What Is a Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner?

Basic Description

• Air conditioners works through evaporator and condenser units. A through-the-wall air conditioner is a room air conditioner that contains both these units within one single cabinet. Install the units through an exterior, not interior, wall. It cools air, circulates that air through the room and also expels heat to the exterior. This is why the front of the unit is inside the wall, and the rear, where the hot air is expelled, is outside.

Difference from Central Units

• The basic noticeable difference between a central air conditioning unit and a through-the-wall unit is the amount of space that the units cool. Through a system of ducts, a central air conditioner circulates cool air throughout a house. Owners generally select through-the-wall units based on the correct size unit for one room. Central units can also have the condenser, evaporator and compressor in one cabinet, similar to a through-the-wall unit, or use a split system, with the evaporator located inside and the compressor and condenser installed outside.

Installation and Replacement Concerns

• If you are installing a unit for the first time, make sure you look out for any wiring or plumbing inside the wall. Locate the unit higher on the wall, because heavy cold air sinks after the unit blows it out. If replacing a through-the-wall unit, make sure you measure the opening for the present unit to be sure the new one will properly fit. Also note how many volts the unit uses, and the unit's BTU size.

Maintenance

• Consistent, regular maintenance is vital to a through-the-wall unit's continued optimal performance. Clean the drain hole, about once a month, to make sure the condensation drains properly. Clean or replace the filter, found behind the unit's grill on the interior section, to allow unobstructed airflow. With the grill removed, also clean and vacuum any dirt that has collected on the coils and fins. Straighten bent fins on the coils with a fin comb.