What is a Wall Mounted AC?

HVAC

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// Posted by Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc.

Wall mounted air conditioners are a top pick for many homeowners looking for efficient cooling. They're compact and offer a fresh alternative to traditional systems. But what makes them special, and how do they stack up against other cooling options? Let's explore the world of wall-mounted air conditioners and find out.

wall mount ac

Key Takeaways

  • Wall mounted air conditioners are part of a ductless AC or mini-split system, offering targeted cooling without the need for extensive ductwork.
  • These units feature an indoor wall-mounted unit and an outdoor condenser unit, connected by a refrigerant line, providing efficient and energy-saving cooling.
  • Wall mount ACs are a versatile solution for homes without existing ductwork or to provide supplemental cooling in specific rooms.
  • They offer a low-profile design, quiet operation, and can be controlled remotely, making them a convenient and adaptable cooling option.
  • Wall mounted air conditioners provide an effective and cost-efficient alternative to traditional central air conditioning systems in many applications.

Understanding Wall Mounted Air Conditioners

Wall mounted air conditioners, also known as ductless or wall cooling units, are self-contained systems. They cool a single room or zone without ductwork. These units are compact and efficient, making them popular in homes and businesses without space for traditional AC systems.

What is a Wall Mounted Air Conditioner?

A wall mounted air conditioner is a ductless mini-split AC system. Each room gets its own indoor unit on the wall, connected to an outdoor unit by a line. This setup cools rooms efficiently without the need for ductwork across the whole building.

How Does a Wall Mounted AC Work?

The indoor unit pulls in warm air, cools it, and sends out cool air. The refrigerant then goes to the outdoor unit to release heat. This cycle keeps the room cool.

Installing wall mounted air conditioners is easier than central air systems. The outdoor unit goes where it fits, and the indoor unit should be high off the floor. This ensures good air flow and looks good.

Getting advice from a pro helps understand how these AC units work. It also helps pick the right system for your cooling needs and space.

Key Components of a Wall Mounted AC System

A wall mounted AC system is a ductless cooling solution. It has three main parts that work together to cool a specific area of your home. These parts are the indoor wall mounted unit, the conduit or refrigerant line, and the outdoor condenser unit.

Indoor Wall Mounted Unit

The indoor wall mounted unit sends cold air into the room. It's a compact unit installed high on the wall, near the ceiling. A fan inside circulates the cooled air around the space.

This unit has an evaporator coil. It takes heat from the air, cooling the refrigerant. Then, it sends the cooled air back into the room.

Conduit or Refrigerant Line

The conduit or refrigerant line connects the indoor and outdoor units. It's a small, insulated pipe that carries refrigerant fluid between the two. This line is made of copper and goes through a small hole in the wall for a neat installation.

Outdoor Condenser Unit

The outdoor condenser unit gets rid of the heat and moisture from the indoor air. It has a compressor and condenser coil that release the heat. A fan in the unit blows out the warm air, cooling the refrigerant for the cycle to start again.

These three components - the indoor unit, the refrigerant line, and the outdoor unit - work together for efficient cooling. Understanding their roles helps you see the benefits of this air conditioning solution.

Is a Wall Mounted AC Easy to Install?

Wall-mounted air conditioners are easier to install than central air systems. You need to pick the right spot for the outdoor unit, set up the indoor unit on a wall, and connect them with a refrigerant line.

Installing a ductless AC might look simple, but it needs careful planning and expert help. This ensures the system works well and is set up right. Here are the main steps for setting up a wall-mounted AC:

  1. Outdoor Unit Placement: First, find the best spot for the outdoor condenser unit. It should sit on a solid, level surface, like a concrete pad. Make sure it's away from things that could block air flow or heat up.
  2. Indoor Unit Positioning: Put the indoor unit on an outside wall, about 2.1 meters (7 feet) off the ground. It needs space around it, 6-12 inches, for air to move freely and for heat to escape.
  3. Connecting the Components: Link the indoor and outdoor units with a refrigerant line through a small wall hole. Use flare nuts to connect the copper pipes. Then, seal the wall hole with polyurethane foam to keep air from leaking out.

