What is the difference between a sliding window kit and a standard window kit?

A sliding window kit includes a flat adaptation plate (without frame) that fastens with suction cups or sliding rails, adapted to the reduced space between the mobile panel and fixed frame. A standard kit uses a frame structure that fits into the window, unsuitable for sliding windows.

How long does silicone sealant take to dry completely?

High-performance silicone sealant (such as Sikaflex or Dow Corning) dries on the surface after 24 hours, but reaches full mechanical strength after 7 days. Wait 24 hours minimum before operating the air conditioner, 7 days for optimal sealing.

Can I install a portable air conditioner on a sliding glass door without a specialized kit?

Not recommended. A sliding glass door requires a specific adaptation plate or "sliding glass door" kit to ensure sealing over a width of 80-120 cm. A standard kit risks leaving significant leaks.

What is the total cost of a DIY plexiglass installation?

Approximately €30-45: 5mm plexiglass plate (€15-20), hole saw (€12-15), silicone sealant (€8-12), suction cups (€5-8). Cheaper than a kit, but requires more time and precision.

How do I verify that my installation is sealed?

Use a lit candle near the duct hole: the flame should not move. Or install a thermal infiltration detector (€40-80) to measure air drafts. Test after 24 hours of sealant drying.

How to Adapt the Duct to a Sliding Window?

Par Isabelle Cohen, Rédactrice expert produits premium

Installing a portable air conditioner in a sliding window requires precise adaptation of the exhaust duct. Discover specific kits, DIY solutions and sealing techniques for all types of windows.

How to Adapt the Duct to a Sliding Window?

Why Adapt the Duct to a Sliding Window?

The standard exhaust duct of a portable air conditioner (15 cm diameter) does not fit directly into sliding windows. These windows, very common in France and Northern Europe, present a challenge: the space between the mobile frame and fixed frame is reduced (typically 10-15 cm). Without proper adaptation, you risk hot air leaks, energy efficiency loss of 30 to 40%, and outside air infiltration. Adaptation solutions guarantee optimal sealing and maintain your unit's cooling performance.

Vertical vs Horizontal Sliding Windows

Vertical sliding windows (sash windows, very popular in the UK and the Netherlands) slide from top to bottom. Horizontal sliding windows (sliding glass doors) slide from left to right. Each configuration requires a different approach for duct passage.

What Specific Kits Are Available?

Manufacturers offer adaptation kits designed for sliding windows, sold by Tempéra and its European partners. These kits include a rigid plastic closure plate (PVC or polycarbonate), pre-drilled to receive the 15 cm duct, with a fastening system using suction cups or sliding rails. In Germany, brands *Suntec* and *Aktobis* offer DIN 4109-certified kits (acoustic insulation). In the Netherlands and Belgium, distributors recommend *Eurom* systems with integrated sealing gasket. In the UK, *Electriq* and *Argo* offer adapters for sash windows with aluminum guide strips. These kits cost between €25 and €60 and reduce installation time to 15-20 minutes.

Premium Kit Characteristics

Material: transparent polycarbonate (better thermal insulation than PVC)
Thickness: 5-8 mm to withstand temperature variations
Integrated gasket: EPDM foam or pre-applied silicone
Fastening system: reinforced suction cups (5-8 kg load) or sliding rails
Compatibility: windows 60 to 120 cm wide

How to Create a DIY Plexiglass Solution?

If no kit matches your window, a custom DIY plexiglass plate is the most economical solution. Buy a transparent plexiglass plate (5 mm thickness) from a building materials supplier. Measure precisely the width and height of your sliding window (interior side). Trace the duct outline (15 cm circle) where it will pass (usually center, 20 cm from the top). Use a 16 cm hole saw to drill the hole with a cordless drill at low speed (500 rpm). Sand the edges with 120-180 grit sandpaper to prevent micro-cracks. Apply transparent silicone sealant (Sikaflex type) all around the hole, then insert the duct into the opening. Secure the plate with automotive-grade suction cups (*Fendall* or *Schott* brand) or 6 mm screws with plastic washers.

Tools Needed for DIY

Tape measure and marking pencil
16 cm hole saw (approximately €12-15)
18V cordless drill/driver
120 and 180 grit sandpaper
High-performance silicone sealant (Dow Corning, Sikaflex)
Caulking gun
Suction cups or screw fastening kit

How to Ensure Perfect Sealing?

