99% Don't Know THIS About Window A/C's!! DON'T DRILL!!

[@toddburgess6792]

Mine started flinging ice chunks into my living room, so I drilled, baby drilled!
No more airborne ice. 😎

[@HandymanHertz]

That's not normal...

[@toddburgess6792]

@@HandymanHertz That's Walmart! 😉

[@jimmymac4559]

You have to turn it off when outside temperatures get below freezing 😅

[@marshallguerra1353]

Yes. Yes !!! Do not drill. !!!! I did it years ago. And. I hit the copper tubing and all the Freon escaped and I ruined my AC unit. I was trying to get the water to drain out better. And I destroyed my AC unit. “ Do Not Drill “. !!!!! You have been warned !!!!

[@frankforrest1597]

I had several occasions of water in the room from the air conditioner to the point of staining the wall, windowsill, etc. I drilled a hole. The unit was tilted away from the house for drainage, but there was no weep/ drain holes provided in the casing. I'd rather have a wet spot outside than inside.

[@TheBlessedMeek]

you clearly live in a dryer climate . in south texas near the coast that "slinger" setup will turn the walls and entire area around the ac into a green swampy mess. it boggs the fan down inside trying to sling the water so the air slows to a crawl inside the house. you should say that this tip is location dependant. i drilled mine and the effectiveness of the ac increased several fold. just watch for refrigerant lines in the bottom of the unit when drilling

[@HandymanHertz]

it seems like the AC I've seen have an overflow holes if the water builds up too much and if it's tilted correctly. Maude your are plugged? I Do live in a medium humid climate, so you're probably right on location.
Good tip on drilling through them. There's a lot of good ACs that have died prematurely because ppl have drilled through the condenser

[@rileychu4489]

yep, in my state the humidity will turn the whole ac into a black moldy mess

[@matttessier6156]

I've got a breeding ground of Mosquitos bogging up my unit. Took it apart a few weeks ago cus of the smell, were right back to where we started..

[@roz4747]

I watched for them, watched one bust in my face……😂

[@brendanlett3594]

And make sure to watch for the fan blades and don't drill the holes while the AC unit is running cuz you can hit one of the fan blades and possibly break one off ask me how I know😂

[@TCtheCat1]

I always drill holes in my air conditioner. As soon as water splashes on the coils they start collecting dirt and become clogged very quickly. The splashing water also creates mold in other parts of the cabinet.

[@HandymanHertz]

I used to drill mine, and I haven't seen any noticeable difference between drilled or not drilled. But the amount of money saved on your utility bill you can see.

[@b18c5617]

I drilled mine in the exact same spot where you put your drill the first time on the side. Drilled a 1/16 hole and blasted refrigerant all over my face. Rip ac unit

[@thomasschwarting5108]

​​@@HandymanHertz How does drilling a drain hole in your a/c unit save on your utility bill?

[@thomasschwarting5108]

I agree with this about the mold issue. How can you NOT have mold in an a/c that doesn't drain?

[@thomasschwarting5108]

​@@b18c5617 Been there before!

[@VEGASMADEREPUBLICAN]

I drilled bigger drain holes to existing for faster drain during cleaning still works great 5yrs strong . helps the dirt escape faster and water drain

[@HandymanHertz]

👍🏼

[@Kredorish]

It's crazy how out of a billion youtube videos on the internet, this is the only video that somewhat explains the function of drain plugs.

[@HandymanHertz]

Drain plugs?

[@Kredorish]

@@HandymanHertz my GE window ac has a little plastic plug underneath I can pull out to drain the water inside.

[@NewsBroadcasting]

its stupid system designed to kill the ac. trust me

[@RF6Gun851]

One of my AC's was dripping into the house, I took it out and removed the cover, found out the bottom of the condenser was clogged with dirt and crud. Sprayed it out with hose, no more water inside the house. Will try to remember to clean them when I take them out this Fall. Thanks for the short yet informative video.

[@HandymanHertz]

Yup! And if it's leaking inside the house it's probably the passage way plugged from the evaporator coil to the back of the unit that needs cleaned.

[@fernandoayala5961]

If that's the case manufactures should make the bottom pan out of galvanized or stainless steel so the rusty water don't splash all over. They should also put a label stating not to drill holes on the bottom so not to shorten the life span of the cooling unit. Glad I found your video...was about to drill some holes and couldn't find any info on this issue. Thanks.

[@HandymanHertz]

I agree on the bottom of the pan and the sticker. Although, I’ve never had one actually rust out on any rental houses yet, so it’s just the aesthetics so far. 👍🏼

[@stevealienman767]

That guy doesn't know what he is talking about not to drill a hole in the bottom of window AC units there's no difference in the efficiency whether it has water in it or but the water will rust out the unit faster so they don't know what they are saying. I have had window AC'S last longer without the water pooling in it plus I've done a test by plugging up the whole or letting the water drain out and there's no difference in the air conditioner efficiency the way it cools it makes no difference but I find that the air conditioner last longer without the water in it. Old air conditioners the water would drain out I believe that manufacturers lie because thay don't want your air conditioner to last. Since I drilled a hole in mind My air conditioner is over 10 years old and still works and ones that I left the water in was rusted and leaked the coolent in a year-and-a-half and was no good. people Just get dumber and dumber in the 1960's people made much more scene

[@HandymanHertz]

I bet you think cars got better fuel mileage in the 1960’s too huh?

[@stevealienman767]

@@HandymanHertz yes in the 1960' there actually was a car that did get better fuel economy but the stupid evil government took it away from the people there was a man that made a vaporization carburetor that got 150 miles per gallon. And without all this stupid expensive computer crap that they have in cars now. Not everything should have computers what's wrong with making a car without a computer man has the capability or making a car with Superior gas mileage with no computer

[@user-bw9qk4by4n]

​@@stevealienman767planned obsolescence

[@gh00al]

They only do this so that they can say it's more energy efficient as a selling point. The water that builds up causes all sorts of issues, mainly mold and bacteria growth. Also the slinger sound is very annoying to some people. Also it will pour a pint of water into your room when you uninstall it. It's absolutely no problem to drill drain holes as long as you are careful not to hit any internal components. Short of voiding the warranty anyway (but then most AC warranties are short and useless). Or just use the wick method (look it up on RUclips).

