YORK R Series 20 SEER Ducted Air Conditioner | 24000 BTU

A concealed unit, with grilles positioned where comfort is needed

To cool an entire floor without installing a wall-mounted unit in every room, we can consider a ducted solution. The principle is to conceal the indoor unit in a technical space, then route the air to grilles integrated into the ceiling or walls. YORK specifically provides this configuration for its DHR24NDB21S unit, designed to be installed above a suspended ceiling or in a suitable technical storage space.

At AirGreen, we approach a ducted air conditioning project in Montreal, Laval, or the South Shore by first designing the airflow path. We determine where to install the outlets, how to organize the return air to the unit, and which access points to preserve for maintenance. This planning makes it possible to discuss the expected result in the rooms, not just the location of the cabinet.

Under the commercial name YORK R Series 24,000 BTU Ducted Air Conditioner, we present a system that also provides heating: the catalog classifies this configuration as a heat pump, with published capacities in both modes.

The efficiency of this combination is 16 SEER

The designation “R Series 20 SEER” refers to a product line advertised as offering up to 20 SEER. However, for the 24,000 BTU ducted combination, the table on page 19 of the YORK catalog indicates 16 SEER, 10.65 EER, and 10 HSPF. We use these model-specific values to present its performance.

We also distinguish the commercial category of 24,000 BTU from the published rated cooling capacity, which is 23,800 BTU/h. Here are the essential details for identifying the system:

These characteristics come from the tables for the outdoor unit and the ducted unit. The minimum and maximum capacities do not represent guaranteed output at all outdoor temperatures.

Our commercial data sheet lists reference AHRI 8578433. We recommend keeping this reference together with the two model numbers when comparing proposals. We also retain the published ratings, SEER, EER, and HSPF, without renaming them SEER2, EER2, or HSPF2.

A modulating compressor to be selected according to the building's needs

The R Series uses an inverter-driven variable-speed compressor. YORK presents this modulation as a way to adapt operation and limit the abrupt starts and stops of conventional systems.

This feature does not eliminate the need for proper sizing. Equipment that is too small or too large for the space can compromise the desired comfort; the selection must therefore match the building's needs.

To prepare our recommendation, we request the floor plan, window areas, their orientation, ceiling heights, and any issues observed with the existing heating or cooling system. We also want to know whether bedroom doors remain closed at night and whether certain rooms are used daily for working from home. This information helps us establish the project's priorities without promising a universally applicable area covered by “24,000 BTU.”

A maximum airflow of 826 cu. ft./min. to distribute through the duct network

The DHR24NDB21S data sheet presents four ventilation levels. Airflow and indoor sound pressure vary together depending on the setting.

The 826 CFM refers to the total published airflow for the unit, not airflow available at each grille. We must distribute the air among the different branches of the duct network according to the selected requirements.

We also do not present 40 dB(A) as a constant sound level. This value corresponds to the slowest setting in the table. For an installation near bedrooms, we therefore examine the ventilation settings along with the placement of the cabinet and grilles.

Static pressure: the point to check before adding more ducts

YORK describes this ducted unit as having medium static pressure and publishes a range of 0 to 0.8 in. water column. This characteristic deserves particular attention when designing the system.

System pressure affects airflow and fan power consumption. Experimental work published by the U.S. Department of Energy notably demonstrates the importance of accounting for this pressure and the design of distribution cabinets when evaluating a ducted system.

In our study, we therefore consider lengths, changes in direction, transitions, and grilles as a whole. We do not determine the number of outlets solely based on the number of rooms.

The catalog table does not provide a complete curve relating airflow and pressure. We therefore cannot infer that 826 ft³/min will be maintained at the limit of 0.8 in. water column. System validation must rely on the ventilation data corresponding to the unit.

Serving multiple rooms does not mean having multiple independent temperatures

This R Series belongs to single-zone systems, with one outdoor unit paired with one indoor unit. Having multiple grilles does not automatically create independent control for each room.

Let’s consider a design scenario for a floor comprising two bedrooms and an office. We could study a supply branch for each space, then check the return-air path when the doors are closed. We would also discuss temperature expectations: requesting an office that is significantly cooler than the bedrooms is not the same need as seeking a common setpoint for the floor.

In addition to the catalog, the YORK installation manual depicts a system that includes supply air, return air, filtration, and connections to the air handler cabinet. We therefore incorporate return air into the design from the outset, rather than treating it as an afterthought once the grilles have been selected.

Heating down to −18 °C: clarify what this limit means

For the DHR24CSB21S outdoor unit, the stated operating range is −18 to 24 °C in heating mode and −18 to 46 °C in cooling mode.

We do not confuse the −18 °C limit with the nominal capacity of 27,200 BTU/h. The heating test conditions listed in the catalog use an outdoor temperature of approximately 8 °C. The table does not specify the capacity or coefficient of performance at −15 °C or −18 °C.

For a winter project, we therefore require the role of the existing heating system to be defined during the assessment. We do not propose removing baseboard heaters or another heat source simply because the ducted unit has a heating mode. Our specification sheet also identifies this combination as not certified for cold climates.

Preparing a ducted installation that will remain accessible after finishing

The AirGreen experience in Îles-Laval: integrating the cabinet without blocking access

In a project completed in the Îles-Laval area, we installed a GREE All Match Slim Duct R32 in an already-open ceiling cavity. The wood structure, insulation, and existing pathways limited the available space. We studied the cabinet orientation, connections, drainage, and access required for ongoing equipment maintenance.