Installing a ductless AC might seem easy, but making sure everything is connected right and working well is key. A professional HVAC tech is often needed to make sure it's done right and lasts a long time.

In short, wall-mounted ACs are simpler to install than central air systems because they don't need big ducts. But, installing them still requires careful planning and expert help. This ensures they're placed and connected correctly for the best performance.

Advantages of Wall Mount AC Units

Wall-mounted air conditioning units have many benefits over traditional systems. They are perfect for homes without ducts. They cool specific areas without the need for expensive ductwork.

Excellent for Homes Without Ductwork

Wall-mounted AC units are great for homes without ducts. They don't need a big duct system to cool areas. This is good for homes being renovated or expanded, where ducts are hard or too costly to install.

Quick and Easy Installation

Installing wall-mounted air conditioners is fast and simple. It usually takes just one day, with little disruption. This saves homeowners time and money, making it a great choice for easy cooling.

High Efficiency Cooling

Modern wall-mounted ACs are built to save energy, often by up to 30% over window units. They help cut down on energy bills and are better for the planet. Plus, many are ENERGY STAR certified, showing they meet high energy standards.

Quiet Operation

Wall-mounted air conditioners are also very quiet. Thanks to new sound-reducing tech, they're much quieter than older models. This makes them perfect for bedrooms and home offices where quiet is important.

Drawbacks of Wall Mounted Air Conditioners

Wall-mounted air conditioners have many benefits like easy setup and efficient cooling. But, they also have some downsides that homeowners should think about. Knowing these can help you pick the best air conditioning for your home.

Regular Maintenance Required

Wall-mounted ACs need more upkeep than central systems. You must clean the filters and coils often because they get dusty. If you ignore this, your AC won't work well, use more energy, and might break down.

Limited Cooling Area Coverage

These units cool the area right around them well. But, they can't cool big spaces or multiple rooms evenly. This means some spots might stay warmer than others, which might not be comfy for you.

Potential for Drafts and Bulky Design

The design of these units can cause drafts, which can be annoying. Also, they look bigger than central air systems. This might be a problem if you want your home to look sleek and smooth.

Wall-mounted air conditioners have many good points, but you should also think about the bad ones before deciding. Consider how much upkeep you're okay with, how big your space is, and what you like in looks. By looking at both sides, you can pick an air conditioner that meets your needs and tastes.

wall mount ac Cost and Installation

The cost of wall mounted air conditioning systems varies a lot. Prices range from $1,200 to $17,000. Most installations cost between $1,800 and $4,300.

Average Cost Breakdown

The cost of a wall mounted AC system has three main parts:

  1. Indoor wall mounted unit: $400 to $1,500
  2. Outdoor condenser unit: $750 to $5,500
  3. Labor and installation: $500 to $5,000

Other costs include refrigerant lines, wall changes, and electrical work. These can add $500 to $5,000 to the total cost.

The system's size and efficiency, and how hard it is to install, affect the final price. A standard 12,000 BTU unit usually costs between $1,650 and $3,000 for everything and installation.

Remember, the cost can change a lot because of your location, the brand and model, and how hard the installation is. It's best to talk to a professional HVAC contractor for a precise quote for your wall mounted AC project.

Wall AC vs Central Air Conditioning

Choosing between a wall-mounted air conditioner and a central air system is crucial for your home's cooling. Each has its pros and cons, making the right choice depend on your specific needs and likes.

Installation Differences

Installing wall ACs is simpler and faster than central air systems. They don't need the extensive ductwork that central systems do. This makes them ideal for homes without ducts or for cooling specific rooms.

Coverage Area Comparison

Central air cools your whole home, while wall ACs cool just the rooms they're in. Central air offers consistent cooling across your space. But, wall units are great if you only need to cool certain parts of your home.

Upfront Cost Analysis

Buying a central AC for your whole home might cost less upfront than getting many wall units. Yet, wall ACs are cheaper if you just need to cool a few rooms. Running several wall units might not save you much money in larger homes.

