Can a Window Air Conditioner Be Used Through the Wall?
A window unit can be installed in a wall as easily as it can be installed in a window. There are many reasons to install a unit into a wall instead of a window, including the desire to free up window space, to hide the unit or to put an air conditioner in a windowless room. The air conditioner works anywhere, so long as the power and exhaust requirements are met. Does this Spark an idea?
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Wall Opening
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When making a hole in the wall to install an air conditioner unit, you'll want to measure the unit to confirm that the dimensions match those of the wall opening. The unit should sit snugly in the wall opening and cuts to the wall should be finished, so that water from the air conditioner has little chance to leak into the wall interior. A power outlet should be within 6 feet of the unit. Also, study architectural drawings of the home to confirm that you won't be cutting into electrical wires or pipes. You'll need outside access to properly secure the unit, so if you live on the second floor, be sure to have a sturdy ladder.
Security
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The unit must be secured to the outside wall to prevent the unit from falling from the wall. If you're cutting the opening, the size can be exactly what you need. Still, the unit must be secured. This can be done by screwing the air conditioner frame into the wall opening, or by using the supplied V-support brackets. The V-support brackets attach to the bottom of the unit and to the outside wall, similar to a window installation.
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Seal
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There are several options to seal a wall unit, as opposed to a window installation. Like a window installation, a wall installation leaves small crevices and openings that need to be sealed. Weather seal strips can be used before the unit slides into the wall opening. If the unit is a more permanent installation, you can use spray foam to seal the openings around the unit and trim around the frame.
Drainage
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An important aspect to consider is that the unit must be tilted slightly backward or at the very least level, so that excess water can drain from the back of the unit. During the course of operation, the unit pulls moisture from the air and allows it to accumulate into a drain pan at the back of the unit and then the drain pan empties out of the back of the unit. If the unit isn't tilted back or is tilted slightly forward, the water will drain against the wall and potentially cause damage.
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References
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