How To Install A Wall Air Conditioner Unit? 8 Easy Steps!

Are you interested in knowing how to install a wall air conditioner unit? If yes, then you have come to the right place. That is because we will be explaining all the steps necessary in installing your wall AC system.

Rest assured, you will be able to enjoy your new unit right away. What’s even good is that this process isn’t as difficult as it may seem.

how to install a wall air conditioner unit

But of course, you will need an extra ounce of patience in getting the job right.

Well, there are many more things that you should know about how you can install your air conditioner unit. Just read on further!

 

Things Needed To Install A Wall Air Conditioner Unit

But before anything else, you need to prepare the right set of tools in getting the job. This is to ensure that the installation process will be done in no time. Below is the list.

  • Pencil
  • Paint
  • Sleeve
  • Caulking gun
  • Measuring tape
  • Silicone caulk
  • Stud finder
  • Drill
  • Lumber
  • Hand saw
  • Circular saw
  • Pry bar
  • Nails
  • Lumber
  • Level
  • Drywall knife

 

8 Steps To Install A Wall Air Conditioner Unit

Now let us start the process. First, ensure to follow the steps below.

Here are the steps on how to install a wall air conditioner unit:

 

Step #1. Choosing a spot

You need to look around your room and ensure to pick the right location for your ac unit.

Consider the aesthetically pleasing spot. Also, ensure to put it near the electrical unit.

The bottom of your unit must be about one up to five feet above the ground to prevent dust from accumulating into the air filter. This will also prevent condensation from forming onto the ceiling in case the unit is installed higher.

 

Step #2. Marking the wall studs

Wall studs are the ones that are supporting the wall. They are typically spaced about sixteen inches apart. Mark these studs so that it is easy to identify where to start cutting. The lesser the number of wall studs to be reduced, the better.

You can do this in two ways. It’s either you use your stud finder so that you can identify the studs easily. You can also tap onto the wall using your knuckles and hammer a tiny nail to confirm.

After you have located three or four wall studs, mark them with your pencil. Next, find the measurement of your ac unit and indicate it onto the walls you just marked.

Your unit may include an installation guide. Then, tape it onto the drywall and trace. Otherwise, you can use the sleeve for this.

 

Step #3. Turning off the power

Locate your electrical panel and flip the breaker controlling the power to your room. This is important for your safety because the next step includes cutting the wall; you may accidentally cut some wires.

In powering your drill and saw, use an extension cord connected to another room.

 

Step #4. Drilling

With the sleeve or the provided paper guide, start tracing the outline to mark for the opening of your ac unit onto the wall. Ensure that it is level when marking. Use the level tool.

Mark for another outline that is larger than the previous one by two and a half inches. This is to provide enough room in building a frame that will support the unit using the lumber pieces you have prepared.

Now, get the drywall knife and score your outline. You should also score some vertical lines on top of the wall studs. In knocking the center of the drywall sections you just scored, use your hammer for popping it out.

But you may also do this by using your hand saw in cutting through the drywall. Now take your circular saw and cut the wall studs inside the opening in the wall.

 

Step #5. Constructing the frame

Measure the wall opening and cut the lumber accordingly. Then, put together 4 pieces of lumber to create a frame and nail them. Next, slide the frame into the opening in the wall and nail it to secure it in place.

 

Step #6. Creating a hole into your exterior wall

Retake your drill and create a hole in every corner that directs to the exterior wall. This will be your guide in cutting for the exterior wall. Next, connect those holes with your level and pencil. Then, use the circular saw to cut the material.

 

Step #7. Install your wall air conditioner

Slide the bracket into the opening. Now, you can insert your appliance into the metal sleeve and ensure that it is secure in the bracket. Then, you can plug the unit’s power cord into the electrical outlet.

 

Step #8. Complete the installation

Patch using your new drywall any areas surrounding the appliance that is exposed. Then secure them in place using drywall nails. Also, paint and prime it to match the existing color of the wall.

Also, put some silicone caulk on the edges of your ac unit. Do this both on the exterior and interior to prevent the air from seeping in or out. You might as well install molding or trim to achieve a better look.

 

It’s A Wrap!

Now that you have completed the steps on how to install a wall air conditioner unit, you can already flip back the breaker of the room to return the power.

After you switch on your unit, you will enjoy a comfortable temperature in the room.

Leave a Comment