DIY or Hire a Pro? What to Know Before You Cut the Wall

Planning to install the Amana 11,900 BTU 230/208V Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner with Electric Heat and Remote (Model PBE123J35AA)? Here’s what to know before you start cutting.

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Cutting into your home’s exterior wall is a big step — one that blends comfort upgrade with structural change. Installing a through-the-wall air conditioner like the Amana PBE123J35AA can deliver long-term energy savings and year-round temperature control. But should you DIY it, or hire a pro?

This guide walks you through everything you should know: tools, safety, cost, building codes, and key mistakes to avoid — so you can make the right decision before you ever pick up a saw.

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🧱 1️⃣ What Makes Through-the-Wall ACs Different

Unlike window ACs, through-the-wall units are built for permanent installation. They require cutting an opening directly through your exterior wall, framing it with a wall sleeve, and sealing it from both sides.

The Amana 11,900 BTU Through-the-Wall Unit is designed for this type of installation. It provides both cooling and electric heat, making it ideal for apartments, condos, or home retrofits.

But here’s the catch: cutting into your wall involves electrical wiring, insulation, and sometimes load-bearing studs.Doing it wrong can mean leaks, water intrusion, or structural damage — which is why the DIY vs. pro question matters so much.

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🧰 2️⃣ Before You Begin: Assess Your Wall

Before any installation, you must know what’s behind your wall.

• Load-bearing or not? Load-bearing walls require additional framing for structural support. You may need a contractor or engineer for approval.

• Hidden wiring or pipes? Use a stud finder or inspection camera to locate hazards before cutting.

• Material type: Vinyl, brick, and stucco each require different saws and blades.

• Wall thickness: Most sleeves fit 8"–12" walls, but older homes may vary.

If you’re unsure about any of the above, check the International Residential Code (IRC) or consult your local building office before cutting.

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⚒️ 3️⃣ DIY Installation: What You’ll Need

If you’re comfortable with basic carpentry and power tools, DIY installation is doable. Gather the following:

• Stud finder and level

• Circular or reciprocating saw

• Drill with masonry bits (for brick or stucco)

• Hammer, nails, or screws

• Weatherproof caulk and sealant

• Wall sleeve (sold separately if not included)

• Safety gear — gloves, goggles, and a dust mask

For visual help, Family Handyman’s guide shows the basic cutting and installation process for wall-mounted ACs.

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⚠️ 4️⃣ Common DIY Mistakes

Even handy homeowners make these missteps:

• Cutting a load-bearing wall without reinforcing the structure.

• Skipping sealing or insulation, causing air leaks and water damage.

• Misaligned wall sleeves, which can cause drainage and vibration issues.

• Improper electrical wiring — the Amana PBE123J35AA requires a dedicated 230V circuit, not a standard outlet.

If your home’s wiring isn’t up to code, you’ll need a licensed electrician. The National Electrical Code (NEC)mandates safe circuit installation for high-voltage appliances.

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👷 5️⃣ When to Hire a Pro

Hiring a professional might be the smarter move in certain situations — and it often pays off long term.

✅ Hire a Pro If:

• The wall is load-bearing.

• Your home’s electrical system isn’t 230V-ready.

• The wall exterior is brick, stucco, or stone.

• You’re not familiar with sealing and weatherproofing techniques.

• Your HVAC warranty requires professional installation.

Professionals also handle permits, which some cities require for cutting structural walls.

According to HomeAdvisor, professional installation typically costs $800–$1,500, depending on wall material and wiring complexity. That price includes framing, electrical hookup, and finishing — often cheaper than fixing a DIY mistake.

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💵 6️⃣ DIY vs. Professional: Cost and Time Comparison

A DIYer can save roughly $400–$700, but the tradeoff is time, potential errors, and warranty limitations.

If you want to reduce labor costs while staying safe, you can opt for a hybrid approach: hire a pro for the wall cutting and wiring, then handle the mounting and finishing yourself.

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🧱 7️⃣ Don’t Forget the Wall Sleeve

The wall sleeve is the unsung hero of every through-the-wall installation. It provides:

• Structural support for the AC’s weight

• A barrier against outdoor air and moisture

• Correct drainage for condensation

• Noise reduction

Amana recommends using its matching sleeve for the PBE123J35AA to ensure perfect fit and sealing. You can find compatible options in The Furnace Outlet’s Wall Sleeves & Grilles Collection.

Skipping a sleeve or using a mismatched one can lead to air leaks, rust, and poor efficiency over time.

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🧯 8️⃣ Code & Safety Considerations

Even small projects can trigger inspection requirements. Cutting an exterior wall may require:

• Structural approval (for load-bearing sections)

• Electrical permits (for 230V outlets)

• Weatherproofing verification

Ignoring local regulations can lead to fines or failed home inspections later. The International Code Council (ICC)outlines national safety standards, but local rules vary. Always check with your city’s building department before starting.

Also, ensure your AC’s outlet is grounded and GFCI-protected to prevent electrical shock — especially in humid areas.

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🧽 9️⃣ Finishing Touches After Installation

Once your wall AC is mounted, these final details improve performance and aesthetics:

🧴 Seal and Insulate

Apply silicone caulk around the sleeve edges, then fill any small gaps with foam insulation.

🧊 Check Drainage

Make sure condensation drains outward. A tilted or blocked sleeve can cause leaks.

🧽 Clean the Filter Regularly

Amana’s filters are washable. Cleaning monthly ensures airflow and energy efficiency.

⚡ Test All Modes

Run cooling and heating cycles to confirm performance before finishing trim or paint.

For seasonal upkeep, Consumer Reports’ AC maintenance guide covers filter care, coil cleaning, and energy-saving operation tips.

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🧠 🔟 How to Decide: DIY or Hire a Pro?

When deciding, ask yourself:

• Am I comfortable using saws and drills safely?

• Do I understand basic wall framing and electrical work?

• Is my wall simple drywall and siding—or complex masonry?

• Would I rather save time or money?

If you answer “no” to any of those, professional help is worth every penny.

DIY is great for confident homeowners with light carpentry skills and a straightforward wall. But when structure, wiring, or warranty are involved, the peace of mind from hiring a professional far outweighs the cost.

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🏁 Final Thoughts

Installing a through-the-wall air conditioner is one of the most rewarding home upgrades you can do — especially when it’s a reliable, dual-function model like the.

If you’re experienced, have the right tools, and understand what’s inside your wall, DIY installation can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment.

But if your wall involves load-bearing framing, complex wiring, or masonry, hiring a pro ensures the job is done safely, efficiently, and up to code.

Either way, once the unit’s installed, you’ll enjoy quiet comfort, reliable heating, and cooling — without the clutter of a window unit and with the sleek permanence only a wall-mounted system can offer.

In the next Blog we will learn more about Troubleshooting Guide: What to Do If Your Amana Wall Unit Isn’t Heating or Cooling

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