Copper Vs Aluminium Piping

Summers can get really hot in South Africa. In fact, we are experiencing high temperatures in many regions cross the 30 degree Celsius mark. If you are planning to buy an air conditioner (AC) this summer, then Aircon Hyper is the right online store for you.  We have put together some factors to consider to help you choose the best option when it comes to investing in a new air conditioner. Some obvious ones are the Star ratings (based on ISEER) and tonnage. Among the others is the piping material used for heat exchange in these products.

Most air conditioners use one of two types of metals for pipes – aluminium or copper. Alumnium piping is slowly becoming obsolete, and most modern-day air conditioners use copper only. Both the piping technologies have their own pros and cons, so choosing one can sometimes be tricky. Here Aircon Hypers, we want you to choose the best and so we have listed out some points that can help put an end to any confusion.

All major components within an air conditioner are connected through pipes that are either made of copper or aluminium. The entire cooling process works in a close circuit, so piping plays a major role. If these pipes are of poor quality, there are chances of leaks and cracks that can result in ineffective cooling. They can also retain too much heat rendering the air conditioner inefficient.

Anti-corrosive

Copper as a metal has highly anti-corrosive properties compared to aluminium. During the cooling process, pipes comes in contact with air which causes oxidation within these pipes. Copper can better handle oxidation and corrosion for longer periods ultimately gives air conditioners a longer lifespan.

Faster cooling

Cooling on copper pipes is much faster due its lower specific heat quality. The term ‘specific heat’ describes the amount of heat per unit mass required to raise temperature by one degree celsius. Lower the specific heat quantity, better the heating up and cooling down capabilities. As copper pipes have low specific heat quantity, they can rapidly dissipate heat into external environments and cool down quickly to absorb more heat. As aluminium pipes require more time to heat and cool down, they consume more energy and have comparatively lower cooling effectiveness.

Durability

Aluminium is fragile compared to copper. Due to copper’s less ductile nature, copper pipes are stronger and can easily withstand minor accidental damages. Even in case of cracks or punctures, copper pipes can be easily soldered. As aluminium pipe are fragile, soldering or repairing them is a chore and is better replaced.

Economical

Pricing of products is a crucial aspect, right? Copper is more expensive than aluminium. Due to copper pipes less ductile nature, the quantity of piping material required is also high, which makes copper-piped air conditioners a more expensive choice. Aluminium is cheaper and also more bendable so less material is required.

Aircon Hyper only supplies and installs copper piping for all air conditioners. Yes, the copper pipping may be higher priced, but when we consider their durability and efficiency. Did you know that copper piping can easily serve your new air conditioner a longer lifespan and help save on electricity bills. In some sense, they recover some of the additional cost. Wondering what air conditioner you should buy? Explore our awesome air conditioner deals or fill out the quote request form and we will be in contact with you to offer you the best service and price possible.