Introduction: Why Accessories Make All the Difference
When I bought my very first through-the-wall AC, I thought the story ended at the unit itself. I clicked "order," had it delivered, and proudly slid it into place… or at least I tried. Turns out, I was missing a critical part: the wall sleeve.
That’s when I realized something: an Amana wall AC works best when paired with the right accessories. Some are non-negotiable (like the sleeve). Others are convenience upgrades (like smart controls) that make your life easier and your bills lower. And then there are the finishing touches that make the unit look polished and built-in.
Amana 7,400 BTU 230/208V Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner with Heat Pump and Remote PBH073J35CC
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must-have and nice-to-have accessories for your Amana 7,400 BTU through-the-wall AC with heat pump. I’ll share what I bought, what I skipped, and what turned out to be total game-changers.
The Wall Sleeve: The Non-Negotiable Essential
Let’s start with the obvious: if you don’t have a wall sleeve, you don’t have an installation.
What It Does
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Provides structural support — holds the heavy unit securely in the wall.
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Improves insulation — prevents drafts and energy loss.
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Channels condensation drainage outward.
Cost
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$80–$150 depending on type.
Options
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Steel sleeves: durable, standard choice.
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Insulated sleeves: slightly pricier, but reduce heat transfer and drafts.
👉 Samantha’s story: When my first Amana arrived, I didn’t realize the sleeve was sold separately. My installation was delayed by two weeks, and I had to rush order one for $120. Lesson learned: always order the sleeve with the unit.
If you’re replacing an old TTW unit, you may already have a sleeve in place. If not, budget for it — because you can’t skip this step.
The Remote Control: Comfort at Your Fingertips
Amana wall units include a remote, but I learned quickly how essential it is.
Why It Matters
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No more getting up to adjust settings.
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Control fan speed, temperature, and mode from anywhere in the room.
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Ideal for bedrooms — no fumbling with the panel at night.
Cost
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Replacement remotes: $30–$50.
👉 Samantha’s tip: Keep spare AAA batteries nearby. I once thought my remote had broken, but it was just dead batteries. Now I keep extras in the drawer next to my Amana.
Even if you lose or break your remote, replacements are easy to find and worth the peace of mind.
Smart Control Upgrades: Modern Convenience
This is one accessory I didn’t think I’d care about — until I tried it.
What It Does
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Lets you control your Amana unit from your smartphone.
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Allows you to set schedules — pre-cool your office before you sit down to work, or pre-warm your guest room before visitors arrive.
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Improves energy efficiency — only run the unit when you actually need it.
Cost
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Wi-Fi adapters or smart thermostat upgrades: $80–$150.
👉 Samantha’s experience: My smart control upgrade paid for itself in one summer. I used to leave the unit running all day in my office. Now I turn it on 30 minutes before I start working, right from my phone. My energy bill dropped, and my comfort went up.
This one’s optional — but if you’re serious about efficiency and convenience, I’d put it near the top of your list.
Trim Kits: A Cleaner Look Indoors
Through-the-wall units can sometimes look unfinished without a trim kit.
Why It Matters
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Creates a polished, built-in appearance.
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Seals gaps around the unit.
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Reduces drafts and noise.
Cost
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$40–$80.
👉 Samantha’s take: I thought a trim kit was just for looks, but it actually helped seal the unit better. My guest room felt warmer in winter once I installed it.
If aesthetics and comfort matter to you, this is a worthy investment.
Winter Covers: Protection When Not in Use
If you don’t use the heating function in winter, you’ll want to protect your unit.
What It Does
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Keeps snow, ice, and debris from damaging the outdoor portion.
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Prevents drafts from entering through the wall sleeve.
Cost
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$20–$40.
👉 Samantha’s tip: Since I use my Amana for heating, I don’t cover mine in winter. But my neighbor covers hers every year and swears it keeps her unit looking new longer.
Surge Protectors & Dedicated Outlets
This one’s about safety.
Why It Matters
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The Amana 7,400 BTU uses a 230/208V outlet.
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Surge protectors prevent electrical spikes from damaging your investment.
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Whole-home surge protection is another option.
👉 Samantha’s lesson: When I installed my Amana, I had an electrician put in a dedicated outlet and add surge protection. It cost me $250 upfront, but it’s worth it knowing my unit is protected.
Maintenance Tools & Kits
A little maintenance goes a long way, and having the right supplies on hand makes it easy.
Must-Have Items
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Coil cleaner: $10–$15.
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Vinegar (for drain line cleaning): $5.
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Microfiber cloths: $5–$10.
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Replacement filters: $20–$40 every few years.
👉 Samantha’s hack: I keep all of these in a plastic storage bin labeled “AC Kit.” When it’s time for monthly cleaning, I just grab the bin and get it done in 10 minutes.
Accessories That Boost Comfort
Beyond the essentials, some accessories make your Amana work even better.
Fans
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Helps circulate air through larger rooms.
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Cost: $30–$60.
Dehumidifiers
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Great for humid climates.
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Cost: $100–$200 (small portable models).
Insulated Curtains
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Keep rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
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Cost: $40–$100.
👉 Samantha’s combo: I paired my Amana with blackout curtains in my office. Not only is the room cooler, but my energy bills went down too.
Cost Summary: What to Budget for Accessories
Here’s a realistic budget if you want the most useful accessories:
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Wall sleeve: $100
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Trim kit: $60
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Remote: $40
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Smart control: $120
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Winter cover: $30
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Maintenance kit: $30
Total: ~$380
Not bad considering these upgrades can extend your unit’s lifespan, lower your bills, and make it far more convenient to use.
Samantha’s Top Picks for Her Amana Wall Unit
After living with my Amana 7,400 BTU wall unit for several years, here’s my verdict on accessories:
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Must-Have: Wall sleeve (you literally can’t install without it).
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Nice-to-Have: Trim kit and winter cover.
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Game-Changer: Smart controls — they save energy and give you total convenience.
If you’re looking to get the most from your Amana wall AC, prioritize these three.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Investment
Accessories aren’t just extras — they’re what transform your Amana wall AC from a simple appliance into a smart, efficient comfort system.
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The sleeve makes installation possible.
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The remote makes it easy to use.
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Smart controls save energy and add convenience.
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Trim kits, covers, and maintenance tools protect your investment.
👉 Samantha’s final word: I’ve owned both bare-bones and accessorized wall units, and the difference is night and day. With the right accessories, my Amana doesn’t just keep my room comfortable — it makes my home life easier, smarter, and more efficient.
In the next topic we will know more about: Do Through-the-Wall AC Units Qualify for Energy Rebates or Tax Credits in 2025?
