An air conditioner chassis is essentially the frame that supports the air conditioner. It houses the main components of the unit and is crucial for its installation and stability.
Understanding the type of chassis is important because it dictates where and how the air conditioner can be installed.
Types of AC Chassis and Installation
The key distinction regarding an air conditioner chassis lies in whether it is fixed or slide-out. This feature directly impacts the unit's versatility in terms of installation locations.
- Slide-Out Chassis:
- Units with a slide-out chassis are designed for more flexible installation.
- The main cooling unit can be slid out of the outer frame (the chassis).
- This allows the chassis to be installed first in a window or a wall sleeve, providing support.
- Once the chassis is securely in place, the main unit is slid back in and connected.
- This design makes them suitable for both window installations and permanent through-the-wall installations.
- Fixed Chassis:
- Units with a fixed-chassis have the cooling components permanently attached to the frame.
- The entire unit must be installed as one piece.
- Because of this integrated design, a fixed-chassis unit can only be installed in a window. They are not typically suitable for through-the-wall installations which often require the frame to be secured first.
In summary, the chassis provides structural support for the air conditioner, and its design (fixed or slide-out) is a critical factor determining whether the unit is suitable for window-only or both window and wall installations.
