It’s time once again for the annual Cooling Showcase. The NEWS’ annual issue has traditionally introduced the latest air conditioning units available for the upcoming summer season. The intent is to help contractors prepare for this busy period by doing the research that will help them to distinguish between brands.
Like last year, this year’s Cooling Showcase is split into two parts — commercial and residential. This issue focuses on the commercial side of the air conditioning industry, while the April 16 issue highlighted new offerings in the residential cooling market. Included in the coverage is feature-specific information about each individual product as submitted by the manufacturers.
The product grid includes technical facts, such as unit tonnage, refrigerant type, efficiency rating, and cooling capacity. The photo feature, which begins below, provides more in-depth information on the features of each individual unit and also includes technical support information from the manufacturer. The manufacturers provided all of the data included in the product grid, as well as in the photo feature. Therefore, any questions should be directed to them via the contact information provided in the photo feature section.
Aaon
Model: RN Series two-step compressor rooftop air conditioner/heat pump rooftop unit
Footprint (in inches): Manufacturer did not specify.
Serviceability features: The units feature simple five-stage compressor capacity control, isolated compressor and control compartment, and slide-out access for filter replacement. Hinged access doors with lockable handles allow easy servicing of all sections of the unit, including economizer, supply fan, and energy recovery wheel. Color-coded wiring diagrams match labeled components and color-coded wires.
Technical support: Available through local Aaon representatives at www.aaon.com/repsearch. Factory product support is available at techsupport@aaon.com or 918-382-6450. Installation, operation, and maintenance manual shipped with every unit.
Technical support materials: Wiring diagrams; installation, operation, and maintenance manuals; parts list; specification sheets; startup instructions; and submittal data sheets.
Noise-reduction features: The double-wall, rigid, polyurethane foam-injected panel construction dampens radiated compressor and fan sound. Direct drive fans are available with either variable-frequency drives (VFDs) or electronically commutated motors (ECMs) for variable airflow control and reduced fan sound. Compressor sound blankets are also included.
IAQ equipment supported: Stainless steel drain pans are double sloped to ensure positive drainage and to prevent microbial growth. The outside air opening in the unit can accommodate up to 100 percent outside air. Constant volume outside air control and economizer CO2 override are available to promote IAQ. The double-wall panel construction inhibits microbial growth, and coil and drain pan UV lights are available.
Thermostat compatibility: Compatible with most thermostats.
Replacement parts compatibility: Shares replacement parts with other models.
Additional features: Units include energy-efficient features, such as two-step scroll compressors, microchannel condenser coils, AAONAIRE energy recovery wheels, and direct drive backward curved fans. Modulating hot gas reheat is available for dehumidification. Safety features, such as burglar bars, electric preheat, phase and brownout protection, and supply/return smoke detectors, are available. Features that extend the life of the unit, such as interior corrosion protection, stainless steel coil casing, and standard 2,500-hour salt spray tested corrosion exterior paint, are available.
Warranty information: Standard one-year parts and five-year compressor warranty. Optional two-year, five-year, or 10-year parts extended warranty. Standard 15-year aluminized or 25-year stainless steel heat exchanger warranty.
Special installation requirements: None.
Contact: Aaon, 915-583-2266; www.aaon.com.
eProduct 160
Model: RQ Series variable-speed rooftop unit
Footprint (in inches): Manufacturer did not specify.
Serviceability features: The units feature slide-out access for filters, economizer, supply fan, and energy recovery wheel. Hinged access doors with lockable handles allow for easy servicing of all sections of the unit. Compressors and control components are readily accessible. Color-coded wiring diagrams allow fast connection identification and analysis, reducing service time and cost. Individual components and wires are also labeled for quick circuit evaluation.
Technical support: Support is available through local Aaon representatives at www.aaon.com/repsearch. Factory product support is available at techsupport@aaon.com or 918-382-6450. Installation, operation, and maintenance manual shipped with every unit.
Technical support materials: Wiring diagrams; installation, operation, and maintenance manuals; parts list; specification sheets; startup instructions; and submittal data sheets.
Noise-reduction features: The double-wall, rigid, polyurethane foam-injected panel construction dampens radiated compressor and fan sound. Direct drive fans are available with either variable-frequency drives (VFDs) or electronically commutated motors (ECMs) for variable airflow control and reduced fan sound. Compressor sound blankets are also included.
