Buying an air conditioning system is only one part of planning an installation.
Depending on the type of system, where it is being fitted and how the indoor and outdoor units are positioned, you may also need the correct installation accessories. These can include pipework, fasteners, wall brackets, ground feet, trunking, condensate pumps, electrical supplies, tools, controls and cleaning products.
The right accessories help make the installation neater, safer, easier to maintain and better suited to the building. The wrong accessories can cause delays, poor drainage, messy pipework, awkward outdoor unit positioning or a less professional finish.
This guide explains the main air conditioning installation accessories, what they are used for and how to choose the right options for your project.
You can also browse our installation accessories, view pipework and fasteners, compare condensate removal products, or shop our full air conditioning accessories range.
Air Conditioning Accessories: Quick Answer
The main accessories used for an air conditioning installation include pipework, cable, brackets, feet, trunking, condensate drainage products, condensate pumps, fasteners, electrical supplies, tools, remotes and maintenance products.
The accessories you need will depend on:
- The type of air conditioning system
- Where the indoor unit is being installed
- Where the outdoor unit will sit
- How pipework will run between the units
- Whether condensate can drain naturally
- Whether pipework needs to be hidden with trunking
- Whether the system needs additional electrical supplies
- Whether the installation is domestic or commercial
- Whether the work needs to be completed by a qualified installer
For split air conditioning systems, always check the product requirements and use a qualified installer where required.
What Are Air Conditioning Installation Accessories?
Air conditioning installation accessories are the additional parts used to fit, support, connect, protect and maintain an air conditioning system.
They are not usually the main air conditioning unit itself. Instead, they are the supporting products that help the system work properly and look tidy once installed.
Common examples include:
- Refrigeration pipework
- Insulated pipe sets
- Pipe clips and fixings
- Wall brackets
- Ground mounting feet
- Trunking
- Condensate pumps
- Condensate hose and fittings
- Electrical supplies
- Remote controls and controllers
- Installation tools
- Cleaning and maintenance products
Some accessories are essential for installation. Others are optional, but can improve the finish, make maintenance easier or help solve a specific installation challenge.
Why Accessories Matter In An Air Conditioning Installation
Accessories can make a big difference to the final result of an air conditioning installation.
A well planned installation should not just focus on the indoor unit. It should also consider the outdoor unit position, pipe route, drainage route, electrical access, wall penetrations, appearance and future maintenance.
The right accessories can help with:
- A neater finished appearance
- Safer outdoor unit positioning
- Better support for pipework
- Cleaner routing through walls and along external surfaces
- Improved condensate drainage
- Reduced risk of water leaks
- Easier servicing and maintenance
- A more professional installation finish
If you are ordering an air conditioning system, it is worth checking which accessories are included and which need to be purchased separately.
Which Accessories Do You Need?
The accessories needed will vary from one installation to another.
As a general guide, many split air conditioning installations may need:
- Pipework between the indoor and outdoor units
- Suitable pipe insulation
- Electrical cable and isolator components where required
- Wall brackets or ground feet for the outdoor unit
- Trunking to cover external pipework
- Condensate pipe or hose for drainage
- A condensate pump if gravity drainage is not possible
- Fasteners and fixings
- Installation tools and maintenance products
Some air conditioning systems may come with part of the installation pack included. Others may require accessories to be selected separately.
If you are unsure, check the product page, installation instructions or speak to the CoolEasy team before ordering.
Pipework And Fasteners
Pipework is one of the most important parts of many air conditioning installations.
In a split system, pipework connects the indoor unit to the outdoor unit. It needs to be correctly sized, properly insulated and installed in line with the system requirements.
Pipework and fasteners may include:
- Refrigeration pipe
- Insulated pipe sets
- Pipe clips
- Wall fixings
- Fasteners
- Protective fittings
- Connection accessories
The pipe route should be planned before installation begins. This helps avoid awkward bends, visible clutter and unnecessary disruption to the building.
Browse our pipework and fasteners.
Why Pipework Size Matters
Air conditioning pipework should match the system specification.
Using the wrong size pipework can affect performance, installation quality and system reliability. The correct pipe size will depend on the air conditioning model and manufacturer guidance.