[@yellowdog762jb]

I just broke my window unit out a few weeks ago when we were without power during hurricane Beryl. My AC was not dropping water. But there was some in the pan when I removed it from the window. I thought I didn't install it correctly. This video is so helpful!

[@teresa.3621]

Man, I was going to drill my Toshiba in the morning, and thought I'd find a video just to see where. Glad I saw this!

[@HandymanHertz]

Yeah, I've been there too. 👍🏼

[@real100talk5]

@@HandymanHertz I did drill mine and started to think about this and looked it up to see if I was on the right track. Time to plug the hole. Thanks.

[@bikeman1x11]

youll wish you drilled iof you live in humid climate the pad will get nasty and them youll be breathing it in

[@cryengine_x]

nice vid, short and 1 minute and topo the point. great! and i hate comments like this btw lol.
one thing i'm concerned about with a window unit (i'm halfway planning on switching to window rather than pay 10k plus when my 11 yrs old central fails) is, some people speak of mold in them, which is gross. and one would think it's because of that water pool. however, i'm thinking in tx where i live, it's so hot, pooling water might be short lived in any intermittent periods where the ac is off. it might be more of a northern climate issue.

[@HandymanHertz]

I live in Kansas and I've never had any isssue with this. You'll just have to try it in your climate. Theres also tablets that you can put in there that kills mold if it's an issue on Amazon

[@josephparsons3405]

*WHEW*! My cordless drill was out and charged! I almost did a "WHOOPS"! Thanks, man! lol

[@HandymanHertz]

Haha I've done many of whoops before I knew this too.

[@drkromedome]

I was gonna go for it as well lol !!

[@kimtessmann]

Me too 😂

[@trevorjackson7589]

As somebody with an anxious brain this is very reassuring 😂

[@HandymanHertz]

Haha I know the feeling!

[@kepvalley]

In my experience, the water in the pan attracts bugs which drown in the water then all the dead bodies get sprayed onto the cooling fins clogging it up. The water becomes very foul smelling as the summer goes on. When I cleaned it, it was so full of bug biomass it was crazy! After cleaning and installing it yesterday, checked it today and it's got lots of bugs flying around it already. Had tried taping window screening over the vent fins of the cowling a few years ago but even that got clogged quickly and was afraid it might be restricting the proper air flow. In my other window A/C, I drilled a hole at the side of the corner of the pan so water doesn't accumulate and it stays relatively clean year after year.

[@OMG3Dmax]

You could have glued a mosquito net

[@niiiiiix]

I'd rather just get a garden hose to flush out the water and bugs every now and then. Water does a great job in helping get the hot radiator to dissipate heat and get the refrigerant cooler easier.

[@OMG3Dmax]

I would often not get carried away with watering water, because it needs good drying, otherwise the bottom will rot with rust from moisture and you need make drain, then you will increase its life span from rust at the bottom of radiators

[@PantherTheCat]

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! My Central AC went out so I had to get a new Window AC.
Its been 2 days, and i see the water pooling in the same area as yours. I nearly did the same exact thing, I was just about to drill it, but figured I needed to look it up first. You saved me a ton of money and headache.

[@HandymanHertz]

You're welcome, glad to help

[@waleyefish9026]

I have this model GE, and Mr Hertz is right, they are designed that way for efficiency. The only problem I have had is the blower wheel which is inside the Styrofoam duct molds up and spits black mung out the cool air vents. I take mine apart every other year and clean it. 👍

[@HandymanHertz]

Hmmm…there’s shouldn’t be any thing blowing out of the vents if installed correctly and working properly. Sounds like maybe gunk has built up and not allowing water to go from the evap coil in the front to the back of the unit? This would lead to water poking up and getting caught in the blower. I’ve never experienced a smell, personally. What climate do you live in? Is it humid?

[@waleyefish9026]

@@HandymanHertz Yes, I only run it when the humidity is high. I will take the thing apart at the end of the season and do a better job cleaning it.

[@fxm5715]

I have a similar experience with my Frigidair AC unit. Every few years I need to take the cover off and clean out the accumulated gunk. I'm pretty sure it's mosly tree pollen. Where I live, litterall every outdoor surface turns green in late spring from all the pollen. If it weren't for the pollen I'd just keep the windows open and not install the AC until early summer.

[@adventureoflinkmk2]

I had several Frigidaire units that do this. And no, I didn't put any holes in it either

[@slimj091]

If you have water spitting inside that means the inside coil is icing up. Setting the unit to cool, at high fan speed, and set the temp a couple to few degree's higher should alleviate that problem.

[@DerekFromMalden]

I can’t believe this is in my feed. I have never seen this until I got a new window AC. I literally just drilled 2 holes in my AC unit yesterday!!! Thank god they are small enough to plug.

[@HandymanHertz]

Good timing. Get out your chewing gum and plug them 👍🏼

[@3DAbilities]

​@@HandymanHertzWhat's supposed to happen if you drill holes? Mine was clogged up so bad even cleaning drain plug area still left way more water than what I saw in the video. About a week or two ago I made one small hole and lately it's been doing much better.

[@JonCarton]

I run a strip of folded paper towel tucked in to the back between the housing and the fins and let the other end hang down bellow the unit. It wicks any standing water and since it wicks it downward, once the towel is saturated it starts dripping and begins syphoning any remaining water. It does this at a perfect rate that allows water to pool up during heavy use and then dries out the unit when not in use.

[@HandymanHertz]

That works. Why not just drill a hole?

[@JonCarton]

@@HandymanHertz an open hole wouldn’t let the AC benefit from increased cooling efficiency from the fan splashing water on the fins, as it was originally designed. A slow wicking paper towel will allow water to pool when the ac is in use and then dry the unit out when it’s not in use. A hole would just drain the water immediately.