Energy Efficiency Considerations

Wall-mounted air conditioners can be more energy-efficient than central systems, cooling only the areas they're in. Central air uses less energy overall than running many wall units. Look at the SEER rating and cooling area size to compare energy efficiency.

Choosing between a wall AC and central air depends on your unique needs, budget, and home layout. Talking to an experienced HVAC contractor can help you pick the best cooling solution for your home.

Proper Winterization Techniques

When the weather gets cold, it's key to winterize your wall-mounted air conditioner. This keeps it safe from winter's harsh elements. Since you can't remove wall ACs like window units, the right steps will get your unit ready for winter.

First, add weatherstripping around the unit to seal gaps and stop drafts. Many wall ACs also heat, so you can use them to warm rooms in the cold months.

Comprehensive Maintenance Checklist

Winterizing your wall-mounted AC is more than just sealing it. Here's what you should do to get your system winter-ready:

  • Clean the AC to remove dirt, debris, or pests from the summer.
  • Check and refill coolant if it's low to avoid inefficiency and damage.
  • Change or clean air filters to keep the air clean and flowing well.
  • Look at the insulation on the refrigerant lines to stop freezing and ensure heat transfer.
  • Put a cover over the outdoor compressor to protect it from snow, ice, and strong winds.

By winterizing your wall-mounted air conditioner, you extend its life and make sure it's ready for heating when you need it. Regular care and attention in winter prevent costly repairs and keep your home cozy all year.

Ideal Applications for Wall Mounted Units

Wall mounted air conditioners are great for certain situations. They're perfect for cooling new additions, renovations, or new buildings where ductwork is hard or too expensive. They also help cool specific rooms or areas that a central system misses, like home offices, workshops, or attics.

Home Additions and Renovations

For home additions or renovations, a wall mounted AC is a top pick. They don't need the big ductwork that central air systems do. This makes them easy to install in new rooms, basements, or other additions to your home. Wall ACs cool specific areas well, saving you the trouble and cost of ductwork.

Supplemental Cooling for Specific Rooms

Even with a central air system, some rooms might not get cool enough. Wall mounted ACs are great for these spots. They're perfect for cooling home offices, workshops, attics, or hot bedrooms. Using a wall unit can be more efficient and cheaper than trying to cool your whole house.

Knowing when to use wall mounted air conditioners helps you cool your home's additions, renovations, or specific areas well. They're easy to install, cool targeted areas, and save energy. Wall ACs are a versatile way to keep your living spaces comfortable.

Choosing the Right Wall AC Unit Size

Choosing the right wall-mounted air conditioner (AC) size is key for good performance and saving energy. A 12,000 BTU wall AC unit can cool about 400 square feet. But, you need to think about a few things to find the right size for your space.

Things like room size, ceiling height, insulation, and the weather where you live matter when picking an AC. Working with an HVAC expert can make sure the wall unit fits your needs well.

To figure out how much cooling you need, multiply the room's square footage by 20 BTU. So, a 200 square foot room needs a 4,000 BTU AC (200 sq ft x 20 BTU = 4,000 BTU). If more people live in the room, add 600 BTU for each extra person.

Other things can affect how much cooling you need too. If the room gets a lot of sun, you might need a bigger AC. ENERGY STAR says to add 10% to the capacity for sunny rooms and subtract 10% for shaded ones. If the AC is in a kitchen, consider adding 4,000 BTU more.

By thinking about the wall AC BTU sizing and selecting wall AC unit size right for your space, you can make sure your wall-mounted AC works well. This keeps your home cool and comfortable.

Professional Installation Recommendations

Installing a wall-mounted air conditioner should be done by a professional HVAC contractor. Wall AC units are simpler to set up than central air systems, but they can be tricky if not done right. A pro will make sure everything is in the right spot, the refrigerant is at the right level, and it fits well with your home's setup.

