Aircon Insulation
Aircon Overhaul
June 30, 2023
Aircon Installation
June 3, 2023
Air Conditioning (AC) Insulation
The two main functions of aircon insulation on the copper pipes are;
- To protect the copper pipes
- To absorb the condensed water from the AC piping. The condenser functions in making the high-temperature, high pressure gas, from the compressor, into low-temperature, low pressure liquid, especially after flowing passed the expansion valve. During this stage, the pipes get cold and creating condensation.
Typical aircon insulation consists of a connected series of thick black foam wires that act as protective layer for the copper pipes. The foam absorbs any condense water/water droplets formations along the AC copper pipes.
Pipe insulation upgrades from 1/2 inch (12.7mm) to 3/4 inch (20mm) thickness. Insulation thickness and density will determine the strength of thermal insulation.
Air conditioning system requires insulation to reduce energy losses and achieve high efficiency. Insulation are also used to soundproof air conditioners.
The five common types of aircon insulation used in air conditioning are closed cell insulation, polyurethane (PU) insulation, fiberglass insulation, polyethylene (PE) insulation and rockwool insulation.
Closed-cell insulations, usually black in colour, are most commonly used for home air conditioning refrigerant copper pipes and drain pipes. Closed-cell insulations can be found in split-unit and VRF air conditioning systems.
Closed-cell insulations come in different forms. The most common one is tube form where the copper or drain pipe is slotted into the tube insulation by hand. The length of tube insulation is usually 6 ft per length.
Insulation foam tape or black tapes are usually used for the jointing of the insulations.
