrapped carefully around the side. If you would like to use tape to secure it in place, this is the time to do so.

Once the cord is secure, remove any insulating materials from the sides. When learning how to store a window air conditioner, please note that the absence of the insulation might slowly begin the removal process. To ensure the appliance is kept stable, either you or your friend should hold the unit steady. Once the surrounding materials are removed, gently unscrew the unit if it's been screwed into place.

Step Three: Removing the Unit From the Window

When you and your friend are ready, slowly tip the appliance forward as you raise it out of the window. Be sure to move slowly, as sudden movements can cause water to splash out of the condensation tray and make the floor slippery. As you shimmy the unit out, slowly move to gently place it on top of the towel. Make sure to rest it upright on the floor. Once removed, shut the window.

Step Four: Cleaning the Appliance

Perhaps one of the most important steps in understanding how to store a window air conditioner is the maintenance that follows. This is one of the few times the appliance gets properly cleaned throughout the year, so you'll want to take extra time to ensure every aspect is given proper attention. To clean, begin by brushing off any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated over time outside. Then, remove the filter. If it's a disposable, throw it away and replace it with a new one.However, if it’s washable, make sure to deep clean it as best as possible. Not sure which filter your air conditioner has? Check the owner's manual and follow the instructions listed.

As the filter dries, unscrew the metal grille from the front. Grab your vacuum and use a brush attachment to carefully clean the interior, extracting excess particles and debris that have been caught within. If you do not have a brush attachment, simply use a damp, non-abrasive cloth. Once cleaned, screw the cover back on. If the filter is dry at this point, you may place it back into the appliance.

A key tip to know when learning how to store a window air conditioner is to keep an eye out for mold as you clean. Should you find any mold, you’ll want to remove it as soon as possible. Never leave mold sitting throughout the winter months, as this can cause problems down the road. To reduce the risk of mold growth, it’s good practice to clean your window air conditioner any time you move it.

Step Five: Storing the Unit Until Next Season

Now it’s time for the final step in how to store a window air conditioner: keeping it safe until the following year. If you still have the box and foam padding that the appliance originally came with, this is ideal for long-term storage. However, if you accidentally threw it away, that’s okay. Simply locate or purchase a new box that it will fit into, along with padding to keep the appliance secure.

With assistance from your friend or family member, carefully lift the clean, dry unit from the ground and gently place it into the box. Once placed, maneuver the foam or other chosen padding (like towels) to protect the unit. Finally, move the box to a dry location, such as a basement, garage, shed or storage unit. Make sure that air can easily flow in or out, and be sure that no heavy items are placed on top. Now, you’ve learned all of the steps for understanding how to store a window air conditioner, either for the upcoming winter or until you need it next.

Winterizing Your Unit if You Can’t Remove It

Occasionally, removing the air conditioning unit might not be possible. So instead of wondering how to store a window air conditioner, you might be asking, "How do I protect my unit during the winter?" To winterize the appliance, either purchase a cover to protect the outside from the elements or use plastic sheeting and duct tape to create a make-shift cover. This will keep debris, snow and other unwanted items out.

With so many steps and factors, you might still have questions about how to store a window air conditioner. For more information about the process, reach out to our experts at 800-860-3577 and our team will answer all of your questions. If it's time to purchase a new unit to prepare for next year, take a look at our air conditioner guide for sizing and buying to learn more about the different products available.