YORK R Series 20 SEER Ducted Air Conditioner | 36000 BTU

A concealed unit, with air distribution organized around your rooms

At AirGreen, we consider the YORK R Series 36,000 BTU category ducted air conditioner for projects where integrating heating and cooling should keep the walls available. The indoor unit can be installed above a suspended ceiling or in a suitable mechanical space, then distribute air through ducts and ceiling or wall grilles. This installation flexibility is what YORK emphasizes in its presentation of the ducted unit.

For a renovation in Montreal, a floor to be finished in Laval, or a space to be reorganized in Longueuil, we therefore assess the project based on the room layout. We want to determine where the unit can be installed, how air will reach the occupied spaces, and which access points will remain available after the finishing work.

Two figures should be clarified from the outset: the combination shown has a 16 SEER rating, despite the “R Series 20 SEER” range designation. Its published rated cooling capacity is 34,000 BTU/h, while 36,000 BTU corresponds to its commercial designation. These differences appear in the ducted-unit table on printed page 19 of the YORK catalogue.

The specifications of the DHR36NDB21S paired with the DHR36CSB21S

We identify this assembly by its two references: DHR36NDB21S for the indoor ducted unit and DHR36CSB21S for the outdoor unit. The catalogue presents this combination among the single-zone options in the R Series.

Despite the word “air conditioner” in the commercial title, this is a ducted heat pump, since the system also provides heating.

These specifications come from the table dedicated to ducted units, not the table for ceiling cassettes or floor-ceiling units. Our sales sheet also lists the reference AHRI 8578457 for this assembly.

We retain the SEER, EER, and HSPF ratings as published. The provided table does not list SEER2, EER2, or HSPF2 values for this combination.

Modulating output, to be selected according to actual needs

The outdoor unit in the R Series operates with an inverter-driven variable-speed compressor. YORK describes modulation intended to maintain the temperature while limiting the starts and abrupt stops of conventional systems.

To select this capacity, however, we need more than the total area. We examine the windows, known insulation, ceiling height, occupancy, and the rooms actually involved. This load assessment is also part of our documented approach to ducted installations.

Let us consider an illustrative scenario: a homeowner wants to serve a large living room, two bedrooms, and an office. We do not automatically divide the capacity into four equal portions. Instead, we ask for details about each room's exposure, periods of use, and observed temperature differences. This preparation makes it possible to discuss the system to be designed, as well as verify whether a single control zone meets expectations.

A maximum airflow of 1,180 CFM, with four documented levels

The DHR36NDB21S has four published airflow rates, from highest to lowest: 1,180, 1,121, 1,003, and 826 CFM. The corresponding indoor sound pressure levels are 55, 52, 48, and 45 dB(A).

Here, we distinguish the unit's airflow from the airflow assigned to each room. The value of 1,180 CFM, or 1,180 cubic feet per minute, applies to the indoor unit; it does not represent the volume of air available at each grille.

We also review the acoustic data as a whole. 45 dB(A) is the minimum stated value, not the sound level for all operating modes. For a bedroom, office, or meeting room, we therefore discuss the unit's location, grilles, and return air before deciding on the installation layout.

The return-air path can, in particular, transmit fan noise when it connects directly to the living space. The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory technical guide recommends considering this aspect when selecting return-air paths.

A stated static pressure of 0 to 0.8 in. of water column

The brochure classifies this ducted unit among the medium static pressure units and indicates a range of 0 to 0.8 in. of water column for the 36,000 BTU category model.

This data is used in the system design study. We examine the duct layout, changes in direction, grilles, and filtration to prepare a distribution system compatible with the unit.

The table does not make it possible to assert that the maximum airflow of 1,180 CFM will be maintained at all pressures within the stated range. It does not provide the complete pressure-versus-airflow curve. We therefore request the applicable selection data before approving a configuration involving long runs or significant restrictions.

For a replacement, we also do not assume that the existing ducts will be suitable simply because they are already connected to a unit of similar capacity.

Supply and return air must be studied together

The catalog presents the R Series as a single-zone family, with one outdoor unit associated with one indoor unit. Several grilles therefore do not automatically become multiple zones, each with an independent temperature.

