Arkansas HVACR NewsMagazine September 2020

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an install or making an expensive repair. If you are going to use the less expensive rod make sure it won’t be in a location with a lot of vibration, that you get the fit between the tubing and the fitting REALLY tight and that more heat is used to “draw” the solder into the joint. The biggest mistake new techs make is just “capping” the edge rather than pulling the solder into the joint for a solid bond.

Code Bulletin 1107.2 Pipe enclosures

Many installations involve running refrigerant piping up the outside wall into the attic to the evaporator / air handler. Most of the refrigerant pipe is “line set” soft, annealed coper tubing. In cases where the refrigerant is “ot her than A1 or B1 ” , an enclosure is required. (IMC 2003, 1107.2) An enclosure is not required from the condenser to the riser as long as it does not exceed 6 feet. Either there is confusion or some cities have gone beyond state code to require an enclosure for all applications. That is their prerogative. The Association has been getting requests for clarification. First, remember that our opinion is just that--an opinion which will not buy you the cheapest cup of coffee; however, we can read and ask for clarification from state inspectors. They are always willing to help. After all, we are a team in our efforts to provide Arkansans quality installs that meet code for health and safety as well as efficacy of installation procedure as determined by the manufacturer and the code authority. So if the city is consistent with the state, the only question is what is a class A1 or B1 refrigerant? For the purposes of this article, we’re primarily interested in R-410A, the most common refrigerant used in residential HVAC and that is where the question of “to enclose or not to enclose” started. R-410A is an A1 classification which means that the line set up the outside wall does not have to be enclosed (IMC 2003, 1107.2) UNLESS the local code authority has deemed otherwise. The job of the dealer is to determine if the city / local code authority has made such a determination. Again, it is within their prerogative to do so. How do you do this —ASK? Pretty simple. As long as the dealer’s question is inquisitive rather than accusatory, the official and the dealer will have a long and equally beneficial relationship.

Bryan Orr, HVAC School ( Founder / Podcaster / Dad of 10 ) Bryan Orr is a lifelong learner, proud technician and advocate for the HVAC/R Trade

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