We often get questions similar to the following from our customers:
"Why did you send me a 47204-076 when I ordered a 47204B876?"
"I have a rooftop model 48204A879, what can I replace this unit with?"
Let's see if we can help clear a few things up about these often confusing model number differences.
What do the model numbers mean?
Historically, the manufacturer uses the characters in a model number to decipher the specs and oftentimes indicate vendors of parts used inside that particular unit. The chart below breaks down what each character in the model number means.
| Digit | Brief Description | Detailed Description & Options | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 4 | Refrigerant Type | "4" indicates that the unit uses R-410A refrigerant. As of writing this, there are only "4 series" units being manufactured. |
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| X | Series/Profile Type |
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| X | Heat Pump vs A/C |
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| X | Aftermarket vs OEM |
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| X | BTU Rating |
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| - | Revision Character | "A","B","C","D","-" Used internally to notate small design changes to the unit. |
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| X | Compressor Vendor |
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| X | Start Kit / Capacitor |
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| X | Shroud Color & Finish |
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| X | Misc |
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Not all options are available on all models. Strikethrough text indicates that it's no longer being manufactured.
Using the table above and the common model number "48204A876", we know the following:
- 4 - Uses R-410 refrigerant
- 8 - Is a standard height Mach series
- 2 - Is a 120VAC air conditioner.
- 0 - Standard (No solar, no condensate pump)
- 4 - 15,000 BTU
- A - N/A (revision number for internal uses)
- 8 - Tecumseh is the vendor of the compressor
- 7 - PTCR/Capacitor
- 6 - White textured shroud
In this scenario let's say the customer wants to replace their 48204A876 with the current equivalent replacement. At the time of writing this, the current equivalent replacement would be 48204-076. You can use the table above to see that these two models are essentially the same.
It's worth noting that when switching certain aspects of a model number there may be some incompatibilities with an existing installation. Here are a few examples:
- When going from an AC (4X2XX-XXX) to a heat pump (4X0XX-XXX), you'd need the compatible thermostat and/or control box that allows the heat pump portion to function properly.
- When going from a Mach 8, ultra-low profile (47XXX-XXX) to a Mach 10, low profile (45XXX-XXX), there could be some installations that involve mounting from the unit down into the roof structure where the Mach 8 and the Mach 10 do not have the same positioning of "top down mount" mounting holes.
As always if you are uncertain or have questions about which model you will need before purchasing from us, feel free to reach out and we'll get you pointed in the right direction!
