Vacuum tubes: why are they essential when installing cooling systems?

Vacuuming an air conditioning system is an indisputable step in the installation process. It ensures that the system operates at maximum efficiency, prevents long-term damage, and maximizes its lifespan. Thus, vacuums play an important role in maintaining the health and performance of your air conditioning system.

When installing cooling systems such as air conditioners, ensuring the system is working properly is key. One of the essential steps in this process is the use of a vacuum cleaner, which is used to remove air and moisture from the system. This step is performed before the refrigerant is filled into the cooling circuit and is essential to ensure efficient and safe cooling. Without thorough extraction of air and water, the system components could be damaged, its efficiency reduced or even malfunction. Let’s take a look at why a vacuum is an integral part of the installation of refrigeration systems and how it ensures optimum performance.

The role of vacuum pumps

A vacuum pump or vacuum pump is essential in the installation of refrigeration systems because if the refrigerant reacts with the water vapour and air in the system, the resulting acid corrodes its components.

In the case of air conditioning repairs, the first step is often to refill the refrigerant. Once this process is complete, the next repair can proceed. Individual seals and other issues that are part of regular inspections and servicing can then be checked. Before the air conditioning system is filled with refrigerant, a vacuum is created to remove air and moisture that may have accumulated in the system. The vacuuming process also removes any accumulated debris.

As already mentioned, vacuums play a key role in the installation of refrigeration systems, as their main task is to create a vacuum in the closed circuit that removes air and moisture. This process is essential before filling the system with refrigerant, as if air or moisture were to remain in the circuit, they could cause serious problems such as reduced cooling efficiency, ice formation in the expansion valves or the aforementioned corrosion in the components. The vacuum pump therefore ensures that the cooling system will function optimally and have a longer service life.

Necessity of vacuuming

In cooling systems such as air conditioning, only oil and refrigerant should circulate. During servicing or after many years of operation, air can enter air conditioning systems and cause problems.

The atmospheric air entering the system contains oxygen, nitrogen and moisture and these can introduce additional associated problems, leading to higher discharge temperatures and compression ratios, reducing system efficiency. Chemical reactions can also occur, which in turn lead to galvanic plating and damage to the engine insulation. Once the insulation of the compressor motor is broken, a short circuit will occur which will damage the compressor. The compressor is one of the most expensive components in the system. And so in such a case, it is often more efficient to buy a new refrigeration system outright.

Increase the efficiency of cooling equipment

Trapped air and moisture in cooling systems can significantly affect their efficiency. Non-condensable gases such as air cannot condense as a refrigerant and tend to accumulate in high pressure areas such as condenser coils. This buildup interferes with the heat exchange process because it prevents the refrigerant from fully contacting the condenser’s internal surface. As a result, cooling efficiency decreases and energy consumption increases.

Recent research shows that even a small amount of air pollution, as little as 0.2% by volume, can reduce cooling capacity by up to 10%. This loss of efficiency not only increases electricity bills, but also puts unnecessary strain on the system. Vacuuming removes air and moisture, ensuring that the refrigerant operates as it should and maintains optimum efficiency.

Risks of non-evaporation of the cooling system: freezing and blockage

In refrigeration systems, humidity is the silent enemy. If moisture is present, it can freeze in the evaporator coils under low pressure, leading to clogged copper tubes and filters. These blockages interfere with airflow and refrigerant circulation, causing the system to work harder and can fail prematurely.

Thorough vacuuming of the system eliminates moisture, ensuring smooth operation and reducing the risk of costly repairs.

Preventing corrosion

An important part of cooling systems is the oil that lubricates all moving parts. Many systems use polyvinyl ether (PVE) oil, which, although highly efficient, is also hygroscopic. This means that it readily absorbs moisture. When moisture mixes with PVE oil, it becomes acidic, which often leads to corrosion of critical components.

Corrosion mainly damages the copper components and this often leads to the phenomenon where small holes start to form in the copper tubing. Over time, this can lead to refrigerant leaks and system failures. Vacuuming removes moisture, protects the system from corrosion and extends its life.

Conclusion

Proper maintenance of cooling systems is important to keep them working properly, stay energy efficient and last a long time. One critical aspect of this maintenance is understanding and properly utilizing the vacuum system. This device plays a key role in removing unwanted air and moisture from the system, preventing damage caused by acid build-up and contamination. By achieving a deep vacuum, the pump allows refrigerant and oil to circulate through the system. This is essential to maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the system.

If this step is neglected, you risk not only reduced cooling efficiency, but also serious damage to the system, such as freezing or blockage of the circuit. Therefore, it is essential to have a quality vacuum pump when installing to ensure the optimum functioning of the entire system. If you are looking for professional vacuum tools and other necessary equipment for the installation of cooling systems, visit Slovklima where you will find a wide range of quality products that will make your job easier and ensure the smooth operation of your cooling equipment.