Sealing is the critical factor in successful installation. First apply silicone sealant (such as *Sikasil* G or *Transparent Sealant* Dow Corning) 8 mm thick around the duct hole, on both interior and exterior sides. Wait 24 hours for drying before operating the air conditioner. Check for air leaks with a candle or thermal infiltration detector. For sliding glass doors, install an EPDM foam compression gasket (5 cm × 10 m, approximately €8-12) along the mobile frame to fill residual gaps. Test interior air pressure with a digital manometer: it should not exceed 5 Pa at maximum air conditioner power.

Sealing Standards in Europe

The [ISO 12098-1](https://www.iso.org/standard/51219.html) standard sets performance criteria for portable air conditioners. Exhaust duct sealing must comply with thermal loss below 15% of declared cooling capacity. In France, [ADEME recommends](https://www.ademe.fr) minimum class C sealing per EN 12098-5 standard for residential installations.

Specific Solutions for Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding glass doors present a special case: the space between the two panels is often narrower (8-12 cm). Use a specialized "sliding glass door" kit with diameter-reducing duct (from 15 cm to 12 cm) or opt for an "L" shaped adaptation plate that fits the frame angle. Secure the plate with anodized aluminum supports (corrosion resistance) rather than suction cups, which won't hold on a wide opening. Install a V-shaped sealing gasket (such as *Schlegel* or *Metra*) in the sliding groove to compensate for micro-gaps.

Installation Steps for Sliding Glass Doors

1. Measure the total width of the fixed frame

2. Choose an adaptation plate 80-120 cm wide

3. Drill 4 fastening holes (one at each corner)

4. Apply silicone sealant around the duct hole perimeter

5. Insert the duct and secure with L-brackets

6. Check level with a spirit level

Annual Maintenance and Inspections

Each year, before the summer season, inspect your installation's sealing. Verify that the silicone sealant has not cracked or shrunk. Clean the exhaust duct with a vacuum (risk of dust accumulation). Test again with a candle to detect leaks. If the sealant is damaged, apply an additional layer of transparent silicone. This simple maintenance extends your installation's lifespan by 5 to 10 years.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not measuring precisely: every cm counts for sealing
Using acrylic sealant: it cracks in 6 months under thermal variations
Forgetting drying time: 24 hours minimum before use
Securing the duct too tightly: it can deform and create leaks
Neglecting frame sealing: infiltrations often come from the frame, not the duct hole

Conclusion

Adapting a portable air conditioner duct to a sliding window is a doable project in 30-45 minutes with the right tools. Specific kits offer the best performance guarantee, while the DIY plexiglass solution suits tight budgets. Sealing remains key: use high-performance silicone sealant and regularly check its integrity. With these recommendations, your Tempéra air conditioner will operate at optimal efficiency all summer long.

FAQ

Quelle est la différence entre un kit fenêtre coulissante et un kit fenêtre standard ?

Un kit fenêtre coulissante intègre une plaque d'adaptation plate (sans cadre) qui se fixe par ventouses ou glissières, adaptée à l'espace réduit entre le vantail mobile et le cadre fixe. Un kit standard utilise une structure en cadre qui s'encastre dans la fenêtre, inadapté aux coulissantes.

Combien de temps le joint silicone met-il à sécher complètement ?

Le joint silicone haute performance (type Sikaflex ou Dow Corning) sèche en surface après 24 heures, mais atteint sa résistance mécanique complète après 7 jours. Attendez 24 heures minimum avant d'utiliser le climatiseur, 7 jours pour une étanchéité optimale.

Puis-je installer un climatiseur mobile sur une baie vitrée sans kit spécialisé ?

Non recommandé. Une baie vitrée coulissante demande une plaque d'adaptation spécifique ou un kit « baie vitrée » pour assurer l'étanchéité sur une largeur de 80-120 cm. Un kit standard risque de laisser des fuites importantes.

Quel est le coût total d'une installation DIY en plexiglas ?

Environ 30-45 euros : plaque plexiglas 5mm (15-20 €), scie cloche (12-15 €), joint silicone (8-12 €), ventouses (5-8 €). Moins cher qu'un kit, mais demande plus de temps et de précision.

Comment vérifier que mon installation est étanche ?

Utilisez une bougie allumée près du trou de gaine : la flamme ne doit pas bouger. Ou installez un détecteur d'infiltration thermique (40-80 euros) pour mesurer les courants d'air. Testez après 24 heures de séchage du joint.

Mots-clés : climatiseur mobile, fenêtre coulissante, installation, gaine évacuation, étanchéité