Installing a through-the-wall air conditioner isn’t a small job—but if you’re like me, you enjoy a challenge and the satisfaction of saying, “I did that myself.” When I decided to upgrade my old window unit to an Amana 12,000 BTU Through-the-Wall AC, I wasn’t sure if I’d tackle it alone or hire a pro. In the end, I rolled up my sleeves, grabbed my toolbox, and went for it.
This guide is everything I learned from the process: the steps, the surprises, and the lessons I wish I’d known before I started. If you’re considering installing one of these units, here’s what you need to know.
📍 Why a Through-the-Wall AC Instead of a Window Unit?
Before we jump into the nuts and bolts, let’s talk about why you might want a through-the-wall AC.
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Better security – No gaps around a window frame, and no risk of the unit falling out.
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More light – You don’t lose a window just to stay cool.
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Permanent solution – Once it’s installed, you’re set for years.
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Energy efficiency – Proper sealing means less wasted energy compared to a leaky window AC.
👉 Mike’s Story: I’d been using a window AC for years in my living room, but it was drafty, loud, and ugly from the outside. The through-the-wall Amana gave me a cleaner look, quieter performance, and no more window rattles.
🧰 Step 1: Preparing the Space
The first step is all about measuring and planning.
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Measure your room. The Amana 12,000 BTU is rated for 450–550 sq. ft. (about the size of a medium living room or studio apartment).
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Measure the wall. You’ll need to know where the AC is going and how big the cutout should be. The unit requires a wall sleeve (sold separately), and the sleeve dimensions are the key.
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Check your electrical setup.
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This Amana runs on 230/208V power—not a standard household 115V outlet.
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I had to install a dedicated breaker for this line. If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, this is one area where I recommend calling a licensed electrician.
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👉 Mike’s Tip: Don’t skip planning. My first surprise was realizing my living room outlet was only 115V. That added half a day of work running a new line.
🪚 Step 2: Cutting the Wall Opening
This is where things get real. Cutting into the wall sounds intimidating, but with the right tools and patience, it’s manageable.
Tools I Used:
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Stud finder
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Tape measure & level
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Circular saw
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Reciprocating saw (Sawzall)
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Drill with pilot bits
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Hammer & nails
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Safety glasses and gloves
Process:
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Locate wall studs with a stud finder.
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Mark the opening dimensions with a pencil and level.
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Drill pilot holes in the corners of the cutout.
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Use the saw to cut carefully along the lines.
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Remove drywall and insulation.
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Frame the opening with 2x4 studs for support.
👉 Mike’s Lesson: My first cut was ½ inch too small. I learned quickly—measure twice, cut once. Expanding the opening later was messy and time-consuming.
🧱 Step 3: Installing the Wall Sleeve
The wall sleeve is the unsung hero of a through-the-wall AC. It’s a metal housing that supports the AC and protects your wall from moisture and drafts.
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Slide the sleeve into the opening.
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Check that it’s level (very important for drainage).
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Secure it with screws into the framing.
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Seal around the edges with exterior-grade caulk or expanding foam.
👉 Mike’s Tip: Don’t skimp on sealing. I initially thought “good enough” would work. Wrong. The first rainstorm brought in a draft until I recaulked.
🔌 Step 4: Mounting the Amana AC
Now comes the heavy lifting.
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These units can weigh 70–90 pounds. Don’t try to muscle it in alone.
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With the sleeve in place, slide the Amana unit carefully into the sleeve.
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Secure it using the provided brackets or screws.
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Plug into the dedicated 230V outlet.
👉 Mike’s Experience: I tried moving the unit by myself at first. Bad idea. My back wasn’t happy. Once my son helped lift, it went in smoothly. Trust me—get a helper.
🌬️ Step 5: Testing & Adjusting
With the AC mounted, it’s time to fire it up.
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Run it on cooling mode.
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Check for vibrations, rattles, or unusual noises.
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Verify drainage (the unit should tilt slightly downward outside for water runoff).
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Adjust the airflow louvers to direct cool air where you need it.
👉 Mike’s Lesson: I didn’t level my unit correctly the first time, and water pooled inside instead of draining out. Fixing that meant pulling it back out, adjusting the tilt, and reinstalling.
🛡️ Step 6: Finishing Touches
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Install the exterior grille for a clean look.
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Insulate around the sleeve edges if needed.
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Touch up paint or trim around the interior opening.
👉 Mike’s Reminder: The finishing work makes a huge difference. My first install looked “rough.” After adding trim and repainting, it looked like it had always been part of the house.
⚖️ DIY vs. Pro Install: What Mike Thinks
Should you do it yourself? Here’s how I see it:
DIY Pros:
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Save $300–$500 on labor.
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Satisfaction of completing the job yourself.
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Learn more about your home’s construction.
DIY Cons:
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Time-intensive (took me a full weekend).
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Risk of mistakes (like cutting too small or misleveling).
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Electrical work may require a professional.
👉 Mike’s Real Talk: I saved about $400 doing this myself. But if I had to do it again, I’d probably still hire an electrician for the dedicated 230V line. Safety matters.
💡 Lessons I Learned Installing My Amana Wall AC
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Measure twice, cut once. Precision matters.
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Don’t underestimate the weight. Have help ready.
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Electrical prep is half the battle. Plan your power needs early.
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Sealing is everything. Keeps out drafts, bugs, and rain.
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Take your time with finishing. It’s the difference between a “DIY look” and a professional finish.
🧾 Cost Breakdown
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Amana 12,000 BTU Unit: ~$750–$850
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Wall Sleeve: ~$100–$150
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Tools & materials (caulk, trim, insulation): ~$50–$75
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Electrician for 230V outlet: ~$200–$400 (if needed)
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Pro install labor: ~$300–$500 (if hired)
👉 Mike’s Bottom Line: DIY saved me around $400, but cost me a weekend of labor. Worth it for me—but your mileage may vary.
🔗 External Resources
✅ Final Thoughts
Installing a through-the-wall AC like the Amana 12,000 BTU PBC123J00AA is a big project—but doable if you’re handy and patient. I made mistakes, learned lessons, and came out with a professional-looking install that keeps my living room cool without sacrificing a window.
👉 Mike’s Verdict: If you’re comfortable with tools and measuring, go for it. If not, hire a pro for at least the tricky parts (like electrical). Either way, you’ll love the comfort once it’s running.
In the next topic we will know more about: Troubleshooting Guide: What to Do If Your Wall AC Isn’t Cooling (or Heating, If Equipped)
