Why do Linesets need Quick-Connect Fittings?
Not everyone needs them, but those that do really don't have another solution. Systems come pre-charged with refrigerant and a lineset to connect the indoor to the outdoor sections. Just connect the fittings and fire up the system it's that easy.
What about Linesets when selecting a spot for my outdoor condenser?
Always keep in mind running the linesets as you want this to be as easy as possible.
How do I properly connect Quick-Connect Fittings to Linesets?
Answer: When connecting the fittings together you want to make sure they are square both vertically and horizontally. The fittings should easily thread together by hand until the last two turns. Then you’ll want to use two wrenches to snug up the fittings. Wrenches for the fittings need to open to 1 3/4″ and can be adjustable water pump pliers just make sure that the fittings are level on both planes. Up-and-down and side to side. They screw together very smoothly and evenly until they’re tight at that point just snug them right up. Over tightening is not advised. If a fitting gets stuck mid way through, most times all that’s required is to wiggle the fitting back and forth while threading, this allows the fitting to realign properly. Generally the large fitting is 1/2″ from base when fully tight and the small fitting is approximately 1/4″ from the base.
What should I do with the extra copper lineset I have left over after running all my Linesets?
Our recommendation is to keep them coiled up and either screw them to the wall or ceiling up and out of the way using strapping, preferably flat. Your unit will run perfectly fine leaving the lineset coiled.
Ideas on how to bend the copper linesets
The refrigerant lines can be bent, using slow long bends should be used as not kink the pipe. If tighter bends are required a bender must be used. Tool rental companies now rent Ratchet Bender kits. They can bend 3/8-7/8″ pipes. Piping on the outside of the building should be protected from being hit or mutilated. The pipe can be in the weather without any issues or problems.
Can I get a longer Lineset?
Yes you can. Our standard system comes with 40′ of pre-charge line set however we can easily extended to 80′ max.
Liquid line is sweating/ Suction line is sweating/ Discharge line is hot
Suction line (large insulated pipe) should feel cool and may sweat depending on temperature and humidity.
Liquid line (small un insulated pipe) should feel lukewarm 100F.
Discharge line (short medium size line, used on stealth models only) should feel very hot 150-180F.
Should I insulate the liquid line?
The liquid line does not require insulation, as it does not get overly hot or cold and should not sweat.
Lineset modification
****Never under any circumstance modify the Elite series liquid line, The system will not function.****
The liquid line on the Elite Series is used as a receiver to balance the indifference of unit charge required when switching from dehumidifier mode to air conditioning mode.
Any modification to Excel Air Systems’ pre-charged line sets are not recommended, however we understand that sometimes it is required. Modifying the suction, discharge or hot gas reclaim lines do not require any refrigerant charge modification. The liquid line does require a specific charge based off overall length.
Formula.
Liquid line length – 15’ x 0.68 ounces/ft = total liquid line charge.
Eg. 30’ liquid line would require:
30’-15’=15 x 0.68 ounces =10.2 ounces of liquid line charge
There is a kink in my Lineset, what should I do?
Depending on the severity of the kink try and take a set of pliers and squeeze the side of the kink to attempt to straighten it out. Be very cautious when doing this as to not break the copper completely. If the kink is too severe you will need to replace the copper line.
Unit pipe sizes
All refrigeration pipe sizes are measured in “OD” (outside diameter)
Suction line (large insulated pipe)
⅝’’ 2-2.5 ton
¾’’ 3-3.5 ton
⅞’’ 4-5 ton
Liquid line (small non-insulated pipe)
⅜’’ 2-5 ton XL and STEALTH series
½’’ 2-5 ton ELITE series
Discharge line (medium short hot gas line)
⅝’’ 2-5 ton STEALTH series
Hot gas reclaim line
⅝’’ 2-5 ton ELITE series
Difference between flexible and copper linesets
From the beginning of HVAC copper tubing has been used to flow refrigerant through the system. Copper is malleable and readily available, However it does have some limitations. Soft as it is, it can be kinked and make running the line sets a difficult. Without proper tools it may be very difficult to make an eye pleasing install with tight 90 degree bends.
Flexible line sets offer the exact same performance, but they make the install incredibly simple. They also make it possible to bend virtually any degree bend with ease and no special tools required. Installing or relocating your unit has never been simpler. In short you will never need a new lineset even if you were to change your setup or re-install elsewhere.
When would I need a Flexible Linset?
Our Flexible Lineset is great for anyone looking to relocate numerous times over the lifespan of the unit. It also works great on hard installation runs where hard pipe would be extremely difficult to run such as non linear runs, 90 or even 180 degree bends and temporary placements.
Looking for interactive assistance?
Check out our Technical Support department.