A skilled HVAC contractor knows how to install a professional wall AC installation correctly. They'll pick the right size and type of wall AC for your space. They'll also make sure it's set up right, including the indoor and outdoor units, and the wiring is safe and meets code.

Choosing an HVAC contractor for wall AC installation is key to getting the best value from your purchase. Their knowledge will help your wall-mounted air conditioner work better and last longer. This means you'll save money on energy bills and upkeep over time.

  1. Ensure proper placement and positioning of indoor and outdoor units
  2. Correctly connect refrigerant lines to maintain optimal charge
  3. Integrate the wall AC system with your home's electrical infrastructure
  4. Test the system thoroughly to verify efficient and safe operation
  5. Provide guidance on proper maintenance and care for the wall AC unit

Professional wall AC installation might cost a bit more at first, but it's worth it. Let the experts do the job and enjoy a wall-mounted air conditioner that works great in your home.

Energy Efficient Operation Tips

To make your wall-mounted air conditioning unit more energy efficient, follow these best practices. These tips help lower your utility bills and support environmental conservation.

Start by setting your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests keeping your home at 78°F (25.5°C) or higher in summer. Raising the thermostat by just one degree can save up to 3% on cooling costs.

Keeping your AC's air filters clean or replacing them regularly is key to saving energy. Dirty filters make the system work harder, using more electricity. Clean or replace filters every 1-3 months, based on how much you use and your environment.

  1. Make sure the outdoor condenser unit has enough space around it. Clear the area of any blockages. This helps the unit work better and saves energy.
  2. Use the energy-saving modes on your wall-mounted AC, like "eco" or "sleep". These settings adjust the temperature and fan speed to save energy without making you uncomfortable.

By following these easy tips, you can boost your wall-mounted air conditioning's energy efficiency. This leads to lower bills and less environmental harm. Remember, small daily changes can have a big impact over time.

Maintaining Your Wall Mounted AC

Keeping your wall-mounted AC unit in top shape is key. Make sure to clean or replace the air filters every 1-3 months. Also, check and clean the indoor and outdoor coils often. Don't forget to clear any blockages around the outdoor unit for good airflow.

Stick to the maker's maintenance plan and fix problems fast to make your wall AC last longer. Here are some important steps to keep your AC running well:

Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly

  • Changing or cleaning air conditioner filters can cut energy use by 5% to 15%.
  • Filters need cleaning or replacing every month or two when cooling is on.

Inspect and Clean Indoor and Outdoor Coils

  • Check and clean evaporator coils once a year to keep efficiency up.
  • Keep the area around outdoor coils clean, trimming back foliage to 2 feet, for airflow.
  • Aluminum fins on coils can block airflow if bent. Use a "fin comb" for fixing.

Maintain Drain Lines and Seals

  • Clogged drain lines can stop units from lowering humidity, causing moisture damage to walls or carpets.
  • Check the seal between the air conditioner and the window frame at the start of cooling season to stop air leaks.

Prepare for Winter Storage

Room air conditioners should be covered or taken down and stored in winter. This protects them from the weather and debris.

By following these tips, you can keep your wall-mounted AC efficient and make it last longer. Always get professional help for any maintenance you can't do yourself.

A pair of hands holding a cloth, wiping dust off the air filter of a wall mounted AC.

Conclusion

Wall-mounted air conditioners are a great choice for homes without ducts or for adding cooling to certain rooms. They are easy to install, save energy, and run quietly. They do need more upkeep and might not cool the whole house, but they're perfect for specific areas or new additions.

Knowing the benefits and how to take care of wall ACs helps homeowners decide if they're right for their homes. Brands like Carrier, Lennox, Trane, Amana, and American Standard offer top-notch wall ACs. These units have SEER ratings from 15 to 18, and some mini-splits go even higher. Using a wall AC can save you up to 30% on energy costs compared to window units.

When picking a wall-mounted AC, think about the room size, energy efficiency, and support services.

Electric Heat pump outside
About Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc.
Residential and light commercial heating, cooling, air quality, and plumbing are specialties at Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc. We provide home and business owners in Oak Ridge, TN and surrounding areas free estimates, service of all makes and models, and trusted solutions to everyday requirements.

