How to Install an Air Conditioner Without a Guillotine Window | AC Installation Guide
- lunasabrina
- Jul 2, 2023
- 2 min read
Are you in need of an air conditioner but facing the challenge of not having a guillotine window? Don't worry, I've got you covered with a cost-effective and straightforward solution to install an air conditioner in almost any window. Using these AC installation without a guillotine window guidelines so you can enjoy the benefits of a cool and comfortable space.

Required Materials:
Piece of wood (choose appropriate dimensions for your window)
Caulking gun
Mulco Zip Seal’N Peel caulking (recommended)
Router or hand saw
Measuring tape
Marker
These materials will ensure a smooth and effective installation process for your air conditioner.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Start by measuring the length and width of your window using a measuring tape. Note down these measurements as they will be used to cut the piece of wood.
2. Take your measurements to the hardware store and choose a suitable sheet of wood. You have the flexibility to select the most affordable option or opt for a higher-quality piece. A thickness of 1.5-2mm is recommended for effective noise dampening.
3. Ask the workers at the hardware store to cut the wood to the dimensions of your window. Alternatively, if the wood can fit in your vehicle, you can bring it home and cut it yourself. Having it done at the store usually costs around $5 CAD and saves you a significant amount of work.
4. While at the hardware store, purchase the Mulco Zip Seal’N Peel caulking, which is removable and recommended for the installation. One tube of Mulco Zip Seal’N Peel is usually sufficient to seal a window with dimensions of 55" long by 26.4" wide.

5. Back at home, measure the height and width of your air conditioner. To ensure proper alignment, use the following calculation to center the A/C unit with the piece of wood:
Width of your window minus the width of the A/C unit = #
Divide the # by 2
Example: If the window width is 26" and the A/C unit is 18" wide:
26 - 18 = 8
8 / 2 = 4
According to this calculation, leave 4" on each side of the A/C unit to achieve proper centering.

6. Draw the height and width of the A/C unit on the piece of wood as an outline. These lines will guide you when cutting the insert using a router or hand saw. Don your safety equipment and proceed to cut out the square.


7. If your windows slide open, fully extend them. If the window needs to be removed, please refer to the guidelines for your window for safe removal. A quick Google or YouTube search can help, ex "how to remove a hinge crank window".
8. Follow the installation guidelines specific to your air conditioner to set it into the window space securely.
9. Place the piece of wood over the A/C unit, ensuring that the A/C unit sits within the cut-out area.
10. Apply caulking around the edges of the new wood window to seal it in place, providing a tight and secure fit.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily install an air conditioner in your window, even without a guillotine window type. Enjoy the cool comfort of your space with this cost-effective and practical solution.