Packaged Terminal Heat Pumps (PTHP)

Packaged terminal heat pumps (PTHP) are very much like a high quality version of the window-mounted air conditioner with the heat pump accessories added. These models are often called "through the-wall" units since they are usually installed in a sleeve passing through the outdoor building wall. PTHPs are completely self contained, requiring only a permanent electrical connection. They use the outdoor air as the heat source in winter and as a heat sink in summer. They also can provide ventilation air. Individual control is typical with auxiliary electric resistance strip heat and central control features as added-cost, site-specific options.

Flexibility and lower installed cost are the primary advantages of the PTHP. Disadvantages include in-room maintenance, higher operating cost, relatively short life, imprecise "on-off" temperature control, and they can be rather noisy.