Replace rotting insulation on outside A/C lines
Rotting insulation on your outdoor A/C lines can cost you energy. The fix is simple. We show you how to do it and tell you where to get the special insulating foam.
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Measure the A/C line diameter and order the insulation
Seal each end of the tubing
Wipe off the condensation and wrap a few winds of the sticky poly tape on the tubing where it exits the house. Then dry and wrap the service valve on the condenser end of the tubing. Squeeze it in tight around the tubing.
Condensation that forms on your outdoor A/C lines reduces efficiency and raises your energy costs. So you need to install new insulation. Start by peeling off all the old air conditioner foam insulation. Then measure the outside diameter on the larger of the two tubes (the skinny tube doesn’t need insulation). Unfortunately, you won’t find the right insulation at any home center. Instead, contact a refrigeration supply house or online supplier for new foam and insulating tape (Insul-Lock tubing insulating foam, and Nomaco Poly Tape, both from pexsupply.com).
Cut the new insulation to length
Install the new air conditioner foam
Slip the new air conditioner foam over the tubing and on top of the cork tape. Remove the adhesive liner, align the edges and press the seam together as you go. Be careful. Once the glued ends touch, you can’t get them apart again.
Measure the length of the A/C line and cut the insulation a few inches longer. Leave the adhesive liner in place and install the insulation.
Required Tools for this Project
Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
Required Materials for this Project
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.
Originally Published: June 20, 2017
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