I. Series Overview
The FH/TFH series comprises hermetic 2-cylinder reciprocating commercial refrigeration compressors from the French brand Tecumseh, widely used in medium and low-temperature commercial and air conditioning refrigeration applications. Covering a power range from approximately 1.8 HP to 3.5 HP, this series offers two refrigerant versions: R22 and R404A/R452A, distinguished by the F suffix (R22) and Z suffix (R404A/R452A) respectively.
| Feature Dimension | Description |
| Technology Type | Hermetic Reciprocating (2-cylinder) |
| Power Range | 1.8 HP – 3.5 HP |
| Refrigerant | R22 (Suffix F) / R404A/R452A (Suffix Z) |
| Power Supply | 1PH 220-240V/50Hz or 3PH 380-420V/50Hz |
| Application Temp. | High Backpressure (HBP): -15°C to +15°C |
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Common Features: The entire series adopts a 2-cylinder hermetic reciprocating design, offering high reliability and a compact structure.
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Core Naming Rules:
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Core Difference: The difference between FH and TFH lies in the power supply (single-phase vs. three-phase); the difference between F and Z lies in the refrigerant type (R22 vs. R404A/R452A), and they cannot be interchanged.
II. Comprehensive Parameter Comparison Table
| No. | Model | Power Supply | Power (HP) | Refrigerant | Disp. (cm³) | COP (W/W) | Application |
| 1 | FH2480Z | 1PH 220V | 2 | R404A/R452A | 53.2 | 1.02 | LBP |
| 2 | TFH2480Z | 3PH 400V | 2 | R404A/R452A | 53.2 | 1.02 | LBP |
| 3 | FH2511Z | 1PH 220V | 2.5 | R404A/R452A | 68.0 | 1.16 | LBP |
| 4 | TFH2511Z | 3PH 400V | 2.5 | R404A/R452A | 68.0 | ~1.16 | LBP |
| 5 | FH4522F | 1PH 220V | 1.8 | R22 | 39.95 | 2.58 | HBP |
| 6 | TFH4522F | 3PH 400V | 1.8 | R22 | 39.95 | 2.58 | HBP |
| 7 | FH4524F | 1PH 220V | 2 | R22 | 43.5 | 2.55 | HBP |
| 8 | TFH4524F | 3PH 400V | 2 | R22 | 43.5 | 2.55 | HBP |
| 9 | FH4531F | 1PH 220V | 2.6 | R22 | 56.65 | 2.57 | HBP |
| 10 | TFH4531F | 3PH 400V | 2.6 | R22 | 56.65 | 2.6 | HBP |
| 11 | TFH4538F | 3PH 400V | 3 | R22 | 67.50 | — | HBP |
| 12 | TFH4540F | 3PH 400V | 3.5 | R22 | 74.2 | — | HBP |
| 13 | FH4522Z | 1PH 220V | 1.8 | R404A/R452A | 39.9 | 2.22 | HBP |
| 14 | TFH4522Z | 3PH 400V | 1.8 | R404A | 39.9 | — | HBP |
| 15 | FH4524Z | 1PH 220V | 2 | R404A/R452A | 43.5 | 2.23 | HBP |
| 16 | TFH4524Z | 3PH 400V | 2 | R404A | 43.3 | — | HBP |
| 17 | FH4531Z | 1PH 220V | 2.6 | R404A | 56.6 | 2.22 | HBP |
| 18 | TFH4531Z | 3PH 400V | 2.6 | R404A | 56.6 | — | HBP |
| 19 | FH4540Z | 1PH 220V | 3.5 | R404A | 74.2 | — | HBP |
| 20 | TFH4540Z | 3PH 400V | 3.5 | R404A | 74.2 | — | HBP |
Note: Specific values may vary depending on test conditions. FH2511Z/TFH2511Z are for LBP applications, while the rest of the Z series are for HBP applications.
III. Detailed Explanation of Model-Specific Advantages
The following describes the unique value of each model by refrigerant type (F series R22 / Z series R404A/R452A) and power rating.
(A) F Series (R22 Refrigerant — HBP Medium-Temp Applications)
The F series uses R22 refrigerant, positioned for High Backpressure (HBP) medium-temperature refrigeration with an evaporation temperature range of -15°C to +15°C. This series features high COP (2.55–2.60) as its core advantage, suitable for medium-temperature refrigeration and fresh-keeping scenarios.
