Read this before you install your A/C unit this weekend

By Virginia K. Smith | May 19, 2017 - 9:59AM

Was it, what, a week or two ago that we were still tentatively toggling between our spring and winter coats? And now, all of a sudden, it's muggy and getting up to 90. If you're anything like us, this means your weekend to-do list consists of getting your A/C unit locked and loaded for another season of sweet, artificially freezing air and jacked-up electric bills.

[Note: This story originally ran in May, 2015, and was updated with new information in May, 2017.]

Before you hoist your heavy, cumbersome friend into the windowsill, brush up on some of our best tips for keeping your bills low, your neighbors safe, and your apartment blissfully cool:

First things first: How to install your air conditioner safely, and why you'll need to include window brackets
And here's how to get A/C even if you've got bars on your windows
For the penny pinchers: Tricks to keep your Con Ed bill relatively low during the dog days of summer
While you're at it, make sure your air conditioner (and your appliance situation, in general) isn't a massive fire hazard
No, your landlord doesn't have the power to micro-manage your air conditioner use
Options for window units that won't be total eyesores
What to know if you decide to spring for a through-the-wall or PTAC unit
Before you know it, summer will be over already, so here's how to take your A/C out

Improve It's A/C season: Here's what you need to know now

Vacation Rentals 6 summer mishaps that are covered by your apartment insurance

Renovation Putting central air in a prewar apartment

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