LINE SET FLUSH

An air conditioning line set flush is a maintenance procedure that involves cleaning the refrigerant lines in an air conditioning system. The purpose of this procedure is to remove any debris or contaminants that may have accumulated in the lines over time, which can hinder the system’s performance and efficiency. A line set flush typically involves attaching a flush kit to the system and running a cleaning solution through the lines to remove any build-up. This procedure can help improve the system’s cooling performance, extend its lifespan, and reduce the risk of costly repairs.

NAME | PART # | DESCRIPTION

  • Power Flush | PFA-1 | 1lb aerosol 
  • Power Flush Starter Pack (Aerosol, Gun, Hose, Actuator) | PFA-1K 

POWER FLUSH AEROSOL

Part#PFA-1 | 1lb aerosol

Hab Chem’s Power Flush is a specialized mixture of solvents that is exclusively formulated to eliminate oil, refrigerant, and debris from the interior of line- sets. The Vertrel based formula contains the industry’s highest concentration of active ingredients and is the highest pressure of anyaerosol line flush in the industry. This product is particularly useful after burnouts, retrofits, and component replacements.

  • VERTREL BASED FORMULA
  • 140 PSI VS 40-60 FROM COMPETITION
  • LEAVES NO RESIDUE
  • LOW BOILING POINT
  • REMOVES SLUDGE, OILS,
  • CARBON RESIDUE, ACID, WATER
  • NON-TOXIC, NON-FLAMMABLE,
  • NON OZONE DEPLETING

POWER FLUSH KIT

Part#PFA-1K | Includes flush, gun, hose, actuator valve

Hab Chem’s Power Flush 1LB Aerosol Kit includes everything you need to clean line sets during installations, cleanings, retrofits, change-outs, or after burnouts. The kit includes a 1 pound can of Power Flush, a flush gun, hose, and actuator valve.

  • VERTREL BASED FORMULA
  • 140 PSI VS 40-60 FROM COMPETITION
  • LEAVES NO RESIDUE
  • LOW BOILING POINT
  • REMOVES SLUDGE, OILS,
  • CARBON RESIDUE, ACID, WATER
  • NON-TOXIC, NON-FLAMMABLE,
  • NON OZONE DEPLETING

What is a Line Set?​

A line set is a pair of copper tubes that connects the outdoor air conditioner or heat pump to the indoor evaporator coil. In a mini-split system, the line set serves as the connection between the outdoor unit (condenser) and the indoor unit (evaporator), allowing the outdoor unit to supply the indoor unit with refrigerant. Essentially, a line set is a set of lines that facilitate the flow of refrigerant between the different components of the system.

Line sets are semi-flexible and are available in various lengths that can be cut to fit the specific installation requirements. The larger pipe in the line set is called the suction line. It is insulated and transports the lighter, gaseous refrigerant from the evaporator back to the condenser, where the heat can be released. The smaller tube, known as the liquid or discharge line, carries the denser liquid refrigerant from the condenser to the evaporator, where it absorbs heat.

Time takes its toll on all things, including air conditioning units, which sometimes they need to be replaced. Line sets however (the literal link between the inside and outside units), may not. It is often more economical to simply flush the sets, vice replace them.

NOTE: The size of the line set for a mini-split system is determined by the manufacturer and is based on the system’s tonnage or BTUs. In general, larger systems require a larger diameter line set. For standard residential systems, the liquid line typically has a diameter of 3/8 inches, while the suction line has a diameter of 3/4, 7/8, or 1 1/8 inches, depending on the size and efficiency of the air conditioning system or heat pump. It’s important to note that the size of the line set can impact the overall performance of the system.

Why Clean Line Sets

Contaminants such as oil from the outdoor compressor can accumulate inside the line set over time, leading to leaks, clogs, burnouts, seizures, and other serious problems. Flushing the line set helps to eliminate this concern by quickly removing built-up moisture, acid, oil, and other impurities from the set. The process of flushing line sets effectively purges them of any accumulated contaminants, leaving them clean and free of debris. By regularly flushing the line set, you can help prevent issues and maintain the overall health and efficiency of your air conditioning or refrigeration system.

Flushing is often performed when a new air conditioning system is installed and the existing line sets cannot or should not be removed. This is because line sets can be difficult to access, with some buried underground, hidden within walls, or running through tight spaces. Replacing them can be time-consuming and costly, which is why some homeowners may prefer to keep their old line sets when retrofitting a system. In these cases, a flush is necessary to remove any remaining oil and contaminants, such as acid, sludge, and water, that may be present in the line set. Allowing these impurities to run through a new system can cause mineral acid burnouts and potentially damage the system from the inside out. Flushing the line set ensures that the system is clean and free of any residual contaminants before it is put into operation.

Tips

There are a few steps to follow when flushing a line set to ensure optimal results.

  • First, it is recommended to use nitrogen purging to blow out any loose particulates, as this can increase the dissolving power of the flushing agents on the remaining contaminants and also help to remove as much residual oil as possible.
  • To inject the flushing agent into the line set, you will need some type of fitting. The Line-Set Flush Starter Kit includes a hose, valve, and gun, which can be used to introduce the flushing agent into the line set.
  • Alternatively, you can brazing in a brass flared fitting that accepts the rubber hose from the flushing agent container, although this method may take more preparation time. 
  • Another option is to wedge a conical rubber fitting into the open line set and hold it in place during the flushing process. You can also crimp the exterior end of the line set to create resistance, which can help to more effectively remove contaminants.
  • By following these steps, you can effectively flush your line set and ensure that it is clean and free of any built-up contaminants.

Insights

Before flushing the system, it is recommended to crimp the opposite end of the line set to increase pressure and help dislodge additional contaminants. When flushing the system, it is important to follow the proper flow direction, either from the inside of the mechanical room to the outdoors or from the outside to the inside, depending on the specific configuration of the line set. If flushing from the inside to the outside, be sure to cover the line set and bucket area with a towel to minimize splattering, and if flushing from the outside to the inside, make sure to cover the floor of the mechanical room with a tarp to protect against spills.

To collect the debris and used flush, use a bucket at the receiving end of the line set. All flushing agents have some level of toxicity, so it is important to properly dispose of them according to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Continue flushing until the liquid in the bucket becomes clear, and near the end of the flushing process, replace the dirty bucket with a clean one to help determine when the flushing agent is clear.

After flushing, finish the cleaning process by purging the line set again with nitrogen before the flushing agent has a chance to evaporate. By following these steps, you can effectively flush and clean your line set, ensuring that it is free of any contaminants and ready for use.