Before ordering pipework, check:
- The system pipe size requirements
- The distance between indoor and outdoor units
- The maximum pipe run allowed
- The route through the property
- Whether the pipework will run internally or externally
- Whether trunking will be used
- Whether the installer has confirmed what is needed
For fixed split systems, pipework should be fitted by a suitably qualified installer where required.
Trunking
Trunking is used to cover and protect air conditioning pipework, cables and drainage runs.
It is especially useful on external walls where pipework runs from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit. Without trunking, pipework and cables may be visible, which can make the installation look unfinished.
Trunking helps with:
- Neater external appearance
- Protection for pipework and cables
- A more professional installation finish
- Cleaner routing across walls
- Hiding multiple services in one tidy channel
CoolEasy accessory collections include options such as white 80mm air conditioning trunking, black 72mm air conditioning trunking and black 100mm air conditioning trunking.
What Size Trunking Do You Need?
The right trunking size depends on what needs to fit inside it.
A simple installation with a short pipe run may only need smaller trunking. A larger system, longer route or multiple services may need a larger size.
When choosing trunking, consider:
- The size of the pipework
- Whether insulation is already fitted around the pipes
- Whether electrical cable will run in the same route
- Whether condensate drainage needs to be covered
- The number of bends, corners and wall exits
- The colour of the wall or building exterior
- How visible the pipe route will be
As a simple rule, do not choose trunking that is too tight. It should allow enough room for the services inside and be practical for the installer to work with.
For a more detailed guide, read our upcoming Air Conditioning Trunking Buyer’s Guide.
Brackets And Feet
The outdoor unit needs to be positioned securely.
Depending on the property, the outdoor unit may be mounted on wall brackets or placed on ground mounting feet. The best option depends on the wall, floor, available space, access and appearance.
Brackets and feet are used to:
- Support the outdoor unit
- Raise the unit off the ground
- Keep the unit stable
- Improve airflow around the outdoor unit
- Help with positioning and maintenance access
- Reduce the risk of the unit sitting in water or debris
Browse our brackets and feet.
Wall Brackets Vs Ground Mounting Feet
Wall brackets and ground feet both have their place.
| Option | Best For | Things To Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Wall brackets | Keeping the outdoor unit off the ground | Wall strength, access, vibration and appearance |
| Ground feet | Patios, flat roofs, yards and solid bases | Level surface, drainage, clearance and access |
Wall brackets can work well where floor space is limited. Ground feet can be a good choice where there is a suitable level surface and easy access around the outdoor unit.
Outdoor units should not be placed where airflow is blocked, maintenance access is poor or the unit may be damaged.
Condensate Removal
Air conditioning systems can produce condensate as they remove moisture from the air.
This water needs to drain away properly. If it does not, the system may leak, stain walls, cause water damage or trigger faults.
Condensate removal products may include:
- Condensate hose
- Drain pipe
- Drain fittings
- Condensate pumps
- Drain connectors
- Accessories for routing water away safely
Browse our condensate removal range.
Do You Need A Condensate Pump?
A condensate pump may be needed when water cannot drain away naturally by gravity.
In some installations, the indoor unit can drain through a pipe that slopes downwards to a suitable outlet. In other situations, the drain route may need to go upwards, across a ceiling, through a difficult wall route or away from the nearest natural drainage point.
A condensate pump may be useful if:
- The indoor unit cannot drain by gravity
- The pipe route needs to rise before it exits
- The unit is installed on an internal wall
- There is no easy external drainage route
- The pipe route is long or awkward
- You need to move condensate to a suitable drain point
If a condensate pump is needed, it should be planned as part of the installation rather than added as an afterthought.
For more detail, read our upcoming Condensate Pump Buyer’s Guide.
Electrical Supplies
Air conditioning installations may also require suitable electrical supplies.
The exact requirements depend on the system, property and installation method. Electrical work should be carried out by a competent person and in line with relevant requirements.
Electrical accessories may include:
- Isolators
- Cable
- Connectors
- Protection products
- Electrical fittings
- Control related accessories
Before ordering, check what is included with the air conditioning system and what the installer needs to supply separately.
