Manufacturers strive to quiet hotel HVAC units (video)

Temperature and noise, both of which can results from a faulty air conditioner, are two of the biggest complaint opportunities for hotel guests. When guests are not pleased with the temperature or noise of their room, two-thirds are unlikely to return to the hotel, and one-third are unlikely to recommend a hotel, according to hospitality industry data.

General Electric’s re-engineered Zoneline, featured at AHR 2016 in Orlando, packaged terminal air conditioners (PTACs) are designed to be more reliable and quiet, as well as provide energy efficiency and easier installation and maintenance. The company based its work on feedback from hotel owners and managers, facility cleaning crews, architects, designers and others.

Features of the redesign include:

• Reliability: With millions of units installed across the United States, GE Zoneline PTACs offer consistent performance and unrivaled comfort for guests. Its redesigned structure and easy-access front controls simplify service.
• Quiet: An extra seal surrounding the edge keeps dirt and excess noise outside, along with a heavy-duty mastic seal for extra sound deadening and two fan motors for quiet operation.
•  Efficiency: GE’s Zoneline units are on average 8 percent more energy efficient than the leading competitor’s units. Specially designed sentinels protect property by preventing overheating and freezing, all while enhancing efficiency in extreme elements.
• Appearance: New design and appearance improvements keep a fresh, streamlined look. A backlit, coverless control panel with white, dimmable LED lighting makes the functions easier to read.