​ Guide to Selecting the Best PTAC Unit for Your Needs

Packaged terminal air conditioners (PTACs) are trusted in a variety of commercial and industrial applications, including hotels, apartment buildings, offices, and medical facilities. They give users climate control over the room, no matter what's happening with the temperature in the rest of the building.

They're generally efficient, quiet, and easy to install, but what is the best PTAC unit for your specific needs? It depends upon the size of the room, aesthetic preferences, utility costs in the area, the climate region, and more.

Understanding PTAC Units

PTACs are available in heat pump, electric heat, hydronic, heat pump with electric backup, and cooling-only models. These self-contained units are installed directly through the wall and don't require ducting. The air is drawn in from outside, cooled via refrigerant, and expelled into the room. Warm air is exhausted back outside.

Features To Consider in Selecting a PTAC Unit

To make sure you get the best PTAC unit for your needs, consider the following:

• Energy Efficiency: To save money and boost your profile as an eco-friendly organization, take a look at the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating and EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The higher the number, the better; the most energy-efficient models may cost more upfront, but they can save you a lot of money on utility costs over the years.
• Cooling and Heating Capacity: Your climate region, the size of the room, and how many people will typically be in the room will help you determine your required cooling and heating needs. Quiet Operation: Many PTAC units are engineered to operate quietly, which is important if you're placing the unit in a classroom, office, or hotel room.
• Durability and Reliability: Look for high-quality manufacturing with thoughtful features that make it easy to install and maintain the unit. Warranties provide peace of mind and indicate the manufacturer has as much confidence in the system as you do!

Considerations for Commercial and Industrial PTAC Use

First, consider the size of your space and your heating/cooling requirements. That will help you narrow down your options for commercial and industrial applications. You may need different PTAC units for rooms of different sizes in your building. In addition:

• Customization Options: Depending upon the PTAC model, you might have your choice of control systems, airflow direction, fan speeds, UV-C light technology, and more.
• Cost Considerations: High cooling capacities, high SEER and EER ratings, and additional features will cost more when you purchase the unit, but the investment can result in long-term savings on utility costs, maintenance needs, and more. It's important to determine how your purchase will impact your bottom line for years to come.

Top Brands and Models

The best PTAC units are made by the HVAC industry's leading manufacturers. With heating and cooling systems engineered with specific client needs in mind, Amana and GE provide a range of options for commercial and industrial applications. The top PTAC models include:

• Amana Distinctions DCP093A50AA PTAC: Easy pull-out filters, EER up to 13.1, automatic emergency heat, a five-year warranty, and more
• GE AZ65H15DQC Zoneline Heat Pump PTAC: UV-C light technology reduces air reduces airborne viruses by an average of 93.9 percent within 180 minutes.
• Amana PTH094K50CXXX PTAC: Corrosion coating to exend unit life in coastal environments, integrated bluetooth and RF connectivity, wired or wireless thermostat, and more.
• GE Hotpoint AH12H15D5B Heat Pump PTAC: Remote thermostat compatibility, automatic indoor frost control and emergency heat, concealed manual vent control, and a range of optional accessories that can be added at the time of purchase.

Shop PTAC Units from NorthStock

NorthStock is a leading commercial and industrial HVAC distributor. We carry some of the best PTAC units on the market, offered at competitive prices with fast, free shipping to the lower 48 states. Contact us today.