Best PTAC Air Conditioner and Heater Units for Efficient Heating and Cooling

Packaged terminal air conditioners (PTACs) combine cooling and heating in a compact, wall-mounted unit ideal for hotels, apartments, and retrofits. Below is a quick comparison of five relevant PTAC models featuring heat pumps, electric heat strips, R-32 refrigerant, and various included accessories.

Product Cooling BTU Heating Type Included Sleeve/Grille
Cooper & Hunter 9,000 BTU PTAC 9,000 Heat Pump + 3.5 kW Electric No (listed)
Klimaire 12,000 BTU PTAC 12,000 Heat Pump + 3.5 kW Electric No (includes drain kit)
Cooper & Hunter 15,000 BTU PTAC 15,000 Heat Pump + 3.5 kW Electric Yes (sleeve & grille included)
AMANA J-Series 16,400 BTU PTAC 16,400 Air Conditioner (requires thermostat for heat) No (A/C unit only)
AMANA PTH153K 15,000 BTU PTAC 15,000 Heat Pump + 3.5 kW Electric No (unit only)

Cooper & Hunter 9,000 BTU PTAC Packaged Terminal Unit

Cooper & Hunter 9,000 BTU PTAC

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Key Features: 9,000 BTU cooling with heat pump capability and a built-in 3.5 kW electric heater. Designed for 230/208V, 1Ph, 60Hz and charged with R-32 refrigerant. Comes with a 20A power plug and reset breaker. Intended for residential, commercial, and hotel use.

This model offers combined cooling and backup electric heat. For new installations, a wall sleeve and exterior grille are required but not included. Verify electrical receptacle compatibility before purchase. The package includes a wireless smart kit and remote for basic control and convenience.

Klimaire 12,000 BTU PTAC Heat Pump R-32 With Remote

Klimaire 12,000 BTU PTAC

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Key Features: 12,000 BTU cooling capacity (EER 10.5) and heat pump heating capacity around 10,800 BTU/h, plus a 3.5 kW electric backup heater. Uses R-32 refrigerant and includes a 20A grounding plug. Package includes drain kit and wireless remote.

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Designed as a direct replacement for standard 42″ x 16″ slide-in wall sleeves for easy retrofit. The unit lists power requirements of 208–230V single-phase and provides both heat pump and electric strip heating for varying outdoor conditions. Hardware included supports straightforward installation in compatible sleeves.

Cooper & Hunter 15,000 BTU PTAC Packaged Terminal Unit

Cooper & Hunter 15,000 BTU PTAC

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Key Features: 15,000 BTU cooling with heat pump and built-in 3.5 kW electric heater. Charged with R-32 refrigerant. This SKU includes a power cord, wall sleeve, grille, and drain kit for a more complete installation package.

Standard sizing (42″ x 21″ x 16″) is suitable for hotel and residential applications. The inclusion of sleeve and grille simplifies installation compared to units sold as A/C-only. Verify the 230/208V electrical configuration and receptacle compatibility when planning installation.

AMANA J-Series PTAC 16,400 BTU Air Conditioner (A/C Unit)

AMANA J-Series PTAC 16,400 BTU

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Key Features: 16,400 BTU cooling capacity with integrated Bluetooth and RF connectivity. Designed as an A/C unit only; operation requires a wired or wireless wall thermostat. New app-enabled diagnostics and troubleshooting are available via the Amana mobile app.

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This J-Series design emphasizes modern controls and reduced operational noise (STC 29). Because it is an A/C unit, heating requires either a heat pump variant or an external heating solution; confirm model specifications and required accessories before purchase. Connectivity features enable remote monitoring and configuration.

AMANA PTH153K 15,000 BTU PTAC Heat Pump With 3.5 kW Heater

AMANA 15,000 BTU PTAC

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Key Features: 15,000 BTU cooling capacity with heat pump mode and 3.5 kW electric heater. Includes Bluetooth and RF connectivity for use with a compatible wired or wireless thermostat and the Amana mobile app. Designed to reduce noise and improve user diagnostics.

The K-Series offers modern connectivity and quieter operation. Note that the unit requires a thermostat for operation and may be sold without sleeve or grille; verify included accessories if planning new wall installations. The integrated connectivity supports remote access to advanced settings and diagnostics.

Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right PTAC Air Conditioner And Heater

Selecting the right PTAC requires attention to capacity, heating type, installation needs, and controls. Below are the core considerations when comparing PTAC units.

1. Cooling And Heating Capacity

BTU Rating: Match the unit’s BTU capacity to the room size. Under-sizing reduces comfort; over-sizing increases short cycling and humidity issues. Typical ranges: 9,000–16,400 BTU for single-room applications.

Heating Options: Heat pump models provide efficient heating when outside temperatures are moderate. Electric strip (3.5 kW) offers reliable backup heat in colder climates but consumes more electricity.

2. Refrigerant And Efficiency

Many current PTACs use R-32 refrigerant, which offers improved energy performance and lower global warming potential compared with older refrigerants. Check each unit’s EER/SEER or equivalent ratings for expected efficiency.

3. Power And Electrical Requirements

Confirm voltage (208–230V) and plug type. PTACs commonly require a dedicated 20A circuit with LCDI/plug protection. Verify receptacle compatibility and breaker specifications before ordering.

4. Installation Components

Wall Sleeve And Grille: Some units include the sleeve and grille, simplifying installation. For new installations, plan for condensation drainage, exterior grille access, and sleeve sizing (standard sizes like 42″ x 16″ or 42″ x 21″).

5. Controls, Connectivity, And Thermostats

Units range from built-in control pads and remotes to app-enabled models requiring external thermostats. Decide whether built-in controls, Bluetooth/RF connectivity, or compatibility with building automation is more important for your use case.

6. Noise And Occupant Comfort

Look for STC ratings or manufacturer noise specs if sound transmission into the room or exterior noise into adjacent spaces is a concern. Quieter designs improve guest and resident comfort in hospitality settings.

7. Retrofit Vs New Install

For replacements, verify sleeve dimensions and mounting compatibility. Models advertised as compatible with standard 42″ x 16″ sleeves simplify retrofits. For new installations, plan framing, exterior grille placement, and weatherproofing.

8. Maintenance And Serviceability

Check filter access, drain access, and availability of replacement components. Units with easily removable front panels and washable filters reduce maintenance time. Consider manufacturer service networks for warranty support.

9. Warranty And Manufacturer Support

Review warranty terms for compressor, parts, and labor. Manufacturer connectivity features often enable remote diagnostics that can speed repairs; confirm what diagnostics and support resources are provided.

Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices

  1. Prioritize Quality Over Cost
    The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money.
  2. Check for Rebates
    Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost.
  3. Compare Multiple Quotes
    Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors.
  4. Negotiate Smartly
    Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.

10. Comparison Perspectives

  • Efficiency Perspective: Heat pump PTACs deliver better seasonal efficiency when outdoor temps allow; backup electric heat supplies dependable heat at lower upfront cost.
  • Installation Perspective: Units that include sleeves and grilles reduce accessory purchases and labor for new installs.
  • Control Perspective: App-enabled and Bluetooth models enable remote management and diagnostic access, beneficial for multi-unit properties.
  • Noise/Comfort Perspective: Models with lower STC or specific noise reduction claims are preferable in hospitality and residential settings.

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