How I Weighed the Costs, Risks, and Peace of Mind
☀️ 1. The Summer Project Dilemma
I had my shiny new 12,000 BTU through-the-wall air conditioner sitting in its box in my garage, and I was staring down the big question:
“Do I grab my tools and tackle this myself, or should I call in the pros?”
I’m a capable DIYer—I’ve replaced light fixtures, laid laminate flooring, and even fixed a leaky faucet without flooding the kitchen. But cutting a hole in my living room wall? That’s a whole new level.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything I learned about DIY vs. professional installation, so you can decide which is best for you.
🛠️ 2. What Installing a Through-the-Wall AC Actually Involves
If you’ve never installed one before, the process is more involved than just sliding a box into a window.
Here’s the basic step-by-step of a proper installation:
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Choose the right location
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Must be on an exterior wall.
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No plumbing or electrical wiring in the cut-out area.
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Avoid direct sunlight if possible.
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Measure and mark the wall
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Determine the exact sleeve size from your unit’s manual.
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Account for any framing you’ll add inside the wall.
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Cut the opening
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Inside: Remove drywall in the marked area.
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Outside: Cut through sheathing, siding, or brick (depending on your home).
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Install the wall sleeve
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This is the frame that supports the AC and protects your wall from the elements.
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Insulate and seal around the sleeve
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Prevents air leaks, water intrusion, and pest entry.
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Slide in the AC unit
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Connect to electrical power (often a dedicated circuit).
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Secure according to the manufacturer’s specs.
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Test and adjust slope
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Slight downward tilt toward the exterior for proper condensate drainage.
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📖 The U.S. Department of Energy’s Room AC Guide covers these basics, but your unit’s own manual is your blueprint.
🪚 3. The Case for DIY Installation
If you’re handy and love the satisfaction of doing things yourself, DIY installation has some strong selling points.
Pros
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Save labor costs — hiring a pro can run $300–$700 just for installation.
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Work on your own schedule — no waiting for an appointment.
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Sense of accomplishment — you did it yourself!
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Full control over materials and steps.
Cons
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Tools required: circular saw, reciprocating saw, drill, stud finder, level, caulking gun, safety gear.
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Skill demands: cutting through walls, handling electrical work safely, sealing against weather.
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Potential for mistakes: a misaligned sleeve can cause leaks, drafts, or poor performance.
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Warranty risks: some manufacturers require professional installation for full coverage.
For a detailed look at the DIY process, Family Handyman’s guide is a good step-by-step resource.
👷 4. The Case for Professional Installation
Sometimes, paying for expertise is worth every penny.
Pros
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Experience — seasoned installers know the pitfalls to avoid.
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Code compliance — electrical hookup and wall modification meet safety standards.
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Proper sealing — reduces drafts, water leaks, and noise.
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Warranty protection — many pros offer labor warranties in addition to the manufacturer’s.
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Faster turnaround — pros can install in 2–4 hours, compared to a weekend for many DIYers.
Cons
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Higher upfront cost — typically $500–$1,500 for unit, sleeve, and labor.
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Scheduling delays — during summer, installers book up fast.
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Less hands-on control — you’re trusting someone else to follow best practices.
According to HomeAdvisor’s cost guide, the national average for a through-the-wall AC installation is about $1,000, depending on location and wall type.
⏱️ 5. Time Commitment: DIY vs. Pro
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DIY: For a first-time installer, expect 6–12 hours spread over a day or two.
That includes setup, cutting, framing, sleeve installation, and cleanup. -
Pro: 2–4 hours if the wall is straightforward; up to a day if extra framing or electrical work is needed.
⚠️ 6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Whether you go DIY or hire a pro, these are the trouble spots to watch for:
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Wrong wall choice — cutting into a load-bearing wall without proper framing support.
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Poor sleeve alignment — must be perfectly level side-to-side, slightly tilted toward outside.
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Insufficient sealing — gaps invite pests, rain, and drafts.
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Electrical overload — plugging into a circuit that can’t handle the AC’s amperage.
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Skipping insulation — wastes energy and reduces comfort.
The ENERGY STAR installation tips stress sealing and proper tilt as critical for efficiency.
📊 7. Cost Breakdown Table
| Expense Item | DIY Estimate | Pro Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 12,000 BTU AC Unit | $500–$1,200 | $500–$1,200 |
| Wall Sleeve | $50–$150 | Included or +$50–$150 |
| Tools & Supplies | $100–$250* | Included |
| Labor | $0 | $300–$700 |
| Total Range | $650–$1,600 | $850–$2,050 |
*If you already have the tools, your DIY cost will be lower.
✅ 8. Samantha’s Decision Framework
When I made my choice, I asked myself:
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Budget: Could I afford pro installation without cutting into other home improvement plans?
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Skill Level: Was I comfortable cutting into my home’s siding and dealing with electrical work?
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Warranty: Did I care about having full manufacturer and labor warranties?
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Timeline: Did I need the AC running ASAP, or could I spend a weekend learning and working?
🏡 9. My Verdict
In the end, I went with professional installation for my living room unit.
Why?
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My wall has brick veneer—cutting that myself felt risky.
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I wanted the warranty protection.
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The idea of having a cool living room by the end of the day (instead of maybe two) was very appealing.
That said, I still have a smaller guest room project on my list where I may try a DIY install. It’s a simpler wall and a smaller unit, so the stakes aren’t as high.
🌟 11. Final Takeaway
Installing a 12,000 BTU through-the-wall AC isn’t rocket science—but it’s not hanging a picture frame either.
If you have solid carpentry skills, the right tools, and the patience to do it right, DIY can save money and be deeply satisfying.
If you value speed, safety, and warranty protection, a professional install is worth the investment.
Either way, you’ll end up with a cooler, more comfortable home—and that’s the real win.
In the next topic we will read about: Best Brands for 12,000 BTU Wall Units: LG vs. GE vs. Friedrich