Browse our electrical supplies.
Remotes And Controllers
Remotes and controllers help users operate their air conditioning system after installation.
Some systems include a standard remote. Others may offer additional wired controllers, replacement remotes, smart controls or optional control accessories depending on the model.
Controller accessories may be useful if:
- A remote has been lost or damaged
- A commercial space needs wall mounted control
- Multiple users need easy access to controls
- A system needs optional WiFi or smart control
- The customer wants better scheduling or convenience
Always check controller compatibility before ordering.
Browse our remotes and controllers.
Tools
Installation tools are used by engineers, installers and trade customers when fitting or servicing air conditioning systems.
The right tools depend on the work being carried out. For fixed air conditioning systems, specialist installation work should be completed by people with the correct training and certification where required.
Air conditioning tools may include products used for:
- Pipe preparation
- Installation work
- Testing
- Servicing
- Maintenance
- Repairs
Browse our tools range.
Cleaning And Maintenance Accessories
Air conditioning systems need regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them working properly.
Cleaning and maintenance products can help with basic upkeep, especially for filters, grilles, coils, casings and general hygiene.
Maintenance accessories may help with:
- Keeping filters clean
- Reducing dust build up
- Improving airflow
- Keeping indoor units looking clean
- Supporting routine servicing
- Helping systems run more efficiently
Always follow the manufacturer instructions for cleaning and maintenance. For anything beyond basic user maintenance, arrange professional servicing.
Browse our cleaning and maintenance range.
Accessories For Different Air Conditioning Systems
Not every air conditioning system needs the same accessories.
| System Type | Common Accessories | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Wall mounted split system | Pipework, trunking, brackets, condensate drainage and electrical supplies | Plan indoor and outdoor unit positions carefully |
| Multi split system | Multiple pipe runs, trunking, brackets, drainage and controls | More rooms usually means more planning |
| Ceiling cassette system | Drainage, pump, electrical supplies, pipework and controls | Ceiling void and drainage route are important |
| Console or low wall system | Pipework, trunking, condensate drainage and brackets or feet | Check low level pipe route and outdoor unit position |
| Portable air conditioner | Window kits, hose accessories, remotes and cleaning products | Exhaust hose route matters most |
Always check the specific product page and installation guidance before ordering accessories.
Indoor Unit Accessories
The indoor unit is the part of the system customers see most often, so appearance and drainage matter.
Indoor unit planning may involve:
- Pipe route from the indoor unit
- Wall exit position
- Drainage route
- Condensate pump position if needed
- Controller or remote access
- Access for filter cleaning
- Appearance inside the room
A tidy indoor unit installation should be practical as well as neat. The unit should be easy to use, easy to maintain and positioned where airflow can reach the room properly.
Outdoor Unit Accessories
The outdoor unit needs enough support, space and airflow.
Outdoor unit accessories may include:
- Wall brackets
- Ground mounting feet
- Anti vibration products where suitable
- Pipework covers
- Trunking
- Weather resistant fixings
- Condensate drainage products
When planning the outdoor unit position, consider airflow, access, noise, appearance, maintenance and the route back to the indoor unit.
How To Keep Pipework Looking Tidy
Pipework can make or break the appearance of an installation.
Even a good air conditioning unit can look untidy if pipework, cables and drainage are left exposed or routed poorly.
To keep pipework tidy:
- Plan the route before installation starts
- Use suitable trunking where pipework is visible
- Keep routes as direct as possible
- Choose a trunking colour that suits the property
- Use neat bends and corners
- Avoid unnecessary visible cable runs
- Make sure condensate drainage is discreet but effective
This is especially important for domestic installations where the customer cares about how the finished system looks.
Common Air Conditioning Accessory Mistakes
Before buying accessories, avoid these common mistakes:
- Ordering an air conditioning unit without checking what installation parts are included
- Choosing pipework without checking the system specification
- Buying trunking that is too small
- Forgetting about condensate drainage
- Assuming water can always drain by gravity
- Not planning where the outdoor unit will sit
- Using brackets without checking the wall or unit weight
- Not leaving enough outdoor unit clearance
- Forgetting electrical supplies
- Not checking controller compatibility
- Leaving cleaning and maintenance products until later
Most of these issues can be avoided by planning the installation route before ordering.
