Fitting an aircon cover takes about 15 to 20 minutes and basic tools. Your Tilt air conditioner cover arrives flat-packed as laser-cut aluminium panels, so the job comes in two parts: bend and rivet the panels into a box, then hang the box on the wall over your outdoor unit. This guide has the installation video, the tools you need and all 9 steps in order. If you are still choosing, browse our aircon covers first.
Aircon cover installation at a glance
- Time: about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Skill level: basic DIY. No special skills needed.
- Tools: pop rivet gun, power drill with a masonry bit, pencil or marker, spirit level and measuring tape.
- In the box: four panels, plus pop rivets, wall plugs and screws.
Watch the aircon cover installation video
What you need before you start
What is in the box
- Front panel (large pattern, 1)
- Left panel (small pattern, 1)
- Right panel (small pattern, 1)
- Top panel (small solid, 1)
- Pop rivets, wall plugs and screws
Check every panel for transit damage before you start. If anything looks damaged, contact us before you go any further.
Tools you will need
- Pop rivet gun (you can borrow one from most hardware stores if you do not own one)
- Power drill with a masonry bit
- Pencil or marker
- Spirit level (recommended, for a straight hang)
- Measuring tape
Read all nine steps once before you begin, then follow them in order. Switch the aircon off while you work around the outdoor unit. Not sure your cover is the right size? Check our AC cover sizing guide first.
Part 1: Assemble the aircon cover (steps 1 to 4)
The order matters here, so do not skip ahead.
Step 1: Identify your panels
Lay the four panels out on a clean, flat surface. The large pattern panel is the front, the two smaller pattern panels are the left and right sides, and the small solid panel is the top.
Step 2: Lay the panels face down
Place each panel face down, with the decorative (wrapped) side against the surface. You always bend inward, away from the face, never toward it.
Important: Bend every fold line inward, away from the decorative face. Bending toward the face will permanently damage the panel surface and the pattern.
Step 3: Bend the panels up
Using the pre-scored fold lines, bend each panel upward into its 3D shape. Work on one panel at a time and press firmly and evenly along the whole fold line for a clean, square corner.
Tip: Crisp, square corners make riveting much easier and give a neater finished cover.
Step 4: Join the panels with pop rivets
Line up the pre-drilled holes at each corner joint, feed a pop rivet through each hole and set it with the rivet gun. Work around all the joints until the box is fully assembled.
Tip: Start at one corner and rivet your way around in sequence. This keeps the box square while you work.
Part 2: Fix the cover to the wall (steps 5 to 9)
Five more steps and your air conditioner cover is up.
Step 5: Mark your fixing points
Hold the assembled cover against the wall, in position over the air conditioner. Mark the screw positions on the wall with a pencil, through the fixing slots in the panel.
Tip: Use a spirit level when you position the cover so your marks, and the final hang, are level.
Step 6: Drill the holes
Fit your drill with a masonry bit sized for your wall plugs and drill a hole at each mark. Blow or brush the dust out of every hole before the next step.
Step 7: Insert the wall plugs
Press a wall plug firmly into each hole until it sits flush with the wall. Tap it gently with a hammer if needed.
Step 8: Drive in the screws
Drive a screw into each plug and leave the head slightly proud of the wall. You want just enough for the cover slots to hook onto securely.
Step 9: Hang the cover
Line the fixing slots up with the screw heads and hook the cover on. It should sit flush against the wall and feel stable.
Common aircon cover installation mistakes
- Bending toward the decorative face. Always fold inward. Bending the other way damages the surface and pattern for good.
- Skipping the spirit level. A level on your marks is what gives a straight, professional hang.
- Driving the screws all the way in. Leave the heads slightly proud so the cover slots can hook onto them.
- Leaving dust in the drilled holes. Clear each hole so the wall plugs seat properly.
Care and maintenance
- Wash with warm water, a little Sunlight liquid and a clean cloth at least every 3 months in coastal and industrial areas, and at least every 6 months elsewhere.
- Remove bird droppings and other organic matter as soon as you can.
- Do not use chemicals, acids, solvents, abrasive pads or wire brushes.
- Check the rivets and wall fixings once a year to make sure everything is still secure.
Aircon cover installation FAQ
How long does it take to install an aircon cover?
About 15 to 20 minutes. Allow a little longer if it is your first time with a pop rivet gun.
Can I install an air conditioner cover myself?
Yes. The cover is designed for self-installation with basic tools: a pop rivet gun, a drill and a spirit level. The pop rivets, wall plugs and screws are in the box.
Do you install it for me?
We do not install directly, but we work with recommended installers in major South African cities. Send us your project location and we will connect you with a trusted installer in your area.
Which aircon cover size do I need?
It depends on the width, depth and height of your outdoor unit. Our sizing guide shows you how to measure. We make the Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large aircon covers.
What if a panel arrives damaged?
Do not start assembly. Email us a photo and we will sort it out.
Need a hand with your aircon cover?
If you get stuck during assembly or installation, email shop@tiltscreens.co.za or use our contact page and we will help. You can also browse the full aircon cover range.