IAQ equipment supported: Stainless steel drain pans are double sloped to ensure positive drainage and to prevent microbial growth. The outside air opening in the unit can accommodate 100 percent outside air. Constant volume outside air control, economizer CO2 override, and interior corrosion protection are available to promote IAQ. The double-wall panel construction inhibits microbial growth, and coil/drain pan UV lights are available.
Thermostat compatibility: Compatible with most thermostats.
Replacement parts compatibility: Shares replacement parts with other models.
Additional features: Inverter-driven variable-speed compressors allow for improved part-load efficiency. Energy-efficient features include microchannel condenser coils, AAONAIRE energy recovery wheels, and direct drive backward curved fans. Safety features, such as burglar bars, phase and brownout protection, and supply/return smoke detectors, are available. Features that extend the unit life, such as condenser coil guards, stainless steel coil casing, and standard 2,500-hour salt spray tested corrosion exterior paint, are available.
Warranty information: Standard two-year parts and five-year compressor warranty. Optional five-year, or 10-year parts warranty. Standard 15-year aluminized or 25-year stainless steel heat exchanger warranty.
Special installation requirements: None.
Contact: Aaon, 918-583-2266; www.aaon.com.
eProduct 161
Airstage
Model: 460V VRF system
Footprint (in inches): 30 (length) by 37 (width) by 67 (height)
Serviceability features: Inspection/replacement of main parts is easy due to innovative construction and LED display. The consolidated electrical components and movable PCB panel make maintenance easy, and the split front panel allows for access from the top or bottom of the unit. The easy-to-read seven-segment LED display explains operational/trouble status.
Technical support: Available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time at 888-888-3424. Through a password-protected website, contractors can download a design and technical manual, installation manual, service manual, operation manual, and submittal drawings.
Technical support materials: Wiring diagrams; installation, operation, and maintenance manuals; parts list; troubleshooting guide; specification sheets; and startup instructions.
Noise-reduction features: In low noise mode, the operation of the 460V outdoor condensing unit is limited to keep noise levels below a programmed limit. Using this feature, the maximum sound from a condensing unit can be as low as 50 dBA.
IAQ equipment supported: Indoor wall-mounted units feature ion deodorization filters that decompose absorbed odors using the oxidizing/reducing effects of ions generated by the ultra-fine-particle ceramic and Apple-Catechin filter, which absorbs fine dust, invisible mold spores, and harmful microorganisms onto the filter by static electricity, and further growth is inhibited and deactivated.
Thermostat compatibility: Requires a special thermostat.
Replacement parts compatibility: Some shared parts and some unique parts.
Additional features: The Fujitsu VRF product line provides high-quality performance and has many software features and control options.
Warranty information: For systems that are installed and commissioned by a qualified contractor, five-year parts and seven-year compressor. See warranty statement for full details.
Special installation requirements: Installing contractors are required to take a hands-on service course.
Contact: Fujitsu General America Inc., 973-575-0380; www.fujitsugeneral.com.
eProduct 162
Model: J-II Series heat pump
Footprint (in inches): 15 (length) by 38 (width) by 53 (height)
Serviceability features: Inspection/replacement of main parts is easy due to innovative construction, including consolidated electrical components. The easy-to-read seven-segment LED display explains operational/trouble status. Additionally, the connection check function simplifies communication wiring checking.
Technical support: Available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time at 888-888-3424. Through a password-protected website, contractors can download a design and technical manual, installation manual, service manual, operation manual, and submittal drawings.
Technical support materials: Installation, operation, and maintenance manuals; owner’s manual; submittal data sheets; and CAD drawings.
Noise-reduction features: This unit offers two low-noise modes. Using these modes can lower the outdoor unit sound rating by 5 to 6 dBA.
IAQ equipment supported: Indoor wall-mounted units feature ion deodorization filters that decompose absorbed odors using the oxidizing/reducing effects of ions generated by the ultra-fine-particle ceramic and Apple-Catechin filter, which absorbs fine dust, invisible mold spores, and harmful microorganisms onto the filter by static electricity, and further growth is inhibited and deactivated. In addition, an affiliated third party provides economizer and filter boxes for ducted indoor units.
Thermostat compatibility: Requires a special thermostat.
Replacement parts compatibility: Some shared parts and some unique parts.
Additional features: This compact single-phase VRF system provides both heating and cooling at high efficiencies.
Warranty information: For systems that are installed and commissioned by a qualified contractor, 10-year parts and compressor warranty. See warranty statement for full details.
