A PTAC (packaged terminal air conditioner) is the through-the-wall unit you see under hotel windows. A PTAC heat pump cools in summer, heats with a heat pump in mild weather and switches to a built-in electric heater when it gets cold.
How a PTAC Is Installed
- Wall sleeve: a metal box set into a 42 x 16 inch opening in an exterior wall. The unit slides into it.
- Outdoor grille: covers the outside of the sleeve.
- Dedicated circuit: most need 208/230V, often 20A or more, depending on the heater size.
- Drain: condensate drains outside or to a drain kit.
If you are replacing an old PTAC in the same sleeve, it can be a simple swap. A new install means cutting an exterior wall and adding a 230V circuit, which is a job for a contractor and an electrician.
Heat Pump vs Electric Heat
The heat pump does the work in mild weather and costs much less to run. When it gets too cold outside, the electric heater takes over and costs about the same as a space heater. Check both numbers in the listing: heat pump BTU and electric heater kW.
Buying on Amazon
Most PTACs on Amazon are sold by HVAC dealers, not Amazon. Larger units often ship by freight, where the carrier calls to book a delivery date. Check whether the sleeve and grille are included. Only the Friedrich ZoneAire listing we checked includes them.
Our PTAC Reviews
We reviewed the Amana Distinctions, the Klimaire 12,000 BTU, the Friedrich PDH15K5SG and the Friedrich ZoneAire.
Want to see how a PTAC heat pump fits with the rest of your home? Our Whole-Home Energy Calculator adds up what a thermostat, an EV charger, a backup battery and more would mean for your monthly bill.