How To Remove a Window Air Conditioner in 4 Easy Steps

How To Remove a Window Air Conditioner in 4 Easy Steps

We all have a list of things to do around the home. Maybe pulling out that old window/box air conditioner is one of them, and maybe it's been thrown in the too-hard basket since you don't know where to start.

If you're wondering how to remove a window air conditioner without the hassle, you've come to the right place. We'll walk you through the process step-by-step so you can finally tick that job off your list!

Why You Might Need To Remove Your Window Box A/C

So, why go through the trouble of removing your window air conditioner? There are a few common reasons.

• Deep cleaning: Dust, grime, and mould can build up over time. Removing the unit lets you give your window A/C a thorough clean, which improves its performance and extends its life.

• Upgrading to a new model: Older units can be less efficient, costing you more on energy bills. Replacing a window A/C unit with a newer model can save you money and keep your room feeling more comfortable.

• Moving house or rearranging: If you're moving or just want the A/C in a different room, you'll need to remove it.

One more thing we should mention is that the steps to remove your window A/C in this guide will be aimed at removing it from a wall, as this is the most common location these units are installed here in Australia!

Tools You’ll Need

• Screwdriver (Phillips or flat-head, depending on your screws)

• Pliers

• Utility knife

• Protective gloves

• Safety glasses

• Drop cloth or old towels

• A mate to help with the lifting

The Removal Process

1. Unplug the Cord and Remove the Front Cover

• Switch off the air conditioner if it's running.

• Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

• Gently unscrew or unclip the front cover/grille. Take your time to avoid breaking any clips.

• Slide out the window A/C filter and set it aside. This is a great time to clean your A/C filter if you haven't done it in a while.

2. Remove the Screws That Hold the Unit to the Mounting Frame

• Once the front cover is off, look along the sides and bottom of the unit for screws or little brackets, attaching the main body of the A/C to the sleeve.

• Some units have screws on the exterior bottom rail on the outside. If accessible and safe, remove those too.

• Use your screwdriver or pliers to remove all the fasteners. Keep them in a safe place—you might need them later if you plan to put the unit back in.

3. Slide the Unit Out From the Mounting Frame

• Grab a mate, as an extra set of hands makes this step easier and safer on the back.

• From the inside, grip the unit firmly. Many units have a small handle to help with this.

• Slowly pull the air conditioner towards you, sliding it out of the mounting sleeve. Be ready for some water or debris to spill out—that's where the drop cloth underneath comes in handy.

• Place the unit on your drop cloth or towels to protect your floors.

If you're planning on just giving your A/C a clean, then the steps up to this point are all you need! The next steps are aimed at if you want to permanently remove your window/wall air conditioner.

4. Remove the Mounting Sleeve From the Wall (Optional)

• Leaving it in place: If you're installing a new unit of the same brand and model, it might be easier to leave the mounting sleeve. Just check what condition it's in.

• Taking it out: If the sleeve is rusty or you won't need it anymore:

  • Find any screws or nails holding the sleeve to the wall frame and remove them.

  • Use your utility knife to slice through any silicone that's sealing the sleeve.

  • Pull it off, away from the wall.

Keep in mind that removing the frame will leave a hole that you'll need to patch up!

Additional Work That May Be Needed

With the unit out, and if you're not planning on using the old A/C anymore, here's what you'll need to do next.

• You'll need to fix both the interior and exterior walls, as there will be a hole where the unit used to be.

  • Outside: Match your existing cladding—whether it's weatherboards, bricks, or something else.

  • Inside: Patch it with gyprock, then paint it to make the wall look new.

• Old units contain refrigerant gas, which needs to be disposed of properly. Check with your local council for info on how to dispose.

Time for a Change? Find Your New Window Box A/C with Midea

So now you know how to remove a window air conditioner, what next? At Midea, we have a full range of air conditioners to suit any need. 

If you're after a simple and affordable A/C option for a smaller space, our window air conditioners are a great choice. 

Need something a bit more powerful for a larger area? Our split systems offer super-efficient cooling and heating with modern designs to complement your home. 

And if you want whole-home air conditioning, our ducted systems provide ultimate climate control with discreet installation. 

No matter your needs or budget, Midea has the perfect air conditioner for you and your family!

Call 1300 726 002 to speak to a helpful Midea team member, or complete this online form, and we'll contact you soon.