Special installation requirements: Installing contractors are required to take the Airstage Service training to guarantee trouble-free installation and long equipment life.
Contact: Fujitsu General America Inc., 973-575-0380; www.fujitsugeneral.com.
eProduct 163
Allied Commercial
Model: T-Series™ split air conditioner and heat pumps
Footprint (in inches): 44 to 49 (length) by 40 to 61 (width) by 19 (height)
Serviceability features: This unit features an external filter rack, slide-out blower motor(s) and belt auto-tensioning pulley, easily accessible compressor and service valves, and easy-to-remove plastic drain pan.
Technical support: Available at 800-448-5872.
Technical support materials: Wiring diagrams; installation, operation, and maintenance manuals; parts list; specification sheets; startup instructions; owner’s manual; and submittal data sheets.
Noise-reduction features: The variable-frequency drive (VFD) slow start gradually ramps blower up to speed, reducing noise at start. Reduced air speeds also lower sound in part-load operation.
IAQ equipment supported: This unit supports standard MERV 8 filters, which provide high levels of air filtration. Accessories include MERV 10 or 16 filters.
Thermostat compatibility: Compatible with most thermostats.
Replacement parts compatibility: Shares replacement parts with other models.
Additional features: This system features single-zone variable air volume (VAV) and two stages of cooling as well as improved condensate management and air handler cabinet installation.
Warranty information: Five-year limited warranty on compressor and one-year limited warranty on covered components.
Special installation requirements: None.
Contact: Allied Air Enterprises, 803-738-4000; www.allied-commercial.com.
eProduct 164
Arcoaire
Model: RAH 073 packaged air conditioner
Footprint (in inches): 41 (length) by 59 (width) by 88 (height)
Serviceability features: The central terminal board facilitates simple safety circuit troubleshooting. The unit features a simplified control box arrangement, and the indoor refrigerant header allows for easy maintenance and replacement. Access panels with easy-grip handles provide quick access to the blower, blower motor, control box, and compressor. The no-strip screw feature guides screws into position while preventing the screw from stripping the unit’s metal.
Technical support: Factory-trained technical service advisors (TSAs) on staff at local distributors provide technical assistance and troubleshooting at the local level. ICP technical training is available at field schools held at participating distributor locations.
Technical support materials: Wiring diagrams; installation, operation, and maintenance manuals; parts list; troubleshooting guide; specification sheets; startup instructions; and submittal data sheets. Additional product information is posted online at www.GoArcoaire.com.
Noise-reduction features: The fully insulated cabinet reduces noise.
IAQ equipment supported: This unit features 2-inch return air filters. An optional economizer control accepts a CO2 sensor for IAQ capability. Also, the accessory duct-mounted CO2 sensor is available for field installation to provide demand-controlled ventilation capability (DCV).
Thermostat compatibility: Compatible with most thermostats.
Replacement parts compatibility: Shares replacement parts with other models.
Additional features: This one-piece, two-stage, electric cooling unit has a low profile and efficient scroll compressor. It is field convertible from vertical to horizontal airflow with no special kit required. The thermostatic expansion valve (TXV) refrigerant metering device controls refrigerant flow. It also features a through-the-bottom power entry capability and standard, medium, and high static fan motor options.
Warranty information: Five-year limited warranty on compressor; one-year limited warranty on all other parts. See warranty certificate for complete details and restrictions.
Special installation requirements: None.
Contact: International Comfort Products, 317-847-6930; www.GoArcoaire.com.
eProduct 165
Model: RHH 036-072 packaged heat pump
Footprint (in inches): 74 to 88 (length) by 47 to 60 (width) by 33 to 41 (height)
Serviceability features: Access panels with easy-grip handles provide easy access to the blower, blower motor, control box, and compressors. The no-strip screw feature guides screws into position while preventing the screw from stripping the unit’s metal. The terminal board facilitates safety circuit troubleshooting. The unit also features a simplified control box arrangement.
Technical support: Factory-trained technical service advisors (TSAs) on staff at local distributors provide technical assistance and troubleshooting at the local level. ICP technical training is available at field schools held at participating distributor locations.
Technical support materials: Wiring diagrams; installation, operation, and maintenance manuals; parts list; troubleshooting guide; specification sheets; startup instructions; and submittal data sheets. Additional product information is posted online at www.GoArcoaire.com.
Noise-reduction features: The fully insulated cabinet reduces noise.
