Jul 11, 2025
It goes without saying that a good night’s sleep is essential. This is especially true when it comes to guests staying at your hotel or hospitality establishment. You can help ensure your guests sleep more soundly by tackling one of the biggest obstacles standing in the way of dreamland – noisy PTAC / AC units.
Leading the pack in complaints, loud sounds from packaged terminal room air conditioners (PTACs) can greatly detract from a guest’s overall experience. How can you make sure that your units are as quiet as can be? Here are the top 7 considerations to take into account to avoid noise complaints with PTACs.
Look for PTAC units that include insulation for additional noise reduction. For example, all GE Zoneline PTACs offer a heavy-duty mastic barrier. This barrier encases the back of the unit for optimal sound control. The baked-on insulation mastic significantly deadens sounds coming from the SMC bulkhead (the sheet-molded compound partition separating the indoor and outdoor sides of the unit).
Two independent fans, each powered by a DC fan motor, can help reduce noise by maintaining the specific airflow required for every heating and cool level. A large cross-flow blower can also enhance airflow to balance and lower sound.
Look for a PTAC design that includes a well-made perimeter lining to effectively seal the unit in its place. For example, GE Zoneline PTACs offer an extra weather barrier system seal around the outside edge. This barrier block sounds from the outside.
Loose, rattling screws in a PTAC can torment even the soundest sleeper. Examine spec sheets for prospective PTAC models to make sure they use anti-vibration grommets that isolate components. For example, rubber isolation grommets in DC fan motors can absorb vibrations while keeping harder pieces from touching.
If your properties are located in unforgiving climates, look to reduce the wear and tear on PTACs that can cause irritating noises. Many PTAC models offer special panels, wall sleeves, and coatings on parts to protect them from the elements and keep them working in top form for longer.
Choose PTACs that do more with less. Machines like GE Zoneline PTACs are designed with fewer parts. This boosts reliability, efficiency, quiet operation, ease of installation, and maintenance overall.
Many companies offer extensive studies detailing the sound performance of their PTAC units. These tests measure various aspects of sound output and acoustics. The sound tests include the following metrics: A-weighted sound power level (dBA or Bels), A-weighted sound pressure level (dBA), and noise criteria (NC). You can also test how well they block outside noise with two sound transmission loss measurements: sound transmission class (STC) and outdoor-indoor transmission class (OITC). The quietest units will have results with low operating noise and high sound insulation. These scores are represented by high STC and high OITC ratings.
Equipped with this knowledge, you will be able to source the quietest PTAC model available on the market today.
Is your hospitality business looking to upgrade your current Heat Pump PTACs? If so, you could be eligible for our massive PTAC / AC units rebate program, depending on the state. Find out more in the following links:
New Hampshire PTACs Rebate Program
Colorado PTACs Rebate Program
Feel free to contact our hospitality technology products team directly. We're happy to help with any inquiries you have and point you in the right direction.
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