Top Shelf TSB-2438 Universal Heavy Duty Window Air Conditioner AC Support Bracket -Holds Up to 200 lbs., No Drilling or Tools Required, White

Every AC unit that says its an easy install for windows lies (at least based on how my windows are set up) and although the price is steep, it makes installation a breeze for all unit sizes (works so well I bought 2). If you have difficulty getting your unit in the window every summer this is worth relieving the stress of that process. in terms of durability time will tell. given the perceived strength of the components im surprised it doesnt have a longer warranty which is a little frustrating but otherwise im satisfied.

I struggled for hours, trying to figure out exactly how to position the bracket. I then emailed the company and received a prompt reply, along with photos which depicted the tabs positioning better than the product insert or the online video. The companys owner asked if my windows are wood (they are) and noted that the bracket works better with vinyl or aluminum windows. I was able to establish a satisfactory, though not perfect, installation, which required slightly bending the brackets base against the inside window trim, which permits the air conditioner to tilt slightly to the outside for drainage. As with most window air conditioners, some filling in with foam is also necessary, but this is not a difficult task.

I had a nightmare time trying to install my 12000BTU AC in my condos window. The window is old and the sill is strange, and other brackets that required bolts just didnt line up properly. I decided to go with this one after reading the wirecutter review and wow did it do the trick. I simply installed the arms and the locking mechanisms and it fit just right. It turned a project I dreaded doing into something I found quite easy and fun. Would buy again.

This unit is identical to a Black and Decker unit being offered on Amazon right now. The Black and Decker offer provides a very helpful instructional video. Watch the B&D instructional video to know how this thing works. I found the B&D video AFTER installing the shelf (and I bought it two years ago). I realized it is not for my type of window (double pane), but it still works for my situation, with some adjustments and customizations.

This shelf does hold an air conditioner; mine held a large unit. It wasnt incredibly difficult to assemble. That being said, it did leave a gap at the bottom where outside air could easily infiltrate. I also found damage on my sill. Additionally, The water ran out of my unit down the closest leg and painted my brick wall white. It also rusted away all of the paint on one foot and introduced rust on the other foot. I also had difficulty keeping the pads in while installing the mount. Its a good concept but the product needs a little more quality control.

Unit does not fit well for NYC condo buildings and after a few emails to the company still have not get word back if this unit is Local Law 11 approved or not for NYC. I do not think it is because it only has one point of attachment to the window frame instead of anchored in to the building. The trough is also not designed for commercial windows found on multiple dweller residential buildings but only for residential homes as the window casing is not as tall as commercial windows are. The bracket will not sit down far enough into the window frame and thus you will have a weird angled AC that will be hard to sit flush against the window. The wings that sit against the window frame could also be made of a higher gauge steel/a little bigger/thicker so as to distribute the weight more and give a better hold. We have a medium sized 12,000BTU AC and it does not sit in the channel like the shelf is designed for. It served its purpose for getting an AC in the window and passing visual inspection but it is not supporting the AC since it does not fit the window frame correctly. Still no word on if it is Local Law 11 approved. for $100 it should be Local Law 11 approved.

It took some time to figure out how to adjust it. Instructions says to put sides in the third hole. Found out that meant third from the shortest setting. After that, I got it in place. As a former welder, I can appreciate the construction of it. My window frame is not the best for it, but got it to work. Placed a 2x6x24 piece of redwood under the AC unit to keep it from tipping too much. Will work better after I anchor the wooden piece. It will give me peace of mind that my A/C unit is well supported and should not put a strain on my apartments window frame.

I was really getting tired of damaging the sill on my vinyl windows with the weight of the window ac unit resting on it year after year. Not to mention the rigging of a temporary summer bracket outside every year. And where did I put the one from last year again??? So I went looking for something engineered for the job. Having an old farm house, this one caught my eye over and over as I researched. My initial question was is this really going to be worth paying 2 - 3 times the cost of support brackets at the big-box stores. That question was answered when the box arrived and I was shocked at how heavy and sturdy this bracket was. I could see that there was no doubt this would support that 50+ pound monster that I lugged in and up and out and down every spring and fall. Simple to assemble, well finished in a hard baked white enamel (it may even be powered coated- not sure) almost unlimited adjustment holes for the angle the unit will rest at, and a really study tray and frame catch bracket put my mind at ease immediately for both strength and return on investment. I expect this bracket to last for many summers to come. Spend the money once and get it over with.

VERY easy to set up, but you do need to poke your head out of the window to make sure the feet are flat on the wall. If you dont do that, and something jostles the air conditioner, I can imagine dire things happening. The instruction booklet, like ALL instruction booklets, could use some work. Maybe larger, clearer illustrations. But, its true, you dont need any tools. One last thing - you need to use alternate methods to fill the gaps created using this bracket. There will be areas in front of and underneath the bracket to fill. Not a problem - I used bubble wrap. Bottom line - I feel that the entire unit is safer, and therefore, we are safer using it.

Conceptually, I think this is a great product. I really wanted to like it and make it work. Other reviewers have also mentioned they measured their windows and it didnt fit. I did the same. Based on measurements, it shouldve fit but didnt. If you have standard windows and are looking for an AC brace, I highly recommend. For the most part it was easy to put together. Mine showed up a bit scratched, which I noticed as I put it together. Also, when purchased I purchased under the TopShelf link but the Black & Decker branded one showed up. I guess they have a partnership but I can imagine it being confusing for some customers.