Application Guide

Refrigerant Piping Manual for Small

Split Cooling and Heat Pump Systems
I – Refrigerant Piping
II – Microchannel Units
III – High Rise Systems

Trane and American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Split Systems

April 2015 SS-APG006-EN

 Application
Guide

Index Tables and Charts

Page Page
Introduction  ................................................................................................................... 3 Figure 1 - Underground Conduit................7
Figure 2 - R-410A Temperature and
General Information ..................................................................................................... 4
Pressure Chart.........................................9
Section I – Refrigerant Piping/Spine Fin Units Figure 3 - Subcooler Internal Diagrams...15
Liquid Lines for Split Cooling and Heat Pump Systems................................................ 5 Figure 4 - Piping Detail - Heat
Suction Lines for Split Cooling and Heat Pump Systems.............................................. 7 Exchanger..............................................16
Figure 5 - High Rise Schematic.................17
Underground Conduit....................................................................................................... 7
Figure 6 - Thermal Bulb Location..............22
R-410A Refrigerant............................................................................................................ 9
Figure 7 - Typical Cooling System............22
Section II – Condensing Units Utilizing Micro-channel Coil Technology...... 13 Figure 8 - Tubing Hints...............................22
Figure 9 - Basic Air Conditioning
Section III – High Rise Systems Formulas................................................23
High Rise Heat Pump Systems (R-22 and R-410A)........................................................ 15 Table 1 - Pounds of R-410A Required for
Line Sets...................................................9
Subcooling Heat Exchangers......................................................................................... 16
Table 2 - (R-410) Liquid Line Selection for
R-410A Single Speed Split Systems....10
Section IV – Split System with Variable Speed Compressor ...........................19
Table 3 - Allowable Suction Line Diameters
for R-410A Single Speed
Section V – Compressor Protection and Piping Limits..................................... 22 Split Systems......................................... 11
Table 4 - Fitting Equivalent Lengths......... 11
Section VI – Refrigerant Handling, Retrofit, and Reusing Table 5 - Allowable Vapor and Liquid Line
Existing Refrigeration Lines................................................................................... 23 Diameters for Multistage Split
Systems..................................................12
Section VII – Other Applicable Information.......................................................... 25 Table 6 - Microchannel Refrigerant Piping
Rated Diameters and Lengths..............13
Table 7 -Allowable Liquid Line Diameters
for Microchannel Condensing Units....14
This manual is dedicated to improving system performance and reliability.
A properly designed refrigerant piping system ensures oil return, minimizes Table 8 - Charge Adjustment Based on
capacity losses, and provides for maximum equipment life. Liquid Line Diameter and Length.........14
Table 9 - Subcooling Heat Exchangers....15
Our thanks to the following for their valuable contributions:
Table 10 - Capillary Tube Selection for
• Roy Crawford • Terry Ryan R-410A Subcooler..................................18
• Dave Donnelly •  Gary Sapp
Table 11-14 - Subcooling Charging
•  Chuck Erlandson •  Jim Sharp Corrections for Variable Speed
•  Steve Hancock • Paul Solberg Systems..................................................19
•  Marion Houser •  Greg Walters Table 15-17 - Refrigerant Weigh-in Tables
•  Dan Joiner •  Richard Welguisz for Variable Speed.................................20
•  Red Roley Table 18 - R410A Refrigerant Charging
Chart.......................................................21
Table 19 - Rated Refrigerant Line
Diameters...................................................21
Table 20 - Alternate Refrigerant Line
Diameters...............................................21

2 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

Introduction in capacity and efficiency consistent with

proper oil return. Shorter tubing runs may
The purpose of this manual is to assist provide acceptable losses with a smaller
in the proper selection of liquid lines and diameter. For multistage systems, please
suction lines for straight cooling and heat reference table 5 for the approved liquid
pump split systems (Chapter I). Chapter II and vapor line diameters and lengths.
covers High Rise Applications.
Hot gas lines are somewhat less critical
Careful use of the tables and charts in insofar as pressure drops and oil return
Chapter I will ensure: are concerned. In the case of a heat pump,
• minimum pressure drops, the gas line is sized as a suction line, and
• adequate oil return, although it is somewhat oversized as a
• maximum system reliability, discharge line, our experience over many
• delivery of 100% liquid to the years, indicates that oil return is not a
metering device. problem, within the published limits.

