An HVAC System is incomplete without all of its components. One of them is the Line Set. These are copper insulation tubes that allow the gas (R-22 or R410) to flow and complete the cooling or heating cycle. Without a line set, you can’t run your AC. It’s like a pipe connecting a bike’s fuel tank with the engine. It won’t supply the fuel unless the valve is blocked or unconnected.
What is a Line Set in HVAC?
In simple words, the line set is the copper tubes connecting the indoor and outdoor units in a vast or mini-split air conditioner. Its primary duty is to transport the refrigerant in liquid and gaseous forms in the evaporator inside and the condenser outside.
Meanwhile, the liquid line carries dense refrigerant from the outdoor condenser to the indoor system coil. At the same time, the suction line returns the gaseous refrigerant to the condenser. The whole process occurs in a closed and pressurized loop. Since the lines are typically insulated, they protect against heat loss.
Even if you’re installing a new single-zone or upgrading to a multi-zone, to get the optimal performance, you need an appropriately sized and correctly installed line set, which will play a vital role.
3 Factors to Consider Before Line Set Installation
The below factors will help you to decide the perfect cooper line for your air conditioner:
1. Diameter
First, the diameter specifies the size through which the gas will pass. The requirement of diameter depends upon the split system’s tonnage or BTU.
In major scenarios, larger-diameter line sets are required for higher-capacity systems to ensure adequate refrigerant flow. These line sets are available in various sizes, where the first number indicates the liquid line diameter and the second the suction line.
| Interconnecting Tubing Recommendations | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Line Diameter (Ln. OD) | Cold Unit Tons: 0-25 | Cold Unit Tons: 26-50 | Cold Unit Tons: 51-75 | Cold Unit Tons: 76-150 | ||||
| Suct | Liq | Suct | Liq | Suct | Liq | Suct | Liq | |
| 1 1/2 | 3/4 | 3/8 | 3/4 | 3/8 | 3/4 | 3/8 | 7/8 | 3/8 |
| 2 | 3/4 | 3/8 | 3/4 | 3/8 | 3/4 | 3/8 | 7/8 | 3/8 |
| 2 1/2 | 3/4 | 3/8 | 3/4 | 3/8 | 7/8 | 3/8 | 7/8 | 3/8 |
| 3 | 3/4 | 3/8 | 7/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 |
| 3 1/2 | 7/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 |
| 4 | 7/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 |
| 5 | 7/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 | 1 1/8 | 3/8 |
2. Planning for Distance
Secondly, both units’ practical location and placement are essential for system operating efficiency. But why? A lengthy distance between indoors and outdoors requires more line set length. The length increases the chances of bending corners, which can lead to leakage from these copper tubes.
If you’re elevating the outdoor unit, then try to plan the path of lines from a window or near a dryer vent hole in the ceiling.
3. Quality of Line Sets
Last but not least, every homeowner wants to remain stress-free during the peak usage of ACs throughout the year. Pick the highest-quality line and buy it from a trusted seller.
Even at Ventiluxess, we manage the Line Sets for you. We also offer insulation that is UL-listed for weather resistance.
What is Lineset Cushioning? – Do You Need It?
A line set cushioning is a protective padding designed to shield the refrigerant lines from scratches and dents. These cushions are typically made from foam or rubber materials and are used to protect against other surfaces. As a result, you notice less wear and tear or even punctures. The cushioning also helps dampen vibrations and noise as refrigerant flows through the lines.
Are you looking for professional AC Line Set replacement technicians?
Contact Ventulixes to get a reliable experience.
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