🌱 Breakdown of the Cost of Installing R-32 PTACs
When it comes to upgrading your property’s HVAC system, one of the first things you’ll want to know is the cost — and rightfully so. After all, installing R-32 PTACs involves more than just purchasing the unit. There are several factors that contribute to the total cost, and it’s important to understand all of them before you make the leap.
Initial Costs
Let’s dive into the upfront costs associated with installing R-32 PTAC units. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:
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Unit Price: On average, a single R-32 PTAC can range from $600 to $1,500, depending on the size and features of the unit.
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Smaller units (about 7,000 to 10,000 BTUs) tend to be less expensive, while larger units (13,000 BTUs and above) can cost more.
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Installation Labor: Depending on the complexity of the installation, labor costs can range from $200 to $500 per unit. This cost can fluctuate based on your location and the expertise of the installer.
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Additional Materials: If your installation requires wall sleeves, electrical connections, or other accessories, those costs will be added to your overall bill. Wall sleeves typically cost between $150 to $300, while electrical work can vary.
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Total Estimated Costs: For a single R-32 PTAC unit installation, the total cost (including unit and installation) will typically fall between $800 and $2,000.
💡 How R-32 PTACs Compare to Other HVAC Systems
Now that you have a sense of what R-32 PTAC installation costs, let’s take a moment to compare it with traditional HVAC systems.
R-32 PTACs vs. Traditional HVAC
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R-32 PTACs are ideal for individual room climate control. Their compact size and energy efficiency make them an excellent choice for smaller spaces like hotel rooms, apartments, or small homes.
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In contrast, traditional central HVAC systems can be much more expensive to install, with initial costs typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the size of the property. These systems also require more ongoing maintenance, higher operational costs, and are generally less energy-efficient than R-32 PTACs.
Energy Efficiency
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R-32 PTACs are incredibly energy-efficient, reducing your monthly cooling and heating costs. In fact, R-32 refrigerant is up to 12% more efficient than R-410A, which helps save money in the long run. This makes them not only a cost-effective option but also an eco-friendly upgrade.
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With traditional HVAC systems, you’ll likely pay higher energy bills due to their less efficient nature, especially if you have an older system that uses outdated refrigerants like R-22.
🌍 What Factors Affect the Total Cost of Installation?
While we’ve covered the average costs of R-32 PTAC units, several factors can impact the final price of your installation. Let’s explore these elements in more detail:
Building Type
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Residential Homes: For single-family homes or smaller residential properties, the installation process tends to be straightforward, with costs on the lower end of the spectrum.
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Commercial Properties: For hotels, apartment complexes, and other multi-unit buildings, the costs may increase due to the larger number of units and the complexity of installation.
Existing Infrastructure
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Replacement vs. New Install: If you’re replacing an old PTAC system, the installation will typically be faster and cheaper, as the wall sleeve and electrical setup might already be in place. Installing a new system in a building without any previous PTAC units will likely require additional work, such as wall cutting and wiring, which increases costs.
Required Permits and Regulations
Some locations may require a permit for HVAC installation, which adds a small additional cost (typically between $50 and $200). Make sure to check your local regulations before starting the installation to ensure you’re fully compliant.
Installation Timeframe
The installation process may vary depending on how many units need to be installed and the availability of installers. Scheduling your installation during the off-season may help you save on labor costs, as HVAC technicians are often busier in peak seasons (summer and winter).
🧰 How to Budget for R-32 PTAC Installation
Now that we’ve covered the basics of installation costs, let’s discuss how you can budget for your R-32 PTAC upgrade.
Determine the Number of Units You Need
If you’re upgrading a multi-room property like a hotel, apartment complex, or large home, you’ll need to calculate how many units are required. Multiply the number of units by the estimated installation costs to get an idea of the total investment.
For example:
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50 units x $1,200/unit (including installation) = $60,000 for a full upgrade to R-32 PTACs.
Consider the Total Cost of Ownership
Remember that the initial installation cost isn’t the only expense you’ll have over the lifetime of your R-32 PTAC system. Consider the long-term savings on energy bills, as well as the minimal maintenance required for these units compared to traditional HVAC systems.
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Energy Savings: R-32 PTACs can save you up to 12% in energy costs compared to older systems using R-410A refrigerant. For a hotel, this could result in $5,000 to $10,000 in annual savings on cooling and heating costs.
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Maintenance Savings: R-32 PTACs require less maintenance than central HVAC systems, which can save you hundreds of dollars annually in service fees and repairs.
Take Advantage of Rebates and Tax Credits
Be sure to check for available rebates or tax incentives that can help offset some of the installation costs. Many regions offer energy rebates for installing Energy Star® certified systems like R-32 PTACs.
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Example: The Inflation Reduction Act provides up to 30% tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades, such as R-32 PTAC units, reducing your initial investment.
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Many utility companies also offer rebates for upgrading to Energy Star® certified systems, which can further reduce your installation costs.
🔋 Ongoing Costs: Maintenance and Energy Efficiency
Once your R-32 PTACs are installed, there are still some ongoing costs you should factor into your budget:
Energy Costs
One of the biggest reasons to switch to R-32 PTACs is the energy savings. R-32 refrigerant is up to 12% more efficient than older refrigerants, meaning you’ll spend less on cooling and heating your space.
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Example: A hotel with 50 rooms could save $3,000–$5,000 annually on energy bills by switching to R-32 PTACs, compared to using older R-410A units.
Maintenance Costs
While R-32 PTACs are relatively low-maintenance, they still require periodic cleaning and inspection:
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Filter cleaning: Monthly (DIY)
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Coil cleaning: Every 3 months (DIY or professional)
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Annual service: Professional checks typically cost between $100–$200 per unit.
Overall, the maintenance costs for R-32 PTACs are much lower than for traditional HVAC systems, as they don’t require the same level of complexity for repairs.
🧩 The Savvy Takeaway: Investing in R-32 PTACs for Long-Term Savings
When considering the cost of installing R-32 PTACs, remember that the upfront costs are more than balanced out by long-term savings in energy bills and maintenance costs. While you can expect to pay between $800 and $2,000 per unit for R-32 PTAC installation, the cost savings you’ll enjoy over the system’s lifetime will make the investment well worth it.
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Upfront Costs: $800 to $2,000 per unit (including installation)
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Long-Term Savings: $3,000 to $10,000 annually in energy savings
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Incentives: Don’t forget about rebates and tax credits to help offset your costs.
Investing in R-32 PTACs is a smart, sustainable choice for your property that can pay off in both financial savings and environmental benefits. Ready to make the switch? Explore our R-32 PTAC Units and start saving today!
In the next topic we will know more about: Why R-32 Is Changing the Game for PTAC Systems in 2025
