If you've been looking for a new air conditioner, you've probably encountered a few types in the course of your research, packaged terminal air conditioners (PTACs) and ductless mini splits.
What are these? What are their differences, and which is the best option for you? That's what this article seeks to answer. Keep reading to learn more about each of these air conditioning types, the best situations to use them, as well as how to decide which option is right for you.
What is a Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner?
A packaged terminal air conditioner, or PTAC, is a commercial-grade air conditioner that is installed directly through a wall. You've probably seen them installed in a hotel room when you're traveling. So, what are the top benefits of a PTAC?
- Increased Efficiency: PTACs have a bad reputation for being energy wasters. Over the last few years, however, manufacturers have been working to increase their efficiency, making PTACs a great option, especially for hotels that have to cool and heat multiple rooms.
- Use Them All Year Long: Because they're designed for offices, hotels, senior living centers, and more, PTACs are equipped with a heating function. This may be an electric coil or heat pump, but either way, you'll have an option for year-round use.
- Easy to Install: Compared to other air conditioning solutions, PTACs are relatively easy to install. If you're replacing an existing unit, you can usually place the unit in the existing hole. You will need to cut a hole if installing a PTAC for the first time, but most handymen or contractors can easily do this without the need for an HVAC specialist.
Okay, But What is a Mini Split?
So now we know what a PTAC is, but what exactly is a mini split? Mini-splits, or ductless split system air conditioners, are multi-component devices that provide effective cooling and, many times, heating to specific rooms that lack existing ductwork. Many models are designed for residential use; however, there are options available for commercial settings like restaurants, offices, and more. The top benefits of mini splits include:
- Great for Rooms Without Ductwork: Like PTACs, mini splits don't require existing ductwork to cool and heat a room. They are great options for installing in new construction, additions to your home, sunrooms, and more.
- Zone Comfort: Mini splits cool and, depending on the model, sometimes heat specific rooms or zones. Most ductless systems provide comfort to a single room, but there are options for use in two and even three zones. This makes them great for residential use and in restaurants but not necessarily hotels with numerous rooms.
- Even More Efficiency: While PTACs have increased their efficiency over the years, they really can't match the efficiency of mini splits. Current federal guidelines require mini splits to have at least a 14.3 Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (SEER 2) in order to be used in the United States, and many models go a step further by earning an Energy Star rating.
PTAC vs. Mini Split: Which One Should I Choose?
So far you've learned a little bit about both mini splits and PTACs, now comes decision time. Which one is best for you? Well, you should:
Choose a PTAC If:
- You're looking for multi-room comfort. PTACs are great choices for providing cooling and heating to hotels, dorm rooms, assisted living facilities, and more since you can install a unit in every room allowing guests to individualize their comfort.
- Cost is a concern. On average, PTACs are a more affordable option than mini splits. However, installing enough mini-splits to cool and heat a hotel will be much more expensive than multiple PTACs.
- You need a low-maintenance comfort solution. PTACs usually require little upkeep. When you're a commercial property owner, time is money, so it's important to have a unit that doesn't constantly require downtime.
- Ease of replacement is important. Because most PTACs are a standard 42 inches wide, replacing existing units with a new model is easy as removing the old one and slide in the new one.
Choose a Mini Split If:
- You're a homeowner. Homeowners will find mini splits are better options for residential spaces for a variety of reasons including efficiency and aesthetics since mini splits are going to take up less wall space and blend into rooms better than PTACs.
- Efficiency is a concern. Mini splits are going to be more efficient than PTACs. Many models are energy star rated and since they're designed for zone comfort, you only choose the rooms you want to cool and heat.
- Noise matters to you. Unlike PTACs where all of the components are right there in the room. A mini split's compressor is housed outside, so the only noise you'll have indoors is from the unit's fan.
- You don't mind professional installation. While there are a few do-it-yourself mini splits, most models are going to require installation by a certified HVAC professional.
Additional Questions
You've checked out this brief overview of PTACs and mini splits. Do you want to dive in a little more? Be sure to check out our PTAC Buying Guide and Mini Split Air Conditioner Buying Guide to learn more about each of these cooling types.
If you're still unsure which model is best for you, feel free to call us at 1-800-934-9194. We're happy to help talk through the differences with you and help you find the best comfort solution for your needs.
