Comparison: Window vs. Wall Air Conditioner

A wall air conditioner is an appliance that is installed through an opening in a wall. A window air conditioning is installed through a window. Both types of air conditioning units share several common factors, such as similar coverage area, pricing and efficiency. Wall or window air conditioning is much more economical when compared to central air conditioning. The following are some of the major differences in window and wall air conditioning units.

Installation

Wall air conditioners require an opening in an exterior wall. This makes installation a complex task that usually requires professional assistance. Once installed, a wall air conditioner is sealed permanently to the wall. This minimizes leakage of cold air to the outside or warm air to the interior.

Most window air conditioners are easy to install, without professional help. Before purchasing a window air conditioner, make sure your window is suitable for the purpose. Also take accurate measurements to the store. Window air conditioners are not installed permanently, and must be adequately protected, or removed and stored indoors during the winter, to prevent damage.

Interchangeability

Some window air conditioners can be installed through a wall, but wall units cannot be installed in a window. However, air conditioning units installed through walls must have supporting brackets or sleeves to support their weight. So, if your window air conditioner is the right size for an opening in your wall, you must purchase appropriate supporting brackets to reduce stress on the wall.

Window Air Conditioners

A window air conditioner is easy to install and remove. This reduces installation costs, if you can do it yourself. You do not need an opening in the wall, which is a permanent change to an existing structure. There are several types of window air conditioning units available, which can fit in vertical or horizontal windows. Some can also fit through sliding windows. If you ever change homes, you can remove the air conditioner and take it with you. However, you may have to give up part of your window, cutting down natural ventilation and sunlight in the room.

Wall Air Conditioners

With a wall air conditioner, you do not have to give up your window. Unlike window air conditioners, wall units are permanent fixtures and may prove more economical in the long run, because of less leakage. However, the installation is complex, especially if you have to make an opening in the wall. For this reason, installation of wall air conditioners is generally not allowed in rental premises. Also, initial costs are higher, if you have to make an opening in the wall. In such cases, construction costs must also be taken into consideration, along with installation fees for professional help.

Generally window air conditioning units tend to be more popular, because they provide high efficiency at low costs. The installation and location can also be flexible, unlike permanent wall air conditioners.