New selection tables are included for The Windows® based piping program,
liquid and suction lines covering total Publication 32-3312-03 (or latest version)
linear = 200 ft. equivalent lengths up to covers Trane and American Standard
240 ft. Heating and Air Conditioning split
systems ranging from 1.0 to 20 ton in
The philosophy in designing a refrigerant nominal capacity.
piping system can be summed up
as follows: The piping program is very user friendly
and is highly recommended, since it:
Liquid lines should be sized as small • saves valuable time,
as possible without exceeding the • reduces errors,
recommended maximum pressure drop • reminds the user of the required
of 50 PSI for R-410A. Liquid line pressure accessories,
drop calculations must include friction
• generates customer confidence,
loss, liquid lifts and refrigerant accessories
(solenoid valves, etc.). • establishes the user as a knowledge-
able expert.
The penalties for liquid pressure drop
are minimized provided the pressure Information provided by the program
drop does not exceed 50 PSI for R410A includes:
systems. The liquid line with smallest • Liquid and suction line sizes
diameter that meets this 50 PSI criteria, • Liquid and suction line
results in better system reliability (fewer pressure drops
pounds of refrigerant to cause potential
damage to the compressor). Note that • Net system capacity loss
the 50 PSI allowance is based on 10 • Approximate system charge
degrees Fahrenheit of sub-cooling (no • Required system accessories
liquid receiver.) Both Trane and American
• High rise requirements
Standard Heating and Air Conditioning
split systems that utilize Spine Fin™ coils • Reciprocating and scroll compressor
ranging in nominal capacity from 1.0 to requirements
5.0 tons meet this criterion. • R-22 and R-410A refrigerants
• Linear lengths to 200 ft.
Since suction line pressure drop does
reduce capacity and efficiency, suction • Linear lifts to 200 ft. (150 ft. for heat
lines should be sized as large as possible, pumps)
while still maintaining sufficient velocity • Excellent print-outs
for oil return. All tubing sizes listed in
Table 3 and Table 5 will provide oil return.
Using the largest diameter listed for a
given tonnage results in the lowest losses

