The Wonders of PTAC Systems

Those industrial-strength units in hotel rooms are not standard window models that you might see in a small apartment or office.

Known as Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners, or PTACs, the units are specifically designed to operate in settings that could benefit from the power of a central air system without having to take on a central A/C system’s problems. The flexibility, cooling power and potential cost savings of installing and running PTAC units are qualities that appeal to facility engineers, homeowners, landlords and property managers alike.

PTACs are easy to use, hold up well under repeated uses, are uncomplicated to install, cost less than central A/C units and offer customizable climate control for all types of individuals. Those travelers to a hotel who prefer a 75-degree environment, for instance, can adjust a PTAC’s settings to closely approximate their desired comfort level – all while the family that needs a 68-degree room can do the same. And when living or work spaces are not occupied, the units can be shut down or lowered in intensity to suit each area, further cutting down on operating expenses.

But the units are bulky and hard to deal with, aren’t they?

Not necessarily. PTACs don’t really need to be installed by the same level of HVAC tech who would be required for a central air replacement, for instance. A carpenter can cut an appropriate-sized hole in an exterior wall, and an electrician can wire the right kind of receptacle somewhere close to the unit.

The unit needs only the minimum of maintenance. And when the units inevitably wear out, replacement is as simple as sliding out the chassis of the old unit and sliding in a new one. PTACs are also a viable option for some older buildings, such as historic houses and lofts retro-fitted for, say, bed-and-breakfast or upscale living uses: Rather than sacrifice valuable wall and corner space to install ductwork for a central air system, PTACs can provide the cooling you need in a self-contained, reliable manner.

The units can sometimes be difficult to locate, as some bigger-box retailers don’t prefer to stock them in the appliance aisles alongside coffee makers and mixing bowls.

If PTACs interest you, A/C World knows how to get you started. Give one of our specialists a call today!