How to Install a Wall Air Conditioner Unit

Wall and window mounted air conditioning units are a cost effective way to cool the interior of your home. These appliances use much less energy than central heat and air systems, and can be suited to the size of the room for optimum cooling rates based on BTU output. Installing a wall mounted air conditioner is much like mounting a window unit, except you have to cut and frame a hole in the wall to mount the appliance. Basic knowledge of carpentry is essential to performing this task.

Things You'll Need

• A/C wall unit
• Router or saw-zaw
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• 2-by-4s
• Nails
• Hammer
• Caulk
• Paint

Instructions

1. Locate the appropriate area on the wall to place your air conditioning unit. Nearby an electrical outlet is ideal so that you have a close power source to plug the unit into. Use a stud-finder to find adequate studs. You will want to position the wall unit in between the existing studs.

2. Measure the dimensions of your a/c unit, including its flashing or trim, and stencil this measurement onto the wall, in-between the vertical studs. Prepare the room for cutting into the wall by moving any nearby furniture or decor away. Take any pictures or wall decorations off of the wall prior to cutting.

3. Use a routing tool, or saw-zaw to cut the drywall per your measurements. Remove the drywall and any insulation present in-between the wall space. Ensure that you cut precisely to your specified measurements. Cut through the wall exposing the outside.

4. Build a horizontal bracket for the support of the a/c unit. Measure a two by four and cut it to fit in-between the vertical wall studs. Cut a two by four into two four inch long sections. Hammer these into both wall studs, and mount your horizontal two by four on top of these brackets.

5. Slide the A/C unit into the wall. Go outside and wedge a two by four vertically underneath the outer edge of the A/C unit. Air conditioners need to be at a slight downward angle to compensate for drainage.

6. Seal off the perimeter of your A/C unit by using caulk, inside and out. Re-piece the drywall around your A/C unit on the inside and caulk once more around the perimeter. Paint the area around the unit to disguise any blemishes.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult your manufacturers instructions on how to properly install your A/C unit.

• Always use protective eye-wear when using power tools.

References

• Move: Installing Wall Mounted Unit
• Air N Water: Portable ACs
• Whirlpool Manual