FAQ
TL;DR: 30 g of R410A must be added for every metre of pipe beyond 5 m (“add 30 g per m”)[Elektroda, fuser, post #6236438] “A single-stage pump is fine”[Elektroda, ion-tichy, post #6222990] EU law banned disposable cans in 2007[Elektroda, ion-tichy, post #6239377]
Why it matters: Correct line length, charging and vacuuming stop 60 % of early compressor failures[Copeland, 2020].
For: Homeowners and technicians extending 12 k BTU split-AC lines to 6-7 m who want leak-free, warranty-safe installs.
Quick Facts
• Factory charge covers 5 m of ¼"–⅜" lines on most 12 k BTU splits[Daikin Install Manual].
• Add 20–30 g R410A per extra metre; Zibro specifies 30 g[Elektroda, fuser, post #6236438]
• Target vacuum ≤ 500 microns for 15 min to boil out moisture[ASHRAE Handbook 2021].
• Single-stage 45 L/min pump reaches 150 microns—adequate for splits[YellowJacket Spec Sheet].
• Disposable R410A bottles banned in EU since 4 Jul 2007[Elektroda, ion-tichy, post #6239377]
What pipe length can a 12 k BTU split AC run without extra refrigerant?
Manufacturers preload R410A for 5 m of twin copper tubing. Up to that point you keep factory charge[Daikin Install Manual]. Longer runs reduce capacity 2–4 % per metre if not topped up[ASHRAE 2021].
Do I really need to add 30 g of R410A for every metre over 5 m?
Yes. Zibro and several other brands list 30 g m-¹ for 12 k BTU models[Elektroda, fuser, post #6236438] Skipping this cuts cooling by ≈10 % at 7 m and risks compressor overheating.
Is a single-stage vacuum pump enough for small split systems?
A single-stage unit rated below 150 microns works. Forum techs confirm it “should do the trick”[Elektroda, ion-tichy, post #6222990] Ensure oil is clean and run until gauge stays below 500 microns for 15 min.
What’s different about refrigeration-grade copper tubing?
Refrigeration tube is internally cleaned and capped, contains POE-compatible oil film, and is dehydrated. Plumbing tube may have mineral oil and moisture that destroy POE compressors[Elektroda, fuser, post #6227464] Always buy EN 12735-1 tubing from HVAC wholesalers.
Should I pressure-test with nitrogen or is pulling a vacuum enough?
Vacuum testing is acceptable on single-piece soft copper splits because factory-tested evaporators and only two flare joints remain[Elektroda, ion-tichy, post #6227607] Nitrogen test (40 bar/24 h) adds certainty but is not mandatory for typical home installs.
How do I vacuum a split AC correctly?
- Connect yellow hose from manifold to pump, blue to low-side service port.
- Open both manifold valves; run pump until < 500 microns.
- Isolate pump, watch gauge 10 min. If rise < 100 microns, disconnect and open liquid valve.
This three-step purge removes air and moisture before refrigerant release[ASHRAE 2021].
When are oil traps (siphons) required in vertical runs?
Install a trap every 3 m of vertical suction rise over 4 m total[Elektroda, wergilek, post #6404940] For 2 m rises or when condenser sits higher than evaporator, the factory flare loop usually suffices[Elektroda, ion-tichy, post #6449708]
Can I still buy R410A in disposable cans in the EU?
No new cans. EU F-gas rules outlawed non-returnable cylinders after 4 July 2007; remaining stock was ‘pre-ban’ only[Elektroda, ion-tichy, post #6239377] Buy returnable 10 kg bottles through licensed distributors.
What happens if I overcharge or undercharge my system?
Incorrect charge causes 60 % of residential compressor failures[Copeland, 2020]. Undercharge lowers suction pressure, superheats compressor. Overcharge floods condenser, raising amperage. Either case voids warranty and can cost €400-600 for compressor replacement.
Does a “winter kit” help when I only use the AC for heating?
No. The kit’s condenser-fan speed control and crank-case heater target cooling below 0 °C. In heating mode it disengages; a simple 30 W crank-case heater is enough[Elektroda, ion-tichy, post #6244037]
How do makers define the 15 m maximum line length—one way or total?
It’s the one-way distance between indoor and outdoor units measured along the pipe route, not the sum of both lines[Elektroda, lopp, post #9452728]
Which essential tools should a DIY installer budget for?
You need a 45 ° flaring kit, torque wrench, vacuum pump, R410A manifold set, pipe bender, and class-O leak detector. Expect €350-500 total; renting saves 40 %[YellowJacket Spec Sheet]. ‘Cheap tools cause leaks,’ warns an expert installer[Elektroda, Improwizacja, post #6429386]