Replacing Amana, Friedrich, and Other 42 x 16 PTACs
The 42" x 16" wall sleeve became the industry standard over decades. Most PTACs sold today, from GE Zoneline, Amana, Hotpoint, Friedrich, LG, and others, fit it. If your building has 42 x 16 sleeves, you are not locked into the brand that is in the wall now.
Confirm it is really 42 x 16
Measure the inside of the sleeve, not the unit. Width should be about 42 inches and height about 16. A sleeve that is 42 inches wide with a different height or a sloped top is not standard. Many legacy sleeves are close to standard but not quite, and a standard unit will not fit them. If you are not sure, send the measurements.
Five checks before ordering
- Voltage. 208/230V or 265/277V. Read it from the old nameplate. A unit built for the wrong voltage will not run.
- Circuit and receptacle. The plug shape and breaker set how much electric heat the unit can deliver. GE Zoneline uses separate power connection kits matched to 15, 20, or 30 amp circuits.
- Heat type. Electric resistance or heat pump. If pipes connect to the old unit, it heats with hot water from the boiler and needs a hydronic replacement such as the Applied Comfort NA, NF, or NY.
- Rear grille. Some brands' grilles restrict airflow for another brand's condenser. A new grille may be needed.
- Sleeve condition. Rust in the sleeve floor or a missing drain kit is easier to fix during the swap.
Options by budget and need
- Hotpoint: lowest cost, essentials only.
- Amana: 7,000 to 15,000 BTU, heat pump or electric heat up to 5 kW, in 208/230V or 265/277V, with a full line of sleeves, louvers, subbases, and duct kits.
- GE Zoneline: AZES, AZHS, and variable speed AZVS, with the widest feature set.
Replacing one unit in a building of another brand
It works, but it complicates spare parts and controls. If several units will need replacement in the next few years, pick one standard model now and replace to it as units fail. See which GE Zoneline series fits.
Send the old unit's model number, the voltage, and the quantity through the contact form or call 800-866-1210 for pricing and availability.