FH4522F / TFH4522F (1.8 HP) — Entry-Level Medium-Temp Refrigeration Choice
The FH4522F (single-phase) and TFH4522F (three-phase) are the entry-level models of the F series, with a displacement of 39.95 cm³ and a nominal power of 1.8 HP. Using R22 refrigerant, they achieve a COP of 2.58 W/W.
As the lowest power threshold model in the F series, the FH4522F/TFH4522F offers the most cost-effective solution for small to medium-sized medium-temperature refrigeration equipment with its high COP and compact structure. For applications such as small cold rooms, commercial display cases, and fresh-keeping freezers requiring medium-temperature refrigeration (-15°C to +5°C conditions), this compressor helps equipment manufacturers minimize power consumption while meeting cooling demands, backed by Tecumseh's consistent reliability. The single-phase version (FH4522F) is compatible with 220-240V residential/commercial power, while the three-phase version (TFH4522F) is suitable for industrial power environments.
FH4524F / TFH4524F (2 HP) — Mid-Range Mainstream, Balanced Efficiency
The FH4524F (single-phase) and TFH4524F (three-phase) are the standard 2 HP models of the F series, with displacement increased to 43.5 cm³ and nominal power of 2 HP. COP is 2.55 W/W.
Compared to the FH4522F, the FH4524F's displacement increases by approximately 8.9%, significantly boosting cooling capacity while the COP drops by only 0.03, maintaining an excellent balance between power and efficiency. For medium cold rooms, supermarket cold chain display cases, and commercial fresh-keeping equipment requiring standard 2 HP cooling capacity and high energy efficiency, the FH4524F/TFH4524F provides the most balanced choice in the series — avoiding both "an underpowered compressor struggling with a large load" and power waste.
FH4531F / TFH4531F (2.6 HP) — High-Capacity Step-Up Choice
The FH4531F (single-phase) and TFH4531F (three-phase) are high-power models in the F series, with a displacement of 56.65 cm³ and nominal power of 2.6 HP. COP is 2.57–2.60 W/W.
As a high-power model approaching 3 HP, the displacement of FH4531F/TFH4531F increases by about 30% compared to the FH4524F, greatly enhancing cooling capacity. For large cold rooms, high-load commercial refrigeration equipment, and food processing cold chains requiring more cooling than a standard 2 HP but not yet reaching 3 HP, this compressor provides a precise "step-up" option. The three-phase version (TFH4531F) is compatible with 380-420V/50Hz industrial power, suitable for large equipment integration.
TFH4538F (3 HP) — High-Power Three-Phase Dedicated
The TFH4538F is a high-power three-phase dedicated model in the F series, with a displacement of 67.50 cm³ and nominal power of 3 HP. This model is only available in a 3-phase 400V version, suitable for industrial power environments.
For large commercial refrigeration equipment and industrial-grade medium-temperature cold rooms requiring standard 3 HP cooling capacity with three-phase industrial power, the TFH4538F provides abundant cooling power with its 67.50 cm³ large displacement. Its three-phase motor design ensures smoother operation and higher power factor, suitable for long-term continuous high-load operation.
TFH4540F (3.5 HP) — Maximum Power Flagship of F Series
The TFH4540F is the most powerful flagship model in the F series, with a displacement of 74.2 cm³ and nominal power of 3.5 HP. This model is exclusively for 3-phase 400V.
As the top-tier product of the F series, the TFH4540F is engineered for applications with the highest medium-temperature cooling demands. Whether for large industrial cold rooms, high-load food processing cold chains, or large commercial refrigeration systems, the TFH4540F provides robust power. The ultra-large displacement of 74.2 cm³ represents the ultimate solution for Tecumseh F series R22 medium-temperature refrigeration.
(B) Z Series (R404A/R452A Refrigerant — HBP/LBP Applications)
The Z series uses R404A/R452A refrigerant, divided into Low Backpressure (LBP) and High Backpressure (HBP) branches. LBP models are suitable for low-temperature freezing (-40°C to -10°C), while HBP models are suitable for medium-temperature refrigeration (-15°C to +15°C).
FH2480Z / TFH2480Z (2 HP, LBP) — Entry-Level Low-Temp Freezing Choice
The FH2480Z (single-phase) and TFH2480Z (three-phase) are the entry-level LBP models in the Z series, with a displacement of 53.2 cm³ and nominal power of 2 HP. The evaporation temperature range covers -40°C to -10°C, suitable for low-temperature freezing scenarios.