The desired result was a heating and cooling installation integrated into the home, without multiplying visible wall-mounted units. This project involved a GREE, not the YORK presented here. Nevertheless, it illustrates an important decision for any ducted project: we must reserve space for the ducts and servicing at the same time as space for the unit.

For your YORK project, we recommend the same approach before determining the openings and finishing work.

The cabinet dimensions are not enough to define the dropped ceiling

Our specification sheet and the catalog column for the 24,000 BTU ducted unit indicate 50 × 21 × 11 in. One caveat is worth noting: the catalog also prints 1 270 × 559 × 279 mm, whose depth does not exactly match the stated 21 inches. We therefore have the dimensioned plan for the intended equipment confirmed before approving a tight space.

For the outdoor unit, the published dimensions are 39 × 31 × 17 in, in catalog order. We do not use them alone to determine orientation, clearances, or support points.

In our layout proposal, we are also allowing space for the connections, access to the filters, and a suitable service opening. We want maintenance to be organized without having to dismantle an entire finished surface.

Two separate electrical supplies to be provided

The catalog specifies a power supply of 208/230 V, single-phase, 60 Hz, and indicates that the indoor and outdoor units require separate power sources. The simplified reference to “220 V” therefore does not, by itself, describe all the work to be planned.

The outdoor and indoor values come from their respective tables. They are used to prepare the circuits and protective devices; we do not present them as continuous consumption.

We are having the wiring validated according to the nameplates and site conditions. When comparing bids, we recommend checking that the electrical assessment covers both units, not just the outdoor unit.

Distinguishing refrigerant lines from air ducts

The refrigerant connection uses a 3/8 in liquid line and a 5/8 in gas line. YORK publishes a maximum total length of 50 meters and a maximum height difference of 15 meters between the units.

These limits concern the refrigerant lines, not the permitted length of the air distribution ductwork. We are studying these two routes separately: the first connects the units; the second serves the rooms.

The ducted unit also includes an internal condensate pump, and its table indicates a drainage connection with an outside diameter of 1 in. The catalog does not specify all of the pump's lifting requirements on this page. We are having the drainage route confirmed in the applicable installation documentation.

A standard wired controller, with options to be specified

For this ducted unit, the catalog product page lists the standard DWCR wired controller. We are retaining this ducted-specific indication rather than automatically assigning it the remote control of another indoor unit in the R Series.

The catalogue also describes the DWCR2 for the R Series, with seven-day programming, up to eight daily events, and lockout functions. We can consider this accessory when occupancy schedules justify more detailed programming, subject to compatibility with the equipment supplied.

Our specification indicates Wi-Fi optional. We have the module, app, and available functions specified in the offer. We do not promise phone control based solely on the presence of the word Wi-Fi in the commercial specification.

Commissioning must include the ductwork

The YORK manual calls for checking connections for leaks and evacuating the circuit. These checks are part of the refrigeration installation; they are not replaced by a simple airflow test.

For the ducted portion, we also propose checking the distribution between the outlets and the selected settings. Our goal is to deliver a system whose operation the occupants understand, with clear identification of the control, filtration, and access points.

In Longueuil, when modernizing the ventilation system of a multi-purpose building, we had identified unbalanced airflow, noise, and leaks in the existing ducts. The project included network modifications and final balancing. This work involved a different commercial installation, but it illustrates why we do not consider existing ducts automatically suitable for the new equipment.

Maintaining a hidden system without forgetting it

We recommend identifying access to the filter as soon as the work is completed and following the instructions corresponding to the installed system. The YORK manual specifically links recurring freeze protection to checks of the filter, air outlet, and return. We therefore avoid attributing every drop in performance to a lack of refrigerant.

To prepare for a HVAC service call, we ask for precise observations: does the problem affect only one room or all the outlets, does it occur in a particular mode, and does a message appear on the control? A photo of the code and a description of the noise are useful, without disassembling the unit.

If there are drops, a trace of moisture, or repeated shutdowns, we recommend a technical inspection rather than a succession of restarts.

Compare the installed price and the actual warranty

We determine the price of a YORK ducted installation based on the project: equipment, controls, ductwork, refrigerant lines, drainage, electrical work, and building adaptations. We recommend having openings and finishing work specified separately, especially when several trades are involved.

The warranty presented in our specification sheet is 10 years for the compressor, 10 years for parts, and no labor included in the 10-10-0 designation. Additional protection is indicated as available.

The catalogue nevertheless distinguishes a standard warranty of 7 years on the compressor and 5 years on parts from the extended 10-10 coverage, which requires online registration for eligible residential applications. The option including ten years of labor requires the purchase of additional protection. We clarify the written terms based on residential or commercial use and the coverage selected.

Prepare the budget without assuming a subsidy

Our specification sheet identifies this combination as not ENERGY STAR® certified. For the residential LogisVert program, Hydro-Québec requires this certification for heat pumps installed on or after November 26, 2025 to be eligible for a subsidy. We therefore do not include unconfirmed financial assistance in the advertised net price.

When the subsidy is a decisive factor, we recommend comparing solutions based on their total installed cost and verified eligibility rather than on the unit price alone.

Have AirGreen prepare your ducted system project

At AirGreen, we offer a free on-site estimate and installation and follow-up services throughout Greater Montreal. For this YORK, our proposal must specify both the ductwork and access requirements as well as the equipment specifications.

For your ducted air conditioner in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or South Shore, contact us at 514-316-2973 or sales@airgreen.ca. Prepare a few photos of the ceiling and a floor plan of the rooms to be served: we will be able to discuss integration options and prepare a quote tailored to your project.