HVAC professionals and licensed contractors are your best bet for safe, code-compliant through-the-wall air conditioner installations. They ensure proper sizing, secure mounting, and correct electrical or ductwork connections to maximize efficiency and safety. Always verify credentials and local permits to avoid costly mistakes or voided warranties.

Key Takeaways

• Hire licensed HVAC professionals for safe and compliant through-the-wall AC installation.
• Check local permits before installation to avoid fines or code violations.
• Choose the right unit size to ensure efficiency and optimal cooling performance.
• Verify wall structure compatibility to support the AC unit securely.
• Prioritize energy-efficient models to reduce long-term electricity costs.
• Schedule professional maintenance annually to extend unit lifespan and performance.

Who Installs Through the Wall Air Conditioners Near You?

It’s a sweltering summer afternoon. The sun beats down relentlessly, and your living room feels more like a sauna than a sanctuary. You’ve decided it’s time for a through-the-wall air conditioner. You’ve picked the right model—efficient, quiet, and perfectly sized. But now comes the real question: Who installs through the wall air conditioners near you?

Unlike plug-in window units, through-the-wall air conditioners require a permanent installation. They’re built into an exterior wall, with the condenser unit outside and the cool air blowing inside. This means you’re not just plugging something in—you’re modifying your home’s structure. And that’s where the challenge begins. You might be handy with a screwdriver, but cutting through a wall, running electrical connections, and ensuring weatherproofing? That’s a whole different ballgame. The good news? You don’t have to do it alone. There are professionals who specialize in this exact type of installation. Whether you’re in a high-rise apartment, a suburban home, or a converted garage, knowing who to call can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.

Types of Professionals Who Install Through the Wall Air Conditioners

HVAC Contractors: The Go-To Experts

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) contractors are the most common and reliable professionals for installing through-the-wall air conditioners. These are licensed, trained technicians who handle all types of climate control systems—from central AC to ductless mini-splits and yes, through-the-wall units.

Why are they ideal? Because they understand:

• Load calculations to ensure your unit is properly sized
• Electrical requirements (voltage, amperage, dedicated circuits)
• Structural considerations (wall type, framing, insulation)
• Local building codes and permits

For example, Sarah from Austin, TX, hired an HVAC pro to install a 12,000 BTU unit in her bedroom wall. The contractor not only cut the opening but also sealed it with a custom metal sleeve, added a weatherproof exterior cover, and connected it to a new 240-volt circuit. “I didn’t realize how much went into it until I saw the work,” she said. “It looked simple on the box, but it was a full-day job.”

Handyman Services: When the Job Is Smaller

Not every through-the-wall installation requires a full HVAC team. In some cases—especially if the unit is low-voltage (115V) and the wall is easy to access—a skilled handyman might be enough. Handymen often handle:

• Cutting and fitting the wall sleeve
• Mounting the unit securely
• Basic sealing and insulation
• Connecting to an existing nearby outlet (if compatible)

However, there are important caveats. If your unit requires a 240-volt circuit or a new electrical line, you’ll need a licensed electrician—either on their own or as part of the handyman’s team. Also, if your building has strict HOA rules or historic preservation guidelines, a handyman may not have the authority or experience to navigate those.

Tip: Always ask if the handyman has specific experience with through-the-wall AC units. Installing a window AC is very different from cutting into a load-bearing wall.

Appliance Installation Companies

Some national and regional companies specialize in appliance setup, including air conditioners. Brands like Best Buy’s Geek Squad, Home Depot’s Installation Services, and Lowe’s Project Services offer installation for through-the-wall units—especially if you buy the unit from them.

These services are convenient because:

• They’re often bundled with purchase
• Scheduling is easy via app or website
• They handle basic electrical and structural work

But there are limitations. Most appliance installers stick to “standard” installations—meaning they won’t modify walls significantly, run new electrical lines, or work in high-rise buildings with strict access rules. For example, if you live on the 10th floor of a Manhattan apartment and need a 240V unit, you might need to bring in a local electrician to run the line from the basement, while the installer handles the wall cut and unit placement.

When You Need a Specialist: Electricians and Structural Experts

Licensed Electricians: For Power and Safety

Let’s say your through-the-wall AC requires a 240-volt circuit. That’s not something you can just plug into a standard outlet. You need a dedicated circuit with the correct gauge wiring, a double-pole breaker, and proper grounding. That’s where a licensed electrician comes in.