As the entry-level model specifically designed for low-temperature freezing in the Z series, the FH2480Z/TFH2480Z provides a cost-effective solution for small to medium cold rooms, frozen food storage cabinets, and ice cream freezers requiring deep freezing from -40°C to -20°C, with moderate 2 HP power and 53.2 cm³ displacement. The single-phase version (FH2480Z) is compatible with 220V power, while the three-phase version (TFH2480Z) is compatible with 400V industrial power, flexibly meeting different power supply conditions.
FH2511Z / TFH2511Z (2.5 HP, LBP) — Mainstream Low-Temp Freezing Choice
The FH2511Z (single-phase) and TFH2511Z (three-phase) are the mainstream LBP models in the Z series, with a displacement of 68.0 cm³ and nominal power of 2.5 HP. The evaporation temperature range is -40°C to -12.2°C, with cooling capacity up to 1,831 W at -35°C (R404A).
Compared to the FH2480Z, the displacement of the FH2511Z increases by about 27.8%, significantly enhancing cooling capacity, making it the core high-volume model in the Z series LBP product line. For medium cold rooms, large ice cream freezers, and commercial quick-freezing equipment requiring greater low-temperature cooling capacity, the FH2511Z/TFH2511Z provides ample cooling reserve. Its High Starting Torque (HST) motor design ensures reliable starting under harsh low-temperature conditions. The single-phase version has a starting current of approx. 71A, while the three-phase version operates more smoothly.
FH4522Z / TFH4522Z (1.8 HP, HBP) — Entry-Level R404A Medium-Temp Choice
The FH4522Z (single-phase) and TFH4522Z (three-phase) are the entry-level models in the Z series HBP, with a displacement of 39.9 cm³ and nominal power of 1.8 HP. Suitable for R404A/R452A refrigerant, COP is 2.22 W/W.
As the lowest power threshold model in the Z series HBP product line, the FH4522Z/TFH4522Z provides an economical and efficient solution for small to medium R404A medium-temperature refrigeration equipment. For small to medium cold rooms and commercial display cases requiring R404A medium-temperature refrigeration, this model achieves a precise balance of performance and cost with its moderate 1.8 HP power and 39.9 cm³ displacement.
FH4524Z / TFH4524Z (2 HP, HBP) — Standard R404A Medium-Temp Choice
The FH4524Z (single-phase) and TFH4524Z (three-phase) are the standard 2 HP models in the Z series HBP, with a displacement of 43.3–43.5 cm³ and nominal power of 2 HP. Evaporation temperature range -15°C to +15°C, COP is 2.23 W/W.
As the most in-demand standard 2 HP model in the Z series HBP product line, the FH4524Z/TFH4524Z has become the preferred power source for medium R404A cold rooms and supermarket cold chain display cases due to its moderate power and wide compatibility. Its High Starting Torque (HST) motor ensures reliable starting under various conditions. Cooling capacity reaches 2.94 kW at -10°C and 5.13 kW at +5°C, fully meeting medium-temperature refrigeration needs.
FH4531Z / TFH4531Z (2.6 HP, HBP) — High-Capacity R404A Medium-Temp Choice
The FH4531Z (single-phase) and TFH4531Z (three-phase) are high-power models in the Z series HBP, with a displacement of 56.6 cm³ and nominal power of 2.6 HP. COP is 2.22 W/W.
As a high-power model approaching 3 HP in the Z series HBP, the displacement of FH4531Z/TFH4531Z increases by about 30% compared to the FH4524Z, greatly enhancing cooling capacity. At -10°C, cooling capacity reaches 4,469 W, and at -5°C it reaches 5,574 W. For large R404A cold rooms and high-load commercial refrigeration equipment requiring more cooling than a standard 2 HP, this model provides ample cooling reserve.
FH4540Z / TFH4540Z (3.5 HP, HBP) — Maximum Power Flagship of Z Series
The FH4540Z (single-phase) and TFH4540Z (three-phase) are the most powerful flagship models in the Z series, with a displacement of 74.2 cm³ and nominal power of 3.5 HP. Suitable for R404A refrigerant.
As the top-tier product of the entire series, the FH4540Z/TFH4540Z is engineered for applications with the highest R404A medium-temperature cooling demands, featuring an ultra-large displacement of 74.2 cm³ and maximum power of 3.5 HP. Whether for large industrial cold rooms, high-load food processing cold chains, or large commercial refrigeration systems, this model provides the most powerful guarantee. Its compact, high-performance industrial-grade design can withstand pressure ratings of up to 35 bar, meeting high-load industrial refrigeration requirements.
