Cold Climate Performance
Homes in colder climates often require larger auxiliary heat capacity because heat pumps lose efficiency as outdoor temperatures fall
Northern climates may benefit from larger backup heat kits than mild-weather regions.

This part may fit other MRCOOL® models or generations. Always verify your model number before ordering.
Send us your indoor unit model number, serial number, and photos of the existing part before ordering. This helps us verify compatibility and reduce the chance of ordering the wrong replacement part.
Ensure uninterrupted home heating with the MRCOOL Emergency Heat Kit—a reliable supplemental heating solution designed for MRCOOL HyperHeat Central Ducted Air Handlers. This electric heat kit serves as a backup heat source during extremely cold weather or in cases where the primary heat pump is temporarily inoperative.
A heat kit (or electric heat strip) acts as a secondary heat source, installed inside the air handler. Often compared to a "large blow dryer," it generates direct electric heat, distributing warm air throughout your duct system when:
🔹 The heat pump is temporarily down and in need of service.
🔹 Outdoor temperatures drop to extreme lows, where the heat pump may struggle to maintain indoor comfort.
🔹 A rapid heating boost is needed, especially in colder climates.
While not as energy-efficient as heat pumps, heat kits are designed for short-term use, ensuring your home stays warm when needed most.
Each MRCOOL HyperHeat Emergency Heat Kit comes with the necessary electrical components for seamless installation inside the MRCOOL HyperHeat Central Ducted Air Handler.
| Power Rating | Model Number |
|---|---|
| 5 kW | CENTRALHK05 |
| 8 kW | CENTRALHK08 |
| 10 kW | CENTRALHK10 |
| 15 kW | CENTRALHK15 |
| 20 kW | CENTRALHK20 |
✔ Choose the correct kW rating based on your home’s heating needs and electrical capacity.
✅ Emergency Backup Heating – Provides reliable warmth when the heat pump is inactive or struggling in frigid temperatures.
✅ Seamless Compatibility – Designed exclusively for MRCOOL HyperHeat Central Ducted Air Handlers, ensuring perfect fit and function.
✅ Quick & Easy Installation – Pre-wired and ready to install directly inside the air handler.
✅ Multiple Power Options – Available in 5kW, 8kW, 10kW, 15kW, and 20kW capacities to match your home’s heating requirements.
✅ Optimized for Cold Climates – Ensures continuous comfort in subfreezing conditions.
✔ Compatible with MRCOOL HyperHeat Central Ducted Air Handlers
✔ Installs inside the air handler cabinet
✔ Requires appropriate electrical connection (ensure compatibility with your home’s circuit capacity)
Ensure uninterrupted heating with the MRCOOL Supplemental Add-On Emergency Heat Kit—a trusted backup heating solution for extreme cold conditions and emergency situations.
💡 Order now from MRCOOL DIY Direct – the USA’s most trusted independent MRCOOL dealer – and enjoy fast shipping, expert support, and guaranteed compatibility!
Product Dimensions |
21.06"W x 10.16"D x 8.03"H |
Product Weight |
5.7 lbs |
Equipment Type |
Heat Kit |
Heating Capacity |
15,001 - 20,000 BTU |
Estimated Coverage |
800 square feet |
Voltage |
Requires a minimum of 208-230V/60HZ/60A (please check your home meets this electrical requirement prior to purchase) |
Max Fuse Breaker |
25/30 |
Min Circuit Ampacity |
23/27 |
Auxiliary Heater Size |
5kw |
Product Dimensions |
21.06"W x 10.16"D x 8.03"H |
Product Weight |
7.3 lbs |
Equipment Type |
Heat Kit |
Heating Capacity |
25,001 - 30,000 BTU |
Estimated Coverage Area |
1,600 square feet |
Voltage |
Requires a minimum of 208-230V/40/45A (please check your home meets this electrical requirement prior to purchase) |
Max Fuse Breaker |
40/45 |
Min Circuit Ampacity |
37/42 |
Auxiliary Heater Size |
8kw |
Product Dimensions |
21.06"W x 10.16"D x 8.03"H |
Product Weight |
6.8 lbs |
Equipment Type |
Heat Kit |
Heating Capacity |
30,001 - 35,000 BTU |
Estimated Coverage Area |
1,400 square feet |
Voltage |
Requires a minimum of 208-230V/50-60A (please check your home meets this electrical requirement prior to purchase) |
Max Fuse Breaker |
50/60 |
Min Circuit Ampacity |
46/53 |
Auxiliary Heater Size |
10kw |
Product Dimensions |
21.06"W x 10.16"D x 8.03"H |
Product Weight |
9 lbs |
Equipment Type |
Heat Kit |
Heating Capacity |
50,001 - 55,000 BTU |
Estimated Coverage Area |
2,200 square feet |
Voltage |
Requires a minimum of 208-230V/50-60A (please check your home meets this electrical requirement prior to purchase) |
Max Fuse Breaker |
25/30 |
Min Circuit Ampacity |
23/27 |
Auxiliary Heater Size |
15kw |
Product Dimensions |
21.06"W x 10.16"D x 8.03"H |
Product Weight |
10.1 lbs |
Equipment Type |
Heat Kit |
Heating Capacity |
65,001 - 70,000 BTU |
Estimated Coverage Area |
2,800 square feet |
Voltage |
Requires a minimum of 208-230V/50-60A (please check your home meets this electrical requirement prior to purchase) |
Max Fuse Breaker |
50/60 |
Min Circuit Ampacity |
46/53 |
Auxiliary Heater Size |
20kw |
| Known Compatible Models / Series |
|
|---|---|
| Compatibility Notice | This part may fit other MRCOOL® models and generations. Compatibility outside the listed models is not guaranteed without verification. |
| Brand | 1st Gen Heat Strip |
|---|---|
| MRCOOL® Part Number | CENTRALHK05 |
No common symptom information has been added for this part type yet.
This replacement part should be installed by a qualified technician or a capable installer familiar with mini split service procedures. Always disconnect power before servicing HVAC equipment.
No Q&A content has been added for this replacement part yet.
HEAT STRIP SIZING & PERFORMANCE
The correct electric heat strip size depends on more than air handler tonnage. Climate, home insulation, electrical capacity, system design, and heating demands all affect which heat kit is appropriate for your HVAC system.
Homes in colder climates often require larger auxiliary heat capacity because heat pumps lose efficiency as outdoor temperatures fall
Northern climates may benefit from larger backup heat kits than mild-weather regions.
Heat strips draw significant electrical current. Your panel capacity, breaker size, and wiring must support the selected heat kit.
Always verify electrical requirements before upgrading to a larger kW heat strip.
Poor insulation increases heat loss and can increase demand on both the heat pump and electric backup heat system.
Improving insulation may reduce heating costs more than increasing heat strip size.
Larger homes generally require more heating capacity, but square footage alone should not determine heat strip selection.
Heat load calculations are more accurate than simple square-foot estimates.
Drafty homes, large entryways, and poorly sealed structures can dramatically increase heating demand.
Air sealing improvements can significantly improve HVAC performance.
Heat strips are not universal. Each air handler has specific approved heat kit sizes and electrical configurations.
Always verify your air handler model number before ordering a heat strip.
Heat strips provide auxiliary and emergency heat when additional heating capacity is needed. Choosing the correct heat kit requires verifying air handler compatibility, electrical requirements, climate conditions, and manufacturer specifications.