Even if an HVAC contractor or handyman handles the physical installation, they’ll often call in an electrician for the electrical work. Why? Because:

• Electrical codes are strict and vary by location
• Improper wiring can cause fires or damage the unit
• Only licensed electricians can pull permits and pass inspections

For instance, Mark from Denver hired a handyman to cut the wall and mount his 14,000 BTU unit. But the handyman couldn’t connect it to power—so Mark called a local electrician. The electrician ran a new 12-gauge wire from the main panel, installed a 20-amp breaker, and added a disconnect switch outside (required by code). “It added $350 to the cost,” Mark said, “but I sleep better knowing it’s safe.”

Tip: Always ask your installer if they’re licensed to do electrical work. In most states, only licensed electricians can legally perform permanent wiring.

Structural and Masonry Contractors: For Tough Walls

Not all walls are the same. If your home has:

• Concrete or cinder block walls
• Brick or stone veneer
• Historic or load-bearing construction

…then you may need a structural or masonry specialist. Cutting into these materials requires special tools—like masonry saws, core drills, or diamond-tipped bits—and expertise to avoid cracking or weakening the structure.

For example, Elena in Chicago wanted to install a unit in her 1920s brick rowhouse. Her HVAC contractor said, “We can do the AC, but not the brick.” So she hired a masonry subcontractor to cut the opening, install a metal sleeve, and patch the exterior with matching brick. The total cost was higher, but the result was seamless and code-compliant.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure about your wall type, take a photo and ask a local contractor. Some offer free consultations or site visits.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: What You Need to Know

The DIY Temptation (And Why It’s Risky)

You’ve watched a few YouTube videos. You’ve got a saw and some caulk. You think, “How hard can it be?” The truth? Harder than you think.

DIY through-the-wall installation involves:

• Measuring and marking the wall accurately

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• Cutting through drywall, insulation, sheathing, and possibly siding
• Installing a weatherproof sleeve (often custom-made)
• Mounting the unit with proper tilt (slightly outward for drainage)
• Sealing all gaps with expanding foam and caulk
• Connecting electrical wiring (if required)
• Passing inspection (if required by your city)

One common mistake? Not sealing properly. Even a tiny gap can let in bugs, moisture, and cold air in winter. Another? Incorrect tilt. If the unit isn’t angled slightly downward to the outside, water can pool inside and damage the compressor.

And then there’s the legal side. In many cities, modifying exterior walls requires a permit. If you do it yourself and it’s not up to code, your homeowner’s insurance might not cover damage—or worse, you could fail a home inspection when you sell.

When DIY Might Be Okay (With Caution)

There are situations where DIY could work:

• You’re installing a low-voltage (115V) unit in an interior wall with easy access
• You already have a pre-cut sleeve (e.g., from a previous unit)
• You’re handy with tools and have experience with home repairs
• Your local codes don’t require a permit for this type of work

But even then, consider hiring a pro for the electrical part. As one HVAC tech told me, “I’ve seen more DIY units with loose wires than I can count. One spark and you’re calling the fire department.”

Bottom line: If you’re not 100% confident, hire someone who is. The cost of a mistake can far exceed the price of professional installation.

How to Find the Right Installer Near You

Start with Referrals and Reviews

The best way to find a reliable installer? Ask around. Talk to:

• Neighbors who have through-the-wall units
• Local Facebook or Nextdoor groups
• Your landlord or property manager (if you rent)
• Friends or family in the area

Then check online reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Look for:

• Consistent praise for punctuality and cleanliness
• Mention of specific skills (e.g., “great with electrical work”)
• Photos of completed jobs (if available)
• Responses to negative reviews (shows professionalism)

For example, when I helped my sister find an installer in Portland, we found a small HVAC company with 4.9 stars and a review that said, “They installed our wall AC in a tricky cinder block wall—no cracks, no leaks, and it’s been perfect for two years.” That was enough for us.

Verify Credentials and Ask Questions

Once you have a few names, vet them carefully:

• Are they licensed and insured? (Ask for proof)
• Do they have experience with through-the-wall units specifically?
• Will they pull permits if needed?
• Do they handle electrical work, or will they subcontract it?
• What’s their warranty on labor?

Also, get a detailed quote. A good installer will break down costs for:

• Labor
• Materials (sleeve, caulk, wiring, etc.)
• Permits (if applicable)
• Disposal of old unit (if replacing)

Red flag: A quote that’s suspiciously low. If someone says, “I can do it for $200,” they’re probably cutting corners or won’t handle the electrical part.

