3.5 Ton EcoTemp 14.5 SEER2 R-454B Heat Pump System – W5H5S42AKAAA & WCHL425AC
The EcoTemp W5H5S42AKAAA and WCHL425AC are built for homes that outgrow 3 tons but don't need a full 4 ton system. They deliver 42,000 BTU/h of R-454B heating and cooling at 14.5 SEER2. This is the first size in the line with a 7/8" vapor connection and a 21" C-cabinet air handler, and heat strips up to 20 kW make it a good choice for larger homes in areas with real winters.
Is a 3.5 Ton Heat Pump System the Right Size?
A 3.5 ton system covers loads around 42,000 BTU/h. Choosing a half-ton step instead of jumping to 4 tons keeps the system closer to the home's actual load. Confirm the size with our tonnage and BTU calculator and a Manual J.
The WCHL425AC's 1,225 CFM nominal airflow needs adequately sized supply and return ducts. In horizontal installs of the 42 to 60 sizes, Goodman calls for supply static above 0.20" w.c. to keep condensate in the pan. Backup heat options run from 5 to 20 kW.
Ideal for: Larger single-family homes, two-story homes with moderate loads, colder-climate homes needing bigger backup heat, and replacements of 3.5 ton heat pumps.
Need more capacity? Step up to the 4 Ton EcoTemp W5H5S48AKAAA & WCHL485AC Heat Pump System for homes requiring additional heating and cooling capacity.
Recommended applications are general guidelines only. Actual system requirements depend on insulation, climate, duct design, window load, occupancy and desired indoor temperature. Request free sizing assistance, contact Budget Heating, or call 813-885-7999.
What's Included
| Outdoor Heat Pump | W5H5S42AKAAA — 3.5 Ton Single-Stage R-454B Heat Pump |
|---|---|
| Indoor Air Handler | WCHL425AC Multipoise ECM Fan Coil (21" Cabinet) |
| Application | Residential Ducted Split System Heat Pump — Heating & Cooling |
| Refrigerant | R-454B |
| Compressor | Single-Stage Scroll Compressor |
| Backup Heat | Electric Heat Strip Selected at Checkout (5, 8, 10, 15 or 20 kW) |
| Electrical | 208/230V, Single Phase, 60 Hz Heat Pump |
| Air Handler Electrical | 208/230V, Single Phase |
The WCHL425AC is the single-piece version of the 3.5 ton fan coil. It measures 49-5/8" H x 21-1/8" W x 22-1/16" D, weighs 166 lbs and has a 7/8" suction connection with a 20" x 20" filter. The W5H5S42AKAAA is 31-11/16" tall, weighs 203 lbs and ships with 7.3 lbs of R-454B. It is rated with a 7/8" vapor line, which matches the 7/8" x 3/8" line sets offered with this system. Its circuit requirement is 24.9 MCA with a 40 amp max breaker. Components are also available individually: the W5H5S42AKAAA heat pump and WCHL425AC air handler.
Heat Pump & Air Handler Features
W5H5S42AKAAA Outdoor Heat Pump
- Nominal 42,000 BTU/h heating and cooling capacity
- 7/8" vapor and 3/8" liquid service valve connections
- 2-row condenser coil with 10 circuits
- 1/5 HP condenser fan motor at 1,100 RPM
- Single-stage scroll compressor (19.0 RLA)
- Loss-of-charge switch and internal pressure relief valve
- Suction line accumulator and filter drier
- Accessory NASA00501CH crankcase heater for sizes 42–60
- Long-line capable with approved accessories
- Durable sheet metal cabinet with dense wire coil guard
WCHL425AC ECM Air Handler
- Single-piece 21-1/8" wide C cabinet
- 1/2 HP multi-tap ECM motor, 1,225 CFM nominal
- A-coil with 7/8" suction connection
- Refrigerant leak detection dissipation system
- Factory-installed R-454B TXV
- Accepts 20" x 20" filters, tool-free access
- Field-installed heaters up to 20 kW single phase
- Easy plug-in heater provisions
- Cabinet leakage under 2% at 1.0" w.c.
- Horizontal hanging provisions on the cabinet
Specifications & Manuals
Use these documents to confirm 3.5 ton line sizing and vertical lift limits, WCHL425 cabinet dimensions and downflow kit options, and heater circuit requirements up to 20 kW.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the WCHL425AC a one-piece or modular air handler?
The WCHL425AC is the singular (one-piece) cabinet. Goodman also makes a two-piece modular WCHL425BC, but this system ships with the AC model.
What line set does the 3.5 ton system require?
The W5H5S42AKAAA is rated with a 7/8" vapor line and 3/8" liquid line. 25' and 50' 7/8" x 3/8" insulated line sets are offered as add-on options.
Can the WCHL425AC be installed in downflow?
Yes, with accessories. A-coil units use the EBAC02DFA downflow conversion kit, and the 42 size uses the EBAC03NCB downflow base kit.
Are there special clearances when using a 20 kW heat strip?
Yes. With 20 kW and larger heaters, keep 1" of clearance from combustible materials to the discharge plenum and ductwork within 36" of the unit. Use heat-resistant flexible connectors at the discharge.
When is a 3.5 ton heat pump a better fit than a 3 or 4 ton?
When a load calculation lands near 42,000 BTU/h. A half-ton step keeps the single-stage system from being undersized at 3 tons or oversized at 4 tons.
What breaker does the W5H5S42AKAAA outdoor unit need?
It requires 24.9 MCA and a 40 amp max time-delay fuse or HACR breaker, on a circuit separate from the air handler.
W5H5S Technical SpecificationsW5HS5 Installation InstructionsW5HS5 BrochureWCHL Technical Specifications
