PTAC & PTHS Collection Cooper hunter 12000 btu
12,000 BTU PTAC Air Conditioner, Heat Pump, Heating and Cooling, w/Electric Cord and Remote
PTAC (Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner) & PTHP (Packaged Terminal Heat Pump) Units Guide
Straightforward, hotel-style climate control that drops into a standard 42" × 16" sleeve. Explore differences between PTAC and PTHP, learn how to size BTU, and see installation & maintenance best practices.
Looking for Great Prices on PTAC/PTHP Units?
- Energy-efficient heating & cooling in one chassis
- Standard 42" sleeves and universal grilles
- Trusted hospitality-grade performance
What is a PTAC unit?
PTAC (Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner) is a self-contained, through-the-wall AC system that cools (and often provides electric resistance backup heat) from a single chassis. PTACs are common in hotels, apartments, assisted living, offices, and classrooms and are designed to slide into a standard 42" sleeve with front-panel service access.
Simple, reliable temperature control
Fits most 42" × 16" sleeves & grilles
Match amperage to circuit (15A/20A)
What is a PTHP unit?
PTHP (Packaged Terminal Heat Pump) is a PTAC that includes a reversible heat-pump cycle for efficient heating. In mild to cool weather, a PTHP uses the compressor to heat; when outdoor temps drop below its balance point, the unit automatically switches to electric strip heat.
In-Depth PTAC vs. PTHP Comparison
| Factor | PTAC (AC + electric heat) | PTHP (heat pump + electric backup) |
|---|---|---|
| Heating mechanism | Electric resistance heater | Reversible heat pump; auto switches to electric strip heat when very cold |
| Operating cost (heating) | Higher kWh use in heating mode | Lower cost in mild to cool temps (higher COP) |
| Best climate | Warm regions or spaces needing occasional heat | Mild/cool regions with long shoulder seasons |
| Typical efficiency | EER for cooling, electric heat ~100% efficient | EER for cooling; heating COP commonly 2–3 in moderate temps |
| Upfront price | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| When to choose | Budget installs; cooling-dominant; simple electric heat acceptable | Lower heating bills; comfort in mild winters; sustainability goals |
PTAC units for hotels
Hospitality spaces value fast change-outs, quiet operation, and easy housekeeping. PTAC/PTHP units are built for exactly that: front-service access, standardized sleeves, and durable controls.
- Turnover-friendly: swap chassis without disturbing the wall cutout.
- Quiet-mode & sleep: reduce fan speed and compressor noise at night.
- Energy management: thermostat lockouts, occupancy sensors, and temperature limits cut waste.
PTAC vs Mini-Split comparison
| Factor | PTAC / PTHP | Ductless Mini-Split |
|---|---|---|
| Form factor | Through-the-wall, single chassis | Indoor wall/ceiling unit + small outdoor condenser |
| Aesthetics & noise | Visible grille; fan audible in room | Very quiet indoors; discreet outdoor unit |
| Efficiency | Fixed-speed or simple controls; EER/COP | Inverter technology; very high SEER2/HSPF2 |
| Multi-room | One room per unit | Single- and multi-zone options |
| Install | Uses 42" sleeve; no outdoor pad | Requires line-set to outdoor unit |
| Best use case | Hotels, apartments, retrofits with sleeves | Whole-home zoning, premium efficiency & quiet |
PTAC unit installation guide
Always follow the manufacturer’s manual and local codes. Electrical work should be performed by a licensed professional.
- Verify wall sleeve & grille: Standard size is 42" × 16". Ensure the sleeve is level, sealed, and structurally sound; replace damaged sleeves.
- Electrical circuit: Confirm voltage (115V or 208/230V) and amperage (e.g., 15A or 20A) match the unit nameplate and branch breaker. Use correct plug type or hardwire if required.
- Condensate management: Route drain per manual; ensure downhill flow and keep traps clean to prevent leaks and odors.
- Weather seal: Install exterior grille, gasket, and side/bottom seals to block air infiltration, pests, and rain.
- Slide in & secure: Carefully insert the chassis, attach front panel, and verify filter placement.
- Startup checks: Test cooling/heating modes, fan speeds, thermostat, and set temperature limits/lockouts as desired.
PTAC unit maintenance tips
- Filters: Rinse or replace monthly during peak use.
- Coils: Inspect quarterly; clean evaporator & condenser with a non-corrosive coil cleaner.
