Front Return Air Handler - Paired with Side Discharge Outdoor
Flexible, high-efficiency air handling for whole-home heat pump comfort.
Durastar’s Sirius Heat front return air handler pairs with compatible side discharge outdoor units to deliver powerful, efficient heating and cooling. Featuring a high-efficiency constant volume variable speed motor, an all-aluminum coil with anti-corrosive fin coating, and built-in dehumidifier, humidifier, and IAQ ports, it supports front and bottom return configurations for flexible installation. The unit uses low-GWP R-454B refrigerant and includes a refrigerant leak detection system. Compatible with the DRSTAT101 communicating thermostat and optional electric auxiliary heat, it operates reliably in low ambient conditions down to -22°F and supports multiple modes including Cool, Heat, Aux, Dry, Fan, and Auto.
Models
Front Return Air Handler - Paired with Side Discharge Outdoor Features
- HVAC equipment products sold to licensed contractors only. Products sold in select areas only, please contact your local branch for availability in your area.
- A2L Compatible
- Refrigerant Detection System
DRUF1820S2A
- A2L Compatible: Yes
- BTU Cooling Rating: 18000 Btu/h
- Factory Installed Heat Strip: No
- Refrigerant: R-454B
- Tonnage: 1.5 Ton
- Type: DRUF1820S2A
- Width: 20-7/25 in
Reviews
Frequently Asked questions
Is an air handler or furnace better?
Both Durastar’s furnaces and air handlers offer dependable options for distributing even airflow throughout your home. When selecting between the two, consider your location and climate. For areas with long warm seasons, an air handler will likely be more energy-efficient, however, we recommend discussing your options with a licensed contractor to ensure the best combinations of HVAC products for your home.
What does variable speed mean?
Variable speed air handlers operate at the lowest possible speed to achieve your desired indoor temperature. This results in increased energy efficiency. Variable speed units are also quieter than standard units.
Is a two-stage air handler more efficient than a single-stage air handler?
Yes, when paired with a two-stage outdoor unit, both units will operate on low capacity during milder days, requiring less energy; and switch to full capacity and power when needed.
What is an inverter compressor?
It is a compressor that seamlessly adjusts speeds to ensure the lowest energy output. Unlike standard compressors which may turn off and on repeatedly until the temperature is achieved, inverter compressors operate with a drive that modulates its speed, using minimal power to maintain your desired indoor temperature. As a result, these types of compressors use significantly less energy and have a longer life because they are not turned off and on to full power repeatedly.
What are the differences between variable speed, ECM, and PSC blower motors?
A variable-speed blower motor offers the most efficiency and adjusts speed to maintain consistent temperature control. It can also detect your home’s static pressure. Furthermore, if ducts are dirty or clogged it will automatically adjust to maintain constant airflow. In comparison to other types, variable-speed motors offer superior dehumidification because of their ability to operate at low RPMs. This results in a more comfortable space. ECM, or electronically commutated motors, are equipped with a regulator so you can select the most efficient settings for your home. Then, it adjusts its torque to maintain your desired indoor temperature. This is slightly different from variable speed motors in that they adjust to maintain a constant CFM (or airflow). PSC, also known as a permanent split capacitor, runs at one constant speed.
How to talk to your contractor
Learn how to talk the talk with a few of our top tips. We cover important questions to ask your HVAC contractor, common mistakes when buying a new system, and more.
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