We are an eco-friendly, award-winning company and uphold Better Business Bureau accreditation. Our team of professionals is NATE-certified, drug-free, and dedicated to earning your approval and loyalty.

FAQ

What is a wall mounted air conditioner?

A wall mounted air conditioner is part of a ductless AC or mini-split AC system. It's different from central air conditioning, which uses ducts. Wall mount ACs have an indoor unit on the wall connected to an outdoor unit. This indoor unit takes in warm air, removes heat and moisture, and blows out cold air. The outdoor unit sends the heat and moisture outside.

How does a wall mounted AC work?

Wall mounted air conditioners, or ductless units, cool a single room or zone without ductwork. They are self-contained systems. The indoor unit is connected to an outdoor unit through a conduit or refrigerant line. It takes in warm air, removes heat and humidity, and sends out cold air. The outdoor unit then disperses the heat and moisture outside.

What are the main components of a wall mounted AC system?

A wall mounted AC system has three main parts: 1) The indoor unit that cools the room, 2) The conduit or refrigerant line that connects the indoor and outdoor units, and 3) The outdoor condenser that sends the heat and moisture outside. These parts work together for efficient, ductless cooling in a specific area of the home.

Is a wall mounted AC easy to install?

Yes, wall mounted AC units are easier to install than central air systems because they don't need extensive ductwork. The steps include picking a spot for the outdoor unit, placing the indoor unit in the room, and connecting the indoor and outdoor units with a refrigerant line. Though simpler, it still requires careful planning and professional help for proper setup.

What are the advantages of wall mounted AC units?

Wall mounted AC units have several benefits over central air systems. They're great for homes without ductwork, providing targeted cooling without the need for costly duct installation. They're quicker and easier to install than central systems. Plus, they're energy efficient, often saving up to 30% on energy costs compared to window units. They also run quieter than many traditional AC systems.

What are the drawbacks of wall mounted air conditioners?

Wall mounted ACs have some downsides. They need more regular upkeep, like cleaning filters and coils, to work well. They can only cool a limited area, so you might need multiple units for a whole house. Also, their design can cause drafts, and they might look bulkier than central air systems.

How much does a wall mounted AC system cost?

The cost of a wall mounted AC system varies widely, from $1,200 to $17,000. It depends on the number of units, their size and efficiency, and the complexity of the installation. A standard 12,000 BTU unit costs $400 to $1,500 for the indoor unit, $750 to $5,500 for the outdoor condenser, and $500 to $5,000 for labor and installation. Additional costs might include refrigerant lines and any needed wall or electrical work.

How do wall mounted ACs differ from central air conditioning systems?

Wall mounted ACs and central air systems have key differences. Wall ACs are easier and quicker to install, not needing extensive ductwork. But central air can cool an entire home better, while wall units cool specific rooms. The upfront cost for central air might be lower, but wall ACs are more energy efficient. Homeowners must weigh the trade-offs between installation, coverage area, cost, and efficiency when choosing between the two.

How do you winterize a wall mounted AC unit?

You can't remove wall mounted ACs for winter, but you should winterize them to prevent damage. Add weatherstripping around the unit to seal gaps and prevent drafts. Many wall AC models also have heating functions, so they can be used to heat rooms in the cold months.

Should I have a professional install my wall mounted AC?

Yes, it's best to have a professional HVAC contractor install your wall mounted AC. They ensure the indoor and outdoor units are placed right, the refrigerant levels are correct, and the system works well with your home's electrical and cooling setup.

Electric Heat pump outside
About Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc.
Residential and light commercial heating, cooling, air quality, and plumbing are specialties at Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc. We provide home and business owners in Oak Ridge, TN and surrounding areas free estimates, service of all makes and models, and trusted solutions to everyday requirements.

We are an eco-friendly, award-winning company and uphold Better Business Bureau accreditation. Our team of professionals is NATE-certified, drug-free, and dedicated to earning your approval and loyalty.

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