A split system air conditioner is a great option for keeping your home cool and comfortable in the summer months. These units are also quieter, easier to install, and more energy efficient than central air conditioning. This type of A/C is ductless, so all you have to do is install the cooling unit inside and the compressor and condenser unit outside, then run piping and a power cable between the units. If you don’t want to hire a professional to install a split system air conditioner and you have some experience with plumbing and electrical work, you can install the unit on your own. Each air conditioning unit is unique to its manufacturer, but the general installation process is the same.

Setting up the Indoor Unit:

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1.Select an unobstructed location on your interior wall to mount the indoor unit.

You’ll need to cut a hole through the wall to feed the pipes from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit, so make sure the location you choose will allow you to do so. Choose a spot away from direct sunlight and heat sources for the best results. Mount the unit 7 feet (2.1 m) off the floor and ensure there’s at least 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) of open space on every side of the unit to allow for proper airflow.

  • Choose a location with studs to ensure the wall is strong enough to hold the weight of the unit.
  • Install the unit at least 3.3 feet (1.0 m) away from antennas and power or connecting lines that are used for television, radio, home security systems, intercoms, or telephones. The electrical noise from these sources could cause operational problems for your air conditioner.
  • Avoid locations where gas may leak or where oil mist or sulfur exists.
  • Most of these units have remote controls so that you can easily turn them on or off and adjust the temperature even if they’re mounted high on the wall.

Tip: Choose a central location for the indoor unit where the cool air can easily flow through your home, such as in the living room.

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2.Secure the mounting plate to the interior wall:

Hold the mounting plate against the wall where you want to install the indoor unit. Use a level to make sure it is both horizontally and vertically level. Use a pencil to mark the locations of the screw holes, remove the plate, then drill a hole into the wall where each screw will go.

  • Position the plate so it matches up with the holes, insert plastic anchors into the holes, and secure the plate to the wall with tapping screws.

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3.Drill a 3 in (7.6 cm) hole through the wall so you can feed the pipes outside:

with a hole-cutting attachment to create a circular 3 in (7.6 cm) opening through the wall that slopes slightly downward toward the ground to ensure adequate drainage.

  • Make sure there are no pipes or wires behind the wall before drilling or cutting the hole.

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4.Check the electrical connections on the indoor unit:

Lift the A/C unit’s front panel and remove the cover. Make sure the cable wires are connected to the screw terminals and that the wiring matches the diagram that came with the unit.

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5.Run the pipes and cables through the hole in the wall, then connect them to the unit:

Secure the included copper pipes, power cable, and drain pipe together with electrical tape. Place the drain pipe on the bottom to ensure a free flow of water. Run the pipes and cable through the hole in the wall, then secure them to the designated spots on the indoor unit as directed by the instruction manual.

  • Each line comes pre-insulated, so you don’t have to worry about adding extra insulation.
  • Do your best to minimize how much the pipes and cable bend to ensure that the unit performs well.
  • Make sure that the drainage pipe allows water to drain in an appropriate place. See the instruction manual included with your kit for more information.