How to choose the right copper pipe for your air conditioner

Why is the right choice so important

Copper pipe for air conditioner is a key element of the entire system. It ensures the circulation of freon between the indoor and outdoor units. The correct choice of this part determines not only the efficiency of your air conditioner, but also its durability.

If the pipe diameter is incorrectly selected, you risk facing a number of problems: reduced cooling capacity, increased energy consumption, noisy operation, and even premature equipment failure.

How to determine the required diameter

The choice of the diameter of the copper pipe for the air conditioner primarily depends on the capacity of your split system. If you use the wrong size pipe, the system may not work efficiently or fail prematurely.

The following sizes are usually used for household models:

• For small air conditioners (models 07-09): pipes with a diameter of 1/4 "(6.35 mm) and 3/8" (9.52 mm)
• For medium models (15-18): pipes with a diameter of 1/4 "(6.35 mm) and 1/2" (12.70 mm)
• For powerful split systems: pipes with a diameter of 3/8 "(9.52 mm) and 5/8" (15.88 mm)

It is important to remember that the minimum wall thickness of the copper pipe must be at least 0.76 mm. Moreover, the larger the pipe diameter, the thicker its wall should be.

What else to pay attention to when choosing

In addition to the diameter, a copper pipe for an air conditioner must also meet other requirements:

• Material quality: the pipe must be free of cracks, dents and other damage
• Plasticity: a good pipe bends easily and does not break when bent
• Cleanliness of the inner surface: no dirt or oxides
• Durability: the ability to withstand pressure and temperature changes
• Corrosion resistance: protection from environmental influences

Most experts recommend using annealed copper pipes. After heat treatment at a temperature of 600-700°C, such pipes become more flexible and resistant to loads.

Consequences of an incorrect choice

If you install a copper pipe of the wrong diameter, this may lead to:

• Decreased efficiency of the air conditioner
• Increased energy consumption
• Loss of pressure in the system
• Rapid wear of the compressor and other components
• Complete failure of the system

Tips on choosing from professionals

Before buying a copper pipe for an air conditioner, be sure to read the instructions for your split system. The manufacturer always specifies the recommended pipe diameters.

You shouldn’t skimp on the quality of the pipes. Good copper pipes from trusted manufacturers (for example, European ones) may cost more, but they will ensure reliable operation of your air conditioner for many years.

Pay attention to the tightness of the packaging. The ends of high-quality pipes are always closed with special plugs to prevent dust and dirt from getting inside.

Remember that a copper pipe for an air conditioner is a long-term investment in the comfort of your home. The right choice now will save you from many problems in the future.

Tips on choosing from the Frost-Centre online store

The Frost-Centre store offers a convenient table for selecting a copper pipe for an air conditioner depending on the capacity of your system:

• Pipes with a diameter of 1/4 "(6.35 mm) are suitable for absolutely all household split systems
• Pipes 3/8" (9.52 mm) are used for air conditioners with a capacity of up to 3.5 kW
• For systems from 3.5 to 7 kW, pipes 1/2" (12.7 mm) are suitable
• If the capacity of your air conditioner is from 7 to 10 kW, choose pipes with a diameter of 5/8" (15.88 mm)
• For semi-industrial systems of 10-15 kW will require pipes of 3/4" (19.05 mm)
• And pipes with a diameter of 7/8" (22.23 mm) are installed in industrial systems from 15 kW

As you can see, the choice of the diameter of the copper pipe for the air conditioner is directly related to its power. The more powerful the system, the larger the pipe diameter is required for efficient circulation of freon.

The store’s specialists recommend always consulting with professionals before purchasing in order to take into account not only the power of the system, but also the features of the room, the length of the route and other nuances that can affect the choice of the correct diameter of the copper pipe.