Air conditioning piping is among the most critical components of the air conditioner installation process. In this article, we will be covering all of the critical information on this crucial piece, ranging from how long they usually last, to what they do, to whether or not existing pipes can be reused when you replace your system.
Aircon Piping Types
Split-type air conditioners feature two different kinds of piping for various uses. There are copper pipes, and their primary function is transferring refrigerant through the entire system. There are also water drain pipes, and their primary function is transporting water (condensed humidity) to the drains and away from your system.
1. Copper Pipes
You are probably aware that there are two units in a split air conditioner, one on the inside and the other on the outside. Copper pipes connect the two units to form a single AC system; The primary function is transporting refrigerant.
If the pipes are not properly installed, water condensation can build up inside the pipes and cause leaks to occur eventually. This often occurs due to either improper insulation or the pipe joints being poorly installed. Keep in mind that the environment is at maximum temperature while the refrigerant is very low. Therefore, to prevent excessive water or condensation formation, proper insulation and installation are necessary.
An air conditioner’s copper pipes may be divided into two different types. One supplies refrigerant to the evaporator coils (which is the system’s cold side and are smaller than the hot side is) from the compressor. While the unit is operating, when you touch it, it feels warm. These are high-pressure lines and are full of pressurized Freon in liquid form. The other pipes return refrigerant to the compressor (the hot side with a bigger diameter than the cold side pipes) from the evaporator. These lines are also called suction lines. The suction lines transfer freon in gas form. When you touch the line, it will feel cold and is frequently insulated to reduce condensation.
2. Water pipes
There are no distinctive types or brands of water pipes. However, most of them are made out of plastic. They are often available in two sizes, 16 mm and 13 mm. Overall, larger water pipes are more efficient, which can cause lots of damage.
How Long Does Aircon Piping Last?
With all factors constant, aircon piping can last from 12 up to 15 years. When we say all factors are constant, what do we mean? We are just referring to an individual’s ability to do the regular maintenance that their units need and the elements that the pipes get exposed to.
Such factors can impact the life span as maintenance, level of use, and climate. That is why to make sure the pipes last as long as possible, it is essential to pay close attention and prevent the risk of the pipes breaking down.
When an Aircon unit is Being Replaced, Can You Reuse Aircon Pricing?
The direct and short answer is yes. However, it can be only after they are correctly cleaned, utilizing the most recent cleaning technology.
Not too long ago, when an old AC system was being replaced, you also had to remove all the piping. That made the entire process of new pipes being installed expensive since many activities were involved, including breaking up the false ceiling. Fortunately, with advancements in cleaning and air conditioner technology, the old pipes don’t need to be replaced these days. A good cleaning is all that is necessary.
The method allows individuals to save unnecessary effort, money, and time. However, it is going to depend on the old pipes’ current condition. The technician will measure and test the old pipes to determine if it is safe to reuse them.
Check out this video about aircon pipes installation
Conclusion
You definitely don’t want to learn about the installation of air conditioning the hard way. Hopefully, this article helped answer some questions you had about AC piping systems and how they work. Please give us a call if you have any questions or if we can help you in any way.
Related Read: Aircon Parts Guide