Best Practice: Give Your AC an Annual DrainUpdated an hour ago

At the end of every cooling season, give your Windmill a quick manual drain before packing it away or letting it rest for the winter.

Why it matters:During peak summer, your AC naturally collects condensation on the base pan to help cool the coils. Draining out that leftover water at the end of the year stops standing water from sitting in the unit all winter long. It prevents mold, mildew, rust, and funky odors—ensuring your unit turns on fresh, clean, and ready to go when the first hot day of next spring hits!

 Double-Check the 1° Tilt Every Reinstall

Whenever you put your unit back in the window for the season, always check that it has a 1-degree downward tilt toward the outside.

Why it matters:Gravity is your AC’s best friend! A subtle outward tilt ensures condensation flows away from your home and drains properly outside.

Pro Tip — Buildings Settle:Even if you leave your frame in place or use the exact same window every year, windows, sills, and building frames naturally shift and settle overtime. Weatherstripping compresses, wood expands and contracts with the seasons, and house foundations move. Never assume last year’s pitch is still perfect—always pop a level on top of the unit during installation to make sure the bubble floats slightly toward the room side, sending the water where it belongs: outdoors.

Here's a video of one of our founder, Mike, showing you how to do it!