IAQ equipment supported: Unit features 2-inch return air filters. An optional economizer control accepts a CO2 sensor for IAQ capability. The duct-mounted CO2 sensor accessory is available for field installation to provide demand-controlled ventilation capability (DCV).
Thermostat compatibility: Compatible with most thermostats.
Replacement parts compatibility: Shares replacement parts with other models.
Additional features: Energy Star-qualified units are field convertible for vertical or horizontal airflow duct configuration. They also feature high- and low-pressure switches. Scroll compressor has internal line-break overload protection. Factory-installed options include high-static indoor fan and economizers.
Warranty information: Five-year limited warranty on compressor; one-year limited warranty on all other parts. See warranty certificate for complete details and restrictions.
Special installation requirements: None.
Contact: International Comfort Products, 317-847-6930; www.GoArcoaire.com.
eProduct 166
Bosch Thermotechnology
Model: Climate 6000 AH semi-custom commercial air handlers
Footprint (in inches): Varies.
Serviceability features: Standard smart hinged-door panels allow for the easy service and replacement of cartridge panel-filter assemblies and the coil. Most standard coil configurations allow for easy removal through a door panel, which is accessible on the right or left side.
Technical support: Available at 866-642-3198.
Technical support materials: Wiring diagrams; installation, operation, and maintenance manuals; parts list; troubleshooting guide; specification sheets; startup instructions; owner’s manual; and submittal data sheets.
Noise-reduction features: Double-wall panels are manufactured using a unique process with steel sheets coated with polyurethane passing over heated rollers to ensure a consistent R-13 insulation. This process provides uniform 2-inch-thick insulated sandwich panels with improved rigidity, thereby obtaining sound attenuation while reducing vibration.
IAQ equipment supported: There are several mixing box configurations; pre- and post-filtration options (MERV-8 to MERV-16 ratings); and empty sections available for field-installed devices, such as dehumidifiers, ionizers, or UV lights. The unit’s cooling coil drain pans comply with ASHRAE 62.1.
Thermostat compatibility: Requires a special thermostat. Controllers are field-supplied by contractors.
Replacement parts compatibility: Some shared parts and some unique parts.
Additional features: The same models are suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. The sandwich panel, tongue-and-groove assembly, and complex gasketing provide thermal breaking. Energy recovery options, such as a heat wheel, cross-flow plate heat recuperator, or glycol run-around coils, are available. The standard product lead time is six weeks.
Warranty information: See the full warranty details at www.bosch-climate.us//files/Bosch_Climate6000AH_Warranty_US.pdf.
Special installation requirements: Units can be ordered in sections for field assembly in existing applications. Curb-ready base frames are available for rooftop installations with crane lifting locations. Several non-standard features are available upon request.
Contact: Bosch Thermotechnology Corp., 603-965-7445; www.boschheatingandcooling.com.
eProduct 167
Bryant
Model: 548J Legacy™ Series packaged heat pump
Footprint (in inches): 74 to 116 inches (length) by 47 to 64 inches (width) by 33 to 57 inches (height)
Serviceability features: The large access panels feature easy-grip handles. The innovative, easy starting, no-strip screw feature is located on unit access panels and the toolless filter access door. The central terminal board facilitates simple safety circuit troubleshooting and simplified control box arrangement.
Technical support: Support provided through the nationwide network of local distributors.
Technical support materials: Wiring diagrams; installation, operation, and maintenance manuals; parts list; troubleshooting guide; specification sheets; startup instructions; owner’s manual; and submittal data sheets.
Noise-reduction features: The unit features isolated compressors with an insulated cabinet design and a multiblade outdoor condenser fan.
IAQ equipment supported: This unit features an integrated economizer with CO2 demand control ventilation (DCV) capability and two filter capabilities.
Thermostat compatibility: Compatible with most thermostats.
Replacement parts compatibility: Shares replacement parts with other models.
Additional features: All Legacy Series units are field-convertible to horizontal airflow, which makes it easy to adjust to unexpected job site complications. Lighter units result in easy replacement. Most 3- to 12.5-ton 548J rooftops fit on existing Bryant curbs dating back to 1989. Also, the large control box gives the technician room to work and room to mount Bryant accessory controls. Units also come standard with a refrigerant accumulator.
Warranty information: Five-year compressor and electric heat; one year on all other components.
Special installation requirements: None.
Contact: Bryant, 317-847-6930; www.bryant.com.
eProduct 168
