NORMAN, Oklahoma — YORK, a premium brand part of the Bosch Home Comfort Group, has passed and exceeded the laboratory testing phase of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Commercial Building HVAC Technology Challenge for its rooftop unit (RTU). YORK developed an all-electric 15-ton heat pump, which allows for simultaneous compressor and electric heating to provide comfortable performance down to -10F while also minimizing the use of electric resistance heating. As a result, it helps to improve efficiency and support decarbonization benefits.

This unit utilizes a new platform that allows it to be used in both replacement and new installation applications. Its well-established controls system allows the RTU to interface with a wide variety of Building Automation Systems (BAS), which contributes to application flexibility. This includes demand response capabilities to limit electric heat run time via remote access. This unit was developed from the Choice rooftop platform. The full range of Choice RTUs is designed to fit about 70% of the competitive installed base, minimizing the need for costly transition curbs. The Choice platform offers options that cover the full range of efficiency levels, from basic models to those that qualify for rebates. In addition, a direct drive supply fan makes the unit more efficient by removing belt losses. It also improves serviceability, giving contractors better access to the fan and making it easier to adjust the fan speed to match project needs.