Planning Checklist Before Ordering Accessories
Before buying air conditioning accessories, ask:
- What type of air conditioning system is being installed?
- Are installation accessories included with the system?
- Where will the indoor unit be fitted?
- Where will the outdoor unit be fitted?
- How far apart are the indoor and outdoor units?
- What pipework size is required?
- Will visible pipework need trunking?
- What colour trunking suits the property?
- Can condensate drain naturally?
- Is a condensate pump required?
- Will the outdoor unit need wall brackets or ground feet?
- Are electrical supplies required?
- Are any remotes or controllers needed?
- Who is carrying out the installation?
If you are unsure, it is better to check before placing the order.
Recommended CoolEasy Accessory Ranges
Installation Accessories
Browse installation accessories for the main products used to support air conditioning installation work.
Pipework And Fasteners
Choose pipework and fasteners for pipe runs, fixings and installation support products.
Brackets And Feet
Choose brackets and feet if you need to support an outdoor unit on a wall, floor, roof or suitable external surface.
Condensate Removal
Choose condensate removal products if your system needs drainage hose, fittings or a condensate pump.
Trunking
Choose trunking to cover pipework, cables and drainage neatly. Compare white 80mm trunking, black 72mm trunking and black 100mm trunking.
Electrical Supplies
Browse electrical supplies for electrical accessories used as part of air conditioning installations.
Remotes And Controllers
Browse remotes and controllers for replacement controls, additional controls and compatible control accessories.
Cleaning And Maintenance
Browse cleaning and maintenance products to help look after your air conditioning system after installation.
Air Conditioning Installation Accessories FAQs
What accessories do I need for an air conditioning installation?
You may need pipework, fasteners, brackets, feet, trunking, condensate drainage, a condensate pump, electrical supplies and cleaning products. The exact accessories depend on the system and installation layout.
Does air conditioning pipework come included?
Some systems include installation parts or pipe kits, while others require accessories to be ordered separately. Always check the product page and installation information before ordering.
Do I need trunking for air conditioning pipework?
Trunking is not always essential, but it is strongly recommended where pipework, cables or drainage would otherwise be visible. It creates a neater and more professional finish.
What size trunking do I need?
The right trunking size depends on the pipework, insulation, cables and drainage route. Choose a size that gives enough space for the services inside rather than one that is too tight.
Do I need wall brackets for my outdoor AC unit?
You may need wall brackets if the outdoor unit is being mounted on an external wall. If it is being installed on a flat surface, ground feet may be more suitable.
Can an outdoor unit sit on the ground?
Yes, provided it is on a suitable stable surface and has enough airflow and clearance. Ground mounting feet can help support the unit and keep it raised from the surface.
What is a condensate pump?
A condensate pump removes water produced by the air conditioning system when it cannot drain away naturally by gravity.
Do all air conditioning systems need a condensate pump?
No. A condensate pump is usually only needed when gravity drainage is not possible or the drainage route is awkward.
Can I install air conditioning accessories myself?
Some basic accessories may be simple to understand, but fixed split air conditioning systems often require qualified installation. Always follow product guidance and use a qualified installer where required.
What accessories help make an installation look neater?
Trunking, tidy pipe routes, suitable brackets, correctly positioned drainage and well planned wall exits all help create a neater installation.
Are remotes and controllers universal?
Not always. Remotes and controllers must be compatible with the specific air conditioning model. Check before ordering.
What maintenance accessories do I need after installation?
Useful maintenance accessories may include cleaning products, filter cleaning products and servicing items depending on the system. Always follow the manufacturer instructions.
Final Advice: Plan The Accessories Before The Installation
Air conditioning accessories should not be treated as an afterthought.
The right pipework, brackets, trunking, condensate removal products, electrical supplies and maintenance accessories can make the installation cleaner, safer and easier to manage.
Before ordering, check what is included with the air conditioning system, confirm the installation route and make sure the accessories match the product and property.
Explore our installation accessories, browse the full accessories range, or speak to the CoolEasy team for help choosing the right products for your air conditioning installation.