SS-APG006-EN 3
 Application
Guide

General Information B — Oil return must always be considered 3 – There is no direct penalty for pressure
since some oil is continually being drop in a liquid line provided that
The four prime considerations in design- 100% liquid is being delivered to the
circulated with the refrigerant and must
ing a refrigerant piping system are: expansion device, and that the liquid
be returned to the compressor. If the
A – System Reliability recommended suction line sizes are pressure available to the expansion
B – Oil Return used, no oil return problems should be device is adequate to produce the
encountered with split systems. required refrigerant flow. Pressure
C – Friction Losses (Pressure Drop)
drop or gain due to vertical lift must be
D – Cost C — Pressure drop or friction losses are added to the friction loss in liquid lines
important from a performance standpoint. to determine the total pressure drop. The
A — The piping system can affect The following general statements point acceptable pressure drop in the liquid line
system reliability in a number of ways: out the effects of pressure drop in the for equipment through 5.0 tons nominal
• Oversized liquid lines significantly various components of the refrigerant capacity is 50 PSI for R410A systems
increase the amount of refrigerant piping system. utilizing Spine Fin™.
in the system, and thus creating the
potential for slugging, oil dilution, 1 – Pressure drop in the suction line D — Cost is an obvious consideration
or other damage to the compressor. reduces system capacity significantly and and dictates that the smallest tubing
increases power consumption per ton.The possible be used that will result in a
• Under sized liquid lines and the most generally accepted value for pressure system with acceptable friction losses.
associated “flashing” of refrigerant drop equivalent to 2°F (approximately
causes starving of the evaporator coil. 5 PSI for R-410A in the air conditioning The following pages cover the selection
The results can be significant loss in range of evaporating temperatures). As of liquid lines and suction lines for split
capacity, frosted evaporator coil, high tubing runs become longer, it is inevitable heat pump and cooling systems.
superheat etc. that the ASHRAE recommendation will
be exceeded, at times. This trade-off, of It is recommended that Chapter I is read
• Oversized suction lines will result somewhat greater suction line losses, in order to better understand the Tables,
in refrigerant velocities too low to for adequate oil return is an absolute Charts, etc.
provide adequate oil return to the must, in order to preserve system
compressor. reliability. See the Table of Contents for a complete
listing, including page number, for all
• Undersized suction lines reduce 2 – Pressure drop in hot gas lines reduces tables, charts, etc.
capacity and efficiency and contribute system capacity to a somewhat lesser
to high superheat. degree and increases power consumption All installations must conform to any
to a slightly lesser degree than does codes or regulations applying at the
• Excessive refrigerant line length pressure drop in suction lines. Since the site. The Safety Code for Mechanical
reduces system capacity and only hot gas lines we are concerned with Refrigeration, ASA-B-9-1 and the Code
efficiency, as well as system reliability are in heat pump systems where they for Refrigeration Piping, ASA-B31.5
( e x c e s s i v e r e f r i g e r a n t ch a r g e ) . also serve as suction lines, we will treat should serve as your guide toward a
Keep refrigerant lines as short as them as suction lines. safe piping system.
conditions permit!

4 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

Section I when air conditioning for most residential this application guide and in the piping
applications is not required. program limit the liquid line pressure
Refrigerant Piping drop in an R410A system to 50 PSI.
Any situation such as an unusually long The foregoing has shown how to
liquid line or a large difference in elevation
Liquid Lines for between the indoor and outdoor sections
figure the liquid line pressure drop
and indicated that the heat loss to the
Split Cooling and may require consideration as discussed surroundings help to maintain adequate
further below.
Heat Pump Systems subcooling. The amount of refrigerant
The purpose of the liquid line is to in the system governs the amount of
The flashing of refrigerant to vapor will
convey liquid refrigerant from the subcooling of the liquid as it leaves
occur if the refrigerant absorbs heat
condenser to the expansion device. the condenser.The appropriate installation
in the liquid line so that it is no
The expansion device in turn throttles a n d ch a r g i n g i n s t r u c t i o n s s h o u l d
longer subcooled or if its pressure is
the refrigerant from the high side be followed.
reduced below the saturation pressure
pressure as it exists at the entrance to the corresponding to its temperature. With regard to whether adequate head
device to the relatively low evaporator
pressure is available at the expansion
pressure. The high side pressure varies Normally, the liquid line temperature is
device to give the required flow, note
through a wide range with the cooling above that of the surrounding ambient
that an unusually high pressure drop in
load and the outdoor temperature. The so there is no “flashing” as a result of
a liquid line due to long lengths or large
expansion device has to handle this temperature rise and usually there is
differences in elevation, has the same
situation and the fact that a particular enough cooling of the refrigerant to
effect as a reduced head pressure due
pressure drop is required to produce compensate for the fact that the pressure
to cooler outdoor temperatures entering
the flow through the liquid line is gradually drops to maintain flow. In
the air cooled condenser. Typically each
not especially critical providing two special cases where the liquid line is run
additional 10 PSI drop in pressure in
conditions exist. through hot attics or other heat sources
the liquid line means that the minimum
the liquid line should be insulated.
The first condition is that the liquid line outdoor temperature at which the system
transports the refrigerant completely as Table “4” lists the equivalent length will perform satisfactorily is raised by
liquid and not allow the refrigerant to of fittings, which must be added to 3 degrees. Allowance for this is
flash partly into gas. This requires that the linear length of the tubing to significant only for unusual applications
the liquid temperature be lower than the obtain the equivalent length of the line. where cooling is required at low outdoor
temperature which causes refrigerant to temperatures. Performance for such
vaporize at the pressure prevailing locally The pressure loss due to vertical lift conditions is published in the Performance
in the tube, that is, the refrigerant must be (evaporator above the condenser) Tables and is based on 25 feet of line as
subcooled throughout the length of the depends on the difference in level used for Standard Ratings. For marginal
liquid line. between the metering device and applications where a Head Pressure
condenser (or receiver) and on the density Control accessory is under consideration,
The second condition is that the pressure of the refrigerant. At normal liquid line the effect of liquid line pressure drop
and amount of subcooling at the temperatures with R-410A, the static should be considered.
entrance to the expansion device must pressure drop will be 0.43 PSI per foot.
be adequate for the device to pass the
required flow into the evaporator to As an example, consider an air cooled
suit the cooling load condition. If not, R-410A system with 95°F air entering the
the evaporator is starved for refrigerant. condenser, the condensing temperature
This may cause one part to freeze ice and is 120°F (approximate 418 PSIG).
gradually choke off the indoor airflow After being subcooled in the condenser,
even though other parts of the evaporator the liquid R-410A leaves the condenser
are warm for lack of refrigerant. When at 110°F. Assuming the pressure at the
the evaporator is starved, the reduced condenser outlet is the same as the
cooling effect reduces the head pressure condensing pressure of approximately
in the condenser and throughout the 418 PSIG, the liquid R-410A has been
liquid line, which tends still further subcooled 10°F. The saturation pressure
to reduce the refrigerant flow. This for R-410A @ 110°F is approximately 365
inadequate head pressure situation PSIG. Subtracting 365 PSIG from the
must be avoided. However, it prevails 418 PSIG condensing pressure, gives
only when outdoor temperatures are a difference of 53 PSI. Even though
relatively cool and under conditions the difference is 53 PSI, the formulas in

