HVAC Service Call: PTAC Unit Not Blowing Cold Air (Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner Not Working)

HVAC Service Call: PTAC Unit Not Blowing Cold Air (Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner Not Working)

PTAC stands for "packaged terminal air conditioner." PTACs are single, commercial grade, self-contained units installed through a wall and often found in hotels. A PTAC's compressor system both cools and heats. To cool, the units compressor pumps refrigerant to cool the coils which attracts heat and humidity which is then exhausted to the outside. To heat, this functionality is reversed. The refrigerant is used to heat the coils, and when air passes over it the unit pushes the heated air into the room. PTACs are larger than a typical through-the-wall air conditioner; the standard size is 42" wide. PTACs are often seen in the hospitality industry and are approved for commercial use, but they are also suitable for residential applications.

PTAC units are beneficial because they can efficiently cool and heat a room from a single unit. PTACs are commercial grade durable units, but since they are units 42" wide you have to have a large hole cut into your wall. PTACs have to be installed into an external sleeve with an exterior grille that are both sold separately. PTAC units are generally more expensive than window air conditioners, but if you are planning to both cool and heat a room then you could save up to 20% a year on electricity.

All PTAC units require purchasing a grille and a sleeve (unless you are replacing an existing model and your sleeve and grille are still in good shape). Other accessories such as drain kits, hard wiring connections, remote controls and wall thermostats are also available and are usually sold separately.