Ruud RD18AY36AJVCA 3 Ton 18 SEER2 R-454B Variable Speed Heat Pump

Product Description

The RUUD RD18AY36AJVCA is a 3-ton, 18 SEER2 inverter-driven variable speed heat pump from the Endeavor Line Ultra Series, designed for residential whole-home heating and cooling applications. It runs on R-454B refrigerant and uses a twin rotary compressor to modulate capacity continuously between 45% and 100%, matching load conditions without short-cycling. The side-discharge cabinet measures 46.4 inches tall, 42.3 inches long, and 22.8 inches wide, making it a practical fit for space-constrained installations. Liquid line connection is 3/8 inch and suction fitting is 3/4 inch. Licensed HVAC technicians handle installation and commissioning of this equipment.

This unit is rated for residential applications where inverter-driven variable speed performance is required alongside a compact footprint. The side-discharge airflow configuration suits installations along walls, fences, or building faces where top-discharge clearance is limited. It is compatible with Ruud EcoNet communicating systems and non-communicating systems alike, and is positioned as a universal replacement with minimal field alterations required. The R-454B low-GWP refrigerant and 7mm condenser coil design reduce overall refrigerant charge volume compared to standard coil configurations, supporting lower greenhouse gas emissions per installation.

Key Features

• Inverter-driven twin rotary compressor with variable capacity from 45% to 100% for precise temperature and humidity control
• 18 SEER2 efficiency rating using R-454B low-GWP refrigerant
• Side-discharge cabinet at 46.4 inches tall, 42.3 inches long, and 22.8 inches wide for space-constrained installs
• Compatible with Ruud EcoNet communicating and non-communicating HVAC systems as well as universal replacement scenarios
• 7mm condenser coil reduces refrigerant charge requirements by up to 15% versus standard coil designs
• Sound levels as low as 50 dB with acoustic design features including tubing layout and fan blade geometry
• Steel cabinet with powder coat paint and rust-resistant screws for long-term outdoor durability

Compatibility

The RD18AY36AJVCA works with Ruud EcoNet enabled communicating systems, non-communicating systems, and as a universal replacement for existing R-454B compatible HVAC installations with minimal field alterations.

Installation Notes

Installation must be performed by a licensed HVAC technician familiar with R-454B mildly flammable (A2L) refrigerant handling procedures and applicable local codes. Disconnect and lock out all electrical power before servicing or making refrigerant line connections. Verify liquid and suction line sizes match unit connections — 3/8 inch liquid and 3/4 inch suction — before brazing. Follow manufacturer startup procedures and confirm proper system airflow, refrigerant charge, and control wiring before operating the inverter drive.

Technical Specifications

• Cooling Capacity: 36,000 BTU/h
• Nominal Tonnage: 3 tons
• Efficiency Rating: 18 SEER2
• Refrigerant: R-454B
• Height: 46.4 inches
• Length: 42.3 inches
• Width: 22.8 inches
• Liquid Line Connection: 3/8 inch
• Suction Fitting: 3/4 inch

Standard Information

• Brand: RUUD
• Manufacturer Part Number: RD18AY36AJVCA