3 Ton Rheem 15.2 SEER2 R454B Central System RA15AY36AJ1NA, RH2TY3617STANNJ
This 3 ton Rheem Endeavor® Line Classic® system pairs the RA15AY36AJ1NA condenser with the RH2TY3617STANNJ two-stage-airflow air handler, AHRI certified at 15.2 SEER2 (#215264432). It's one of the most common residential sizes, delivering 36,000 BTU/h on low-GWP R-454B refrigerant. The air handler's PlusOne® Refrigerant Detection System™ works with any standard 24V thermostat. The system is cooling only, and breakered Rheem electric heat strips up to 15 kW are offered for backup heat.
Is a 3 Ton Air Conditioning System the Right Size?
A 3 ton system provides 36,000 BTU/h of nominal cooling. It's often used in 3-bedroom homes around 1,500–1,800 sq. ft. as a general guide. Hot, humid climates and homes with lots of glass can need more capacity for the same space.
Ductwork matters as much as the equipment at this size. Undersized return air or leaky supply ducts can starve a 3 ton system of airflow. A Manual J load calculation, along with a check of the duct system, makes sure the new system performs as rated.
Ideal for: 3-bedroom single-family homes, larger townhomes and two-story homes with a single zone.
Need more capacity? Step up to the 3.5 Ton Rheem 15.2 SEER2 R454B Central System RA15AY42AJ1NA, RH2TY4821STANNJ for a larger load.
Recommended home sizes are general guidelines only. Actual system requirements depend on insulation, climate, windows, ductwork, occupancy and a proper load calculation. Request free sizing assistance, contact Budget Heating, or call 813-885-7999.
What's Included
| Outdoor Condensing Unit | RA15AY36AJ1NA — 3 Ton Rheem Classic R454B Air Conditioner |
|---|---|
| Indoor Air Handler | RH2TY3617STANNJ Two-Stage Airflow Multipoise Air Handler (17.5" Wide) |
| Application | Cooling-Only Central Air Split System (Electric Heat Kit Optional) |
| Refrigerant | R-454B (Low-GWP A2L Refrigerant) |
| Compressor | Single-Stage Scroll Compressor |
| Metering Device | Factory-Installed Expansion Valve on Indoor Coil (TXV) |
| Electrical | 208/230V, Single Phase, 60 Hz Condensing Unit — 18 MCA / 30A Max Overcurrent |
| Air Handler Electrical | 208/240V, Single Phase — 3 MCA / 15A Max Overcurrent (No Heat Kit) |
The RA15AY36AJ1NA condenser is 31" tall on a 33.75" x 33.75" base and weighs 210 lbs. It uses a 24" Swept Wing fan and has a 72 dBA sound rating. The RH2TY3617STANNJ air handler is 17.5" wide and 42.5" tall, with a 1/2 HP motor and 10" x 10" blower. Compare the 3 ton Rheem RA14AY36AJ1NA system for a lower-SEER2 option with the same air handler.
Condensing Unit & Air Handler Features
RA15AY36AJ1NA Outdoor Condensing Unit
- 36,000 BTU/h nominal cooling capacity
- Single-stage scroll compressor
- 72 dBA weighted sound power rating
- 2-row 7 mm copper tube coil for efficient heat transfer
- 104 oz. factory R-454B charge for 15 ft. of line set
- 24" Swept Wing fan with 1/6 HP motor
- 3/8" liquid and 3/4" suction front-seating service valves
- PlusOne® Expanded Valve Space and Triple Service Access
- Internal pressure relief valve and internal thermal overload
- 10-year conditional parts limited warranty (registration required)
RH2TY3617STANNJ Two-Stage Air Handler
- Two-stage airflow with a constant torque (ECM) motor
- 1/2 HP, 5-speed motor with 10" x 10" blower
- PlusOne® Refrigerant Detection System™ with integrated A2L sensor
- Aluminum fins bonded to internally grooved aluminum tubing
- 4-way convertible: upflow, downflow, horizontal left or right
- 1.0" foil-faced cabinet insulation for quieter operation
- Cabinet air leakage under 2% at 1" H₂O (ASHRAE 193)
- Works with any standard 24V thermostat
- Expansion valve on indoor coil for AC or heat pump use
- Field-installed heater kits up to 15 kW with UL/cUL-listed breakers
Specifications & Manuals
Documentation includes RA15AY electrical, charge and dimensional data, RH2TY3617 airflow and heater tables, air handler installation instructions and the Rheem limited warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall and heavy is the RA15AY36AJ1NA?
Rheem lists it at 31" tall on a 33.75" x 33.75" base, with a 210 lb weight. It's taller than the 2.5 ton but shares the same footprint.
Can I add a 15 kW heat strip to this 3 ton system?
Yes. We offer breakered heat strips up to 15 kW for this package. Rheem's heater kits include circuit breakers that meet UL and cUL requirements for a service disconnect.
What's the difference between the RA15AY and RA14AY lines?
The number in the model reflects efficiency. Rheem's "15" code covers condensers rated up to 15.2 SEER2 or higher, while "14" covers 13.8 to 14.3 SEER2. Compare the 3 ton RA14AY36AJ1NA system.
How loud is the RA15AY36AJ1NA?
Rheem rates the RA15AY36 at 72 dBA weighted sound power, tested to AHRI Standard 270. A sound cover (68-23427-26) is offered as an accessory.
What line set sizes does this 3 ton system use?
The RA15AY36AJ1NA and RH2TY3617STANNJ both use a 3/8" liquid line and a 3/4" suction line. Check Rheem's long-line guidance for runs beyond the standard length.
Do I need a special thermostat for the PlusOne leak detection?
No. The RH2TY3617STANNJ's refrigerant detection system works with any standard 24V thermostat. The mitigation board handles leak response on its own.

RA15AY Technical Specifications