How to Install a Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner

Posted: October 25, 2024

Installing a wall-mounted air conditioner is an excellent way to keep your home cool without taking up valuable floor or window space. These units are more powerful and energy-efficient than portable or window models, making them ideal for long-term comfort. They are designed to blend seamlessly with your walls, ensuring that your living space stays neat and uncluttered. While professional installation is always an option, many homeowners with basic DIY skills can manage the process themselves, saving both time and money. However, proper planning, preparation, and the right tools are essential for a successful setup. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process step-by-step to ensure your wall air conditioner installation is safe, effective, and hassle-free.

How do Wall-Mounted Air Conditioners Work?

A ductless air conditioner, also known as a mini-split or wall-mounted air conditioner, includes an air conditioner that is mounted on the wall. These systems take a different approach than the traditional central air conditioning, which distributes cool air to the various rooms in the house via ductwork. A wall-mounted unit that is connected to a condenser provides the means by which air is supplied to each individual room or zone.

To get a better grasp on the operation of an AC wall mount, you must first have some familiarity with the three primary components, which are as follows:

Wall Mounted Units

This is the indoor unit that is in charge of supplying a room or zone with cold air. It is also known as an air handler. They accomplish this by first drawing in warm air, then drawing in moisture and heat from the air, and finally drawing in cold air. Wall-mounted air conditioner units release heat and moisture through a conduit at the same time that it is delivering the cold air to the room.

Know more about the Air Conditioner Parts

Conduit

Due to the fact that it consists of three essential elements, the performance of a mini-split air conditioning system is directly impacted by this aspect.

  • Refrigerant tubing
  • Drainage for condensate 
  • Cable for power

If you don't have this, your wall-mounted units won't be able to move the proper amount of heat and moisture from the inside of your house to the outside.

Outside Unit

This is the outdoor unit that is referred to as a condenser. It is part of the system that receives the warm air and moisture from the conduit that runs to the indoor units. When it is operating correctly, the outdoor unit is able to accept and distribute the moisture and hot air into the air outside in an effective and efficient manner.

Types of Wall-mounted Air Conditioner Units

There are several types of wall-mounted air conditioner units available on the market, each with its unique features and benefits.

Types of Wall-mounted Air Conditioner Units_PartsHnC

Split System Air Conditioners

Split system air conditioner wall mount systems consist of two separate units: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit is mounted on the wall and connected to the outdoor unit by refrigerant pipes and electrical wires. Split system air conditioners are energy-efficient, quiet, and offer excellent cooling performance.

Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (PTAC)

Packaged terminal air conditioners (PTAC) are commonly used in hotels and multi-family buildings. They are self-contained units that are mounted through a wall and have their heating and cooling components. PTACs are designed to be controlled independently by room occupants and offer both cooling and heating capabilities.

Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners

The Ductless mini-split air conditioners are the best wall-mounted air conditioners without an outdoor unit with a single-unit design, often called a through-the-wall AC. These models are ideal for spaces where exterior modifications are restricted. They  consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that are mounted on the wall. These units are connected by refrigerant lines and electrical wiring. Ductless mini-split air conditioners are energy-efficient, quiet, and offer excellent cooling performance. They are an excellent option for spaces where ductwork is not possible.

Portable Air Conditioners

Portable air conditioners are versatile units that can be moved from room to room. They are self-contained and do not require any permanent installation. Portable air conditioners are an excellent option for renters or for spaces where a permanent installation is not possible. They are available in both cooling-only and cooling/heating models.

Benefits of a Wall-mount Air Conditioner

When it comes to determining whether or not wall-mounted air conditioners are worth the investment, homeowners and businesses may find themselves asking this question. Because purchasing and installing a wall-mounted split system air conditioner can be a sizable investment in your home, you need to be certain that it is the most suitable alternative available to you. The following are just three of the many advantages that come along with air conditioner wall unit installation.

Cost-Effective:

Wall-mounted air conditioner units are among the least expensive choices for those on a tight budget. One of the main draws to wall-mounted systems is their lower cost compared to alternative options like window-mounted or central air conditioners, as well as mobile air conditioners. In addition, the cost to operate the system is reduced because modern wall units are typically very energy efficient. Despite the fact that central HVAC systems typically have lower operating costs, a wall-mounted unit is the most cost-effective option when considering both the initial investment and ongoing maintenance.

