Rough-in during construction, extensions in existing buildings
The best time to run copper and drain lines is before ceilings and walls are closed. Lines go into hidden routes, every indoor and outdoor unit position is fixed in advance, and the final installation stays clean with no chasing into walls or visible trunking.
In existing buildings we extend lines, relocate units and reroute pipework, choosing the safest and neatest path and using trunking and covers to protect exposed runs and keep the space looking tidy. On construction projects we work to the contractor's programme, so the lines are ready ahead of plastering and ceilings without holding up other trades.
Copper lines, step by step
Pipe diameter depends on the unit type, its capacity and the length of the run, and the wrong size weakens cooling and strains the compressor. We follow each manufacturer's specifications and handle pipes carefully so moisture and dirt stay out.
- Pipe sizes selected for the unit and the length of run
- Insulated copper lines to prevent cooling loss and condensation
- Joints brazed with nitrogen flowing to limit oxidation
- Nitrogen pressure test to confirm the lines are leak-free
- Vacuum to remove air and moisture before releasing or charging refrigerant
- Lines secured and routed in trunking or covers where needed
AC drains: small details that prevent big damage
Every AC produces condensate while cooling, and more of it in humid weather. If the drain line lacks enough fall, is the wrong size or gets blocked, water backs up and leaks from the indoor unit or pools above the false ceiling, staining and damaging finishes.
We lay drain lines with a proper fall to a suitable discharge point, add traps where needed to stop odours coming back, insulate any sections where condensation could form, and water-test the drainage before ceilings are closed.
Common pipework mistakes we avoid
Many of the AC faults we come across during maintenance are caused not by the unit itself but by pipework that was rushed. The mistakes we take care to avoid include:
- Sharp bends that pinch the refrigerant path
- Pipe ends left open on site, letting in dust and moisture
- Missing or torn insulation that causes condensation and drips above ceilings
- Drain lines laid with a back-fall or too little fall
- Starting the AC straight away with no pressure test or vacuum
