Through the Wall Air Conditioners
What Is a Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner?
A through-the-wall air conditioner is a permanently installed, self-contained cooling unit that slides into a wall sleeve and vents outdoors through the wall—freeing up your window and delivering a tighter, quieter, more secure seal than many window units. Wall air conditioner models come in common sleeve sizes and capacities from 8,000 to 24,000 BTU, with select units offering electric heat or heat-pump functionality.
How Through-the-Wall ACs Are Used
- Apartments & Condos: Keep windows clear for light and egress while meeting HOA or building rules.
- Bedrooms & Home Offices: Quieter, more permanent cooling with precise temperature control.
- Living Areas & Studios: Efficient spot cooling without modifying central HVAC.
- Retrofits & Remodels: Replace aging wall units by reusing compatible sleeves or installing new ones.
Top Brands of Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners
Shop reliable Through-the-Wall performance from brands known for durability and support:
- Friedrich — Commercial-grade components, quiet operation, premium WallMaster/Kühl lines.
- LG — Efficient inverter options, smart controls, and clean aesthetics.
- Frigidaire — Broad selection with dependable cooling and easy maintenance.
- GE — Solid build quality, energy-saving modes, wide service network.
BTU Room Size Chart for Through-the-Wall ACs
Match cooling capacity to room size. Adjust by ~10% for very sunny rooms or kitchens; reduce ~10% for shaded rooms. High ceilings or high occupancy may require stepping up one size.
| Room Size (sq ft) | Recommended BTU | Typical Usage |
|---|---|---|
| <250 | 8,000 BTU | Small bedroom, office |
| 250–350 | 10,000 BTU | Bedroom, den |
| 350–450 | 12,000 BTU | Primary bedroom |
| 450–550 | 14,000 BTU | Large bedroom, small living room |
| 550–700 | 15,000–18,000 BTU | Medium living room |
| 700–1,000 | 18,000–24,000 BTU | Large living area, open studio |
Tip: Verify sleeve dimensions and wall thickness before ordering. Some models require 230V; check your outlet and breaker capacity.
Top Features to Look For
- Inverter/Variable-Speed Compressors: Lower noise, tighter temperature control, improved efficiency.
- Exact-Fit Wall Sleeves: New or retrofit sleeves for secure, weather-tight installation.
- Energy Efficiency (CEER/EER): Higher ratings reduce operating costs in all-day use.
- Electric Heat or Heat Pump: Optional supplemental heating for shoulder seasons.
- Smart Wi-Fi Controls: App scheduling, voice control, and usage alerts.
- Dehumidify & Fan-Only Modes: Comfort options when full cooling isn’t needed.
- Quiet Operation: Sound-dampened chassis and multiple fan speeds for bedrooms.
- Washable Filters & Easy Access: Simplifies routine cleaning to maintain airflow.
- Directional Louvers: Aim cool air across the room for even coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I put a window AC in a wall sleeve?
- No. Window units are rear-vented and not designed for wall installation. Use a through-the-wall model that fits a sleeve and vents properly.
- Do I need a special sleeve?
- Yes. Most Wall ACs require a compatible wall sleeve. Many brands offer standard sizes; check your current sleeve’s dimensions before purchase.
- 115V vs. 230V—what’s the difference?
- Smaller BTU units typically use 115V. Higher capacities (≈15,000 BTU and up) often require 230V. Verify outlet type and breaker rating.
- Will a Through the Wall AC be quieter than a window unit?
- Often yes. A rigid, sealed sleeve and insulated wall can reduce vibration and outside noise.
- Do through the wall air conditioners dehumidify?
- Yes. Most remove moisture while cooling. Many also include a dedicated Dry/Dehumidify mode.
- How do I size my unit?
- Use the BTU chart above, then adjust for sun exposure, ceiling height, occupants, and heat-generating appliances.
Why Buy from ShopAppliances.com?
- Curated Selection: From compact bedrooms to large living rooms, we stock proven through-the-wall air conditioners and sleeves.
- Expert Sizing & Power Guidance: We’ll match BTU, sleeve size, and 115V/230V requirements to your space.
- Competitive Pricing & Promotions: Transparent deals across leading brands.
- Nationwide Delivery: Reliable shipping with careful packaging and optional services.
- Post-Purchase Support: Friendly customer care and warranty guidance for a smooth setup.
Ready for secure, permanent cooling? Explore our latest through-the-wall air conditioners and find the perfect fit at ShopAppliances.com.