I just installed a window AC unit in my double-hung window and I'm looking for a way to keep the top half of the window screened. I want to occasionally open it to let fresh air in without letting bugs inside. Is there a good method to do this while still keeping the AC unit secure?
2 Answers
It sounds like you've got a vertical sash double-hung window. Since your AC unit is held in place by the bottom sash, you can't remove the top sash entirely without risking the unit falling out. Even if you could pull the top sash down while keeping the unit secure, you'd need a way to seal the screen properly to prevent insects from coming in. That's where it gets tricky! You might want to consider a removable half-screen that fits snugly to the top sash when pulled down, but just be careful not to compromise the support of your AC unit. I’d recommend contacting a window screen specialist for tailored advice if you're serious about this.
You could also think about opening another window if that's an option. But since you mentioned that this is the only window in the room, it limits your choices. If you really want a screen, maybe a customized screen could be built just for that top section, but I'd worry about how easy it would be to access anything outside the window since a screen usually blocks that off. It might be worth exploring alternatives if that setup isn't ideal.
Good point! Custom screens sound great but kinda pricey. I guess I'll have to get creative with how I let air in without compromising things! Thanks for the tips!
That makes sense! I've got a similar setup and I usually just let the top down for a few minutes when I can keep an eye on the AC. It's a pain if there's no screen, though. Do you think a magnetic screen could work for that?