3.5 Ton EcoTemp 15.5 SEER2 R454B Central System W5A5S42AKAWA, WCHL425AC
This EcoTemp system pairs the W5A5S42AKAWA single-stage condenser with the WCHL425AC multipoise ECM air handler, AHRI certified at 15.5 SEER2 (#214879387). It runs on R-454B, a low-GWP A2L refrigerant, and the air handler has a refrigerant leak detection and dissipation system and a factory-installed TXV. It's cooling only, with electric heat kits from 5 kW up to 20 kW available.
Is a 3.5 Ton Air Conditioning System the Right Size?
A 3.5 ton system is common in larger 3- and 4-bedroom homes around 1,800–2,100 sq. ft. as a general reference.
Stepping up from 3 tons means more airflow, so older duct systems are often the limit. A Manual J load calculation and a duct review confirm the fit.
Ideal for: Larger 3- and 4-bedroom homes, split-level homes and open-concept layouts.
Need more capacity? Step up to the 4 Ton EcoTemp 15.2 SEER2 R454B Central System W5A5S48AKAWA, WCHL485AC 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 | W5A5S42AKAWA — 3.5 Ton EcoTemp R-454B Air Conditioner |
|---|---|
| Indoor Air Handler | WCHL425AC Multipoise ECM Air Handler (21-1/8" 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 R-454B TXV at Indoor Coil |
| Electrical | 208/230V, Single Phase, 60 Hz Condensing Unit — 22.7 MCA / 40A Max Fuse or Breaker |
| Air Handler Electrical | 208/230V, Single Phase — 5.3 MCA / 15A Max Overcurrent (Without Electric Heat) |
The W5A5S42AKAWA condenser is 38-7/16" tall on a 31-3/16" square base and ships at 215 lbs. The WCHL425AC air handler is 49-5/8" tall, 21-1/8" wide and 22-1/16" deep and ships at 166 lbs. Complete the install with compatible thermostats and copper line sets and fittings.
Condensing Unit & Air Handler Features
W5A5S42AKAWA Outdoor Condensing Unit
- 42,000 BTU/h nominal cooling capacity
- Single-stage scroll compressor (17.3 RLA, 123.0 LRA)
- 75 dBA sound power rating
- 1/5 HP direct drive condenser fan, vertical discharge
- 3/8" liquid and 7/8" vapor service valve connections
- Factory charged with 7.2 lb R-454B for 15 ft of line set
- Long-line capable up to 250 ft total equivalent length
- Low ambient cooling down to 0°F with accessory kit
- Internal pressure relief valve, internal thermal overload and filter drier
- 5-year parts limited warranty, 10 years with registration within 90 days
WCHL425AC Multipoise ECM Air Handler
- Multipoise cabinet: upflow or horizontal left, downflow with kit
- Refrigerant leak detection and dissipation system
- 1/2 HP multi-tap ECM blower motor with five speed taps
- 1,225 CFM nominal airflow
- Factory-installed R-454B TXV
- Grooved tube, louvered fin aluminum A-coil
- 3/4" FPT condensate connection
- R-4.2 insulation with vapor barrier, prepainted steel cabinet
- Filter rack fits a 20" x 20" filter
- Field-installed electric heat kits, 5 kW up to 20 kW
Specifications & Manuals
Documentation includes the W5A5S single-stage R-454B condenser product specifications and the WCHL ECM fan coil product data, including dimensions, electrical data, airflow tables and heater kits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is the 3.5 ton W5A5S42AKAWA condenser?
It's 38-7/16" tall on a 31-3/16" square base and ships at 215 lbs, taller than the 31-11/16" 3 ton cabinet.
What vapor line size does the 3.5 ton EcoTemp system use?
The condenser has a 7/8" vapor valve and EcoTemp rates the 42 size with a 7/8" vapor tube and a 3/8" liquid line. The WCHL425AC also has a 7/8" suction connection.
Does the WCHL425AC need a minimum airflow with electric heat?
Yes. The spec sheet calls for at least 1,225 CFM on the 42 size with any heater from 8 kW through 20 kW, using speed tap 4 for electric heat.
Is there a 3.5 ton EcoTemp heat pump system?
Yes. The 3.5 Ton EcoTemp 14.5 SEER2 R454B Heat Pump System W5H5S42AKAAA, WCHL425AC uses the same air handler and adds heating from the outdoor unit.
What overcurrent protection does the W5A5S42AKAWA need?
The spec sheet lists 22.7 minimum circuit amps and a 40 amp maximum time-delay fuse or breaker at 208/230V single phase.
Is there a sound blanket for the 3.5 ton condenser?
Yes. The NASA00101SJ sound blanket kit fits the 42 through 60 sizes. EcoTemp lists 75 dBA standard and 74 dBA with the sound shield for the 42 size.
W5A5S Technical Specifications
