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There is an old debate that exists in the HVAC industry between aluminum condensing coils and copper condensing coils. While there are pros and cons to both sides of the debate, many Florida AC repair companies will provide only facts that support just one side of the debate to buyers, due to brand-favoritism, economics, and a sales-oriented mentality. We believe that buyers in the South Florida area should be aware of the differences between aluminum condensing coils and copper condensing coils, so that they can make an informed decision before purchasing new air conditioning equipment.

SOME HISTORY

General Electric (GE) came out with the first aluminum condensing coil in the 1970’s, a time when air conditioning equipment was considered a luxury feature and most homeowners didn’t have it. At the time, all the other companies manufacturing air conditioning systems were still using copper coils with aluminum fins. The demand for affordable air conditioning systems began during a construction boom in the 1980’s. Manufacturers took note of the “cost-first” attitude of buyers and began producing less costly, air conditioning systems made with aluminum condensing coils.

PROS AND CONS OF USING ALUMINUM CONDENSING COILS

It’s no secret that the cost of an air conditioning unit is still one of the most important factors homeowners and business owners consider when purchasing an air conditioning unit. Although aluminum and copper are comparable in cost to the manufacturer, copper coils require much more material than aluminum coils, making the end cost of a unit with copper coils more costly to the buyer.

A major drawback to aluminum condensing coils is that leaks are much more difficult to fix on units with these types of coils. Many South Florida ac repair companies do not have the equipment necessary to fix these leaks. Units with aluminum coils are also more difficult to clean and maintain.

PROS AND CONS OF USING COPPER CONDENSED COILS

Copper coils are generally regarded as stronger, easier to maintain and more reliable than aluminum coils. They also have a better high transfer rate. Unfortunately, as the cost of copper continues to rise, manufacturers have resorted to making the copper coils thinner and thinner, which in turn reduces the strength, reliability, and durability of the coils.

Copper is also subject to corrosion, but this can be prevented with proper cleaning and maintenance, both of which are more easily done on a unit with copper coils.

THE RESULT

Cool Air USA carries an extensive line of products from several manufacturers, including Rheem, Goodman, and Trane. We believe that both types of coils have their advantages and disadvantages, and that our buyers should have all the information on hand to make the most informed decision to meet their needs.

We also believe that one of the most important aspects in extending the life of your air conditioner lies in proper maintenance and care. Too many AC repair companies in South Florida will charge high costs for maintenance and rush through, without properly cleaning the coils. At Cool Air USA we provide an AC maintenance service that includes thorough inspection and cleaning of your unit(s). If you are having any issues with your system or you’d like to install a new air conditioner in your home or business today, please give us a call. We service most areas in Sanford, Orlando, and Kissimmee.