If your home has casement or awning windows, you may be wondering if you can use a Whynter portable air conditioner.
The answer is yes. While Whynter portable air conditioners include a window kit designed for most horizontal and vertical sliding windows, they can also be installed in casement and awning windows using a compatible aftermarket vent kit or a custom acrylic window panel.
Why Doesn’t the Included Window Kit Fit?
Whynter portable air conditioners include an adjustable window kit designed for standard sliding windows.
Casement and awning windows open outward on hinges, creating an opening that differs from a sliding window. Because portable air conditioners must exhaust hot air outdoors, an alternate venting solution is needed to properly seal the window around the exhaust hose.
Installation Options
Option 1: Build a Custom Window Panel
Many homeowners create their own vent panel using acrylic (Plexiglas®), polycarbonate, or another rigid material.
After measuring the window opening, a hole is cut for the exhaust hose adapter, creating a custom-fit solution.
Pros
- Lower material cost
- Fully customizable
Cons
- Requires measuring, cutting, and tools
- More time-consuming
- Improper measurements can result in air leaks
Option 2: Use a Professionally Made Acrylic Vent Panel
If you’d rather avoid the DIY process, a professionally made acrylic vent panel provides a clean, durable solution for casement and awning windows.
Whynter has partnered with Martinson Manufacturing to offer custom vent panels designed specifically for portable air conditioner installations. Their acrylic panels are custom cut to your window dimensions and are designed to accommodate portable air conditioner exhaust hoses.
Martinson Manufacturing provides measuring instructions and support to help ensure you order the correct panel for your window.
Learn more and order a custom vent panel:
Martinson Manufacturing Whynter Window Vent Panels
Compatible Whynter Models
Custom vent panels can be used with all Whynter portable air conditioners since they are custom-cut, including models such as:
- ARC-1230WN
- ARC-1230WNH
- ARC-14S
- ARC-14SH
- ARC-1280WX
- ARC-1280MX
Option 3: Universal Fabric Window Seal Kits
Universal fabric window seal kits are another option for casement and awning windows. These kits typically attach to the window frame with adhesive hook-and-loop strips and use zippers to seal around the portable air conditioner exhaust hose.
They are widely available, relatively inexpensive, and can be installed without cutting or drilling.
Pros
- Lower cost
- No custom measurements required
- Easy to remove at the end of the season
- Compatible with many casement and awning windows
Cons
- The fabric may not create as tight or durable a seal as a rigid acrylic panel.
- Adhesive strips may need to be replaced over time.
- The appearance is less finished than a custom acrylic panel.
- Zippers and fabric can wear with repeated use.
- Not compatible with all models: Many fabric window seal kits are not designed to accommodate Whynter’s hose-in-hose (dual-hose) portable air conditioners, such as the ARC-1030WN, ARC-1230WN, and ARC-1230WNH.
For temporary or seasonal installations, fabric window seal kits can be a practical solution. Customers looking for a cleaner, more permanent-looking installation often prefer a custom acrylic vent panel.
Tips for the Best Cooling Performance
For the best results with your Whynter portable air conditioner:
- Measure your window carefully before ordering a custom panel.
- Ensure the exhaust hose is securely connected at both ends.
- Keep the exhaust hose as short and straight as possible.
- Seal any remaining gaps around the window to prevent warm outside air from entering.
- Periodically inspect the hose and vent opening for dust or debris.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a Whynter portable air conditioner in a casement window?
Yes. While the included window kit is designed for sliding windows, Whynter portable air conditioners can be installed in casement and awning windows using a compatible aftermarket vent panel or a custom acrylic window insert.
Will using an aftermarket vent panel void my Whynter warranty?
No. Using an aftermarket window vent panel does not void your Whynter warranty. However, damage resulting from improper installation or modifications to the portable air conditioner itself is not covered under the warranty.
Are fabric window seals a good alternative?
Universal fabric window seals may work for some installations, but they generally do not provide the same rigid seal, durability, or finished appearance as a custom acrylic panel.
Can I leave the acrylic panel installed year-round?
Most acrylic vent panels are removable and designed for seasonal use, although some homeowners choose to leave them installed if they do not interfere with normal window operation.
