How To install a GFCI for a WINDOW Air Conditioner
Don't install a WINDOW AC unit without making sure that your Electrical Outlet is correct. If you don't have a grounded outlet to use then PLEASE install a GFCI outlet. Even when it is not grounded it is the best and safest choice for your AC unit.
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THANKS, This is Dennis with HOME REHAB PROS.
Transcript:
How To install a GFCI for a Window Air Conditioner
Hello, this is Jeff from Home Rehab Pros. We're currently working on another project, and today's task involves responding to a request to install an air conditioner in a window. To achieve this, we need to use the appropriate plug to facilitate the installation. As you can see here, we have a two-prong outlet, but an air conditioner requires a three-prong plug. In order to proceed with this and pass a city inspection, we will be replacing the two-prong outlet with a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) and labeling it as "non-grounded" to meet the necessary standards. This will ensure that the air conditioner can be safely installed in the window and comply with city regulations.
Our first step is to head down to the basement and access the breaker box to turn off the power to the outlet.
Service Box: Here we are at the service box. I will identify the master bedroom breaker and switch it off. Afterward, I'll use a tester to confirm that the power is indeed off before proceeding.
Tools: For this task, I have several tools at hand: a tester, a Phillips screwdriver, diagonal pliers, needle-nose pliers, wire strippers, and black tape. The black tape will be used to insulate the GFCI outlet in the metal box.
Wiring: Now that the power is off, I can begin the wiring process. Since this outlet has a continuation of the circuit, we need to handle it differently. I'll demonstrate how to properly wire the GFCI outlet.
Installation: I've turned the power back on at the service box, and I can confirm that the bottom wire is the hot wire. The top wires continue the circuit. Due to limited space in the box, I'll trim some excess wiring using diagonal pliers. Then, I'll connect the wires to the GFCI outlet – hot on the gold side and neutral on the silver side, ensuring the proper placement for both line and load connections.
Power Testing: Before attaching the cover, I'll turn the power back on to verify that the GFCI outlet functions as intended. Using a screwdriver, I'll press the red button to test it and observe the green light, confirming that power is present. Additionally, I'll use a ground tester to ensure proper grounding.
Insulation: Given the metal box, I'll use black tape to insulate the GFCI connections, preventing any contact with the metal and ensuring safety.
Final Steps: With the GFCI outlet securely wired and insulated, I'll proceed to place it into the metal box. Once positioned, I'll fasten it in place using screws and attach the cover. Lastly, I'll affix a sticker indicating "GFI No Equipment Ground" on the outlet cover, making it clear that the outlet is non-grounded but safe for air conditioner use.
Conclusion: Thank you for watching our demonstration. If you found this video helpful, please consider liking, subscribing, or sharing it with others. We appreciate your time and hope to see you again soon. This is Jeff from Home Rehab Pros.