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MRCOOL UHK05 5kW Electric Heat Kit with Circuit Breaker – Universal Series (R-454B)

Brand Aux/Emergency Heat
MRCOOL® PART NUMBER UHK05
Regular price $183.00
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✓ Confirmed Fitment

Fits These MRCOOL® Models

  • UAH18024-O
  • UAH18030-O
  • UAH18036-O

This part may fit other MRCOOL® models or generations. Always verify your model number before ordering.

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Compatibility matters. Replacement parts are model-specific. Images may be stock photos, and small visual differences may exist between production batches. Verify your model number, serial number, and existing part before placing an order.
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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.

MRCOOL UHK05 5kW Electric Heat Kit with Circuit Breaker – Universal Series (R-454B)

The MRCOOL UHK05 5kW Heat Kit provides dependable supplemental electric heat for MRCOOL Universal Series R-454B air handlers. This factory-approved kit includes a built-in circuit breaker and installs directly into compatible Universal indoor units for efficient cold-weather performance.

Product Overview

The MRCOOL UHK05 Electric Heat Kit is the ideal supplemental heating solution for Universal Series air handlers operating on the new R-454B refrigerant platform. Designed for seamless drop-in installation, this 5kW module enhances comfort in colder climates by providing fast, consistent electric backup heat.

Engineered by MRCOOL for perfect compatibility, the UHK05 includes an integrated circuit breaker, high-quality heating elements, and all required safety features. According to the Universal Series Heat Kit Installation Manual, the 5kW model integrates directly with select UAH-series air handlers and uses a single relay and breaker for reliable operation.

Whether you need auxiliary heat for cold snaps or full-time supplemental heating, the UHK05 delivers dependable performance aligned with MRCOOL’s Universal standards.

Features

  • 5kW auxiliary electric heat output
  • Built-in circuit breaker for enhanced safety
  • Factory-approved for MRCOOL Universal Series (R-454B)
  • Improves heating performance during low-temperature conditions
  • Simple plug-and-mount installation inside the air handler
  • Includes wiring diagram, foam gasket, breaker label & screws
  • Compatible with 208/230V, single-phase systems
  • Ideal for residential and light commercial supplemental heating

Compatible With

This 5kW heat kit is compatible with the following MRCOOL Universal Series R-454B Air Handlers:

  • UAH18024-O
  • UAH18030-O
  • UAH18036-O

Technical Specifications

Brand MRCOOL
Series Universal R-454B
Model UHK05
GTIN 00840255588041
UPC 840255588041
Unit Type Universal Series Heat Kit
Heater Capacity 5kW
Voltage 208/230V
Phase 1
Cycle 60 Hz
Internal Protection Circuit Breaker
Heater Amps 18.0/20.0 A
MCA 23.0/27.0
MOP 25.0/30.0
Net Dimensions 8.13" H × 10.63" W × 22" D
Net Weight 4.5 lbs
Gross Dimensions 10.25" H × 15" W × 25.63" D
Gross Weight 12.1 lbs

 

Confirmed Fitment

Known Compatible Models / Series
  • UAH18024-O
  • UAH18030-O
  • UAH18036-O
Compatibility Notice This part may fit other MRCOOL® models and generations. Compatibility outside the listed models is not guaranteed without verification.

Part Details

BrandAux/Emergency Heat
MRCOOL® Part NumberUHK05

Common Symptoms

No common symptom information has been added for this part type yet.

Installation Notes

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

What Affects Emergency Heat & Heat Strip Requirements?

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.

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Cold Climate Performance

Homes in colder climates often require larger auxiliary heat capacity because heat pumps lose efficiency as outdoor temperatures fall

Tip

Northern climates may benefit from larger backup heat kits than mild-weather regions.

Available Electrical Service

Heat strips draw significant electrical current. Your panel capacity, breaker size, and wiring must support the selected heat kit.

Tip

Always verify electrical requirements before upgrading to a larger kW heat strip.

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Insulation Quality

Poor insulation increases heat loss and can increase demand on both the heat pump and electric backup heat system.