IV. Series-Wide Common Advantages
Features
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2-Cylinder Hermetic Reciprocating Structure: Adopts a highly reliable 2-cylinder commercial reciprocating compressor design.
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Multi-Refrigerant Compatibility: F series compatible with R22; Z series compatible with R404A/R452A.
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Dual Voltage Versions: Each model is available in both single-phase (FH) and three-phase (TFH) versions.
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High Starting Torque Motor: LBP models equipped with High Starting Torque (HST) motors.
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Wide Evaporation Temperature: HBP covers -15°C to +15°C; LBP covers -40°C to -10°C.
Advantages
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The 2-cylinder reciprocating structure operates smoothly with low vibration, suitable for long-term continuous operation.
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F series R22 products feature high COP of 2.55–2.60, with significant energy-saving effects.
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Dual single-phase/three-phase design flexibly adapts to different power supply conditions.
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Hermetic structure provides excellent sealing and high reliability, with low maintenance requirements.
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Complete power spectrum from 1.8 HP to 3.5 HP covers all medium and low-temperature scenarios.
Benefits
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Stable and Reliable Operation: Tecumseh's high-reliability design ensures long-term trouble-free operation of refrigeration equipment.
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Energy Saving and High Efficiency: High-efficiency motors reduce power consumption, saving users long-term operating electricity costs.
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Flexible Installation: Dual single-phase/three-phase design adapts to different power environments.
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Precise Selection: Complete power spectrum from 1.8 HP to 3.5 HP ensures the most suitable model can be found for every refrigeration project.
V. Quick Selection Guide by Application Scenario
| Application Scenario | Recommended Model | Power Supply | Refrigerant |
| Small/medium cold rooms, frozen food storage | FH2480Z / TFH2480Z | 1PH/3PH | R404A |
| Medium cold rooms, ice cream freezers | FH2511Z / TFH2511Z | 1PH/3PH | R404A |
| Small/medium cold rooms, fresh-keeping cabinets | FH4522F / TFH4522F | 1PH/3PH | R22 |
| Medium cold rooms, supermarket display cases | FH4524F / TFH4524F | 1PH/3PH | R22 |
| Large cold rooms, food processing cold chains | FH4531F / TFH4531F | 1PH/3PH | R22 |
| Industrial-grade medium-temp cold rooms | TFH4538F | 3PH | R22 |
| Large industrial cold rooms | TFH4540F | 3PH | R22 |
| R404A small/medium cold rooms | FH4522Z / TFH4522Z | 1PH/3PH | R404A |
| R404A medium cold rooms | FH4524Z / TFH4524Z | 1PH/3PH | R404A |
| R404A large cold rooms | FH4531Z / TFH4531Z | 1PH/3PH | R404A |
| R404A large industrial cold rooms | FH4540Z / TFH4540Z | 1PH/3PH | R404A |
Quick Selection:
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Select refrigerant first: Choose F suffix for R22, Z suffix for R404A/R452A.
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Select power supply: Choose FH for 1PH 220V, TFH for 3PH 400V.
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Select power: 1.8 HP → 4522, 2 HP → 4524/2480, 2.5 HP → 2511, 2.6 HP → 4531, 3 HP → 4538, 3.5 HP → 4540.
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Select backpressure: Choose LBP (2480/2511) for low-temp freezing, HBP (4522/4524/4531/4538/4540) for medium-temp refrigeration.
VI. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between models starting with FH and TFH?
Models starting with FH are single-phase (1PH) versions, compatible with 220-240V/50Hz power; models starting with TFH are three-phase (3PH) versions, compatible with 380-420V/50Hz or 460V/60Hz power. Their technical parameters are the same, differing only in power supply type.
Q2: What is the difference between suffix F and Z?
Suffix F stands for R22 refrigerant; suffix Z stands for R404A/R452A refrigerant. They use different refrigerants and different refrigeration oils (mineral oil for R22, POE ester oil for R404A), and cannot be interchanged.
Q3: Which models are Low Backpressure (LBP)? Which are High Backpressure (HBP)?
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LBP (Low Backpressure, -40°C to -10°C): FH2480Z, TFH2480Z, FH2511Z, TFH2511Z
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HBP (High Backpressure, -15°C to +15°C): All other F series and Z series models
Is your commercial air conditioning system plagued by excessive energy consumption and insufficient cooling stability? The FH/TFH series is designed to solve these problems. With robust cooling output and optimal COP energy efficiency ratios, it is a reliable choice for refrigeration. Market-proven — keep your equipment running efficiently, day after day.
