Installing a Wall-Through Air Conditioner?
Obviously this is a spring project, but trying to get atypically organized ahead of time. We’re looking to get a new air conditioner and put it through the back wall of our building below a window, in a new sleeve. Building is landmarked, but this is in the back, not visible from the street. Would…
Obviously this is a spring project, but trying to get atypically organized ahead of time.
We’re looking to get a new air conditioner and put it through the back wall of our building below a window, in a new sleeve.
Building is landmarked, but this is in the back, not visible from the street.
Would very much appreciate recommendations for folks who have done this job, as well as typical costs, pointers for what to do/what not to do, etc. Many thanks!
We just removed two of these Fujitsu units as we installed central air. Let me know if you’d be interested in buying them. mholden0 at lycos.com
I am not sure if you need to make the hole for the airconditioner, or if you have the hole already.
I *think* you mean that you need to make the hole. I was looking into doing the same thing myself. I called the NYC department of buildings and they say you need a building permit. However, I have had some architects say that it may not need a permit.
Anyhow, I tried both Hamilton Air and Cool Air and they both gave me quotes roughly $2500 for each airconditioner (I was looking at putting in two) which includes the cost of the airconditioner as well as making the hole and installing. However, I am on the 5th floor and they would need to hang out the window on some contraption. If you were on the ground floor, then it would probably be cheaper.
Note that if they do have to hang out your window (ie, if you are not on the ground floor), your window has to open enough for someone to actually climb through it. If it doesn’t, then you will have to pay for your window to be removed and then replaced.
And yes – for most units you will need to get an electrician because the voltage they require is more than usual in this country.
Hope this helps.
Strongly recommend putting it up high – much more efficient – hot air rises, cold air sinks. Units that work on 220 instead of 110 are also energy-saving. And, going by experience of some neighbors, I agree that you need approval – although some people have managed w/o it, it’s really costly to do it as catch-up if you get caught.
Make sure you have adequate power supply nearby…..
Two things:
1) You are in a landmarked building – you must get landmarks approval. Back of the house does not exempt you from their approval process.
2) Be sure the unit that you purchase is designed for “through the wall.” Standard window units should not be used for a through the wall installation; the venting is designed differently.