3.5 Ton Rheem 13.4 SEER2 R454B Package Unit RACBYB042AJT000NA
The Rheem RACBYB042AJT000NA packs 3.5 tons of cooling and a stronger 3/4 HP indoor blower into the same 29-1/8" tall cabinet used by the smaller RACBYB models. Rated 13.4 SEER2 under AHRI #215862750 on R-454B refrigerant, this dedicated-horizontal package unit suits larger homes that need more airflow without the height of the 4 and 5 ton cabinets.
Is a 3.5 Ton Package Unit the Right Size?
Rheem rates this unit at 40,000 BTU/h of net cooling with 1,400 CFM of rated airflow, a fit for larger single-story homes, open layouts, and homes in hot climates that land between 3 and 4 tons.
At this size, return and supply duct capacity often limits performance. Make sure the duct system can carry 1,400 CFM before replacing a smaller unit. Climate, insulation, and occupancy still drive the load, so pair a Manual J calculation with a duct check.
Ideal for: Larger single-story homes, open-concept layouts, hot-climate homes, and replacement of an existing 3.5 ton horizontal package unit.
Need more capacity? Step up to the 4 Ton Rheem 13.4 SEER2 R454B Package Unit RACBYB048AJT000NA for larger homes and higher loads.
Recommended system sizes are general guidelines only. Actual heating and cooling requirements depend on insulation, climate, windows, ductwork, ceiling height, and occupancy. A Manual J load calculation is the best way to confirm sizing. Request free sizing assistance, contact Budget Heating, or call 813-885-7999.
What's Included
| Unit Type | RACBYB042AJT000NA — 3.5 Ton Dedicated Horizontal Packaged Air Conditioner |
|---|---|
| Cooling Capacity | 40,000 BTU/h AHRI Net Cooling, 1,400 CFM AHRI Rated Airflow |
| Efficiency | 13.4 SEER2 / 10.6 EER2 |
| Refrigerant | R-454B (A2L, Low GWP) |
| Compressor | Single-Stage Scroll Compressor |
| Indoor Blower | 3/4 HP Multi-Speed Direct-Drive, 11" x 9" Wheel |
| Electrical | 208/230V, Single Phase, 60 Hz — MCA 30 A, Max Overcurrent 45 A (Without Heat) |
| Electric Heat | Optional Field-Installed Heat Strip, up to 20 kW |
This is the largest RACBYB model in the 29-1/8" cabinet and the first to use the 3/4 HP blower with an 11" x 9" wheel. It also opens up the 20 kW heat strip option, wired at a single point for simpler installation. Plan for a 30 A minimum circuit ampacity without heat, a field-supplied 1" x 24" x 24" filter, and a level equipment pad for the 317 lb unit.
Package Unit Features
RACBYB042AJT000NA Cooling & Outdoor Section
- Single-stage scroll compressor (15.8 RLA)
- MicroChannel outdoor and indoor coils
- Two thermal expansion valves
- 48 oz R-454B factory charge
- 24" condenser fan with 1/3 HP motor
- High pressure control and filter drier standard
- Louvered condenser compartment
- Metal base rails for clearance and maneuverability
- 29-1/8" cabinet height, 317 lbs net
- 100% factory run tested
Indoor Airflow, Installation & Service
- 3/4 HP multi-speed blower with 11" x 9" wheel
- 1,400 CFM AHRI rated airflow
- Round 14" supply and return duct collars
- Double-sloped evaporator drain pan
- Closed-cell base insulation
- Gauge ports inside the control box
- Number and color-coded wiring
- Removable outdoor and indoor top covers
- Single-point wiring for heat strips
- Heat strip options up to 20 kW on this listing
Specifications & Manuals
See the RACBYB technical specifications for 3.5 ton airflow tables and heater kit electrical data, and the installation instructions for clearances, duct connections, and wiring.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 3.5 ton RACBYB042AJT000NA the right size?
When a load calculation shows roughly 42,000 BTU/h, common in larger single-story homes, open layouts, and hot climates.
What is different about the blower in the 3.5 ton model?
It uses a 3/4 HP multi-speed blower with an 11" x 9" wheel, compared with the 1/2 HP and 10" x 9" wheel in the 2 to 3 ton models.
Is the 3.5 ton unit the same height as the smaller RACBYB models?
Yes. Rheem lists a 29-1/8" cabinet height for the 2 through 3.5 ton models. The 4 and 5 ton models are 37-1/8" tall.
Can the RACBYB042AJT000NA take a 20 kW heat strip?
Yes. Rheem's heater kit table lists kits up to the 20 kW RXQJ-C20J for this model, with simplified single-point wiring.
Does the 3.5 ton package unit have a refrigerant detection system?
Rheem factory-installs its PlusOne® Refrigerant Detection System on the 4 and 5 ton models. Rheem notes that UL 60335-2-40 does not require one for R-454B units with less than 3.9 lbs of charge, and this model holds 48 oz.
What breaker does the RACBYB042AJT000NA need?
Rheem lists a 30 A minimum circuit ampacity and a 45 A maximum overcurrent protection without electric heat.
RACBYB Technical Specifications
RACBYB Installation Instructions
RACBYB Wiring Diagram
RACBYB Consumer Literature
Rheem Package Unit Warranty Certificate


