Rheem launches variable-speed air-source heat pump

US-based heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) and water heating products provider Rheem has launched a new heat pump for residential applications.

“Engineered for universal installation compatibility, the unit pairs easily with nearly any R-454B HVAC system, offering a solution for common replacement and new construction,” the manufacturer said in a statement. “The RP17AY heat pump can also be installed with nearly any indoor component as a universal replacement with minimal modifications, using Rheem’s system control algorithm.”

The system measures 991 mm x 908 mm x 908 mm and weighs 125 kg.

The new product offers nominal capacities from 2 to 5 tons, covering a cooling range of approximately 22,000 to 57,000 British thermal units per hour (BTU/h), with the largest model delivering 60,000 BTU/h of nominal cooling capacity. The system operates on a 208/230 V, single-phase, 60 Hz power supply and uses an inverter-driven twin rotary compressor with variable-speed modulation from roughly 35% to 100%, supported by a brushless direct current (BLDC) condenser fan motor.

In terms of efficiency, the unit achieves a seasonal energy efficiency ratio 2 (SEER2) of up to 17 for cooling, up to 11.7 energy efficiency ratio 2 (EER2), and up to 9.5 heating seasonal performance factor 2 (HSPF2), according to the company. It uses R-454B refrigerant, a low global warming potential (GWP) A2L refrigerant classified as mildly flammable, and incorporates an integrated refrigerant detection and automatic shutdown system, along with built-in A2L safety mitigation measures.

Sound levels are as low as approximately 55 dB under typical operating conditions, depending on installation and load.

Rheem said the system is designed as a universal replacement solution intended to reduce complexity in retrofit projects. It is compatible with both communicating and legacy 24V non-communicating controls, allowing it to integrate with a wide range of existing indoor coils and air handlers without requiring extensive system redesign. It also supports multiple installation scenarios through standardized control logic and flexible system pairing, making it suitable for contractors working in replacement-heavy residential markets.

The RP17AY also integrates Rheem’s connected EcoNet ecosystem, offering Bluetooth-enabled commissioning, onboard diagnostics, and remote monitoring capabilities. These features are designed to streamline installation and servicing while enabling ongoing system optimization, the company said.