When you’re looking for the best PTAC units for hotels and other spaces, you’ll soon discover that there’s a wide variety of brands to pick from. Any of them might appeal to your individual needs. To decide which one is right for you, it’s a good idea to start by understanding the differences between each brand.
Here’s a look at how the various PTAC brands differ from one another in the important categories. Hopefully, we can help you choose the best PTAC units for hotels, assisted living facilities, apartments, and more.
1. Price Range
Regardless of the brand, quality PTACs will likely start somewhere around $700. Plenty run to more than $1,000. And as you might expect, the higher the BTU output and the bigger the space the PTAC unit is designed for, the more expensive they tend to be.
But there are other functions and features besides just power that can impact the price. And of course, you’ll generally have to invest a little extra for options such as wireless controls, remotes, or energy-efficient functions.
- Amana PTACs are among the simplest units at the best prices. This doesn’t make them just the “cheap” option though; plenty of hoteliers would vouch for them as the best PTAC units for hotels.
- Islandaire is also known as a great source for affordable, reliable PTAC units. That’s certainly nothing to scoff at.
2. Heat
Many of the brands producing the best PTAC units for hotels provide heating options as well as cooling.
- Some LG models feature heat pumps renowned for their energy efficiency.
- Some varieties of Amana’s PTACs have a heated wire system. Although these aren’t quite as energy efficient, they do tend to last longer than heat pump models.
- Friedrich sells ample PTAC units with either a heat pump or an electric heat system.
3. Energy Efficiency
Staying comfortable is most important during times of extreme climate fluctuation—whether it’s extreme heat or extreme cold. Unfortunately, season-based energy prices usually skyrocket just when your hotel guests need to crank their PTACs the most. That’s one of the reasons it’s so important to invest in energy-efficient PTAC units.
Yes, it really can make a major difference to your monthly utility bills. And it’s hard to say anyone makes the best PTAC units for hotels if those PTACs are putting undue financial strain on the business.
- Friedrich offers a universal cord for heating. This lets you adjust the electric heat just by changing power cords. Some models also feature thermostat controls to shut the compressor and fan off the moment the climate reaches the temperature you or your guests have set.
- LG offers a range of energy-efficient PTAC units designed for reduced energy consumption through convenient features. These include an Energy Saver option, rotary compressor, and customizable DIP switch settings.
- GE also has a reputation for producing some of the industry’s most energy-efficient units.
- But Amana might just have a real shot at the crown for energy efficiency. Their state-of-the-art DigiSmart Wireless Energy Management System can increase unit efficiency by up to 35 percent. The DigiSmart system includes a wireless thermostat control along with an occupancy sensor. Plus, with Amana, you can wirelessly connect all the PTAC systems in your hotel for convenient, quick adjustments.
4. Noise Levels
Every hotel guest wants a comfortable environment, but not at the cost of a loud, buzzing PTAC unit. Fortunately, plenty of the brands producing the best PTAC units for hotels have designed PTACs with low noise levels.
- For example, GE’s PTAC units are among the quietest around.
- Friedrich’s low noise levels also attract favorable attention. Their PTAC units feature sleek, sturdy constructions and are engineered with sound reduction technology to achieve quieter operations.
- LG PTAC units are some of the quietest on the market. This is due in large part to LG’s unique BLDC motor.
- Amana’s newer units are known for quiet operation—but watch out, as their older models don’t always share that benefit.
5. Ease of Maintenance
PTAC units can be effective, energy efficient, and quiet as a mouse—but if you have to invest in constant repairs and other maintenance work, it won’t matter much to anyone.
- LG is known for producing PTACs built for easy maintenance. In fact, they specialize in producing highly reliable ACs with convenient features like anti-corrosion finishes or hydrophilic layering, which keep their units in good working condition for much longer.
- Despite the fact that Amana’s units are generally less expensive than most others, their PTACs are still often easier to maintain with lower repair costs.
- GE, on the other hand, doesn’t appear to have quite as stellar a reputation for this particular aspect of PTAC quality. Some customers complain about needed repairs too frequently, even when the PTAC units are still somewhat new.
There’s always something for everyone.
When looking for the best PTAC units for hotels, no matter what your priorities are, there’s always an option. Do a little digging into the strengths and weaknesses of each brand and model, and you’ll find what’s best for you.
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Hopefully, you know a bit more now about what exactly you’re looking for than you did before. We’re rooting for you.
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