We pay particular attention to rooms whose doors remain closed. The supplied air must be able to return to the unit; an inadequate return path can cause pressure imbalances and contribute to temperature differences. Dedicated returns, transfer grilles, and other suitable arrangements are among the solutions considered in technical air-distribution guides.

In our proposal, we therefore want to identify the supply-air grilles, the return air, and the intended operation with doors closed. This approach makes the project more concrete than simply specifying the number of outlets.

Heating down to −18 °C does not mean constant capacity

The outdoor unit DHR36CSB21S has a stated operating range of −18 to 24 °C in heating mode, and −18 to 46 °C in cooling mode.

The nominal heating capacity of 41,000 BTU/h is published with test conditions that include an outdoor temperature of approximately 8 °C. We therefore do not automatically attribute it to operation at −18 °C.

Our commercial data sheet indicates that this combination is certified neither ENERGY STAR nor ENERGY STAR for cold climates. The supplied catalog does not detail its capacity or coefficient of performance at −15 °C. We therefore define the role of the existing heating system before recommending its replacement or retention.

For a project on the North Shore or in Montérégie, we particularly want to specify which spaces the supplemental heating will still need to serve when demand exceeds the heat pump’s contribution.

A standard wired controller and WiFi to be confirmed in the proposal

The ducted unit page lists the standard DWCR wired controller. For more detailed scheduling needs, the catalog also offers the DWCR2, with a seven-day schedule, eight events per day, and settings lockout functions.

This allows us to discuss a control system suited to office schedules or residential routines.

WiFi is listed as optional on our sales sheet. However, the brochure section dedicated to the EWPE app covers the P, X, and Z series, without confirming an interface for this Series R combination. We therefore clarify the compatible accessory reference and its functions before including it in a quotation.

Prepare a ducted installation that will remain accessible after finishing work

Reserve space for the cabinet and future service work

The indoor unit measures 48 × 31 × 11 in, in the width × depth × height order indicated in the catalog. Its published net weight is 101 lb, or approximately 46 kg.

We do not limit the reserved space to the cabinet volume alone. We also allow the space needed for connections, duct transitions, filtration, and service panels.

For the outdoor unit, the catalog lists dimensions of 43.5 × 43 × 17 in, as well as a net weight of 205 lb, or approximately 93 kg. We confirm the dimension orientation and clearances on the applicable drawing before determining the location and supports.

The stated outdoor sound pressure level is 63 dB(A). We include it in the discussion about placement, without confusing it with the level that will be perceived at a window or property line.

Provide a power supply for each of the two units

This installation requires separate power supplies for the indoor and outdoor units. The manufacturer specifies this in the catalog notes. The published power supply is 208/230 V, single-phase, 60 Hz.

The outdoor values are shown in the outdoor unit table; the indoor values are found in the ducted unit table.

We have the electrical work specified in the offer. These characteristics alone do not prescribe a wire gauge: we ask the responsible professional to validate the conductors and protection based on the nameplates and applicable requirements.

3/8 in. and 5/8 in. refrigerant connections

The system uses R-410A. The specified piping includes a 3/8 in. liquid line and a 5/8 in. gas line. The catalog indicates a maximum total length of 164 ft, or 50 m, and a maximum elevation difference of 49.2 ft, or 15 m.

We distinguish these limits from the air-duct route. They concern the refrigerant connection between the units, not the allowable length of the supply-air network.

We also distinguish a technical limit from an amount included in the price. The selected route, concealed sections, and necessary adaptations must appear in the quotation. The catalog also refers to the technical quotation sheets for verifying the connections.

An integrated condensate pump, with no improvised drainage

The brochure states that the ducted unit has an internal condensate pump and a drainage connection with a 1 in. outside diameter.

We determine the drainage point before closing the ceiling. The product information does not specify the pump's allowable lift height; we therefore have this limit confirmed in the applicable instructions rather than assuming that any route will be possible.

We also recommend providing access for inspecting the drainage and servicing the relevant components. Discreet integration of the unit should not make its maintenance unnecessarily difficult.

Three AirGreen projects that show the importance of the network

The following examples come from our job-site reports. They concern other brands and illustrate our integration experience; they are not performance tests of this YORK system.

