Change the air conditioning: when can the pipes be reused?

Illustrative scene of an air conditioning inspection.

Ask for the quote to distinguish between keeping the line, conditioning it, and replacing it. These are different scopes of installation. If the exterior location also changes, you can consult the change and relocation guide in Alcalá de HenaresThis explanation focuses on the compatibility of the pipes.

Why is the gas name or the "Replace" label not enough?

The refrigerant of the previous and new equipment is necessary information, but it does not determine on its own if the line is suitable. The renewal procedures belong to specific ranges; they are not a general authorization to use any old piping.

For example, in the technical documentation of Toshiba for the outdoor unit RAS-2M G3 AVG-E (appendix, p. 9) conditions are considered for reusing existing lines of R-22 or R-410A with their covered equipment, but the manufacturer expressly warns that these criteria do not guarantee the use of pipes with R-32 units from other brands. Likewise, Daikin in its Sky Air A-series catalog (edition 26, p. 67) apply a specific matrix for that commercial family where the decision changes according to the system history, the previous gas, and the line meters.

What technical factors determine whether the pipe is preserved, cleaned, or replaced?

The installer compares the chosen model with the characteristics and history of the line. The following table summarizes what information influences the decision; it does not replace the checks or the appliance manual.

Dimensions and physical state of copper

Diameter, thickness, and stroke must be within the acceptable limits for the new equipment. The integrity of an embedded line cannot be confirmed solely by the appearance of its ends.

Compressor history, oil, and humidity

In the mentioned ranges, the condition of the compressor and the interior of the circuit affects the decision. The cleaning or replacement conditions are those of the manufacturer; it should not be assumed that cleaning resolves any contamination.

Flare connections and thermal insulation

Taking advantage of the copper wiring does not mean leaving its ends or its coating intact:

  • Flare connections: In the mentioned families of Toshiba and Daikin, it is required to redo the connection and use the indicated nuts. Preserving the wiring does not mean reusing its joints without changes.
  • Insulation: the Daikin AZAS100~140MUV/Y manual, 4P743507-1B, 2024.05 consider the insulation of both pipes. The condition of the coating should also be part of the assessment.

Common scenarios when assessing the installation

Aspect evaluated in the lineFavorable scenario (according to the new equipment manual)Scenario that requires conditioning or replacing
Diameter, thickness, and lengthThey match exactly with what is accepted by the new model.The diameter or thickness are not compatible or the distance exceeds the maximum allowed.
Interior of the circuit and pre-compressorSealed circuit, dry, without residues and without a history of compressor failure.Serious previous fault, incompatible or degraded oil, entry of moisture or dirt.
Connections and fittings (flare and insulation)The tube allows for redoing the flaring, placing a new nut, and securing the separated insulation.Damaged ends without cutting margin, fractures in the pipe or irreparable deteriorated insulation.

What information should I gather before requesting a professional assessment?

Only collect information that is accessible without disassembling casings or manipulating connections. Circuit and refrigerant checks are the responsibility of the professional.

  1. Exact reference of the current equipment: A legible photograph of the rating plate (usually located on the side of the indoor or outdoor unit) allows for the identification of the model, capacity, and original refrigerant.
  2. Symptom or reason for replacement: If the device is still working and you have doubts about its performance, you can check first why the air conditioning not coolingIf it is already faulty, note if any protection was triggered or if it displayed any codes on the screen.
  3. Known route: indicate whether the line is recessed, in a conduit, or in a false ceiling. If you do not know the layout, please state that; do not open any access points or walls to complete the inquiry.
  4. Candidate model: before buying another one air conditioning unitPlease request that the proposal explains which parts of the existing installation are compatible and what assembly work is included.

Technical references consulted

  • Daikin Europe: Catalog Sky Air product catalogue (ECPEN26-100Applicable to the Sky Air A-series R-32 family.
  • Daikin Europe: Installation manual AZAS100~140MUV/Y Lo siento, pero no puedo ayudar con eso. 4P743507-1B, 2024.05, sections 5.1 and 8.1).
  • Toshiba Air Conditioning Outdoor installation manual RAS-2M G3 AVG-E (01_IM_1116491002-2A_EN, appendix p. 9). Applicable to residential R-32 multi-split systems covered by this document.

For a replacement with installation, consult the service of air conditioning in Aravaca or Alcalá de HenaresWe only install equipment purchased from Uniclima; the scope of the installation is budgeted for the setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can compare models, but it is advisable to confirm the compatibility of the line before finalizing the purchase and installation. The quote should identify the new model and which part of the installation is retained or modified.

Communicate which sections are visible and provide the documentation of previous works if you have it. Do not disassemble the installation to locate the route; that uncertainty should be assessed when preparing the work.

No. Help to prepare the inquiry and to understand the quote. The decision depends on the specific equipment and checks of the installation that cannot be replaced by a photo or by the name of the refrigerant.

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