- Drainage: Clear condensate pans and lines; check for standing water.
- Seals: Inspect sleeve gaskets and exterior grille annually; reseal if air leaks are felt.
- Thermostat & controls: Calibrate, check lockouts, and verify occupancy/energy-management features.
- Deep service: Have a qualified technician inspect electrical connections and measure performance yearly.
Best PTAC brands
At MiniSplitsForLess you’ll primarily find Cooper & Hunter and Olmo PTAC/PTHP units, selected for dependable hotel-grade performance and easy change-outs. Check warranty coverage and local service support for your property.
How to size a PTAC unit (BTU)
Rule of thumb: start with ~20 BTU per sq ft of room area, then adjust for real-world conditions.
| Room size (approx.) | Typical PTAC size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 300–400 sq ft | 9,000 BTU | Studios, small hotel rooms |
| 400–550 sq ft | 12,000 BTU | Standard hotel rooms, small offices |
| 550–800 sq ft | 15,000 BTU | Larger rooms or corner suites |
Adjustments to apply
- Hot climates / west-facing glass: add 10–20% BTU.
- High ceilings (9–10 ft): add ~10%.
- Heavy occupancy/equipment: add 600–800 BTU per additional person or heat-producing device.
- PTHP in heating-dominant rooms: consider a model with higher heating output (check HTR kBTU and COP).
Match voltage and amperage to available power. For PTHP models, review both cooling EER and heating COP ratings.
PTAC unit features to consider
- Voltage & amperage: 115V vs 208/230V; 15A vs 20A circuits; correct plug type.
- Heating type: AC-only (electric heat) vs PTHP (heat pump + backup strip).
- Efficiency ratings: Cooling EER; Heating COP (for PTHP). Higher is better.
- Noise & comfort: multi-speed fan, quiet/sleep mode, compressor blanket.
- Controls: onboard keypad, wired/wireless wall thermostat compatibility, occupancy sensors, temperature limits.
- Air quality: washable filters, fresh-air vent control, dehumidification performance.
- Protection: anti-corrosion coil coating for coastal installs; freeze protection; condensate safeguards.
- Serviceability: front access, common parts, clear diagnostics, warranty support.
PTAC unit cost
Typical ballpark (unit-only): PTAC AC-only from ~$700–$1,100; PTHP from ~$850–$1,400, depending on BTU, voltage, and features. Project costs vary with sleeves/grilles, electrical work, and weather sealing.
- Accessories: sleeve & grille, wall thermostat, sub-base, and filters.
- Electrical: dedicated circuit or receptacle may be required by code.
- Labor: faster than a split system; verify local rates and permit needs.
PTAC/PTHP – Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PTAC unit?
A PTAC (Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner) is a self-contained, through-the-wall AC that slides into a standard 42" × 16" sleeve and provides cooling plus electric resistance heat from one chassis.
What is a PTHP unit?
A PTHP (Packaged Terminal Heat Pump) is a PTAC with a reversible heat-pump cycle for efficient heating in mild to cool weather; it automatically switches to electric strip heat when it’s very cold.
What’s the difference between PTAC and PTHP?
PTACs heat with electric resistance (simple but higher kWh in heating). PTHPs heat primarily via a heat pump (lower operating cost in moderate climates) and use electric backup only when needed.
Are PTAC/PTHP units a standard size?
Yes. Most models fit the common 42" × 16" sleeve and compatible exterior grilles. Always confirm dimensions on the model spec sheet.
How do I size a PTAC unit (BTU)?
Start around ~20 BTU per sq ft and adjust for heat load:
- 300–400 sq ft → 9,000 BTU
- 400–550 sq ft → 12,000 BTU
- 550–800 sq ft → 15,000 BTU
Add 10–20% for hot climates/west-facing glass, high ceilings, or heavy occupancy/equipment.
Are PTHP units energy efficient?
Yes. In moderate outdoor temperatures, heat-pump heating typically delivers a COP of ~2–3, using less electricity than resistance heat for the same comfort.
Can I install a PTAC/PTHP myself?
Change-outs are straightforward where a sleeve exists, but electrical work, sealing, and code compliance should follow the manual and local regulations. Consider a licensed professional.
How much does a PTAC/PTHP cost?
Typical unit-only ranges: PTAC (AC-only) ~$700–$1,100; PTHP ~$850–$1,400, varying by BTU, voltage, and features. Accessories, electrical work, and labor affect total project cost.