[@charlotteking8123]

Thank you! I so so many others who suggested to drill a hole, in fact I came to YT today to learn just how I needed to do it. Instead I looked at cleaning vids (yours was the best) and caught this at the end of the last one. I almost ruined my AC units.

[@Enders1315]

Glad I saw this. I was getting ready to try to install a drain on mine. I'll just need to check the level and adjust the mount.

[@July.4.1776]

In our area I always drill a hole to allow the condensation out of the units. Otherwise it hits the fan and splashes all over and is noisy..Drilling the hole also allows the build up sludge to flush out. We live in a very humid area. I always drill with a step bit as to not cause any damage to the fan blade etc.

[@AldousHuxley7]

Can also use a self tapper to replug if desired.

[@OverlandOne]

I had to drill mine. I have a window AC unit installed in the rear window of my camper van. The water would slosh around in there while I was driving and whenever I came to a stop sign it would come forward and come out while the AC was running and it would hit the front fan and that would spray water all over my bed and all over the rear of the camper van so I drilled the drains and I no longer have that problem.

[@AldousHuxley7]

@@OverlandOne Gross!

[@OverlandOne]

@@AldousHuxley7 It was just clean water, not rusty or anything. My unit is only a year old. It has digital controls on the front and I figured having water spraying out from behind that panel where the circuit board is, was probably not a good thing. I gave up some efficiency but, my bed stays dry now.

[@AldousHuxley7]

@@OverlandOne Thats ok itll last longer

[@robertgaines-tulsa]

I put one or two condensate pan tablets in the evaporator coils when cleaning the filter and in the back after spraying out the back. It seems to take care of the smell and keep the evaporator drain clear. It doesn't seem to collect much water during normal use. I live in NE Oklahoma, and the summers are generally dry here. In the spring, I spray the evaporator coil with a pump sprayer to rinse any accumulated dust off.

[@SpeedUpThatComputer]

This is why the manual says on many of the ones that have plugs to not remove them unless you want less efficiency.

[@rebelwolf72]

My GE units have a hole in the bottom with a rubber plug that you can remove.I just leave the plug in because I was told it cools better, but would be slightly quieter if removed and the blades didn't hit the water.

[@HandymanHertz]

This is correct, also, it will cut down your electric bill because it runs more efficient

[@jackpot269]

I like the high efficiency, AC that uses the condensate, to help displace heat. But if you live in an area like me that has very high humidity, they will collect to much water in the tray and will need to have some of it drained. My GE came with holes, but the instructions said, to leave the plugs in. So, no drilling was necessary, when it needed a drain.

[@HandymanHertz]

👍🏼 Interesting, yeah that makes sense. I only live in a medium humid location. My ge is older and has overflow weep holes. I know every model seems to differ.

[@vigilantobserver8389]

That may be what it's for, but I ran into a problem. My window A/C pushed water inside the house because they also put weeping holes in the A/C frame "inside" the window flooding my room (thanks Arctic King, Walmart). I plugged the holes. It flooded because of the pool of water was covered in mold forcing the water "uphill" into the room. I drilled some 3/8" holes in it. It's predecessor, Also an Arctic King, welled water up too. It did the same, now that I remember. I'd drilled a bunch of holes for that one too. It lasted 6 years. IF I didn't drill the holes the condenser would have rusted away in the area under water. So, I'll take less efficiency and longer operation over more efficiency with a shorter life span.

[@HandymanHertz]

YeAh that sounds like a poor design. You bet…gotta drill that…Can’t have water inside! 👍🏼

[@CG-1000-T]

I have a unit made by whirlpool in the mid 1980s it is rusty yet it is still in one piece and has a built in drain and it still works though that remain unconfirmed but I do trust it to fire right up like it was only out for the winter. I am planning to check out a 2002 whirlpool unit that is in good shape and should also fire right up like it’s nothing.

[@stangcobra592]

Yup without drilling holes the whole unit rusts out in 2 years and will have battery terminal looking green corrosion all over the fins. I plan on window AC life being short, you can pick up 6000's now at discount vendors for a little over $100 new in box. I just replace instead of flooding my window sill and with a rusted piece of metal

[@AnubisRules1969]

My problem, other than the splashing water sound and water splashing out of the cooling vents, is mold. I have 2 units like this, and they grow and sling a terrible black mold all over. They're getting drilled!

[@allthegrassisgreen]

​@@stangcobra592had same problem, took it apart, used vinegar, garden hose and compressed air with a wet/dry shop vac and little hose attachments to get in-between components, works like new. Took a few hours to get all the gunk out.. save a few bucks and use the tools 👍 ✝️

[@timmypstyle]

Had to drill mine anyways. Have old windows that don't allow the A/C unit to have a downward angle to it. Takes a bit of rigging just to get it level actually. So that water was sitting in my window sill and rotting my wooden window sill. Since it overflows before going out of the weeper holes, I had to drill holes in the bottom. I wish A/C units would come with a slider so you could move the top part of the surround forward or backward to change the angle of the unit while still allowing the unit to fit in your window properly. These things arent made to work in old windows unfortunately.

[@HandymanHertz]

hmm strange. How old is your house? Mine was built in the 20s-30s with the original windows. I know everyone is working with different windows. I wish there was a way to adjust them too.

[@timmypstyle]

@HandymanHertz mine was built in 1905 but not sure about windows. There are wood framed and are the same windows my parents had in their old house that was built in 1901 that had the counterweights in the walls. Mine doesn't have counterweights tho.

[@timmypstyle]

@richardcope3077 mine plugged up again and leaked water in my window sill again. Had to go out and unplug it with a broken stick. That barely worked. Sprayed it diwn wuth a hose and that helped too but ended up still not draining right. Kept going with the stuck to try to grab the blockage and finally got most of it. I want to get a portable until that just has the vent go in the window.
I don't get it. My bedroom A/C never plugs up, but constantly smells if it's not on. If it's on 24/7 it doesn't smell. Even took it apart and cleaned it best I could with lysol. The living room one has no foul smell, but plugs up. Living room one is covered under a porch, bedroom one is out in the open.

