Resources & Guides
Everything you need to choose
the right PTAC.
Practical guides for property managers, maintenance teams and contractors: how to size, match voltage and plugs, read a rating plate, choose between heat pump and electric heat, and keep units running longer.
Request a Quote →Read the FAQPTAC Replacement Buying Guide
Five things to confirm before you order a replacement unit.
01
Find the model number
It's on the rating plate, usually behind the front cover on the left side of the chassis. Take a clear photo of it.
02
Match the voltage
230/208V or 265V. It must match the power at the wall; the two are not interchangeable.
03
Match the amperage & plug
15, 20 or 30 amp. The plug must fit your existing receptacle (see the plug chart below).
04
Match capacity (BTU)
Replacing like-for-like is usually best. Going much larger can cause short-cycling and humidity problems.
05
Check the sleeve & grille
Most units fit a standard 42" × 16" sleeve. Confirm depth, grille type and drain before ordering.
Not sure? Send us a photo.
PTAC Sizing Chart
A general guide to cooling capacity by room size.
| Room size (sq ft) | Typical room | Suggested PTAC size |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 300 | Small guest room, studio, office | 7,000 BTU |
| 300 – 400 | Standard hotel room, dorm, bedroom | 9,000 BTU |
| 400 – 550 | Large guest room, 1-bedroom apartment | 12,000 BTU |
| 550 – 700 | Suite, corner room, common area | 15,000 BTU |
| 700+ | Large suites, multi-room spaces | Consider a VTAC (18,000 – 24,000 BTU) or multiple units |
Adjust up for high ceilings, large west- or south-facing windows, top-floor rooms, kitchens or hot climates, and down for well-shaded, well-insulated rooms. When replacing an existing unit that performed well, match its capacity.
Voltage, Amperage & Plug Types
The cord on a PTAC must match the receptacle and circuit breaker already in the wall.
| Voltage | Amperage | Plug (NEMA) | Common for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 230/208V | 15 amp | 6-15P | Smaller units, lower heater sizes |
| 230/208V | 20 amp | 6-20P | Most hotel & apartment PTACs |
| 230/208V | 30 amp | 6-30P | 15,000 BTU / 5 kW heater units |
| 265V | 15 amp | 7-15P | Commercial buildings with 277V service |
| 265V | 20 amp | 7-20P | Commercial buildings with 277V service |
| 265V | 30 amp | 7-30P | Larger heater sizes on 265V |
265V units are often hard-wired or installed with a power cord kit and sub-base. Plug shapes differ between 230/208V and 265V, and between amperages. If the new plug doesn't fit the existing receptacle, don't force or modify it; have an electrician confirm the circuit. The heater size (kW) you choose also determines the amperage required.
Heat Pump vs. Electric Heat
Both cool the same way. The difference is how they heat.
PTAC Heat Pump
PTAC with Electric Heat
How to Read a Rating Plate & Model Number
The rating plate lists the model number, serial number, voltage, amperage, BTU and heater size.
Find the plate
Photograph it
Send it to us
| Example model | What it tells you |
|---|---|
| Amana HEH123J / HEH124J | H = heat pump, 12 = 12,000 BTU, 3 = 230/208V, 4 = 265V |
| Amana PTC / PTH / PMC / PMH | C = cooling with electric heat, H = heat pump; PM = DigiAir make-up air series |
| Friedrich PZH12K3SC / PZH12R3SC | PZ = ZoneAire Select, H = heat pump, 12 = 12,000 BTU, K = 208/230V, R = 265/277V |
| Friedrich PDE / PDH | ZoneAire Premier: E = electric heat, H = heat pump |
| GE Zoneline AZ65H12DAB | H = heat pump, 12 = 12,000 BTU |
Model number formats vary by brand and year. The examples above are for guidance only; always confirm with the full rating plate.
Wall Sleeves & Outdoor Grilles
The sleeve is the metal box in the wall that holds the PTAC chassis.
Standard 42" sleeves
Check depth & condition
Grilles & drains
Shop Parts & Accessories for sleeves, grilles, drain kits, sub-bases and more.
PTAC Maintenance Checklist
Simple upkeep extends unit life and keeps energy costs down.
| How often | Task |
|---|---|
| Monthly | Clean or replace the return air filters. Check the room front for dust and blockages. |
| Every 3–6 months | Vacuum the indoor coil and check that the condensate drain is clear. |
| Once a year | Clean the outdoor coil and grille, check the sleeve seal and slope, and inspect the power cord and plug for damage. |
| Every season change | Test heating and cooling modes, and confirm thermostat and energy-management settings. |
Always disconnect power before servicing. Follow the manufacturer's installation and service manual, and use a qualified HVAC technician for electrical or refrigerant work.
Appliance Buying Tips
For refrigerators, laundry, dishwashers and kitchenettes.
Measure the cut-out
ADA compliance
Power & venting
Manufacturer Resources
Official manuals, warranties and product literature from the brands we carry.
Amana PTAC
PTAC, VTAC and thermostat literature
Friedrich
ZoneAire & FreshAire PTAC documents
GE Appliances
Zoneline PTAC manuals & support
Summit Appliance
Appliance spec sheets & manuals
Need Help Choosing?
Send us your model number, quantity and delivery ZIP code and a PTAC specialist will recommend the right unit and quote your project.