The split system consists of two blocks: outdoor and indoor. Removing the structural module, which acts as a condenser, eliminates the compressor noise in the room. The unit is mounted on the wall, roof and balcony. Brackets provide reliable installation. Fasteners are selected in accordance with the size and weight of the air conditioner.
The main types of brackets
A common option for installing the outer part of a split system is installation on the wall of a building. Installation is carried out on special brackets offered in three modifications:
- Support structure made of two metal corners welded at a 90 ° angle. Steel thickness 2-2.5 mm. The model is popular due to its affordable cost and the possibility of self-production. The weld is the weak point of the structure. Under the influence of weather factors (moisture, frost), corrosive processes begin in it. The corners do not have additional stiffening ribs, the significant weight of the module leads to deformation.
- Corners with threaded connection of parts. The structure is assembled before installation. The set includes 2 wall and 2 horizontal channels. The strength is not inferior to the welded seam. Fasteners undergo factory corrosion treatment.
- Bracket for fixing the outdoor unit of the air conditioner with a horizontal bar. An additional element reinforces the structure, allows you to evenly distribute the load. The universal system simplifies installation, just align the bar horizontally. The only drawback is the high price.
Mounting requirements
To install the air conditioner, you need two brackets made of a U-shaped or L-shaped profile. The supporting elements consist of a vertical and a horizontal support. They are factory-made with round and oval holes. Through them, the support is attached to the wall. The perforation features precise geometry. On the upright, there are a number of anchor holes that fix the support to the building facade. The horizontal bar has a groove for fastening the outdoor unit of the split system.
The bracket holding the outdoor unit of the air conditioner is constantly subject to static load. Requirements for strength and corrosion resistance are imposed on it:
- The technical characteristics of the bracket must correspond to the weight and dimensions of the air conditioner outdoor unit. The minimum metal thickness is 1.5 mm. Smaller uprights can bend under load. The length and width of the vertical and horizontal planks are standard for various bracket models. Failure to comply with them leads to a decrease in the strength of the support.
- Surface treatment - protection of fasteners from moisture and negative effects of weather conditions prolongs the service life. The occurrence of corrosion weakens the metal, and the reliability of the supporting elements is lost. The coating must be resistant to mechanical stress, otherwise scratches will appear during installation. Violation of the integrity of the paint layer leads to the appearance of rust. High-quality anti-corrosion treatment is applied evenly, providing a smooth surface.
- The mounting is carried out through the existing holes. Drilling additional grooves is not permissible. Destruction of the protective coating of parts leads to rapid corrosion and loss of strength.
- The surface of the posts must be flat, the edges of the holes must be carefully machined. Notches and protrusions prevent a good installation of the outdoor unit.
Materials for production and coating
Brackets are made of steel and polyamide. In the first case, section metal with a thickness of 1.5 mm or more is used. Used as a coating:
- Enamel is an inexpensive option that will provide a neat appearance and moisture protection for 2-3 years.
- Galvanizing - the coating is applied at the factory by electroplating.
- Powder polymer paint is a durable option that provides aesthetic appeal and anti-corrosion protection. The coating is resistant to abrasion, mechanical and chemical attack, sunlight. Common colors: white, gray.
- Manufacturers supply the brackets with a quality certificate. Products that have been tested and comply with safety standards have this document. It is better to refuse to purchase uncertified parts.
The best technical characteristics are possessed by the bracket for the split system, made of stainless steel. It is durable, does not lend itself to corrosion, excludes the appearance of rusty streaks on the facade. Minus - the price of products is 2-3 times higher than painted steel corners.
Polyamide fasteners are recommended when installing the air conditioner on frame houses. Plastic is not subject to corrosion, it is installed in regions with a maritime climate. The material dampens vibration well, is resistant to ultraviolet radiation and temperature changes. Polyamide structures are manufactured in Italy. The disadvantages of the products include the cost, which is 5 times higher than the price of steel corners. This disadvantage hinders the popularity of plastic brackets.
Air conditioner mount selection criteria
When choosing brackets, consider the following factors:
- Features of the building wall. The presence of insulation or a ventilated facade requires lengthening the fasteners. Polyfoam and other heat-insulating material is not a reliable basis for the installation of equipment. Metal studs are required.
- The fasteners for the air conditioner are selected in accordance with the wall material. Aerated concrete facade has a low tensile strength. For installation, special anchors and dowels made of metal or polyamide are used. The surface of the wall should be flat, this will ensure a snug fit of the struts and reduce the level of vibration.
- The bracket specifications indicate the recommended load. It must correspond to the weight of the air conditioner to be installed. The maximum load value is 2 times the nominal value. A safety margin is necessary to avoid overloading during ice freezing in winter.
- For outdoor units over 120-150 kg, reinforced brackets are required. The supports are made of 3 mm thick metal.
- When buying, you need to pay attention to whether hardware is provided in the kit. Depending on the model, you need 4-6 dowels, 4-6 screws with a diameter of 10-12 mm. To fix the outdoor unit, you need 4 galvanized bolts of size 8 (10) by 50 mm, 4 nuts and 8 washers.
- The noise level of the operating air conditioner should not exceed the parameters that are comfortable for people living in the neighboring apartment. To reduce vibration, special rubber washers are installed. Vibration dampers are selected according to the weight of the split-system condenser module.
The dimensions of the slats are matched to the climatic equipment of various capacities and dimensions. Most household split systems are mounted on brackets of 450 × 450 mm or 450 × 500 mm. The hardware is selected in accordance with the load, the weight of the outdoor units ranges from 36-150 kg. High-power air conditioners require a larger supporting area of the fasteners; for them, products of 1000 × 700 mm, 1200 × 1000 mm are recommended.
The continuity and durability of the air conditioning system depends on the observance of the installation rules.The indoor unit is installed on a special plate, fixed clearly horizontally. The outer part is located on the north or east side (away from sunlight). When choosing the dimensions of the fastening, the requirement for installing the outdoor unit at a distance of 10-15 cm from the wall is taken into account. The gap is necessary for free removal of hot air.
Installation instructions
- The brackets are attached to the wall where the air conditioner is installed. The position of the parts is aligned with the building level.
- Marking is done through the perforation.
- Racks are removed. A drill is used to drill holes in the wall. Dowels are clogged.
- The supporting elements are returned to their place and secured with bolts. The plane of the installation and the strength of the connection are checked.
The efficiency of the HVAC equipment depends on the correct choice and installation of the bracket. It is equally important to ensure the safety of people, parked equipment and other objects under the unit. The choice of support bracket is based on the characteristics of the air conditioner.