[@slimj091]

cutting a piece of wood to put under the unit on the inside part of the sill works pretty good to give the unit the preferred tilt. As long as it's level, or no more than a 10 degree tilt down on the outside it should be fine.

[@Hits-Sandbox]

Had the same issue on one place, just used wood on the inside to slightly angle it out, solved that problem. Just make sure you mount it so it doesn't fall out.

[@ChavezDIY]

We have two window ACs, a Frigidaire and a LG, and both have this system where the fan picks up the pooled water and splashes it on the condenser coils. The LG has one weep hole in the lower back frame (not on the underside). The Frigidaire does not have weep holes in the back or under and the water pools up a bit and the fins at the bottom that are in contact with the pooled water are corroding. I'm going to add one weep hole in the rear of the Frigidaire unit, but I'm also going to use a drill stop to prevent damaging the condenser coil.

[@HandymanHertz]

That’s a really good idea. There’s been a lot of air conditioning units that have went to the dump because of a hole being drilled where it shouldn’t have. I may have sent one there prematurely myself 😆

[@thankgodimouttahere]

My window AC is on the 4th floor of an old house with steep stairs. When i take it out of the window for the winter water spills out. A lot of water and its dangerous on the wood stairs. How can I get the water out before taking it in?

[@socrates2706]

@@thankgodimouttahere Purchase a rubber plug of sufficient size and drill a hole in a spot that allows the water to drain. Plug the hole until you are ready to drain it for removal.

[@MrShamus07]

Whew. You just saved me a lot of worries. Just installed an a/c for my sister. Her's is dripping water like crazy. I looked at mine that's been in for a few weeks, no water dripping. So I watched your video (the first one I found, and then checked the back of my a/c, and it was just like you said. Thanks, man.

[@HandymanHertz]

Glad it helped! I was worried too when I first learned.

[@DR-yb9gs]

I’m getting a mildew smell. I’ve already cleaned my coils once with distilled vinegar and it helped but I think it’s cause the water sits.

[@HandymanHertz]

Sounds to me like it’s time for a deep clean because mold and mildew is in your inside blower fan. I have a great video on how to do it. You’ll be surprised how much mold than mildew is blowing into your room.
Also, Nothing on the outside of your unit gets sucked inside. 👍🏼

[@bikeman1x11]

yep need to get that water out

[@donk499]

Well, have always wondered why my ACs had no hole(s), but this seems like a crazy design. Everything gets all rusted with the water just sitting in there. It's a real great time when you pull the AC inside to put it away for the winter also, crappy water all over inside the house. I will watch your video again to try to understand your explanation the reasoning behind this, but will probably continue to drill drain holes down there.

[@gokaneinthemembrane2745]

I always drill. If not, the unit will die sooner because of dirt, dust, slime, and algae build up. I'd rather my unit last longer than be more efficient. Also, letting the water pool up over time corrodes and ruins the coils and rust the housing.
Do as you please, but I'm gonna continue to drill window units and run drain tubes to the ground.

[@HandymanHertz]

👍🏼

[@socrates2706]

Absolutely correct based on my experience. Before you drill check to see if you have removable plugs.

[@shannahoneycutt9785]

Awesome! I was really starting to worry about my ac as it is 100° and up and going to be that for the next couple months. I didn't want to have to get a new one. This one is only 2 years olI. So thankful for this video!!!

[@HandymanHertz]

You're welcome, just make sure you clean it, I have a few videos on doing it either by a deep clean or a lazy way clean

[@charliecppickering8539]

Thanks that just kept me from drilling a hole under the backside of the unit outside my window and also very detail in easy to understand explanations my dude you get 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 10 thumbs up from me.

[@drkromedome]

made my day as well !

[@HandymanHertz]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching and the encouraging comment! 👍🏼

[@christopherparks2538]

Thank you for this it really helped me and understand why my air conditioner was not leaking water I currently own a 8000 BTU midea u-shaped air conditioner and this video helped.😊

[@HandymanHertz]

Glad it helped! Its a neat design

[@bradleecauble1592]

I did do that because they don't explain that anywhere.Mine was old and thought the same as this guy said but I got a brand new one at no cost out of the deal.Lessoned learned for sure.

[@HandymanHertz]

Get out your bubblegum to plug it 😊

[@jM-ke9yr]

Ive got an acient kenmore window unit AC.
It has a drain but i didnt like the water pooling up inside so i made the drain to where no water pools up at all. That was done maybe 2006.
In 2010 or 2011 the thermostat went out so i found an electronic thermostat that plugs into the wall and the AC plugs into it.
That AC fires up every time and i dont think it will ever die.

[@HandymanHertz]

That’s a great idea.

[@Peachyking89]

Thank you my new midea model one from Walmart is doing that and I was wondering the same thing. The water on the coils makes since. Helps transfer the heat out of the coils faster too I’m sure. Thanks for the video

[@HandymanHertz]

Yup, exactly right. 👍🏼 thanks for watching

[@joshanderson1019]

I ended up drilling mine a few years ago because condensate is very corrosive and it weakens the condenser and smells. It's been 100+ where I live for the past few weeks and its still making 50 degree air inside.

[@tdtommy196]

my window air conditioners have little plugs on the bottom that you can pull out. So of course I pulled them out and threw them out long ago. I had no idea about this.

[@HandymanHertz]

Not all a/c units have the slinger ring. You’d have to look into your make/model

[@bjnopoli]

The only problem with this is the corrosion you get when the condensor sits in water. So drilling holes can be better. If your unit does works as good with a hole than you neex to clean the inside of your condensor, the side the fan blows.

[@HandymanHertz]

You make some Good points, although I have never thrown an AC away due to corrosion, personally, in my house or rentals. 👍🏼

[@photog3377]

If you take something like a piece of gauze or very strong absorbing paper towel and cut it something like 3 inches by 7 inches. Stick it down in between the evaporator coils and the frame, careful not to bend the fins. Let drape over and it will work like an oil lamp wick. It will suck up the water out of the pan and drip off the bottom of the material. Learned from another you tube video. No need to drill

[@socrates2706]

Had one rust out because of this, but it took years to do so.