More Aesthetically Pleasing:

Wall-mounted air conditioners are a better choice for Perth homes because they won't detract from the decor in the same way that bulky window units do. The contemporary wall air conditioner has a sleek design that allows it to be placed inconspicuously in the room without blocking any natural light or the view from the window. Newer wall-mounted devices are more compact and less bulky in size. This new progress ensures that the aesthetic integrity of the room is not compromised by the presence of a unit. While installing a central HVAC system can be disruptive, a wall-mounted unit typically causes only minor damage to existing decor. A wall unit can be installed in a matter of minutes without disturbing your home's existing design scheme, while a conventional HVAC system may require you to redecorate after its installation.

Flexibility:

The versatility of wall-mounted air conditioners is one of their many advantages. There are a variety of wall-mounted appliances available from many well-known brands. A wall-mounted split-system air conditioner is another option. Without the need for a separate appliance, this type of appliance can heat and cool the space. Having a heater or portable air conditioner installed permanently eliminates the hassle of storing the appliance during the off-season. Since it can be used year-round, you can easily keep the room at a pleasant temperature. Even in the hottest months of the year, you can save money on your electric bill by using the timers and other convenient features found on many models.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wall-Mount Air Conditioner

Choosing the best wall air conditioner may seem difficult because there are so many models available. Some of the factors to consider when choosing a wall-mount air conditioner are: 

Cost: In terms of price, there is a wide range of possibilities. It's possible to spend as little as $400 on a small, basic wall air conditioner. Large, high-powered, and feature-rich devices often cost $1,500 or more. The territory between the two extremes is densely populated.

Size: The size of an air conditioner is measured in terms of both its physical dimensions (how much wall space it occupies) and its cooling capacity, which is given in British thermal units (BTUs) per hour. Air conditioners with a higher Btu rating are necessary to effectively cool larger rooms. 

Energy Efficiency: If you're concerned about your electric bill, it's a good idea to shop around for a machine that offers energy-saving features like variable-speed controls. Keep an eye out for the Energy Star label on products as well. These systems are at least 10% more efficient than their nearest competitors.

Mechanisms and Functions: The heating, fan-only, touch/voice, remote, and variable-speed controls are all options to consider. Don't forget to adjust your spending habits.

Sleeves: If you're replacing an existing wall air conditioner but plan to reuse the sleeve, measure it carefully to ensure a snug fit. Due to the standard sizing of many products like sleeves and HVAC units, it is sometimes possible to swap brands without any noticeable performance degradation.

Wall Air Conditioner Installation and Maintenance Tips

Before you find out how to install a wall-mounted air conditioner, it’s important to choose the best place to install it. Because there are two separate components that make up the air conditioner: an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. Condenser coils can be found in the outdoor unit. The condenser coil expels heat into the environment whenever there is a flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. The condenser coil requires a place with open airflow and a ventilation system that is effective.  For hassle-free installation of wall-mounted air conditioner units, let us find out what are the best practices to be followed in choosing the best place for installation. 

How do I choose the best place to install a Wall-mounted air conditioner?

Below are the best practices that help you to choose the best place to install a wall-mounted air conditioner:

  • Avoid heat sources like light bulbs and place the indoor unit in a shaded area during the day.
  • A thermostat senses heat. Bulbs and other heat-generating resources release heat, which a thermostat detects and gives false readings.
  • Keep heat-generating resources three feet away from the thermostat and its spare parts to avoid false readings.
  • Air conditioner 7 feet above floor
  • Don't block airflow to yourself.
  • Air conditioners can be loud. Select a quiet wall-mount unit for a quiet location.
  • The outdoor unit must be mounted in an open area. Air conditioner installation and maintenance are simple in the open space.

How to install a wall-mounted air conditioner?

  • Once you've decided where to install it, proceed to take all of the necessary measurements and mark the points.
  • Separate the components of the air conditioner from their packaging carefully.
  • If you can drill and cut, do it yourself; otherwise, hire an air conditioner installer.
  • For the installation of the indoor unit, you should use a frame. If the indoor unit is installed directly on the concrete wall, the electricity will pass directly from the air conditioner to the wall, which poses a significant risk to both you and the equipment. Ensure that the unit is securely mounted on the wall.
  • Insulation pieces or silicone caulk can be used to fill in all of the gaps and seal off the space. By sealing the air conditioner, you can prevent it from being exposed to moisture and hot air.

Wall-mounted air conditioner installation cost

As we know, wall air conditioning units are a type of cooling system that can be installed in sleeves that have been cut into the wall at a relatively low cost. You will spend less money on the installation of a wall unit if your home already has a sleeve for such an appliance. The average wall air conditioner installation cost is between $400 to $1500 without labor costs. The Labor cost to install a wall air conditioner can vary in different places.

