Table of Contents
Can air conditioners be stored on their side?
The unit can be stored in a non-heated area, but be sure to keep it upright. If the unit is placed on its sides or back, the compressor could be damaged. If on its side or back for more than a day, leave in an upright position and unplugged for 24 hours. Larger units can be covered for protection from snow and ice.
What happens if you turn an air conditioner on its side?
When an air conditioner is turned on its side, this oil settles on the bottom half of the compressor and potentially deprives part of the compressor of oil, which can lead to damage and, eventually, compressor burnout. A sideways orientation can also damage the compressor mounting, which can affect operation.
What happens if you lay a portable air conditioner on its side?
A portable AC should not be tilted, inclined or laid on its side or back during operation. This could lead to permanent compressor failure due to oil deprivation and inability to retain condensate causing it to spill on floor.
Does a window AC have to be in a window?
Unfortunately, window units are specifically designed to operate mounted in a window. While you can’t run a window unit without a window, you can run a portable air conditioner sans window as long as you have another way of accessing the outside.
Do portable air conditioners need to be transported upright?
If it has been necessary to transport the portable air conditioner on its side, it should be stood upright for an equal amount of time as it was on its side before plugging it in. If it was on its side for more than a day, leave standing for 24 hours before running.
Should a window air conditioner be tilted?
Many window units require a very slight tilt away from the building to keep condensation in the drip pan outside the room, rather than puddling down the wall inside your home. Typically, the tilt shouldn’t be more than one-half of an inch, but check the installation guide for the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Do window AC units pull air from outside?
Window air conditioners do not pull air from the outside. Instead, they draw air from inside the home and circulate it around the house. This is because the excess hot air from inside is deposited outside through an exhaust system, leaving cold air in its place.