4 Ton Rheem 17 SEER2 Inverter R454B Heat Pump Condenser RP17AY48AJVCA
The Rheem RP17AY48AJVCA is a 4-ton, top-discharge universal heat pump designed for R-454B refrigerant and the higher demands of larger homes. Delivering 45,500 BTU of both cooling and 47°F heating, its inverter-driven PlusOne variable-speed compressor scales output to match the load, so a bigger home gets strong capacity on design days and quiet, efficient inverter operation the rest of the year at up to 17 SEER2 and 9.5 HSPF2.
Is the 4 Ton RP17AY48AJVCA the Right Size?
A 4-ton heat pump typically fits larger homes in the range of about 1,800 to 2,400 square feet, though open floor plans, high ceilings, and warm climates can shift the requirement considerably.
Homes with large window areas, multiple stories, or higher occupancy see increased heat gain that a load calculation captures far more accurately than square footage. The inverter-driven RP17AY48AJVCA is a strong fit where a single-stage unit would short-cycle, but confirm the 45,500 BTU capacity with a Manual J calculation.
Ideal for: larger single-family homes, two-story layouts with sizable conditioned areas, and warm-climate homes with higher cooling loads.
Need more capacity? Step up to the 5 Ton Rheem RP17AY60AJVCA Heat Pump Condenser for the largest residential and light-commercial applications.
Recommended sizing ranges are general guidelines only. Actual system requirements depend on insulation, climate, ductwork, window load, and air-sealing. Request free sizing assistance, contact Budget Heating, or call 813-885-7999.
Key Specifications
| Model / MPN | RP17AY48AJVCA |
|---|---|
| Nominal Capacity | 4 Tons (48,000 BTU class) |
| Rated Cooling Capacity | 45,500 BTU/h (AHRI-matched) |
| Heating Capacity | 45,500 BTU/h @ 47°F / 39,500 BTU/h @ 17°F |
| Efficiency | Up to 17 SEER2 / 11.7 EER2 / 9.5 HSPF2 |
| Refrigerant | R-454B (A2L, low GWP) |
| Compressor | Inverter-Driven PlusOne Variable-Speed Twin Rotary |
| Sound Level | As low as 58 dBA |
| Electrical | 208/230V, 1 Phase, 60 Hz • RLA 20.1 • MCA 26 • Max Fuse/HACR 45A |
| Cabinet (H x W x L) | 39" x 32" x 32" |
| Net Weight | 240 lbs |
The RP17AY48AJVCA moves 4,126 CFM across a single-row 7mm copper coil and ships with a factory bi-flow liquid-line filter drier plus the integrated PlusOne Refrigerant Detection System. Its higher rated-load amperage means circuit protection is sized larger than the smaller inverter models, so verify wiring and breaker capacity during installation.
Performance & Smart Control Features
RP17AY48AJVCA Performance
- Inverter-driven PlusOne variable-speed compressor prevents short-cycling on big loads
- 45,500 BTU cooling and heating capacity for larger conditioned spaces
- Inverter modulation delivers strong design-day output with efficient part-load running
- Up to 17 SEER2 and 9.5 HSPF2 with low-GWP R-454B
- Quiet as low as 58 dBA despite higher capacity
- Brushless DC condenser motor and 7mm copper coil for efficiency and reliability
Smart Control & Compatibility
- EcoNet enabled for automatic configuration with matched indoor equipment
- AHRI-matched to the 4 Ton Rheem RH2VY4821STACNJ R-454B Air Handler
- With that EcoNet-enabled air handler, install the Rheem EcoNet Smart Thermostat for communicating control
- With a non-EcoNet air handler, use the ecobee Smart Thermostat Lite (EB-STATE7P-01)
- PlusOne Diagnostics & Bluetooth for faster setup and troubleshooting
- 10-year conditional parts warranty with registration
Specifications & Manuals
Product documentation includes technical specifications, installation instructions, the R-454B charge chart, and warranty information to assist with equipment selection, installation, and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the electrical requirements for the RP17AY48AJVCA?
It operates on 208/230V single-phase power with a rated-load amperage of 20.1, a minimum circuit ampacity of 26, and a maximum fuse or HACR breaker of 45 amps. Always confirm sizing against the National Electrical Code.
How much airflow does the 4-ton RP17AY move across its coil?
The unit is rated at roughly 4,126 CFM through a single-row 7mm copper condenser coil with a 21.5 square-foot face area.
What indoor unit pairs with the RP17AY48AJVCA?
The AHRI-matched pairing is the 4-ton Rheem RH2VY4821STACNJ variable-speed R-454B air handler.
Why choose an inverter-driven 4-ton over a single-stage unit?
On larger loads, the inverter drive modulates capacity rather than cycling at full output, which prevents short-cycling, improves humidity control, and runs more efficiently across the cooling and heating seasons.
Does the 4-ton RP17AY work with a non-communicating thermostat?
Yes. It operates with legacy and other 24V thermostats using the Rheem algorithm, running two-stage (70% and 100%) without the utility jumpers or full variable speed when the utility 1 and 2 jumpers are installed.
What is the PlusOne Refrigerant Detection System on the RP17AY48AJVCA?
It is an integrated, one-box design combining the A2L sensor and mitigation board. It simplifies wiring, works with any 24V thermostat application, and automatically pauses outdoor-unit operation if excess refrigerant is detected.
RP17AY Technical SpecificationsRP17AY BrochureRP17AY Charge ChartRP17AY Submittal SheetRP17AY Installation InstructionsRheem Warranty Certificate
