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New York City
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Installation / Window AC

Installing a window AC in New York

The simplest way to meet the law in most rooms. Here is how to size it, how the city says it has to be supported, and what to ask before anyone climbs out a window.

At a glanceNYC
Best for
Double hung or slider windows
Power
Most plug in; big units can need 230V
Permit
None under 36,000 BTU
Rebate now
None
A single window air conditioner in a brick wall

A good fit if

  • The room has a window that opens up and down or slides
  • You want the lowest upfront cost
  • You can store or leave the unit in place over winter

Size your rooms

Size and power

  • SizeThe law sets a floor of 20 BTU per hour for every square foot of the room. Most units start at 5,000 BTU, so small bedrooms usually need the smallest size sold.
  • PowerSmaller units plug into a standard outlet. Larger ones can need a 230 volt outlet, so check the plug on the spec sheet before you buy. The city recommends a dedicated outlet for each unit.

What the city requires

  • SupportUse metal brackets or interior angles strong enough for the unit, fastened to the building. Never level a unit with loose wood, bricks, or cans.
  • The windowThe unit has to stay put when the window opens, or the window must be fixed so it can't open by accident.
  • DrainageTilt the unit slightly outward so water drains away from the building, without over tilting.
  • ExitsNever block a fire escape or other exit, and don't stack anything on top of the unit.
  • Permission and powerGet permission from building management first. The city recommends a dedicated outlet for each unit.
  • Taller buildingsIn buildings over six stories, the city's facade inspection rule lists window air conditioners among the attachments it covers.
  • LandmarksSeasonal window units on a landmark don't need a Landmarks Preservation Commission permit. Permanent installations do.
  • PermitsA common window unit needs no permit. Units over 36,000 BTU (three tons) do.

Hiring someone

  • Who installsA handyman or AC installer can do it. On upper floors, ask whether they carry insurance for exterior work.
  • What to askIs the bracket included? Will you seal the gaps around the unit? Will you take the old unit away? Get two quotes.
  • ElectricalAny electrical work, like a new outlet or circuit, needs a NYC licensed master electrician and a permit.

Rebates and incentives

We found no Con Edison or NYSERDA rebate for a standard window air conditioner. If you also want heat, look at a window heat pump instead.

See every unit type and incentive

Who pays for the install

Other ways to cool a room

  • Window heat pumpCools in summer and heats in winter, with real state incentives.
  • Through the wall ACSits in a sleeve in the wall, so the window stays free.
  • PTACA packaged unit that sits in a standard wall sleeve.

Check a license before you hire

Two free City lookups. Ask for the license number and check it yourself before anyone starts.

  • Home improvement contractorsThe City requires a Home Improvement Contractor license from the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection for construction, repair, and remodeling work on residences. Ask whether your installer has one. Look up a contractor
  • ElectriciansElectrical work in NYC needs a licensed master electrician and a permit from the Department of Buildings. Search DOB licenses
  • Get it in writingAsk for a written quote that lists the unit, the bracket or sleeve, any electrical work, and who hauls away the old unit.

Lookups listed on the Department of Buildings' Know Your Construction Professional page. Checked October 21, 2026.