There are various applications for a packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC). Since many years, these appliances are mainly used in hotels, hospitals, and other facilities because it allows the user to control the temperature inside the room without affecting the rest of the rooms.     

Since it’s not connected to the premise’s centralized heating and cooling systems, a PTAC is easier to install and maintain. This equipment offers a cost-effective means to keep warmth in the winter season and to keep cold when the sun’s out. 

Shopping for your new PTAC unit? Here’s how to find the right unit for your needs. 

Online And Offline

PTAC units generally last for a decade or so. For your investment to be worthwhile, make sure that your model will last and keep your family comfortable for a long time. Of course, other factors, like proper usage, will come into play. Look for a reliable PTAC manufacturer before making a shortlist. Search online for reliable sites that feature unbiased reviews.  Hence, apart from the brand, also consider how the manufacturers deal with warranties. The longer the warranty, the better. 

If you’re looking for units that are easy on the pocket but covered with warranties still, check out PTAC4Less. The units are professionally refurbished and backed by warranties to work seamlessly.   

Consider The Climate In Your Locality  

When finding the right PTAC unit, consider the climate in your area. There are basically two types of units based on how they use heat energy to warm the room:

• Electric heat: A PTAC with electrical heat uses its own components, relying merely on electricity, to warm the air. A powerful fan transports the heat to your space.
• Heat Pumps: The other variety uses refrigerants to heat the coils. This is how the unit is able to give off warm air to your room. 

Between the two types, heat pumps are generally the better option if you’re living in areas with a colder climate as they provide more serious cooling power compared to a unit depending on electric power. However, if you’re planning to use the PTAC mainly as a cooling tool and you experience a less harsh winter season, consider an electric heat PTAC unit. 

Measure Your Room

Once you've determined the type of PTAC you need, the next thing to consider is your room size. Measure the actual square footage of your room to know how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) you need to provide an efficient heating and cooling system in your living space. 

A BTU is a measure of heat that’s required to increase the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit at sea level. A 150-sq foot room, for instance, may need a PTAC unit with at least 5,000 BTUs. 

The general rule of thumb is that the bigger the room and the warmer the ambient temperatures are, the higher BTUs are needed.  You may also want to get higher BTUs if the unit is used in the kitchen. Having the appropriate BTU in your air conditioning unit is imperative in having the comfort that you need despite the season.  

 If you inadvertently purchased a PTAC with a lower BTU, you’ll end up having your unit working extra hard, shortening its lifespan. On the other hand, choosing a unit with higher BTU may result in a humidity issue, which will have a negative impact on the unit.  

Check The Electrical Components    

Also determine the voltage, amperes, and electrical cords or plugs in the unit, and make sure if it fits your building and home electrical requirements and built-in structures. 

Amperes and voltage are units to measure electricity. For instance, most home PTAC units may be anywhere from 208 to 240volts, while industrial application PTACs require higher power, running from 265 up to 277 volts.

A quick look at the electrical panel will tell you how many amperes (amps) you need. PTACs are typically limited to three choices–15 amps, 20amps, or 30 amps.   

When buying refurbished PTAC units, check the cords and plugs as there are different plugs based on the market in which the unit is intended to be sold. Otherwise, purchase an adapter in your favorite hardware store. 

Look For Additional Features

Now that you know the basic features to look for when choosing the best PTAC unit for our needs, you may want to consider optional features as well.

For instance, there may be models that are more resilient to water, weather, and other harsh environmental conditions. If you live in areas where these features may be useful, look for models with these functionalities.   

Some newer PTAC units are likewise made to have corrosion-resistant properties that work better in areas with high humidity.    

Final Thoughts

Conditioning your room requires efficient and proper-working heating and cooling systems, which can be provided by a reliable PTAC unit. By taking into consideration the steps underlined in this article, you’ll be able to take home the model that suits your needs.