ACRules
New York City
New York CityHouston

More cities are coming. Get told when yours is added

Installation / PTAC

PTAC units in New York apartments

A packaged unit that sits in a standard wall sleeve. If a covered bedroom already has one, the owner must keep it able to cool to the standard.

At a glanceNYC
Best for
Buildings built with PTAC sleeves
Power
Match the unit to the outlet
Sleeve
Typically 42 × 16 inches
Rebate found
None for NYC
Inside view: a PTAC unit sits low on the wall under a window, in a 42 by 16 inch sleeve42 inches16 inFloor

A good fit if

  • Rooms already have a PTAC sleeve and grille
  • You want heating and cooling from one unit
  • You're replacing a failing unit, not adding a new opening

Size your rooms

What the law means for PTACs

  • Keep it workingOwners must maintain existing permanent cooling systems so they can provide adequate cooling. (§ 27-2030 b(2))
  • SizeThe law sets a floor of 20 BTU per hour for every square foot of the room. Most units start at 5,000 BTU, so small bedrooms usually need the smallest size sold.
  • The standardFrom June 15 to September 15, the room has to stay at or below the city's limit. In New York City that is 78°F.

Replacing a PTAC

  • Standard sleevesNYSERDA describes standard PTACs as typically 16 inches high by 42 inches wide. Measure your sleeve and match the replacement to it.
  • PowerMatch the new unit's voltage, amperage, and plug to what is in the wall. Any electrical work needs a NYC licensed master electrician and a permit.
  • Heat pump modelsSome PTACs are heat pumps (PTHPs) and can provide heat as well as cooling.

Rebates and incentives

The state's through the wall heat pump program covers PTAC style heat pumps, but pre-qualification has closed for New York City. We found no Con Edison or NYSERDA rebate for a standard PTAC.

See every unit type and incentive

Who pays for the install

Other ways to cool a room

Check a license before you hire

Two free City lookups. Ask for the license number and check it yourself before anyone starts.

  • Home improvement contractorsThe City requires a Home Improvement Contractor license from the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection for construction, repair, and remodeling work on residences. Ask whether your installer has one. Look up a contractor
  • ElectriciansElectrical work in NYC needs a licensed master electrician and a permit from the Department of Buildings. Search DOB licenses
  • Get it in writingAsk for a written quote that lists the unit, the bracket or sleeve, any electrical work, and who hauls away the old unit.

Lookups listed on the Department of Buildings' Know Your Construction Professional page. Checked October 21, 2026.