Central A/C unit went out so I purchased a large window unit to cool a combined open living - dining - kitchen floor plan only to discover that the plug is 220. And of course I have no 220 outlet where I need to put the window unit. I'm assuming that the outlet will need to be replaced in order to accommodate but what about the circuit breaker? Will it need to be replaced as well? And is there anyway to utilize any of the existing electrical work already in place for the central A/C unit which is not being used at all? I hope what I've said makes sense and that I have used the correct terms. I'm a girl and know very little about electricity and wiring - but I'm willing to learn!! ;)

Df, we must first confirm that your home has 220 vac coming in. You probably do since you had central air. Do you have any other 220 appliances or fixtures like a water heater, electric dryer, etc.. If you have no 220 I'd say take that unit back and get a 110 . Adding 220 to a home that doesn't have it can run you $1000 easily. If your home has 220 just not where you want it call a licensed electrian from the phone book. More in the range of $250.

If panel cover was removed, and you see conduits, may push or pull 2 more # 12's, 2 pole breaker, If 30 Amps, need #10. Have competent person work on it. Electricity is dangerous.

If you had Central Air, you can use that, Will need smaller breaker for your use.
What is wrong with your Central Air?

I am sure you have what is more like 240. If you have an outlet with nothing else on the circuit, it could be upgraded to 240, but not a good starter DIY project. Might be easiest to find a 120 volt unit as suggested. Even then, you would need a 20 amp circuit with little else on it for a large unit. Paying somebody to run a new circuit might be a good start on repairing the central air. Has anybody given you a price?

Depending what the problem is, we might even be able to walk you through a simple repair.

Well I've decided that since I'll eventually have to repair the central air there's no sense in my investing any more $$$ in an extra window unit when that $$$ could be spent towards repairing the actual problem. Thank you for your help and comments - maybe I'll see you on the pets page! ;)

From what I read on your Central Air. It may be as simple as the Contactor.
If you don't understand. Please not another red mark. If there is 24 volts to contactor, and it doesn't pull down. It is open, and needs to be replaced, a $20 part.