In Montreal: adapting the ducts to a residence

For the installation of a Fujitsu 18,000 BTU ducted system in Montreal, we created a distribution system with three outlets and ducts adapted to the layout of the house. Our report records the owner's favorable assessment after commissioning. This project showed us the importance of planning the distribution around the layout, rather than imposing the same route on every residence.

In Sainte-Rose, Laval: taking care with starts and junctions

On a GREE ducted-system project in Sainte-Rose, our work included several round sheet-metal branches connected to the plenum, that is, the distribution box. We worked on the transitions, sealing, and insulation of the connections. The documented result is an installation integrated into the intended spaces, without adding multiple visible units to the walls. This distribution work remains relevant when considering a YORK ducted system.

In Brossard: address an acoustic concern

In a residence in Brossard, on the South Shore, we installed a Fujitsu ducted system with three outlets. The owner had specifically expressed concern about noise. Our report describes the duct insulation and additional soundproofing measures, then reports their satisfaction with the comfort and quietness of the result. We address acoustic expectations in the same way before choosing the layout of a new system.

Define the final construction checks

For your HVAC installation, we recommend that the quote specify the checks planned before the system is handed over:

1. Connections and supports, with identification of the appliances actually installed.
2. The refrigeration circuit, with the tests and preparation procedures prescribed for the equipment.
3. Air distribution and drainage, with settings and checks suited to the network.
4. Controls and maintenance access, explained to the owner or person responsible for the premises.

We recommend keeping the appliance references, warranty documents, and filtration information with the invoice. This preparation makes communication easier when an intervention becomes necessary.

Plan for maintenance and describe problems precisely

We choose the filtration location with accessibility in mind. Depending on the return-air configuration, the filter may be located near the appliance or at a return-air grille; this choice affects ease of maintenance.

The brochure provided does not specify a cleaning frequency for the DHR36NDB21S. We therefore refer to the manufacturer's instructions and the filter actually installed, without assuming that every filter element is washable.

For a service call, we ask you to note the affected rooms, the selected mode, and any displayed code. A problem limited to one room, a newly occurring noise, or a water leak from the ceiling should be described separately. We recommend stopping the appliance in the presence of a major leak, a burning smell, or an electrical problem, rather than repeatedly restarting it.

Compare the installed cost, warranty and financial eligibility

A quote tailored to the actual work

We prepare the project by distinguishing the equipment, ductwork, grilles, filtration, controls and connections. We also specify access points, ceiling openings, electrical work and included or excluded finishing work.

For a ducted system, this distinction is particularly useful: two quotes may include the same unit but very different ductwork and work. We recommend comparing their contents before comparing only their total.

The 10-10-0 formula must be accompanied by its terms and conditions

Our commercial sheet states 10 years on the compressor, 10 years on parts, and no labour included in this formula. The catalogue distinguishes a standard warranty of 7 years on the compressor and 5 years on parts, followed by extended residential coverage of 10 years on the compressor and parts, with registration. Coverage including labour is also presented with the purchase of an extension.

We confirm the applicable coverage for the equipment sold and its use. For a commercial project, we do not automatically apply residential conditions. The availability of additional coverage and its exclusions must be specified in writing.

LogisVert assistance must not be assumed

In addition to the product specifications, Hydro-Québec indicates that heat pumps installed as of November 26, 2025 must be ENERGY STAR certified to qualify for LogisVert assistance.

Since our product sheet identifies this combination as uncertified, we do not deduct a financial incentive from its budget on that basis. When the subsidy influences your decision, we recommend comparing the installed costs with those of a combination whose eligibility has been confirmed.

Entrust your ducted-system project to AirGreen

Choosing AirGreen for this project means being able to discuss the unit, as well as the ductwork, access points and expected outcome in each space. Our ducted-system installations document this experience with air distribution and integration into existing buildings.

We invite you to prepare photos of the ceiling, the rooms to be served, the electrical panel and the proposed outdoor location. This will allow us to clarify the feasibility of the YORK R Series 36,000 BTU unit and the work to be included.

Contact AirGreen at 514-316-2973 or at sales@airgreen.ca to obtain a quote and have your ducted air conditioner project evaluated in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or South Shore.