3 Ton EcoTemp 16 SEER2 R454B Central System W5A5S36AKDWA, WCHL425AC
This EcoTemp system pairs the W5A5S36AKDWA single-stage condenser with the WCHL425AC multipoise ECM air handler, AHRI certified at 16 SEER2 (#217433104). 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. The oversized 3.5 ton air handler raises the matched efficiency to 16 SEER2. It's cooling only, with electric heat kits from 5 kW up to 20 kW available.
Is a 3 Ton Air Conditioning System the Right Size?
This 3 ton system is sized for the same homes as any 3 ton, often around 1,500–1,800 sq. ft. as a rough guide. The larger indoor coil adds efficiency, not capacity.
Make sure the space can take a 21-1/8" wide air handler, and confirm the load with a Manual J calculation.
Ideal for: 3-bedroom homes where lower operating cost matters and there's room for a wider air handler.
Need more capacity? Step up to the 3.5 Ton EcoTemp 15.5 SEER2 R454B Central System 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 | W5A5S36AKDWA — 3 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 — 17.6 MCA / 30A Max Fuse or Breaker |
| Air Handler Electrical | 208/230V, Single Phase — 5.3 MCA / 15A Max Overcurrent (Without Electric Heat) |
The W5A5S36AKDWA condenser is 31-11/16" tall on a 31-3/16" square base and ships at 176 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
W5A5S36AKDWA Outdoor Condensing Unit
- 36,000 BTU/h nominal cooling capacity
- Single-stage scroll compressor (13.5 RLA, 75.0 LRA)
- 72 dBA sound power rating
- 1/10 HP direct drive condenser fan, vertical discharge
- 3/8" liquid and 7/8" vapor service valve connections
- Factory charged with 6.9 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
Why pair a 3 ton condenser with a 3.5 ton air handler?
The larger WCHL425AC coil raises the matched efficiency. This combination is AHRI certified at 16 SEER2 (#217433104), compared with 15.5 SEER2 using the 3 ton WCHL365AB.
Will the WCHL425AC fit where a 17-5/8" air handler was?
Not without changes. It's 21-1/8" wide, 49-5/8" tall and 22-1/16" deep, so check the closet or platform width before you order.
What blower motor is in the WCHL425AC?
A 1/2 HP multi-tap ECM motor rated for 1,225 CFM nominal, with five speed taps so the installer can set airflow for the 3 ton condenser.
Which suction connection does the WCHL425AC have?
A 7/8" sweat connection, which matches the 7/8" vapor valve on the W5A5S36AKDWA. The liquid line is 3/8".
What filter fits the WCHL425AC?
The filter rack fits a 20" x 20" filter, up to 19.75" x 19.75" actual size.
What warranty comes with the EcoTemp W5A5S and WCHL?
Both carry a 5-year parts limited warranty, extended to 10 years with registration within 90 days of installation. The condenser also has a 1-year unit replacement limited warranty.

W5A5S Technical Specifications