[@Dannysoutherner]

How very interesting! Thanks I did not know this. I always worried about the water collection.

[@submnl450]

Took me so much searching to find this. Thanks man!

[@HandymanHertz]

You're welcome!

[@pnoyhf]

Glad I watched this because I was about to drill mine since I heard the water in it.

[@HandymanHertz]

Glad to help!

[@drybloodpatches6110]

This video should get two thumbs.

[@SaveTheHumans4Later]

I've had drip problems with two Midea U-shaped 8k BTU units. They drip right next to the window on the sill where it would rot the still. On a conventual window unit the sling ring slung water on the exterior wall and it started growing mold. Sometimes you don't have much of a choice but to drill.

[@HandymanHertz]

Yeah, I'd probably drill too. 👍🏼

[@photog3377]

If you take something like a piece of gauze or very strong absorbing paper towel and cut it something like 3 inches by 7 inches. Stick it down in between the evaporator coils and the frame, careful not to bend the fins. Let drape over and it will work like an oil lamp wick. It will suck up the water out of the pan and drip off the bottom of the material. Learned from another you tube video. No need to drill

[@socrates2706]

My Midea has a removable rubber plug.

[@bikeman1x11]

drill a hole

[@snowdogthewolf]

I drilled a window unit in my old house that didn't have central air. It was collecting water and making all kinds of strange gurgling noises. So yeah, I drilled. Hit the refrigerant reservoir, which made a hissing noise far more intimidating than the previous gurgling noises. Of course it no longer blew cold air. Wouldn't recommend drilling.

[@tragan1476]

This air conditioner is equipped with aslinger fan. (See drawing, below.)The fan has an outer ring that runs inthe water that collects in the base panif it gets deep. That condensate is thenpicked up by the fan and expelledthrough the condenser, making the airconditioner more efficient.
This is out of the manual for my window ac...i done the drill method but now im doing the plug the hole method haha😂 ty for the video

[@Iyutdgts]

I found the right man to answer my question.Thanks

[@HandymanHertz]

👍🏼 you're welcome, it's a really cool design

[@jr540123]

I really hate to say it, but designed to do it or not water like that in a unit doing it's thing is asking for rot both in the unit and in a home depending on the angle of the dangle. I've also noticed allot of that water never really goes away even when off during the cooler months and I'd rather not have standing water slowly turning into mold and mildew and so on. Plus I'll be honest I'd rather it not rot into nothing in a decades time. rather it die of funnier causes considering it was the cheapest unit walmart had to offer that day.
But to be fair the holes I drilled can easily be fixed at a later date if performance is even that large of an issue. Lil two part and a hour to dry fixes everything in the world today. Makes sense why doing it could be a bad idea in the right units and area. especially dry climates.

[@HandymanHertz]

I've never had one rust out in my hose or my rental Houses, that's just my experience. Usually that's not the limiting factor on why they get tossed.

[@socrates2706]

You can buy rubber plugs for the holes if you size them right. I had a unit rust out after many years because of all the moisture. They never dry out in a high humidity environment.

[@i.flyfish3480]

I install an 8k BTU Hisense and I made sure I had a slight tilt to the outside, using a level to confirm. However, the unit is overflowing onto the inside Windowsill on both sides. I found another video that showed how to place a thin cloth or gauze on the back of the unit to wick the water out. It worked like a charm. In two minutes the cloth was dripping with water and Windowsill stopped being wet. I was about to drill the bottom but the wicking of the water worked so fast I decided not to. With all the standing water inside the unit it would create more noise, a Gurgling sound, when the water was high and was being slung around inside which might’ve been contributing to the windowsill becoming wet. I’m going to stick with wicking out the water so I don’t keep having a wet Windowsill. This is a poor design and instruction or stickers should inform the consumer of the reason for the unit holding water but also provide pop out holds so drilling is not required if the water in overflowing inside the Windowsill. Thank you for making the video and explaining why we shouldn’t drill the unit for drainage.

[@HandymanHertz]

Hmm, I only buy brands in familiar with (fridgidaire, lg, ge, midea, etc) and have never had this issue. I would be curious to know why. I believe you leveled it, but I also believe engineers design these things so they work when installed properly. I’ve never heard of a brand new one leaking inside. I’ve heard of a bunch that leak inside when they get dirty and there’s a blockage from the evaporator coil to the back of the unit. I’ve venture to guess something is blocking that from the factory, a piece of Styrofoam or some thing.

[@megastick9324]

I almost did the same thing on a window unit we put in our Fl room, but kept putting it off thinking maybe it’s supposed to have water in there…well timed vid.

[@HandymanHertz]

Nice!

[@moboutmen]

If you do drill holes, hang a piece of coat hanger out of the hole which will aid greatly in water removal

[@prestonrenify]

IC, said the blind man...but I'm uncomfortable having that standing water in terms of bacteria build up over time and increase of flying critters. Have had HVAC for decades, but certainly will refer your YT to others. Thanks again.

[@HandymanHertz]

I totally understand. A lot of that might have to do with climate. I'm in a medium humid climate and have never had an issue with that, knock on wood. My dad says I see, said the blind man… So I appreciate that. 👍🏼

[@Catfish2255]

You can get a small squirt type plastic container. Ketchup type with a small tip. Squirt about a half cup of white vinegar into the pan water. Kills and keeps bacteria away. Once a month is good. I did drill a drain hole in mine so I can drain it and let it fill again with new water. I have a plug for it. I do it once a month and after I empty it I run some water into the pan to wash it. I then replace my plug. Put the vinegar in and replace the amount of water with it. The fan keeps throwing the water and keeping the condensor and piping cool and wet.

