Introducing the PTAC Challenge: A Smarter Way for Hotels to Upgrade Guest Comfort

PTAC units have been one of the most common, and the most criticized, features of the hotel guest experience. Guests and operators alike have grown accustomed to loud compressors, uneven temperatures, poor ventilation, and constant service calls. Even as hotels invest heavily in upgraded rooms, lobbies, and amenities, these HVAC frustrations remain.

Innova believes that acceptance is long overdue for change.

That belief led to the launch of the PTAC Challenge—a first-of-its-kind, real-world trial program designed to let hotels experience the next generation of PTAC technology in an actual guest room, under real operating conditions, with no long-term risk.

A Real-World Trial, Not a Sales Pitch

The PTAC Challenge invites hotels and property operators to replace one existing PTAC unit with Nextac, Innova’s next-generation, inverter-driven heat pump with integrated energy recovery ventilation (ERV). For a fixed cost of $2,000—significantly below retail pricing—participants receive a complete system and up to 60 days of real-world operation to evaluate performance.

The program includes the Nextac unit, installation tools, and monitoring equipment to track energy use, temperature stability, and overall performance. If the unit does not meaningfully outperform the property’s existing PTAC under comparable conditions, Innova offers a full money-back guarantee.

The intent is simple: replace claims with proof.

Solving a Persistent Hospitality Problem

Traditional PTAC systems have long been a leading source of guest dissatisfaction. Compressor noise disrupts sleep. On/off cycling causes uncomfortable temperature swings. Limited or nonexistent fresh air contributes to poor indoor air quality. These issues often translate directly into negative reviews, increased maintenance calls, and higher operating costs.

Nextac was engineered to address these problems at their source—without requiring hotels to redesign rooms or change wall penetrations. The unit fits standard 42” × 16” PTAC sleeves, making it suitable for both renovations and upgrades in occupied buildings.

What Makes Nextac Different

Nextac is a complete rethinking of the PTAC category. Instead of relying on legacy on/off compressors and electric resistance heat, it uses an advanced inverter-driven heat pump designed for precision control, efficiency, and quiet operation.

Key performance highlights include:

• Whisper-quiet operation as low as 27 dBA, creating a near-silent sleep environment
• Up to 75% energy savings compared to conventional PTAC systems
• Integrated ERV, delivering true fresh air while recovering energy from exhaust air
• Sleek, modern Italian design that complements contemporary guest rooms
• Easy-swap compatibility with standard PTAC wall sleeves

The result is a system that improves guest comfort while reducing energy use and operational strain.

What’s Included in the PTAC Challenge

Each participating property receives a complete evaluation kit, including:

• One (1) Nextac PTAC model P unit with integrated ERV
• Two (2) kilowatt energy meters and two (2) temperature sensors
• One (1) Verdant thermostat
• Dedicated installation and performance-monitoring support
• Free delivery
• A 60-day money-back performance guarantee

Most participants notice improvements in noise levels, comfort, and efficiency shortly after installation. If those improvements don’t materialize, the unit can be returned within 60 days for a full refund.

We designed the PTAC Challenge to prove—not just claim—what modern PTAC technology should deliver. Once your facility sees the difference in a real room, the decision to upgrade becomes obvious.

Who Can Participate

The PTAC Challenge is open to properties with standard 42” × 16” PTAC sleeves, including:

• Hotels and hospitality properties
• Multifamily buildings
• Senior living communities
• Healthcare facilities

Trial slots are currently available.

Ready to join the PTAC challenge? Find out if your property qualifies.