Wall-mounted air conditioner installation Cost Type Wall air conditioner Installation Cost
Condenser (outdoor unit) $1,000–$6,000
Ceiling mount $500–$2,000
Wall mount $500–$1,000
Indoor unit About $3,000
Refrigerant lines $5 per linear foot
Labor $300–$1,500

How to clean a wall-mounted air conditioner?

Cleaning a wall-mounted air conditioner is essential for maintaining its efficiency and prolonging its lifespan. Regular cleaning helps prevent dust and debris buildup, which can affect the unit's performance and indoor air quality. It's a simple process that involves a few key steps to ensure the air conditioner stays in top condition.Here’s how to clean a wall-mounted air conditioner:

Gather Cleaning Tools

Gather cleaning tools before starting. Before opening your wall-mounted AC unit, grab a hygienic vacuum, soft brush, soap, AC fin comb, antifungal cleaning spray, and a full spray bottle. Rubber gloves, a mask, and flashlights or headlamps can help you clean mini-splits!

Turn Off Your Device

For safety, unplug your AC wall mount. Turning off the electricity to the room to be cleaned via a circuit breaker on the circuit panel isolates the unit. Unplug it carefully.

Clean Outdoor AC Unit

Check the area around the wall-mount HVAC unit outside your house. Leaves, grass, and trash should not be near the unit.

  • Damp-wipe the cabinet's exterior. Soapy water cleans stubborn dirt and dust.
  • Open the unit after finding the fan blades. Damply wipe the blades.
  • Dry and store.
  • Fin combs straighten bent fins. This soft-bristled brush cleans fins precisely.
  • To remove dust and dirt from the rest of your unit, gently vacuum it.
  • Reassemble the unit carefully.

Clean Your AC Indoor Unit

Wipe the inside of your wall-mount HVAC unit with a damp cloth. Open the front panel to reveal two air filters. After removal, gently wash air filters with soapy water. A clean, dry cloth or air drying will dry your filter.

If your evaporator coils are filthy, wash them with water and mild detergent. After mixing in a spray bottle, spray your unit's coils. Soaking debris loosens it. Coil cleaners are easy and effective without rinsing. Unplug the indoor-to-outdoor hose to flush your drain line. Air-dry the hose for an hour before reconnecting. Reconnect the interior after that.

A wall-mount air conditioner is an excellent option for those who want to cool their homes without taking up valuable floor space. By following the proper installation steps and maintaining the unit regularly, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of a comfortable and efficient cooling system for years to come. 

Check out for more information about HVAC Air Conditioner: Types, Maintenance & Troubleshooting

FAQs

How do wall-mounted air conditioners drain?

Wall-mounted air conditioners drain through a small hole in the back of the unit that allows water to flow outside. The water is then collected in a tray or drained away through a pipe connected to the unit.  

How long do wall-mounted air conditioners last?

The lifespan of a wall-mounted air conditioner depends on several factors such as the quality of the unit, frequency of maintenance, and usage. On average, they can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years with proper care and maintenance.  

Can you run a wall AC all day?

 Running a wall-mount HVAC system all day can be expensive and may cause wear and tear on the unit. It is recommended to use a programmable thermostat or turn off the AC when not needed to save energy and extend the lifespan of the unit.  

What are the sleeve and slide-out chassis in an air conditioner?

It’s not advisable to install the air conditioner directly on the wall. To prevent the effects of outside heat, moisturizer, and electricity damage, the air conditioner should be covered in a metal device holding frame which is called a sleeve. The chassis and sleeve are part of the slide-out chassis.

How to find energy-efficient wall-mounted air conditioners?

The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of the top wall air conditioners is usually between 9 and 11. EER is a measurement of how much conditioning or heating a system can produce for a certain quantity of electricity. A higher EER shows a more energy-efficient device.

How to install a wall-mounted air conditioner sleeve?

Installation of wall-mount air conditioner sleeves is very simple and easy. Here is how to install sleeves in easy steps. 

Tools required include sleeve, driller, lumber, screws and nails, and caulking.

Steps to follow:

  • Unpack and prepare sleeves for installation
  • Setup panel to the wall
  • Fill the seals inside the wall sleeves
  • Complete all wirework
  • Set your air conditioner into the wall sleeve
  • Finish the installation with a seal and trim kit
  • Complete the remaining wirework