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Quiet PTAC? Possible?

11:20 AM 02/07/2013

 

I have 5 Islandair PTAC and the noise is pretty bad.  Not so much during the winter, but in the summer the compressor is really loud.  Temperature wise, they work pretty well, but I don't want to live with the noise.  I'm looking into a split system, but because I still have to install a compressor, I'm not sure thats really a viable option.
Is it possible to replace them with a quieter unit? Is finding a quiet PTAC like searching for a white whale?
Online, it looks like GE6100, Amana and LG are commonly touted as the "quietest" but they are self-proclaimed.  There are no standard dBa levels given so I'm hoping people can give an opinion.  I don't want to go through the exercise if I will only see a marginal difference.  I'm looking for a major upgrade with respect to noise.  I know this is crazy- but is there a showroom where I can actually hear different units running? Any recommendations for contractors to come see my space and give me a proposal would also be welcome.
Thanks in advance all.

 

 

1 answer
  • vote

    Since a PTAC is a compressor inside your house - it will always be loud.  There is no way that or a window unit can ever be truly quiet.  A mini-split has the compressor completely outside and merely a fan inside (which are very quiet) - a whole world of difference.  You are a great candidate for a mini-split solution.  Probabaly save a bunch of money as well on efficiency.  If you were going to do them all, two small compressors outside could prob. handle around six decent sized indoor air handlers / zones.  

    5:12 PM 02/07/2013 | 0 Votes

     

     

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