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linesets

pima67

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Tucson, AZ
Not to fan the flames in the other HVAC thread!
Can one upgrade the entire system/equipment from the SEER from 30 to 80 and not need to replace the line set (assuming it is in good condition)?
 
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bob smith1

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SEER or EER has nothing to do with the lineset. If sized right and in solid condition, it's fine. What the frig.
 

aggie113

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San Antonio, TX
Not sure what you're asking about SEER-wise, but if you are going like for like in tonnage then probably will be good with the old line and their size. My old 3 ton unit (13 SEER) was replaced and it had lines that were buried (pier and beam house). The line size was compatible with the new unit (21 SEER) and besides having to get a ground hole bored out just for the heat pump due to AC run not having a ground (and also being buried) there was not much the tech did besides cleaning, extending slightly and re-insulating the parts of the line exposed to the old line set.
 

todd_fuller

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Lineset needs to match you coil and condenser. A lot of split system have similar size line set, might be different if you go from a 1.5ton to a 5 ton. This will be in the data sheet for whatever unit you're looking at. You might need a different size if you change refrigerants as well.
 
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pima67

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Reason for the question" one lineset is "buried" in the house framing. and would be ***** to replace. Don't figure would need to up the "tonnage" since all work well now cooling wise. From what I've red very different refrigerant is now standard.
 

mm08822

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NJ
Reason for the question" one lineset is "buried" in the house framing. and would be ***** to replace. Don't figure would need to up the "tonnage" since all work well now cooling wise. From what I've red very different refrigerant is now standard.
Somebody needs to measure ids of suction and liquid lines. Are they correct for the new system or what compensation may be needed.
Length of lines....at least a carefully measured estimate of length. (Needed to adjust overall assembled system charge properly.).
Get the manuals for the ac unit and evap coil to determine.

Pressure test above max indicated operating pressure for the lines (only) before anything else above is done. If the lines fail, now is the time to find out before new system is attached to them.

Then flush them if above checks shows usable before connecting equipment on each end of them.
 

The Metric System

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Apr 28, 2025
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If they are in good condition and the correct size and pressure rating they can be reused, you'd have to either check the specs on your new unit and/or do some math to determine if the sizing is viable.

There's usually a range of acceptable sizes for a given system/layout/load. Too small and you get excessive pressure drop, too large and you get poor oil return.

If you give me more information about this 80 SEER system I promise to share the Nobel Prize with you.
 
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pima67

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Not facing replacement just yet (I hope). i was curious if they are limiting factors given where one of the linesets is buried in a wall.
Builders don't build with future problems in mind. I think it i stupid to instasll windows using the flange nailing rather than fit the entire window within the opening so it can be replace easily.
 

whateg01

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Builders don't build with future problems in mind. I think it i stupid to instasll windows using the flange nailing rather than fit the entire window within the opening so it can be replace easily.
That's not a builder problem. It's the person paying to have the house built. They chose the cheaper-to-install windows for a reason. If you pay the builder enough, they'll install whatever windows you want.
 

pcmeiners

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Builders don't build with future problems in mind. I think it i stupid to install windows using the flange nailing rather than fit the entire window within the opening so it can be replace easily.
Not stupid, with the flange and ***** paper over the flange it guarantees leak proof for the life of the window. Windows are still easy to remove with a fine tooth Sawzall blade. If you want this easy method to remove the window have fun sealing the new window against leaks, very good odds you will not seal it correctly .

As to linsets I paid more for my linsets under European standards which exceed US standards.
 
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Dagny

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Northern Wi.
There is a min. liquid line size but not a max. only thing a larger liquid line holds more refrigerant

Suction line is more critical for sure if the evaporator is below the condenser.
 

Wrench97

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Jun 23, 2018
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Not facing replacement just yet (I hope). i was curious if they are limiting factors given where one of the linesets is buried in a wall.
Builders don't build with future problems in mind. I think it i stupid to instasll windows using the flange nailing rather than fit the entire window within the opening so it can be replace easily.
If the original line set system was R22 and the new system is R32 the wall thickness may be too small since R32 runs at a higher pressure all depends on what you have now and what the new system calls for.
 
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