Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner Installation Service in Nairobi: How It’s Done
Service Information Summary
- Average Installation Time: 3-6 hours including wall penetration
- Typical Cost Range: KES 6,000 – 12,000 (installation only)
- Wall Requirements: External wall, minimum 20cm thickness recommended
- Ideal For: Bedrooms, guest rooms, older buildings without split AC provisions
- System Type: Self-contained unit mounted in wall opening
- Post-Installation Service: 6-month installation warranty
Through-the-wall air conditioners offer Nairobi residents a permanent cooling solution without external compressors, particularly suited for older buildings or situations where split systems aren’t feasible. These self-contained units install directly into wall openings, combining the compressor and evaporator in a single chassis.
Installation begins with careful location selection, requiring an external wall with adequate thickness and structural integrity. Nairobi’s typical concrete block or brick construction provides ideal support, though installers assess wall composition to ensure safe penetration. Location must allow outdoor airflow access for heat dissipation while maintaining indoor aesthetics.
Wall penetration is the most involved aspect, requiring specialized tools to cut through Nairobi’s solid construction. Installers mark a precise rectangular opening, typically 45-60cm wide and 35-45cm high depending on unit specifications. Electric demolition hammers or diamond core drills cut through concrete, with continuous water cooling to manage dust and heat.
The opening must maintain perfect dimensional accuracy, as through-the-wall units have minimal adjustment tolerance. Installers create a slight outward slope (about 5 degrees) for condensate drainage. Rough edges are smoothed, and the opening is reinforced if necessary to support the unit’s weight (typically 40-60kg).
A metal sleeve inserts into the wall opening, providing structural support and weather sealing. This sleeve, custom-fitted to the wall thickness, includes mounting rails and weather gaskets. In Nairobi’s climate, proper sealing prevents rainwater infiltration during heavy storms and blocks dust entry during dry seasons.
The AC unit slides into the sleeve on mounting rails, secured with brackets and screws. External louvers allow heat discharge while preventing rain and pest entry. Interior decorative panels, often included with the unit, cover the installation edges providing a finished appearance.
Electrical connection requires a dedicated 220V circuit, typically 15-20 amps depending on unit capacity. Installers either connect to nearby outlets or wire dedicated circuits from the electrical panel. Proper grounding is essential for safety and optimal operation in Nairobi’s electrical environment.
Sealing around the unit is critical, using weatherproof caulking and foam strips to prevent air leakage. Professional installers ensure all gaps are sealed, maintaining cooling efficiency and preventing moisture problems. In Nairobi’s multi-story buildings, proper sealing also provides fire safety, maintaining wall fire ratings.
System testing verifies cooling performance, checks for air leaks around the installation, and ensures proper condensate drainage. Installers verify the unit operates quietly without excessive vibration, particularly important in bedroom installations.
Through-the-wall ACs are ideal for Nairobi’s older buildings where retrofit split systems would be expensive or impractical. They’re also popular in hotels and guest houses where self-contained units simplify maintenance. Professional installation ensures proper wall penetration, secure mounting, and weather-tight sealing that delivers reliable performance for years in Kenya’s diverse climate conditions.