[@leiag201]

Also evaporative cooling for the compressor 👍🏿

[@angstrommanagement3016]

Your climate is probably better suited for this method than ours.
In Florida here...Ive installed these for 40 years and always drill them out at the lowest
point, everyone I have seen where they didnt, the inner pan was a mess of algae, mold, and puddled stale condensate, with stains all around them on the sill and wall. The fan slinging water often can cause water damage to the exposed motor, not to mention is its annoying hearing that splashing sound. After drilling, clean any burs out, and thickly brush some oil based paint on the area where it leaves bare metal, and allow it to dry before firing up the unit.
Also get the spray cleaner with a brush lid and perform bi annual coil cleaning. Clean the interior of the ductwork through the face of the unit with a long heavy wire with a rag tied in a ball on the end, using a mild bleach water solution. Vacuum the front grill once a week. Do these things even the cheapest unit will last 10+ years.

[@tempchaser9880]

I Thank you for saving me from a Big mistake.

[@HandymanHertz]

You're welcome! Glad to help!

[@apersons4525]

I've drilled every a/c I've had and they cool just as efficiently. As water condenses the fan pulls on the water and cools the fins. Yes you are correct in the fact the it was designed that way.
But it also grow bacteria mold and algae. That will eventually clog and degrade the materials.
Planned obsolescence. You don't make repeat sales on something that lasts forever.

[@asherdog9248]

Thanks for taking the time to share this with us.

[@HandymanHertz]

You’re welcome, thanks for watching!

[@stevensims3342]

Drilling a service hole (on the side that has nothing above the drill hole) is a great idea. I drilled and coated mine with white gorilla glue undercoating to keep it from rusting there (spray it on some cardboard and use a small artist's paint brush without the metal brush end to get the under coating on the bare metal).
Next use a foaming coil cleaner with corrosion inhibitors 3-4 times a year and focus a lot of treatment at the bottom of the rear coil. Use a hose to then spray all of the crud out of the coil and there will be a ton of it, tree matter, leaves or grey algae. You can then use a bit of wall putty tack to plug the hole or get a grommet that fits.
Spray the inner parts that get green algae with some cleaner + bleach and it should mostly come nice and clean after / during rinsing.
Finally, if you want to really protect the unit, treat the exterior paint with an automotive grade ceramic spray.
A lot of focus should be put on protecting / cleaning the lower side as it is almost always damp or wet.

[@SharonBruce-y1d]

Our Midea unit had no drain holes and when we cleaned it up for storage after first summer of use, there was water inside which had caused rust inside the unit. Cleaned it up and drilled a hole in the bottom for the following summer. And no rust! On third summer of use so not sure about effect on longevity.

[@TapedFromFlorida]

Very true in most cases but if you live in an extremely humid hot area you will need to drill a hole because it will actually produce to much water and will block the drain hole that runs from the front of the unit to the back of the unit and will most certainly drip inside your house.

[@christinekatebaria3454]

Thank you for the information. I also freaked out when I didnt see any water dripping from the aircon. And i thought, i have to return it since something's wrong on it.

[@HandymanHertz]

Yeah I got a little panicky too!

[@Cantgetusernam]

I ended up drilling mine to let the water out. The reason being is most window acs are not air tight between the outside and inside part which allows moisture to be brought right back into your home with the cold air. You can sometimes see this on the duct work inside with a flashlight or on the adjustable vents.
This excess moisture leads to molds building up inside your ac that ends up being vented across your home causing all sorts of health issues.
I know this from personal experience when I woke up with breathing issues one night shined my flashlight into the vent and saw this mold. Got up at 3am went outside and pulled out the AC to be thrown out and replaced.
After this I NEVER EVER allow water to stay in any window unit I use.
If they could completely seal the intake that blows the cold air off from the rest of the unit with no moisture being pulled back inside then leaving the water in the pan is viable but until this is done it's not worth the health risks.

[@jamesgullo8240]

Not in Alabama. I drilled holes. No more dirty clogged fins or fan struggling to keep up in the water. This would probably be beneficial somewhere drier than the deep South

[@4seeableTV]

I got a Midea window unit last year, and the same model again this year for another window. I did notice that the newer iteration now has a rubber drain plug in the back corner. But it's only meant for draining the unit when the season is over and you want to take it out of the window. They probably had complaints about water spillage on previous versions, since the water is designed to stay in the unit, but could pour out the front if tilted to remove and store off-season.

[@stogey_the_bear]

I just did a bad thing I will now plug with screws thanks man

[@HandymanHertz]

I've drilled many of holes, so don't feel bad. Yup, get some screws or start chewing some bubblegum 😆

[@stogey_the_bear]

Two screws and she good as new lol

[@AvelardoLopez]

Wow, awesome video, thanks for the lesson, I recently was talking to my bro about this topic while we were unsure if we needed to drill a hole too. Thanks for saving us the problem.

[@HandymanHertz]

Glad it was helpful! I may be coming out with a video showing how much electricity it saves. and....no water mess!

[@jonathanzhangxu]

This video literally save people's money; both from electricity and the unit itself!

[@HandymanHertz]

Yup, thanks! 👍🏼

[@DBrisky37]

I drilled mine for the same reason without thinking and it wound up tripping the breaker.. My last one had a drain so I figured the new one should too. There was even a slope and X where the drain would be. Found out that the water in the pan helps cool the unit like you said. Plugged the hole I drilled and it was good to go

[@JRo-red]

Totally didn’t know that! Very interesting!

[@HandymanHertz]

It is interesting, a great design!

