A line set is one of the most important components of an air conditioner. It is necessary for the proper functioning of your AC unit.
Many customers ask us that is a new line set necessary when replacing an air conditioner? OR you can just use the old line set as well? When do you need to replace the line set of your AC?
We have answers to all your questions so keep reading and solve your problem right now.
What is a line set in HVAC
Do you have no idea what even a line set is? No worries, because we will make it easier for you to understand.
Your air conditioning system has two cabinets (indoor and outdoor). A line set is a pair of copper pipes that connects both of these units. This way the line set allows the flow of refrigerant between both units.
The copper pipes of the line set contain refrigerant which is circulated between both units to allow the transfer of heat & cold. This allows the air conditioner to remove heat from your room and produce cooling. That’s the reason why a line set is very crucial for the proper functioning of an air conditioner.
Structure of a line set in HVAC
The line set of an HVAC system has two pipes. One is small while the other is large.
The smaller pipe of the line set is the liquid line. Its job is to take cooled-down refrigerant from the condenser and then transport it to the indoor unit.
The larger pipe of the line set is called the suction line. Its job is to take warm refrigerant from the indoor unit and then transport it to the condenser and compressor of your HVAC system.
This way the line set of an HVAC system works like a loop and helps circulate the refrigerant which eventually allows the transfer of heat and cold and allows the air conditioner to perform its function.
Do you need a new line set when replacing an air conditioner
Now coming to the real question, do you need a new line set every time you are replacing your air conditioner?
The answer is no, you don’t necessarily need to get a new line set when you are replacing your air conditioner.
In some cases, you will need to replace your line set whereas in some cases, the older line set will do the job.
It depends upon a lot of important factors so let’s take a detailed look at them.
When do you need a new line set
Here are the conditions under which you will need a new line set for your air conditioner:
1. If the line set is leaking
If the current line set of your air conditioner is leaking then you will surely need to replace it with a new one.
The reason is that if you use a leaked line set for your air conditioner, then it will fail to perform heat & cold exchange. This way the AC unit will fail to perform heating & cooling. So, your AC will become useless with no performance.
Therefore, it is good to replace the line set of your AC unit if it is leaking.
2. If the line set is damaged
If the line set of your air conditioner is damaged from somewhere then you will need a new one for sure.
Because using a damaged line set for the air conditioners will affect their performance.
So, it is better to replace the damaged line set with a new one.
3. If the rating of the line set does not match your AC
If the current line set does not match the requirements of your air conditioner, then you will need to get it replaced.
It will help your air conditioner to perform normally.
4. If you can afford it
If the line set is smaller and you can easily access and afford it then you can get a new line set so your AC can get refreshed and show improved performance.
5. If the line set is exposed
If the line set of your air conditioner is exposed to external conditions, then it is vulnerable to damage and needs replacement.
When you don’t need a line set
Here are the conditions under which you won’t need a line set:
1. If the line set is perfectly fine
If the line set of your air conditioner is completely fine (there are no leaks & damages) then it means that it can be used again for the new air conditioner.
2. If the rating of the line set matches your AC
Does your current line set meet the rating & requirements of your air conditioner?
If yes, then it means that it is fit for your new air conditioner.
3. The distance of line set
If the vertical distance of your line set matches the manufacturer’s limit, then you can keep it for more use.
4. The line set is safe
If the line set of your air conditioner is at a safe location like going through a wall or covered under some slab – then you can use it again for the new air conditioner.
How do I know if my HVAC line set needs replacement
How can a normal person like you identify whether the line set of your AC needs replacement or not?
Well, the best option is to call a professional. They will thoroughly check the line set of your AC unit to determine whether it can be used again or not.
A lot of people call amateurs for saving money and what they do is that they take shortcuts for everything. They do not bother to check whether the line set of your HVAC system is fit for the new air conditioner or not.
As a result, your air conditioner doesn’t perform up to your expectations. It will give poor heating or cooling effect.
That’s why you are recommended to seek help from a professional.
