In the course of the summer, people need to use an air conditioner to maintain temperatures at comfortable levels inside buildings. Portable air conditioners are a popular option for additional cooling and are considered to be one of the most affordable and effective ways to get through summer without having to install a central air conditioning system. However, what happens when you do not have a standard window where you can install the AC unit? Is it possible to put the window unit on the wall instead?

Guidelines on How to Install the Window AC on the Wall

Before deciding to mount a window AC unit in a wall, there are several important considerations:

– Openings Size – This means that the wall opening has to be of the size of the window AC unit and must be seamless which means no spaces in between. This entails a proper measurement and subsequent carving of the wall hole to the required dimensions.

– Support Structure – Since window units are intended to fit in windows, they do not have a proper wall bracket to mount on walls securely. A durable metal or wooden frame should be built and screwed to the wall studs.

– Ventilation: Window AC units are equipped with vents for expulsion of hot air through the sides and rear of the AC unit. In the case of a wall install, the ventilation is likely to be compromised which in turn affects the efficiency and performance of the systems. Proper vent has to be provided.

– Drainage – Commonly, window units discharge condensation through the bottom. When installing a drainage system for a wall mount, water will be coming from this position. It must be channeled away from the wall to avoid causing further damage, interior or exterior.

– Electrical Issues – All the wiring and electrical connections will have to be done to the required standards as provided by the law. Power cords and outlet receptacles may have to be rewired or relocated depending on the new installation site.

The Benefits of Fixing a Window AC in a Wall

In cases where a standard window cannot be provided to install a window unit, there is always the possibility of fitting it into a wall.

Some potential advantages include:

– Additional Mounting Points – Walls are typically more accessible than windows that house AC units. As for the openings, they can be made in all the rooms.

– Security – Ground-level windows can also be a security concern as they do not have security features like standard windows. It also discourages cases of theft of the AC unit and cases of break-ins through the window.

– Appearance – In cases where a room has no window, like in the case of basements, wall mounting makes it possible to use a window unit without compromising on appearance. The wall can be finished around the AC unit.

– Energy efficiency – Since the unit is mounted inside the building, in an interior wall, proper ducting and sealing will enhance insulation compared to window mounting. It might also have a positive impact on performance.

As a result there are several disadvantages of installing in a wall:

While wall mounting offers benefits in some situations, there are also some distinct disadvantages:

– Installation Challenges – Building a sound and appropriate size of the hole and constructing a strong frame of the mounting bracket require talent, energy and time. Routing of ducting is also mandatory.

– Airflow Restriction – Despite the ventilation, the airflow is not as accessible as it is in a window, hence reducing the cooling capabilities.

– Complexity – Due to the many factors such as customized framing, vents/ducts, wiring, and finishing, it is probably going to be much more costly than window mounting.

– Exterior Wall issues – sealing and finishing an exterior wall around the AC opening is a challenge that comes with other problems such as weatherproofing, moisture control, and siding or trim replacement. 

Overall Feasibility

It is possible to have a window AC unit in a wall, but it would not be easy. For the do-it-yourself personalities, it will be a very challenging project that involves a lot of professionalism. For the level of difficulty, it would only be advisable to be installed by an HVAC professional to get the best out of it. Considering the advantages and the disadvantages we should always consider the circumstances depending on the specific cases, however it is more effective to use a window AC in the standard window application or to look for other types of AC systems suitable for certain room conditions for instance wall-mounted.

Conclusion

Although putting a window air conditioner through the wall is a method that can address some problems of areas without standard windows, it will cause more problems than it can solve. Between framing an opening which is safely enclosed, creating ventilation and drainage, wiring and electricity code and finishing on the interior and exterior, it is a challenging task which is best left to professional builders. In most cases, for most homeowners who want additional cooling, it will be easier and cheaper to maintain the window mounted AC or opt for ductless mini splits which can be installed on the walls. However, for those willing to install a window AC unit right into the wall, one should hire an HVAC provider to do so.