1.5 Ton EcoTemp 16.5 SEER2 R-454B High-Efficiency Wall Mount Apartment/Condo AC System
This high-efficiency version of the EcoTemp 1.5 ton apartment system pairs the W5A5S18AKAWA condenser with the ECM-powered FMA5X1800AL wall-hung fan coil, earning an AHRI-certified 16.5 SEER2 (AHRI #214877539), matching the top efficiency rating in the EcoTemp FMA5 cooling-only line. A 5-speed constant-torque ECM blower, TXV-metered all-aluminum coil, and R-454B refrigerant make it a smart pick for studios, one-bedroom condos, and ADUs where owners want lower operating costs and quieter, steadier airflow from a compact closet air handler. Condo owners, investors holding long-term rentals, and contractors chasing utility-bill savings for their customers will appreciate the efficiency bump over standard PSC models.
Is a 1.5 Ton High-Efficiency Wall Mount AC System the Right Size?
As the smallest FMA5X system, this 1.5 ton package is aimed at compact living spaces, commonly in the range of about 600 to 900 square feet. Higher efficiency does not change the capacity a home needs, so the same sizing logic applies as with any system: match tonnage to the calculated cooling load, not just the floor area.
Small spaces are especially sensitive to oversizing. A unit that is too large reaches the thermostat setpoint before it removes enough moisture, leaving the space cool but damp. Window area, sun exposure, insulation, appliance heat, and occupancy should all be part of the calculation. For a correctly sized small apartment, the FMA5X1800AL's selectable ECM airflow taps make it easier to dial in airflow for both comfort and dehumidification.
Ideal for: Studio and one-bedroom condos, owner-occupied units focused on lower energy bills, ADUs and in-law suites, small vacation condos, and efficiency upgrades of 1.5 ton apartment-style closet systems.
Need more capacity? Step up to the 2 Ton EcoTemp 16.5 SEER2 W5A5S24AKAWA & FMA5X2400AL Wall Mount System for larger apartments requiring additional cooling capacity.
Recommended applications are general guidelines only. Actual system requirements depend on insulation, windows, sun exposure, ceiling height, climate, occupancy, and ductwork. Request free sizing assistance, contact Budget Heating, or call 813-885-7999.
What's Included
| Outdoor Condensing Unit | W5A5S18AKAWA — 1.5 Ton Single-Stage R-454B Air Conditioner |
|---|---|
| Indoor Air Handler | FMA5X1800AL Multifamily Wall-Hung Fan Coil (ECM Motor) |
| Application | High-Efficiency Central Air Conditioning for Apartments & Condos — 16.5 SEER2, AHRI #214877539 |
| Refrigerant | R-454B |
| Compressor | Single-Stage Scroll Compressor |
| Blower Motor | 1/3 HP 5-Speed ECM (Constant Torque), Direct Drive |
| Electrical | 208-230V, Single Phase, 60 Hz Condensing Unit |
| Air Handler Electrical | 208/230V, Single Phase, 60 Hz |
The FMA5X1800AL ECM apartment air handler ships on airflow tap 3 for a nominal 650 CFM, with four other taps available to fine-tune airflow for the duct system. Its 84 lb, 20-1/2" wide cabinet is lighter than the PSC equivalent, making it easier to hang in a tight closet. Outdoors, the W5A5S18AKAWA uses a single-row, four-circuit coil and a 1/12 HP fan for quiet operation. Control the system with a standard cooling thermostat such as the Honeywell T6 Pro programmable thermostat, and add an EHK205B 5 kW heat strip or another EHK-series kit listed in the FMA5 product data if electric heat is needed. Explore more EcoTemp heating and cooling equipment.
Condensing Unit & Air Handler Features
W5A5S18AKAWA Outdoor Condensing Unit
- Reaches 16.5 SEER2 when matched with the FMA5X1800AL
- Single-stage scroll compressor on low-GWP R-454B
- 1/12 HP, 800 RPM direct-drive condenser fan
- 17.7 sq ft single-row condenser coil
- 5°F subcooling charging target with TXV indoor coil
- Internal thermal overload and pressure relief valve
- Supports standard or programmable thermostats on 24V control
- Accessory sound shield, support feet, and crankcase heater available
- Low-ambient cooling to 0°F with approved kits
- 1-year unit replacement plus 10-year parts limited warranty with registration
FMA5X1800AL Wall-Hung Fan Coil
- 1/3 HP, 5-tap ECM blower, factory set on tap 3
- Constant-torque motor holds airflow at 208V about the same as at 230V
- Nominal 650 CFM with a 450 to 675 CFM operating range
- Airflow is equivalent for front or bottom return configurations
- Lightweight 84 lb shipping weight
- TXV and factory-installed refrigerant leak detection system
- All-aluminum coil with sloped, corrosion-resistant drain pan
- Installs in a closet between standard stud spacing
- Uses a 15.5" x 19.5" x 0.75" filter
- Optional 5, 7.5, or 10 kW field-installed electric heat
Specifications & Manuals
Product documentation includes W5A5S condenser specifications and installation instructions, the Grandaire AC condenser brochure, and FMA5L/FMA5X fan coil specifications, installation, service, wiring, and warranty literature to assist with equipment selection, installation, and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size living space fits the 16.5 SEER2 W5A5S18AKAWA / FMA5X1800AL pairing?
This 1.5 ton system generally suits around 600 to 900 square feet, such as a studio, one-bedroom condo, or ADU. A load calculation that accounts for windows, insulation, and climate is the best way to confirm.
What do I gain with the FMA5X1800AL ECM blower over the PSC FMA5L1800AL?
The ECM version raises system efficiency from 15.5 to 16.5 SEER2 with the same W5A5S18AKAWA condenser, offers five airflow taps instead of three, and maintains airflow at 208 volts. If first cost matters most, the 1.5 ton PSC FMA5L1800AL system is the budget alternative.
Is the R-454B in this system an A2L refrigerant, and what does that mean for installation?
Yes. R-454B is classified as a mildly flammable A2L refrigerant, which is why the FMA5X1800AL includes a factory-installed refrigerant leak detection system. Installers should follow the installation instructions and local codes for A2L equipment, tools, and service practices.
How much clearance does the FMA5X1800AL need around the cabinet?
None. The FMA5 product data lists 0" required clearance on all sides and from the supply duct, both with and without electric heaters. Leave room at the front for service access and filter changes.
How loud is the W5A5S18AKAWA condenser?
The W5A5S18AKAWA carries a 72 dBA sound power rating, or 71 dBA with the accessory sound shield, tested in compliance with AHRI 270. The sound shield is suggested when the condenser sits within 15 ft of bedrooms or other quiet areas.
Which owners get the most from a high-efficiency 1.5 ton apartment system?
Owner-occupants, condo investors who cover utilities, and landlords marketing energy-efficient units benefit most. A matching heat pump option is available in the 1.5 ton EcoTemp FMA5X heat pump system.
W5A5S Technical SpecificationsW5A5S Installation InstructionsW5A5S Customer BrochureFMA5X Technical SpecificationsFMA5X Installation InstructionsFMA5X Warranty CertificateFMA5X Wiring DiagramFMA5X Service Manual