Check Availability and Scheduling

During peak summer months, HVAC companies can be booked weeks in advance. Call early. Some offer:

• Same-day or next-day service (for emergencies)
• Evening or weekend appointments
• Virtual consultations (via video call)

Tip: If you’re installing in a rental unit, coordinate with your landlord or property manager. Some buildings require approved vendors or have specific rules about exterior modifications.

Cost, Time, and What to Expect During Installation

Average Costs and What Affects Price

The cost to install a through-the-wall air conditioner typically ranges from $300 to $1,500, depending on:

• Unit size (BTUs) and voltage
• Wall material (drywall vs. brick vs. concrete)
• Electrical requirements (existing outlet vs. new circuit)
• Location (urban areas often cost more)
• Permit fees (varies by city)

Factor	Cost Range	Notes
Basic Installation (115V, drywall)	$300–$500	Includes cutting, sealing, and mounting. No new electrical.
240V Electrical Work	$400–$800	New circuit, wiring, breaker, disconnect switch.
Brick/Concrete Wall Cut	$500–$1,200	Requires masonry tools and expertise.
Permit & Inspection	$100–$300	Required in many cities. Usually handled by pro.
Custom Sleeve or Exterior Cover	$150–$400	For weatherproofing and aesthetics.

Remember: The cheapest option isn’t always the best. A $300 job that leaks or trips your breaker isn’t worth it.

How Long Does Installation Take?

Most through-the-wall installations take 4 to 8 hours. A simple drywall cut with existing power? Maybe 3–4 hours. A 240V unit in a concrete wall with a new circuit? Could be a full day or two.

During the job, expect:

• Noise (sawing, drilling, hammering)
• Dust and debris (they should clean up, but it’s messy)
• Access to your electrical panel
• Possible need to move furniture or cover floors

Tip: Clear the area the day before. Move furniture, cover electronics, and let the installer know if you have pets or kids who need to stay away.

After Installation: What to Check

Once it’s done, do a quick inspection:

• Is the unit securely mounted and slightly tilted?
• Are all gaps sealed tightly?
• Does the exterior cover fit snugly?
• Is the electrical connection safe and labeled?
• Does the unit turn on and cool properly?

Ask for a walkthrough. A good installer will show you how it works, explain maintenance, and give you a copy of the permit (if applicable).

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Installing a through-the-wall air conditioner isn’t just about staying cool—it’s about doing it safely, efficiently, and in a way that adds value to your home. Whether you hire an HVAC pro, a handyman, or a team of specialists, the key is finding someone who knows what they’re doing.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t skip the permit. And definitely don’t try to save $100 by wiring it yourself. The peace of mind—and the comfort—is worth every penny.

When you find the right installer, you’re not just getting a cool room. You’re getting a job done right, with attention to detail, safety, and long-term performance. So take your time, do your research, and when that first blast of cool air hits your face, you’ll know it was worth it.

And if you’re still unsure? Call a local HVAC company for a free quote. Most offer consultations with no obligation. It’s the easiest way to learn what you need—and who can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who installs through the wall air conditioners near me?

HVAC contractors, handyman services, and specialized air conditioner installers typically handle through the wall air conditioner installations. Look for local professionals with experience in wall-mounted units and proper licensing.

Can a general handyman install a through the wall air conditioner?

Yes, many skilled handymen can install through the wall air conditioners if they have experience with electrical connections and wall modifications. However, always verify their qualifications and ensure they follow local building codes.

Do HVAC companies install through the wall air conditioners?

Yes, most HVAC companies offer installation services for through the wall air conditioners, including sizing, mounting, and electrical work. They ensure the unit is properly sealed and vented for optimal efficiency.

How much does it cost to have a through the wall air conditioner installed?

Installation costs vary by location and complexity but typically range from $200 to $500, including labor and basic modifications. Always get multiple quotes to compare pricing and services.

Is professional installation required for through the wall air conditioners?

Yes, professional installation is strongly recommended for through the wall air conditioners to ensure safety, proper ventilation, and warranty compliance. DIY attempts can lead to leaks, poor performance, or electrical hazards.

What should I look for in a through the wall air conditioner installer?

Choose an installer with HVAC certification, experience with wall units, and positive customer reviews. Confirm they handle permits, electrical work, and wall sealing to avoid future issues.