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  Vertical Terminal Air Conditioning (VTAC)
Vertical Terminal Air Conditioning


 


Product Code: VTAC
 

Description Manuals & Guides
 
The Product:  For years, the standard in hotel and other commercial HVAC has been the Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner (PTAC) system. A large unit, with both heat and cool options, it is normally found under the windows of the room. While the units are fully capable of providing both options for ventilation, the unit itself takes up valuable square footage and creates window treatment/decorating challenges.
 
Features
The Science:  Technology has now taken a huge leap forward with the creation of the Vertical Terminal Air Conditioning (VTAC) system. The VTAC system is a through-the-wall installation, but instead of taking up space in the room, it is hidden inside an enclosure which looks like a closet. VTACs are much smaller than PTACs, with the footprint of these units generally about 24" x 24".  The sizes available are in the 9000, 12000, 18000 and 24000 BTU range, and the units work with a 220V line.  VTACs are controlled with a wall thermostat, and some units like the Amana VTH18 are able to be controlled by a central location, like the front desk of your hotel. This allows the unit to be shut down when the room is not in use, saving energy. VTACS like the Friedrich VEA09K, with their top discharge can be ducted to single rooms, or multiple rooms such as suites, making it more cost efficient - one VTAC versus two PTACs.  Heat is provided with either an electric heat strip or a heat pump with electric heat options, with the heat pump units being the most energy efficient.
 

VTAC Components

The Installation:  The use of a plenum is necessary because of the closet installation.  This separates the outdoor air paths and holds condensation in the bottom, eliminating the possibility of leakage into the wall.  The plenum is the first component to be installed, followed by an installation platform, which is positioned against the plenum.  These pieces are then secured to the floor.  A sleeve is then secured to the platform, then the air conditioner is installed.  The space where the system is installed requires either a louvered door, a wall mounted access panel or a return air grille.
 
The Usage:  Vertical Terminal Air Conditioners are being used increasingly in Hotels, Motels, Assisted Living Centers, Offices, Apartments, External Classrooms and in specific cases like remodeling or add-ons, it can be used for Residential use.
 
The Brands: Most of the HVAC companies that create PTACs are now producing VTACs. Amana, Friedrich and GE all offer a full range of sizes for both the AC and Heat units.  Depending on brand, you can also choose the grille color, type of wall panel and the thermostat you want.
 
These days, the cost of building per square foot is constantly rising.  By utilizing a system such as the VTAC in your commercial area, your HVAC unit requires less space, while increasing the square footage of actual usable area. 
 
What To Look For:  Each brand of VTAC has its own features.  However, some are more important than others.
  • First is getting the right amount of BTUs.  Sizing the unit to the space is essential for guest comfort and unit efficiency. Refer to a BTU chart for guidance in determining size, taking into consideration the natural site location, and the number of rooms and windows in the area to be cooled.
  • COP (Coefficient of Performance): In heat pump units it measures the efficiency of the heat pump output compared to electric resistance heat. In addition to comparing heat pump output versus electric heat, this number also allows a direct comparison to other heat pumps with the same range capacity.
  • Reversal Cycle Defrost:  Typical VTAC systems with heat pumps terminate heat pump operation and switch to the more expensive resistance heat in the 40° to 45°F range. The heat pump operation must terminate before a frost build-up occurs on the outdoor coil.  With a Reverse Cycle Defrost System, the heat pump can operate at a lower outdoor temperature, generally down into the 25°F range, creating a greater energy saving.
  • Automatic Compressor Random Restart:  In the event of a power outage, if all compressors attempt to re-start at the same time, a power surge or another outtage can occur.  The auto random restart prevents all compressors from restarting simultaneously.
  • Slide-Out Chassis:  Because the unit is contained inside a closet, the slide-out feature enables easier access to the unit for maintenance.
  • Ease of Installation: Look for pre-wired models and units like the Friedrich VHA18K which can be installed front, left or right handed into the closet, on an outside wall.
  • Central Desk Control:  When a guest checks in, the front desk can automatically turn on the unit, or shut it off when the guest checks out.  Additionally, some units are able to be connected to sliding glass doors, so if the guests decide to leave the doors open for fresh air, there is no chance of also running the unit. 
  • Electronic Temperature Limiting:  This allows minimum/maximum temperatures to be set, preventing guests from overheating or overcooling the room.
 

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