Replacing PTACs on the 32 x 18-5/16 Sleeve with the Applied Comfort DM Series
If the PTAC you are replacing sits in a sleeve about 32 inches wide and a little over 18 inches tall, you are probably looking at a DM-size opening. That sleeve was used by a long list of manufacturers that no longer build the unit, and it is one of the most common legacy sizes we quote. The Applied Comfort DM Series is built to that opening.
Which units used the DM sleeve
The DM Series fits a 32" x 18-5/16" sleeve. Units that used that opening include:
- Carrier Wallmate 51P and 51PH
- Heil Quaker C Series
- Islandaire CS, DM, and EZ Series CS, plus the Fedders / Islandaire EZ-CS
- KeepRite AP, AP-E, Climette, DM, and Seasonall
- McQuay TPW / TWP
- Retroaire RC30 and RH30
- Whirlpool AVT
- Zoneaire CSM and CHP
- Earlier Applied Comfort CS, CSM, DMA, DMSA, and DQFB units
In most retrofit jobs the DM Series drops into the existing sleeve with no modification. Earlier DM models (DMQC and DHPC) used the same footprint, so sleeves, grilles, and subbases from those installations carry over.
DMQE or DHE?
The series comes in two configurations:
- DMQE: air conditioner with electric resistance heat, in 9,000, 12,000, and 15,000 BTU/h sizes.
- DHE: heat pump with electric resistance backup, in 12,000 and 15,000 BTU/h sizes. There is no 9,000 BTU heat pump in this series.
The DHE runs its refrigerant cycle in reverse to heat, which costs less to operate in moderate weather, and switches to resistance heat when it gets too cold for the heat pump to carry the load. The DMQE is the simpler choice for very cold climates or rooms that rarely heat.
Voltage and heat
Both models come in 230/208V (K in the model number) and 277V (R). Electric heat options run from 2.5 to 5.0 kW at 230/208V and 3.0 to 4.0 kW at 277V. The heat size has to match the circuit: the 5.0 kW models need a 30 amp circuit and plug, while 2.5 and 3.4 kW models run on 20 amps. Confirm the building's voltage before you order. A unit built for the wrong voltage will not run.
Features that matter in occupied buildings
- Digital controls with temperature limiting, so hotels and apartment owners can cap how hot or cold occupants set the room. Mechanical controls are still available.
- Front desk control ready through a 24VAC connection, standard on digital models.
- Lower noise than earlier DM models, from acoustic materials and an improved fan.
- Washable filter, part number 74004001, 9.125" x 30.75".
Refrigerant
Current DMQE and DHE units use R-454B, a lower global warming potential refrigerant adopted across the industry for new equipment starting in 2025. The change is inside the sealed chassis. It does not change the sleeve, the grille, or how the unit installs.
Accessories to check
If the old sleeve is rusted or missing parts, the 32-inch sleeve (ACC32SLEEVE) ships with a seal kit. A stamped grille and an aluminum architectural grille are available, along with a subbase, duct kits, and a remote thermostat kit for the DMQE. The full list is on the DM Series page.
Ordering
Send the model and serial number from the old unit's nameplate, or the inside sleeve dimensions, through the contact form or call 800-866-1210. We confirm the fit before anything ships.