How to Use an Air Conditioner Sleeve

An air conditioner sleeve made of plastic or metal supports the weight of the through-the-wall or window air conditioner. Most air conditioner sleeves are specifically made to fit one type of air conditioner and they do not damage the paint or outside wall covering.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Air conditioner sleeve
• Shims
• Caulk
• Air conditioner

1. Install the air conditioner sleeve into the wall opening. Place the bottom holes of the sleeve toward the outside-rear section of the window opening. Take the back panel off the air conditioner sleeve.

2. Screw one side of the air conditioner sleeve into place using the pre-drilled holes. Level the air conditioner sleeve and screw in the other side. Secure the air conditioner with shims.

3. Place caulk directly around the area where the air conditioner sleeve and the wall meet, on both the inside and outside walls.

4. Insert the air conditioner into the sleeve and screw it into place using the pre-drilled holes. Complete the manufacturer's directions for installing the air conditioner.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace the air conditioner sleeve when you replace the air conditioner itself. It is difficult to find a new air conditioner that matches the existing sleeve.
• Don't drill holes in the bottom of the air conditioner sleeve. Use the pre-drilled holes instead.