Hey there, Mike Sanders here. I’ve installed my fair share of PTACs, and one question I get a lot—especially after something breaks—is: “Is this under warranty?”
Sometimes the answer is yes. Sometimes… not so much.
If you’re shopping for a new PTAC or just trying to understand the coverage you already have, this post is going to walk you through:
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What’s usually covered under a PTAC warranty,
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What the fine print tries to sneak past you, and
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How to avoid getting stuck with an expensive repair bill down the road.
🧾 What Does a PTAC Warranty Typically Cover?
Most PTAC warranties have two major coverage parts:
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Parts Coverage
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Compressor Coverage (sometimes separate or extended)
🔧 Parts Warranty (Usually 1–5 Years)
This covers the big stuff that might fail under normal use:
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Control boards
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Motors
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Fans
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Thermostats
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Heater elements
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Valves
Some manufacturers go up to 5 years on parts. Others cut it off at 1 or 2. Always check the actual length for your brand.
🌀 Compressor Warranty (Often 5 Years or More)
Compressors are the heart of your PTAC’s cooling system. Because they’re a big-ticket item, many brands offer longer warranties—often 5–7 years.
👉 Just make sure the compressor isn't prorated, meaning the coverage drops off year by year. You want full coverage, not one that only pays 30% if it breaks in year 4.
🚫 What’s Usually Not Covered
Here’s where people get tripped up. Even if you’re under warranty, the following usually aren’t included:
❌ Labor
Most PTAC warranties only cover the part—not the labor to remove the bad one and install the new one. That can cost you $150–$300 depending on your area.
❌ Improper Installation
If you or your installer didn’t follow the manufacturer’s install instructions, you’re likely out of luck. That includes:
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Using the wrong voltage
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Poor wall sleeve sealing (leads to moisture damage)
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Skipping the filter or not changing it regularly
❌ Shipping Damage or Accidents
Dropped it during install? Banged it during delivery? Most warranties don’t cover physical damage unless reported immediately upon delivery.
❌ Routine Maintenance Items
Things like:
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Filters
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Fuses
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Batteries
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Dirty coils
These are considered user maintenance and aren’t covered.
🕵️♂️ Mike’s Warranty Checklist
Before you buy or register your PTAC, here’s what I recommend checking:
✅ Coverage length for parts and compressor
✅ Is labor included? (Usually not)
✅ Do you need to register? Some brands require registration within 30–60 days for full coverage
✅ Is the warranty transferable? Good to know if you’re installing in a rental or planning to sell
✅ Are accessories like wall sleeves and remotes covered? Often sold separately and not covered under unit warranty
🧠 Pro Tip: Read the Fine Print Before You Buy
You can usually download the full warranty from the manufacturer’s site—or if you’re buying from The Furnace Outlet, check the product page for warranty PDFs.
Don’t assume that a “5-year warranty” means you’re covered for 5 years with zero hassle. Read the exclusions. Read the conditions. Some even require you to use an authorized service technician to stay valid.
💬 Mike’s Take: Don’t Skip the Warranty Step
“I’ve seen more people get burned by skipping the fine print than by actual equipment failure.”
If you’re spending good money on a PTAC—especially in hotels, senior living centers, or apartments—it pays to know what you’re getting into.
When you’ve got 20+ units running full time, the savings on just one warranty-covered repair could easily justify the extra reading time.
And if you ever have a question about what’s covered or what unit gives you the best warranty for the price, reach out to the folks at The Furnace Outlet. They’ll give it to you straight.
Final Thoughts
Warranties aren’t sexy, but they’re important—especially in HVAC. PTAC units are workhorses, and like any machine, they’ll need a little love (and the occasional part) over time.
Understanding the warranty upfront helps you plan smarter, budget better, and avoid surprises later.
Until next time—
Stay cool, keep it clean, and always check the voltage.
– Mike
