PTAC stands for Package Terminal Air Conditioner. They are used a lot in the hospitality industry - you've probably stayed in a hotel that had them. A PTAC is a self-contained air conditioning unit that is installed through an outside wall rather than through a window. While PTAC air conditioner can be installed through windows, most units are 42 inches wide, so it would have to be a big window. One unit goes in each room, and each unit is controlled independently. Some PTAC units are made for both heating and air conditioning.
An advantage of PTAC installation over traditional central heating and air conditioning is that PTAC units, since they're installed through an outside wall, don't need ductwork. This can cut down on the amount of time and space needed for installation. Over time, they can be more expensive than central heat and air because they are generally less efficient. Because of this, PTAC units work best in moderate climates. Places that get extreme heat and cold can overwork the unit, making them expensive to run.
PTAC units use reverse cycle refrigeration or an electric resistance type heater to warm air when it is cold, and they use refrigeration and forced ventilation to cool during hot weather.
But for climates conducive to this type of heating, there are advantages for PTAC units. Since they are bought on an as-needed basis, you can buy them one at a time and add on later. Another advantage is that you won't be wasting energy by heating or cooling rooms where it is not needed. Many companies make PTAC units, including Sanyo, LG, Islandaire, GE, Frigidaire, Friedrich, Fedders, Carrier, Amcor, and Amana.
When choosing a PTAC air conditioner, there are three important things to look for: BTUs, voltage, and size. You can easily find BTU calculators online that make a calculation of your BTU needs based on the room size. For example, for a room with 100 to 150 square feet that is occupied by two people and gets neither a lot of sunlight nor is completely shaded, a 5,000 BTU unit is recommended. When purchasing a PTAC unit, you'll need a grill and a sleeve. You can also buy a drain kit and a wall-mounted thermostat.
Some people purchase enclosures that surround PTAC units (both new and existing). These covers streamline the appearance around the unit and are custom fit to each manufacturer's specification. The best PTAC enclosures are made from 18 gauge steel. They're pre-treated and powder coated in typical colors like white, brown, gray, and black, and can also be made with custom color powder coating to match the decor. People who find that their unit looks worn or tired after many years, but still works great can instantly update a room's appearance by purchasing a new PTAC cover for it.
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