Hey folks, Jake Lawson here. If you're shopping for a PTAC unit, odds are you're not just worried about cooling—you want heat too. But when it comes to PTAC heating, you’ve got three options: electric resistance heat, heat pump, or hydronic coil. They all do the job, but which one does it best for your space, budget, and long-term efficiency?
Let’s break each one down.
🔌 Electric Heat: Simple and Reliable
How It Works: Electric PTAC units use built-in resistance coils to generate heat when electricity passes through them. Think of it like a giant toaster for your room.
Pros:
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Simple, low-maintenance setup
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Consistent heat output
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Works in any climate, including sub-freezing temps
Cons:
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Higher energy consumption (and bigger utility bills)
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Noisy compared to heat pumps
Best For:
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Older buildings or retrofits where hydronic or heat pump isn’t practical
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Very cold climates where heat pumps lose efficiency
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Rooms that only need occasional heat
🌡️ Heat Pump: Efficient and Eco-Friendly
How It Works: PTAC heat pumps reverse the refrigerant cycle to pull heat from the outside air and bring it inside.
Pros:
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Energy-efficient (uses less electricity than resistance coils)
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Lower operating costs over time
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Great for moderate climates
Cons:
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Less effective in freezing temperatures
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Slightly more expensive up front
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Can be a bit more complex to service
Best For:
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Hotels, apartments, or residential spaces in mild-to-moderate climates
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Energy-conscious buyers
💧 Hydronic Coil: Hot Water-Powered Heating
How It Works: Hydronic PTAC units connect to a building’s central hot water or boiler system. The unit uses that water to warm the air.
Pros:
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Extremely quiet
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Doesn’t require as much electricity
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Can run off existing building heat systems
Cons:
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Requires building-wide boiler/hot water setup
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More complicated install
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Less common in residential spaces
Best For:
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Commercial buildings, hospitals, dorms, or any facility with centralized hot water
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Customers who prioritize silent operation
✅ Jake’s Take: How to Choose
Here’s my rule of thumb:
| If You… | Go With… |
|---|---|
| Live in a cold climate | Electric Heat |
| Live in a moderate climate | Heat Pump |
| Have a central boiler system | Hydronic Coil |
| Want quiet, low-maintenance | Hydronic Coil |
| Want low electric bills | Heat Pump |
When in doubt, ask yourself how much heating you’ll use each year, and how important energy savings or noise level is to you.
🛠 Final Thoughts: Know Before You Buy
Picking the right PTAC heating option isn’t just about comfort—it’s about long-term cost and efficiency. Don’t assume all heating modes are created equal. Make sure your unit matches both your climate and your building setup.
Want to see some top-rated units? Start with these: R-32 PTAC Units – The Furnace Outlet
Still got questions? You know where to find me. I’m here to help you get the right fit the first time.
— Jake
