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Heating & Air Conditioning

Rheem Replacement - Copper lines

14 years ago

Hi,

I'm getting conflicting advice on replacing my 20 year old Rheem R-22 split heat pump and air handler (still operational). One guy said a new copper line set (7/8") should be put in (less than 40 feet) and another said flushing the existing lines (3/4") will suffice. Estimates are about the same.

Note: The existing line is behind the sheet-rock in the finished basement. The new line will run along the wall in the garage and then into the basement closet where the air handler is.

Thanks,

Mach

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Comments (7)

veesubotee
14 years ago
Since you didn't post any model numbers, can't tell for sure, but your new unit might use R410A refrigerant.

In general, many new units need 'sturdier' tubing due to higher pressures, plus the larger size might be required due to the length of the run (40').

V
creek_side
14 years ago
Let me get this straight. Guy A says he will put in new 7/8 inch copper, and guy B says he will flush and reuse the existing 3/4 inch line -- for the same price.

It's a no brainer. Go with the new 7/8 copper line. It will be superior to flushing the existing line, even if guy B gets it right, which may not even be the case.

Besides, if one person is saying it needs 7/8 and the other is saying 3/4 will be OK, he may also be saying you won't lose too much efficiency with the 3/4.

You don't want to lose any.
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mach1speed
Original Author
14 years ago
Update: I am switching to R410a and will go with the new line set. I did get a 3rd estimate (why not?) from an independent HVAC tech via a relative and he is willing to beat the bids and throw in another year of warranty labor. I know the installation is prudent regardless of the brand and I've seen his work. Now he says the HEIL has the best warranty program and is quieter than the RHEEM. Both systems comes with IAQ Honeywell tstat.

RHEEM - HP - RPQL048JEZ / AH - RHLLHM4821JA

HEIL - HP H4H448GKB / AH - Fvm4x4800a

I'm not familiar with HEIL, but I'm loyal to RHEEM due to the fact it was trouble free for 20 years (I replaced the HP fan motor on the 10 year due to bearings were too noisy)
creek_side
14 years ago
We just installed a Rheem two stage 16 SEER system with a VS air handler. It is the quietest system I have ever heard. We are very pleased with the sound levels. Even the outdoor unit has a variable speed fan.

I have an old Heil AC unit with heat strips at a place I own. It is anything but quite. I have had a lot of trouble with its Therm-O-Disc snap action control components sticking. I have replaced several of them over the years.

Hopefully, Heil's newer units are a lot quieter and more reliable.
mach1speed
Original Author
14 years ago
Interesting. I googled HEIL's HP H4H448GKB and noticed it doesn't qualify for tax credit. hmmmmmm.
mach1speed
Original Author
14 years ago
I found an updated manufacturer cert statement:

1123213 HEIL H4H448GKC* FVM4X48****
mach1speed
Original Author
14 years ago
Both HEIL and RHEEM uses the Copeland Scroll compressor. Now I'm leaning on HEIL for warranty purposes.

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