Converting the Microchannel Coil in the Carrier® AquaSnap® Chiller: Improve performance and reliability

When it comes to replacing commercial condenser coils, the Carrier AquaSnap chiller is a frequent contender. Alongside the development of a replacement coil for this popular unit often comes the decision to convert its all-aluminum microchannel design into a traditional copper tube and aluminum fin coil.

Microchannel coils have been a staple in the air conditioning industry for over a decade, not just in Carrier units but across most original equipment manufacturer (OEM) equipment. By using aluminum as a cheaper material, manufacturers can reduce costs while minimizing the refrigerant footprint. However, these advantages come with notable drawbacks.

A Carrier AquaSnap chiller featuring all-aluminum microchannel coils.

The Challenges of Microchannel Coils

Microchannel coils are prone to dirt accumulation, much like the lint trap in your dryer. Without regular maintenance, this can lead to operational issues due to increased system head pressure. Moreover, precise refrigerant charge is critical for proper operation because of the minimal refrigerant volume in MCHX coils. Repairing an all-aluminum coil is also complex, often requiring either two-part epoxy or welding with a torch. During such repairs, aluminum becomes particularly susceptible to environmental factors. Furthermore, leaks commonly occur at the copper-to-aluminum connections.

#SwitchToCopper: Upgrading to a Copper Tube, Aluminum Fin Coil

Introducing the high-grade copper tube and aluminum fin coil—a microchannel conversion that not only boosts the performance of your Carrier AquaSnap chiller but enhances its reliability and longevity.

Key benefits include:

• Increased durability
• Easier maintenance and repair compared to microchannel coils
• Ability to pump down the system. Unlike microchannel coils, which rely on flat plates with tiny holes that limit refrigerant capacity by up to 30%, copper tube coils allow compressors to circulate refrigerant directly into the condenser coils. This eliminates the need to recover refrigerant from the entire system before making repairs, saving both time and money.
• Long-term cost efficiency by reducing repair frequency and refrigerant loss due to leaks

A Carrier AquaSnap chiller equipped with copper tube and aluminum fin coils.

Completing the System Upgrade

When switching from microchannel condenser coils to copper tube condenser coils, completing the circuit is essential. For instance, if your unit has eight microchannel coils divided into two circuits of four each, and only one coil in a circuit fails, you’ll need to replace all four coils within that circuit. This is necessary because copper tube coils require more refrigerant per circuit than MCHX coils. Additionally, the pressure drop of refrigerant differs between microchannel and copper tube coils. Pairing mismatched coils in the same circuit would result in operational problems for the system.

#ExpertsInMicrochannelConversion

While the Carrier AquaSnap chiller is among the most common units requiring microchannel conversion, this upgrade is applicable to any major brand or model of commercial HVAC equipment. Over the years, we’ve completed thousands of these conversions, earning Nationwide Coils the title of #MastersOfMicrochannelConversion.

If you’re considering this valuable upgrade, let the experts guide you. Contact us at 1.888.CoilPro or email us anytime. All we need is the unit’s make and model number to begin the process.