When Mark purchased his GE 14,000 BTU 208/230 Volt Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner with Electric Heat (AKEQ14DCJ), he thought the hardest part was choosing the model. But once it arrived, another question popped up:
👉 “Do I install this myself, or hire a professional—and what’s the real cost difference?”
This guide takes a deep dive into DIY vs. professional installation costs for the GE 14,000 BTU through-the-wall AC, exploring:
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Tools, materials, and hidden expenses for DIY
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Professional quotes and what’s included
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Risks, warranties, and safety considerations
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Mark’s real-world hybrid solution (DIY + electrician)
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How to decide which option makes sense for your budget and skill level
📏 Why Installation Costs Vary So Much
Unlike a portable or window AC, a through-the-wall unit is a permanent installation. That means:
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Cutting into your wall (or reusing an old sleeve)
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Framing the opening to support 100+ lbs of weight
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Sealing the gaps to prevent air and water leaks
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Wiring a dedicated 208/230V outlet (not a standard household plug)
👉 This complexity is why professional installation quotes can be anywhere from $1,500 to $2,100, while DIYers like Mark spend under $1,200.
🛠️ DIY Installation Costs
Mark decided to handle most of the install himself. He had moderate carpentry skills and owned some tools, but still had to budget for materials.
🔹 Materials & Tools Needed
| Item | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GE AKEQ14DCJ Unit | $700–$850 | Base equipment cost |
| GE Wall Sleeve | $120–$150 | Required for stability & drainage |
| GE Trim Kit (RAK204D) | $60–$100 | For sealing & professional finish |
| Reciprocating Saw | $80–$120 | Needed if cutting a new opening |
| Drill + Bits | $50–$100 | For screws and anchoring |
| Level & Tape Measure | $20–$40 | Precision tools for straight cuts |
| Spray Foam + Exterior Caulk | $20–$40 | To seal gaps |
| Safety Gear (gloves, goggles, mask) | $25–$50 | Essential for safe cutting |
| Subtotal (materials/tools) | $1,075–$1,450 | Includes AC, sleeve, tools, and sealing supplies |
🔹 Electrical Costs (Even for DIYers)
Because the GE AKEQ14DCJ requires 208/230V power, Mark couldn’t do it all himself. He needed a licensed electrician to:
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Install a dedicated breaker in the panel
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Run a 208/230V line to the wall opening
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Add a proper outlet
Electrician cost: $200–$300
👉 DIY Total: $1,180–$1,600 (depending on tools you already own)
👷 Professional Installation Costs
If you’d rather let the pros handle everything, expect a higher bill—but less hassle.
🔹 Breakdown of Professional Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GE AKEQ14DCJ Unit | $700–$850 | Same equipment cost |
| Wall Sleeve & Trim Kit | $180–$250 | Often bundled by installer |
| Labor (framing, cutting, sealing) | $400–$700 | Based on hourly rates & difficulty |
| Electrical hookup (208/230V) | $200–$300 | Licensed electrician included |
| Total Professional Cost | $1,500–$2,100 | All-inclusive |
🔹 What You’re Paying For
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Contractor labor & expertise
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Tools & equipment you don’t own
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Cleanup & disposal of wall debris
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A workmanship warranty in some cases
👉 Mark got one professional quote for $1,850 all-in, which he compared to his $1,050 hybrid install.
⚖️ Pros & Cons of DIY vs. Pro
✅ DIY Pros
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Save $500–$700 in labor costs
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Learn valuable home improvement skills
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Full control over schedule & materials
⚠️ DIY Cons
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Mistakes can cause water leaks, drafts, or costly repairs
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Requires physical labor & carpentry skills
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Still must hire an electrician for safety
👷 Pro Pros
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Fast and efficient (often done in 1 day)
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Less stress and physical effort
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May come with labor warranty
👷 Pro Cons
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40–60% higher total cost
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Less flexibility (must schedule appointments)
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Some contractors may upsell extras
🧰 Mark’s Hybrid Approach
Mark took a middle-ground path:
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He did the framing, cutting, and sealing himself over a weekend.
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He hired an electrician for the 230V line and outlet.
His Total: ~$1,050
Pro Quote He Avoided: $1,850
👉 “Doing the grunt work myself saved me almost $800. The electrician was the only step I wasn’t comfortable tackling—and it was worth every penny for safety.”
📌 Safety Considerations
Mark emphasizes one point for DIYers: don’t mess with electricity unless you’re licensed.
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230V shocks are dangerous, not DIY-friendly.
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Incorrect wiring can damage the AC or cause fire hazards.
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Some municipalities require permits for this type of installation.
👉 Always budget for a professional electrician, even if you DIY everything else.
💡 Cost-Saving Tips
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Reuse an existing wall sleeve if you’re replacing an older unit and the sleeve is in good condition.
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Borrow or rent tools from a hardware store instead of buying new.
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Shop seasonal sales for sleeves, trim kits, and sealing supplies.
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Bundle electrical work if you’re already hiring an electrician for other projects.
🏠 When to Choose DIY vs. Pro
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Choose DIY if…
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You’re handy with tools and comfortable cutting drywall/siding.
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You want to save money and don’t mind a weekend project.
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You’re willing to hire an electrician for the final hookup.
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Choose Pro if…
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You want a fast, guaranteed install with no learning curve.
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You live in a multi-unit building where rules require licensed contractors.
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You don’t have the tools or time to tackle the project.
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🔗 Verified References
✅ Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to install a GE 14,000 BTU through-the-wall AC?
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DIY: $1,180–$1,600 (Mark did it for ~$1,050 by reusing tools and only hiring an electrician).
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Pro: $1,500–$2,100, depending on your location and labor rates.
👉 Mark’s advice: “If you’ve got the tools and the patience, DIY can save you hundreds. But never cut corners on electrical. That’s the one step that always belongs to the pros.”
