Framing for a PTAC

[Pack Rat]

I have a 12 X 14 room that I want to heat and cool, a slab floor, typical 4 inch insulated
wall and windows on 3 sides. The local hvac salesmen are pushing a mini-split but I
think a 7000 BTU PTAC is more suited. I know I have to frame in for a sleeve, but what
would be a recommended height above the finished floor for the bottom of the sleeve?

 

[ddawg16]

I'd put it at about 6'. Just low enough to reach the controls but high enough to be out of the way. I will free up more wall space for other things.

Additionally, the air flow would be up high instead of blowing directly on you.

 

[LS6 Tommy]

PTACs are usually installed at or near floor height. They mostly discharge up, not really out. Putting it up near the ceiling may cause weird airflow issues and you'll also have to have a receptacle in the middle of the wall.

If it wasn't for the cost difference, I'd do a mini split. PTACs are inefficient, noisy, relatively short lived and a pain to service. I wouldn't install one in my worst enemy's place...

Tommy

 

[ddawg16]

Ok...I had to look up PTAC....I thought it was just a standard wall unit.....

Based on my 'new knowledge'.....I have to agree with LS6.....

 

[yeldogt]

Make sure it's a HP -- otherwise it's resistance heat and a killer with high electric rates.


They are noisy --- I would do a cheap mini DIY over a PTAC. MS is perfect for that space

 

[Pack Rat]

Yes, it would be a heat pump type. The room is only for occasional use.
The PTAC would be under a window. I wanted to put it a few inches above the floor.
I would put the bottom of the sleeve on the floor but it needs to be slightly tilted towards the outside.

 

[Milton Shaw]

Make sure you remove all the packing material around the compressor and fans. I can't count the number of times that's all that had to be done on the service call to fix the noise/problem. There are also some models that the compressor mounts bolts(shipping tie-downs) have to be loosened before installation or they will be extremely noisy.