[@innocenceends5269]

TL:DR If you DON'T have animals that might drink the water if it puddles drilling the pan or draining the water is better for your system and you. Do with this information what you will. If you might have animals that could potentially drink this water then DO NOT DO IT. This is why they don't have a drain or have a corked drain hole.
As an HVAC tech that evaporative dispersing probably more than likely is affecting your efficiency negatively rather positively as you lose air flow when the water fills the fins and you can potentially develop algae, mold, fungus and such. One thing you will notice if you have a fresh air intake on your unit is that it might smell like sweat or smell a bit funky when it brings air in, that is your condensate water in the pan. Its also a mating ground for mosquitoes and such and rusts out your chassis of you window AC. As far as I know its only there for multi story buildings so that water does not drip on lower areas, people walking below in the city, and so it wont puddle where animals can drink it and get sick. You can contract Legionnaires disease which is a type of pneumonia if you are heavily exposed to condensate water. A solution would be running a drain hose from the AC directly into the ground or a drain-out so no puddles will form.
Also, side note, I do not like portable hose ACs cause they hold the water in the unit unless you dump it leading to funky smells, constantly having the condensate switch shutting it off, and poor efficiency cause of the uninsulated condenser venting tube. Drilled a hole in my window AC condensate pan cause of the smell and found this video when I was seeing if newer LG units have condensate switches so they don't overflow. If you don't want to drill you can also just hang a paper towel/fabric from the back of the unit where that overflow hole is and it will just gravity drain it out.
Creds: HVAC Journeyman. I work residential and commercial. This includes central heating and cooling, gas heating, electric heating, watersource heatpumps, chillers, cooling towers, hydronic loops, and some refrigeration hence not the R part of HVACR as I am mostly an HVAC technician. A portable AC is technically a small size package unit and those usually will always have a separate drain line. The package units I've seen that did not and instead had evaporative dispersing for the condensate were always rusted beyond repair after 5-10 years.

[@research1586]

Why does it smell moldy or musty without modification ?
I think the air quality is better without a pool of hot nasty water.
Air seems drier, and coils don't seem to freeze over as often.
Yeah a machine constantly full of hot water is a breeding ground for molds mildew, and it just keeps flinging it around inside a dark area.
Also even power off still left with a pan of nasty water sitting in dark environment.
I modified both of mine last year, love seeing the water pour out of them. Both units push 50 degree air out.I didn't drill, I cut the middle of the back and peeled it back so with tilt drains at lowest point, be careful not to hit coolant tubes.
Informative video, makes sense. But last year I literally poured bleach into one unit to get rid of strong mold musty smell. Could smell it with unit off too. They were plenty sloped backwards. Subscribed 👍

[@davestark2015]

My old air-conditioning unit is 35 years old, i drilled it over twenty years ago, it still works way better than the newer one i bought, so i don't necessarily agree with you. But to each their own.

[@CLDino]

I agree with kevincheston i have 6 through the wall casement ACs one from 1986 is still working, old tech. The two newest ones that have the water fan sling style are the ones that have damaged my wall. The ACs are dead level so the weep holes when reacting to higher water levels drip on the bottom rails of the box allowing water to drip from the rear all the way to the front therefore causing sheet rock and wood damage. Now you say why did I let it get to that point. Well, my maintenance for the other 4 units required cleaning the filter and inside coil and hosing off the outside coil not adding tablets or liquids to prevent sludge. This I wasn't used to, never had a problem with sludge, the water drips out and was not stagnant. Yea I know I'm old but not afraid of embracing new tech if the tech is engendered and well thought out. Why make it harder and less healthy to maintain? To sell more ACs more frequently, the consumer be dammed.

[@HandymanHertz]

You said the ACs are dead level. I believe there in lies the problem. Every instruction manual I read, says they need a slight slope that would fix your issue.
There could be a counter argument that the slinger ring makes your unit more effective and efficient by cooling down the condenser. This would cause less cycling, which would be less wear and tear on your compressor, extending the lifespan. Just some thoughts. I’d also be very very curious what your 1986 SEER rating would be and how much energy it uses 😬. can’t be good.

[@CLDino]

@@HandymanHertz I didn't install the sleeves, my contractor did. The other 4 on the second floor were all leveled slightly down. The newest one of these was the one that caused the most damage that I am in the middle of repairing. I removed it and actually found a factory hole that was near the front that was allowing water to drip behind the wallboard. I plugged this hole and drilled two holes in the rear, and now I get a drip outside. Why won't you admit this design has flaws? The manufacturers did this to get a little better SEER rating so we think we are being environmentally conscious and dam the consequences. Question everything. Don't be led by your ideals that are being manipulated. ( I don't think they used SEER ratings in the 80s)

[@jthomas.]

Should also mention how easy it is to puncture the condenser when your bit breaks through and screws itself through the thin sheet metal casing. I've seen it happen multile times.

[@HandymanHertz]

Yeah very true. Lots of new ac's in landfills due to this...

[@mikewall9486]

Didnt know this and drilled. Had to plug it.

[@theonlyjimjones]

Not the case in most costal areas. Excess moisture bogs it down. Hard to dissipate moisture when it is 91% humiditities out.

[@zeewizard1]

i still drill mine out, that water gets sprayed everywhere and makes mold, my ac works fine with the holes drilled and i dont have all the splash mess all over the house, and no mold to deal with, so guys, don't be afraid to drill away !!!!

[@speedbuggy16v]

Well, I have to say Thank You, I had the same concerns. But had not gone to get a drill yet, why do today what you can put off till tomorrow? Saw your video and now I don't even have to find the drill! 🙂

[@HandymanHertz]

Haha love it!

[@garrettstraffon608]

Thanks I almost just drilled mine lol and I have drilled one before I don’t think I ran it long enough after that to suffer the consequences but this is a great video and good to no

[@HandymanHertz]

Yup, I've drilled plenty myself before i knew this

[@kingjames4236]

Thanks for the tip man cuz I was going to drill a hole in the bottom of mine

[@Mrwintr]

Without a drain hole that back all kinds of debris and pollen and general MUNG build up on the inside of the radiator in the back, I believe they do this so you will buy a new A/C unit every couple of years. Oh, yeah, you could take it apart and clean all the fins and get the mung out but it is a PIA and I doubt most home owners would bother. I always add a drain hole once I carefully find the low spot and make sure I won't drill into a Freon line or anything important.

[@HandymanHertz]

Never been an issue for me.

[@Troy116]

Lmao 😂 you just saved my life I was about to do some absolute bs

[@HandymanHertz]

Haha I was about to drill a hole too

[@kingisrael1532]

Beautiful 👍🏽. I was wondering the same about mines but i wasn't going to drill any holes.

[@HandymanHertz]

Yeah, it's kind of a cool design

[@1TruePatriot]

@@HandymanHertz "Mines"? How many do you have?

