Air conditioners are mostly maintenance-free and should run without any issue for years and years. However, if your air conditioner is older or you’re trying to avoid buying a new one, you may opt to repair it instead of replacing it.
One common fix is to replace leaky coils or other pipes within the air conditioner. To do this, some people choose to use compression fittings.
Below we’ll look at whether or not you should use compression fittings when repairing your air conditioner.
What Is A Compression Fitting?
Compression fittings have been around for some time and have a proven track record of creating reliable connections between pipes, whether it be for water or gas.
One of the main benefits of using a compression fitting is that it doesn’t require any brazing or soldering. Oftentimes in cramped spaces, brazing or soldering may not be an option.
Also, on some job sites, you may not be allowed to weld or braze without obtaining special permits.
Next, compression fittings can be installed with simple hand tools, and it often takes only a few minutes. This can really speed up repairs that would otherwise take longer using methods like brazing or soldering.
A compression fitting consists of three parts:
1. The compression nut
This nut is placed over the pipe and is used to tighten and join the two pipes. Check with your specific fitting’s instructions to determine how tight this nut should be tightened.
Overtightening will always result in a poor seal, so it’s critical to get the torque on this nut just right.
2. The ferrule
This part is compressed inside the compression nut and forms the seal between the two pipes being joined. It’s usually made of a soft, deformable metal like brass.
It can be shaped like a wedding band or cone, and in some countries, this ferrule is called an “olive”.
3. Connecting or fitting sleeve
This slides over the pipe, opposite the compression nut and is used to hold the assembly together. The compression nut threads onto this sleeve.
Tightening the nut on the sleeve crushes the soft brass ferrule and forms a joint between the two pipes. When done correctly, this seal is water and gas tight.
Repairing An AC Line With Compression Fittings?
Most air conditioners come with their pipes inside being brazed together. This makes it difficult to repair one section of the unit if there is a leak or if the pipes have corroded or have become clogged.
A compression fitting allows you to cut out the damaged area and either rejoin or replace the section with new pipes.
1. Drain the system of refrigerants
First step you want to do is drain the system of refrigerant and use a capture system to store the gas. Do not work on the unit until you have drained all refrigerant and pressure from the system.
2. Identify the damaged air conditioner line
Find out which area is leaking or needs to be replaced. Have new tubing on hand to match the exact size of the tubing being replaced.
3. Remove the section and rejoin AC line with compression fittings
When you have your new lines or pipes cut to length, use the compression fittings to join the two sections of piper as per the fitting’s instructions.
Most modern compression fittings do not require teflon tape to be used on the threads, although some people may still use some as added protection from leaks.
Also, depending on your compression fitting, the ends of the pipe to be connected may require a preparation with a special tool. This tool adds a small flare to the end of the pipe for the fitting to seat into.
4. Recharge the system
After you have successfully replaced the damaged area or leaky pipe, you can now recharge the unit and test it. If done correctly, your air conditioner should be functioning properly with no leaks.
Using Compression Fittings To Fix An Air Conditioner FAQ
Can you use a compression fitting on a refrigerant line?
Most air conditioners contain refrigerant in a totally sealed system that is charged at the factory. These parts are not meant to be serviced over the lifespan of the air conditioner.
However, if you want to tackle this DIY project, a compression fitting can be used on the refrigerant lines to make a repair or revive a broken air conditioner.
How reliable is a compression fitting?
A compression fitting is very reliable when installed correctly.
Correct installation is key to having a compression fitting that is both water and gas tight. Make sure to choose the right sized compression fitting for your application.
Also, follow all instructions for your specific compression fitting. Some require preparation of the tubing ends before joining them. This process often requires a special tool.
What are the disadvantages of a compression fitting?
Compression fittings do take up a lot of space, so if the area you are working in is very tight, a compression fitting may not work or fit.
They can be a little unsightly as well compared to a smooth soldered or brazed pipe connection. Although if the repair is not visible, it shouldn’t matter.
Finally, brazing or soldering is considered stronger and will generally last longer than a compression fitting. Although, the brazing or soldering must be done properly in the first place for this to be true.
A poorly done soldering or brazing job will not be better than a compression fitting.
Final Thoughts On Using A Compression Fitting To Fix An Air Conditioner
For the most part, you shouldn’t need to repair an air conditioner for years and years. However, replacing one can be expensive, so a quick repair option is to use a compression fitting to fix any leaking or damaged pipes within the unit.
Following the guidelines in this article should give you the knowledge to use a compression fitting to fix your broken air conditioner.