The split system consists of two blocks: external and internal. The removal of the structural module that performs the function of a capacitor eliminates the noise of the compressor in the room. The unit is mounted on the wall, roof and balcony. Reliability of installation is provided by brackets. 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 exterior of a split system is mounting on a wall of a building. Installation is carried out on special brackets offered in three versions:
- Support structure made of two metal corners welded at an angle of 90 °. The thickness of the steel is 2-2.5 mm. The model is popular due to its affordable cost and the possibility of self-manufacturing. The weld is a weak point in the structure. Under the influence of weather factors (moisture, frost), corrosion processes begin in it. The corners do not have additional stiffeners, a significant weight of the module leads to deformation.
- Corners with threaded parts. The design is assembled before installation. The set includes 2 wall and 2 horizontal channels. It is not inferior in strength to the weld. Fasteners are factory processed from corrosion.
- Bracket for attaching the air conditioner outdoor unit with a horizontal bar. An additional element strengthens the design, 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 requires two brackets made of a U-shaped or L-shaped profile. Supporting elements consist of a vertical and horizontal rack. On them in the factory made holes of round and oval shape. Through them, the support is fixed to the wall. Perforation features precise geometry. On a vertical stand, a series of holes for an anchor, fixing a support to the building facade. The horizontal bar has a groove for attaching the outdoor unit of the split system.
The bracket holding the external module of the air conditioner is constantly subjected to static load. It is subject to requirements for strength and corrosion resistance:
- The specifications for the bracket must match the weight and dimensions of the outdoor unit. Minimum metal thickness 1.5 mm. Smaller racks may bend under load. The length and width of the vertical and horizontal bars are standard values for various models of brackets. Non-compliance with them leads to a decrease in the strength of the support.
- Surface treatment - protection of fastenings from moisture and the negative impact of weather conditions extends the life of the device. The occurrence of corrosion weakens the metal, 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, provides a smooth surface.
- Mounting is done through existing holes. Drilling of additional grooves is not permissible. Destruction of the protective coating of parts leads to rapid corrosion and loss of strength.
- The surface of the racks should be flat, the edges of the holes carefully crafted. Notches and protrusions impede the quality of the outdoor unit.
Materials for production and coating
Brackets are made of steel and polyamide. In the first case, high-quality metal from a thickness of 1.5 mm is used. As a coating is used:
- Enamel is an inexpensive option that will provide a neat appearance and protection against moisture for 2-3 years.
- Galvanization - the coating is applied at the plant by the galvanic method.
- Polymer powder paint is a durable option that provides aesthetic appeal and anti-corrosion protection. The coating is resistant to abrasion, mechanical and chemical effects, sunlight. Common colors: white, gray.
- Manufacturers provide the brackets with a quality certificate. Products that have been tested and meet safety standards have such a document. It is better to refuse to purchase uncertified parts.
The best technical characteristics have a bracket for a split system made of stainless steel. It is durable, resistant to corrosion, eliminates the appearance of rusty drips on the facade. Minus - the price of products is 2-3 times higher than the corners of painted steel.
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 marine climate. The material dampens vibration well, is resistant to ultraviolet and temperature changes. The production of polyamide structures involved in Italy. The disadvantages of products include the cost exceeding 5 times the price of steel corners. This minus hinders the popularity of plastic brackets.
Criteria for choosing an air conditioner mount
When choosing brackets, the following factors are considered:
- Features of the wall of the building. The presence of insulation or a ventilated facade requires an extension of the fasteners. Polyfoam and other heat-insulating material is not a reliable basis for the installation of equipment. Metal studs will be required.
- The fixture for the air conditioner is selected in accordance with the wall material. The facade of aerated concrete 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 tight fit of the racks and reduce the level of vibration.
- The characteristics of the brackets indicate the recommended load. It must match the weight of the installed air conditioner. The maximum load value is 2 times higher than the nominal value. Safety margin is necessary to avoid overload when ice freezes in the winter.
- For outdoor units weighing more than 120-150 kg, reinforced brackets are required. The supports are made of metal 3 mm thick.
- When buying, you need to pay attention to whether hardware is provided in the kit. Depending on the model, 4-6 dowels and 4-6 screws with a diameter of 10-12 mm are required. To fix the external unit, 4 galvanized bolts of size 8 (10) by 50 mm, 4 nuts and 8 washers are required.
- The noise level of the working air conditioner should not exceed indicators 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 condenser module of the split system.
The dimensions of the slats are selected for climatic equipment of various capacities and dimensions. Most household split systems are mounted on brackets of 450 × 450 mm or 450 × 500 mm in size. 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 fasteners; products with sizes of 1000 × 700 mm and 1200 × 1000 mm are recommended for them.
The continuity and durability of the air conditioning system depends on compliance with 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 mounting sizes, the requirement for installing an outdoor module at a distance of 10-15 cm from the wall is taken into account. The gap is necessary for the free removal of hot air.
Installation instructions
- Brackets are applied to the wall at the installation site of the air conditioner. The position of the parts is aligned with the building level.
- Through perforation, marking is performed.
- Racks are cleaned. Drills drill holes in the wall. The dowels are clogged.
- The support elements are returned to their place and bolted. The mounting plane and joint strength are checked.
From the correct choice and installation of the bracket depends on the efficiency of the climatic equipment. It is equally important to ensure the safety of people, parked equipment and other objects located under the unit. The choice of the support console is based on the characteristics of the air conditioner.
