Question:
Has anybody installed or heard of an AC window
unit being installed directly into a wall instead
of a window? (I think the back of Kato Kaelin's
bungalow had it set up that way, if my memory
serves me correctly ). If so, how would one
go about providing sufficient support for the
wall, roof, etc. of a wood frame abode once a
hole has been cut in the exterior wall to
accommodate the AC unit? Is this an expensive
proposition? I think it looks a lot better than
the AC unit sticking out of an open window and
secured with several decades worth of old duct
tape.
Answer:
Sure, this is done all the time. Essentially, a custom-sized window
is installed, and then the AC installed in that window. The AC
manufacturers make units specially designed for this service, with
shells for the AC units which are permanently installed in the
opening, and then the guts of the AC can be slid in and out for
service, etc.
Making the opening would be standard construction -- with header, jack
studs, etc. Since you'd only have to cut two studs max in most cases,
this would be a simple thing for a carpenter or accomplished DIYer to
handle.
If you feel you are reasonably mechanically inclined but just don't have
the knowledge required, check out some of the DIY books about framing to
see how you frame a window, then contact the AC manufacturer to get info
on the actual unit installation.