Tip

Improving insulation may reduce heating costs more than increasing heat strip size.

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Home Size

Larger homes generally require more heating capacity, but square footage alone should not determine heat strip selection.

Tip

Heat load calculations are more accurate than simple square-foot estimates.

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Air Leakage & Drafts

Drafty homes, large entryways, and poorly sealed structures can dramatically increase heating demand.

Tip

Air sealing improvements can significantly improve HVAC performance.

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Air Handler Compatibility

Heat strips are not universal. Each air handler has specific approved heat kit sizes and electrical configurations.

Tip

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.

AUXILIARY & EMERGENCY HEAT FAQHEAT KIT BUYING GUIDE

Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Heat Strips, Auxiliary Heat & Emergency Heat Kits

Expert answers about HVAC heat strips, backup electric heat, air handler compatibility, heat kit sizing, installation, and cold-weather heating performance.

How Do HVAC Heat Strips Work?

HVAC heat strips are electric resistance heating elements installed inside compatible air handlers. When outdoor temperatures become too cold for the heat pump to efficiently provide heat, the heat strips activate to supplement heating output. They can also operate as emergency heat if the outdoor heat pump unit is unavailable or being serviced.

What Is Emergency Heat?

Emergency heat is a thermostat setting that bypasses the outdoor heat pump and uses only the electric heat strips inside the air handler. This mode is typically used during equipment failures, extreme weather conditions, or while servicing the outdoor unit.

What Is The Difference Between Auxiliary Heat And Emergency Heat?

Auxiliary heat automatically activates when the heat pump requires additional heating capacity to maintain indoor temperature. Emergency heat is manually selected and relies solely on the electric heat strips, disabling the outdoor heat pump.

How Do I Know If This Heat Strip Fits My Air Handler?

Heat strips are not universal. Compatibility depends on the manufacturer, air handler model, electrical configuration, and approved heat kit size. Always verify your air handler model number before ordering. The fitment information on this page identifies compatible systems and air handler series.

What Size Heat Strip Do I Need?

Heat strip sizes commonly range from 5 kW to 20 kW depending on the HVAC system and home heating requirements. The correct size depends on:

  • Air handler compatibility
  • Electrical service capacity
  • Climate zone
  • Home size
  • Heat pump capacity

Always follow the manufacturer's approved heat kit specifications.

Can I Install A Heat Strip Myself?

Heat strip installation requires access to high-voltage electrical components inside the air handler. Installation should be performed by a qualified HVAC technician or licensed electrician familiar with local electrical codes and HVAC equipment requirements

Do Heat Strips Increase Electric Bills?

Heat strips consume more electricity than a heat pump operating normally. However, they provide reliable supplemental heating during cold weather and help maintain indoor comfort when outdoor temperatures reduce heat pump efficiency.

Can A Heat Pump Operate Without A Heat Strip?

In many regions, yes. However, homes located in colder climates often benefit from auxiliary heat strips because they provide supplemental heating during defrost cycles and extremely cold outdoor temperatures.

Why Is My HVAC System Showing Auxiliary Heat?

Auxiliary heat commonly activates when:

  • Outdoor temperatures are very low
  • The thermostat is raised several degrees at once
  • The system is in a defrost cycle
  • Additional heating capacity is needed

This is generally normal operation for a heat pump system equipped with electric heat strips.

How Long Do HVAC Heat Strips Last?

Heat strips can often last 10 to 20 years when properly installed and operated. Factors such as electrical issues, airflow restrictions, and excessive cycling can reduce service life.

What Are Common Signs Of A Failed Heat Strip?

Common symptoms include:

  • Cold air during heating operation
  • Auxiliary heat not functioning
  • Tripped breakers
  • Burnt electrical odor
  • Insufficient heating capacity
  • Error codes related to electric heat operation

Diagnosis should be performed by a qualified technician.

Why Buy Genuine OEM Heat Strips?

OEM heat strips are engineered specifically for compatible air handlers and are tested to meet manufacturer performance and safety requirements. Using the correct OEM heat kit helps ensure proper operation, electrical compatibility, and warranty compliance.