[@user-bh7kr8yx8t]

thanks i found this because it made a whistle and it was not leaking so thanks and my abc on the second floor drilled in

[@HandymanHertz]

👍🏼

[@vgadoury]

Damn, I've just done a "drill first, search later" 😅 I was annoyed by the noise it was starting to make and thought it was abnormal and that the drain was clogged or something... 😒

[@HandymanHertz]

Better start chewing some bubblegum. Lol no, it's okay, it just won't be as efficient

[@vgadoury]

@@HandymanHertz I just put a small screw in it, now I got a removable drain plug 😄

[@kylewauchope22]

Thank you for this... Totally was going to do this but was like wait a minute.. let me check the OL' RUclips... Close one; CHEERS

[@HandymanHertz]

You're welcome! Good old RUclips!

[@lincolnbliss4885]

Oh phew. I thought mine had an issue. I thought it was over heating from the sizzling sound of water hitting the condenser. I just didn't expect the water to be part of the process. Just seem like it would cause corrosion and shorts as well as mold growth.

[@HandymanHertz]

It really helps with efficiency and less hard on your compressor. I've never personally had a mold issue, or replaced one due to corrosion or rust in my house or my rental houses

[@ironmartysharpe8293]

I know someone who did that , He just bought a new window air conditioner and both me and his wife warned him not to drill a drain hole in the bottom of the unit , That I explained to him that the condenser fan has a slinger ring to disperse water into the evaporator coil in which the heat in the coil evaporates the water and that's why it doesn't need a drain hole , He didn't listen to us and he went ahead and did it anyway
Drilled the hole and hit the condenser coil and ended up putting a hole in it and ruined the unit , His wife had a royal fit , So him and his wife had to buy another unit
Whenever you buy an expensive item , Such as a window air conditioner ,
It definitely pays to read the instruction book , Very likely the instructions said never to drill holes in the bottom of the unit , Had he listened to me and his wife , And read the instruction book ,
This would not have happened

[@bluearchangel1554]

I once drilled a hole to mount an outdoor unit onto a bracket....i accidentally penetrated the Freon line and PPPSSSSSHHHSSSsssssssssss, $200 down the drain, lesson learned.

[@frankievassallo552]

Thank you for the information cause I was about to drill a hole in my window Unit. it was leaking water inside. So I pull it out find out the hole where condensed water drain was clogged. So I clean it real good then put it back in. 👍

[@HandymanHertz]

Good job! Usually water leaking inside is a separate issue!

[@deonwilliams200]

What’s that issue? Mine is dripping out inside

[@phatrides222000]

Mine has a rubber plug that is now missing. I can tell it doesn't quite cool as well now. A little silicone should do the trick.

[@jamesspalten5977]

If you are worried about efficiency, window units are the most inefficient A/C's. Two window units pull as many Amps as one and a half Central Units.

[@Icehso140]

Yeah...but houses with no ductwork have few other options in a pinch. Cleaning the condenser coils every year is a must. I do that every year and can fill a room with frosty air with each window unit. It can easily cost 15-20 thousand to outfit a house with central AC. Even going with split units.

[@omarflores323]

I complete ruined a year old 18,000 btu 240v unit last year for not knowing this. I noticed it wasn’t dripping water and freaked out thinking it was going to to go in the walls. I took a drill to it and busted Gas pipe. Oh yeah, and this was on Mother’s Day!!! 😂😂😂.. it cost @1k to replace it with a new one. Lol

[@HandymanHertz]

Oh no!!! 😂 I was kinda flipping out too that was water was building up.

[@romainebrown3754]

This what I did an mess up mine🤣🤣

[@michaelpcoffee]

Excellent explanation.
However;
When it starts dripping on the window sill; I drill.

[@tanyaray4846]

Thank you! I have been worried about this.

[@HandymanHertz]

Glad I could help!

[@Keith_Mikell]

You can also shove a few sections of towel in the front and itll wick out as long as you dont pinch the towel and have capillary action.

[@HandymanHertz]

I’ve heard of people doing that. Does it cause gross, moldy towels?

[@Keith_Mikell]

@@HandymanHertz yes. use old microfibers that arn't too tore up bc you still need that cap action. Or you can use bownty. The grossness stays inside the case usually. Then it plugs the towels and you change them.

[@HandymanHertz]

@@Keith_Mikell great tips, thanks

[@Keith_Mikell]

@@HandymanHertz anytime. Just remember to loosely stuff the towel in. You want the capillary wicking action.

[@HandymanHertz]

👍🏼

[@skylark4901]

My AC does have a plastic fitting at the back that a hose can attach to but rust on the inside of mine, like what could be seen inside yours built up and clogged that opening where the water was supposed to come out, the fan was splashing the water so bad the AC was making weird noises and water was spraying out the front into my home, I had to take mine out of the window and tip it forward and the water spilt out, it's fine for now, I think that rust build up moved away from blocking the drain hole, for now, but this video came up randomly for me and I figured I would tell my story, maybe when it gets a little cooler I'll open it and see if I can clean out that rusty guck! Or...break down and get those mini splits I've been wanting to get! 🍻

[@ITIsFunnyDamnIT]

What about too much water getting in there to the point it's affecting the fan. especially after it rains this is a problem. Do i need a awning over it? Also, my 5000 btu unit used to be enough to cool my room on a hot day, until my neighbors cut down all their oak trees and now I ano shade at all. It cool the room good at night but on days when it gets to 99 to 100 it barely keeping the room comfortable. I know how take the unit out and apart to clean it, but maybe I need a 6000 btu unit? Will an awning make a difference?

[@HandymanHertz]

A deep clean would be your best bet. I did a comparison and there was an 8 degree difference. Watch my video on deep cleaning if you need. An awning won't make much difference if it's just over the ac unit. The problem is now the sun is baking your house instead of the trees. I'd guess 6,000 may not be enough, I'd go 8,000, personally. If you have two windows, I would put it either in the north side of the room or the west side of the room window.
Also, keep it at a set temperature, they are meant for maintaining temperature, not cooling down a room. You could also cool it in the morning, so you have a Headstart before the heat comes in the afternoon