SS-APG006-EN 5
Application
Guide

There are other considerations with The importance of a properly charged

regard to the installation of liquid lines. system cannot be over-emphasized
when liquid line pressure drops are
The use of long radius ells can reduce being considered. Proper subcooling
the equivalent length of a line and thus is dependent on the proper refrigerant
reduce the friction loss. charge and the maximum allowable
pressure drop in a liquid line is directly
Do not add a drier or filter in series with dependent on the amount of subcooling
the factory installed drier as the added obtained.
pressure drop may cause “flashing” of
liquid refrigerant. If the equivalent length of a liquid line
is excessive or if vertical lifts use up a
If a system does not have a liquid large share of the acceptable pressure
receiver, the amount of the refrigerant drop, it may be necessary to go to the
charge in the system can have a significant next larger tube size in order to keep the
effect on the amount of subcooling pressure drop within acceptable limits.
obtained, which in turn determines the In some instances a slightly oversized
pressure drop which can be tolerated in expansion valve can compensate for
the liquid line. (An undercharged system lower than normal liquid pressure at the
will have little or no subcooling while valve. (Subcooling must be adequate
an over-charged system will have high to prevent “flashing” of liquid R-410A to
condensing temperatures because of the vapor.) Do not oversize liquid lines
loss of effective condensing surface.) any more than necessary because this
adds very significantly to the amount of
Pressure drop due to the weight of the refrigerant in the system which adds cost
refrigerant is no problem if the evaporator and increases the danger of slugging.
coil is below the condenser, as the
weight of the liquid, in this case, causes Since refrigerant oil is miscible with
an increase in pressure and aids in liquid R-410A, at the temperatures
subcooling. encountered in the liquid line, there is
normally no problem with oil return in
Table “2” is used to select a liquid line. liquid lines.
The pressure drop is given for the various
equivalent lengths (up to 240 eq. ft.). The remaining portion of Chapter I
includes:
The actual selection of a liquid line is
covered on page 10. • Liquid Line Selection – page 10

Note that equivalent lengths are used • Suction Line Selection – pages 11
when calculating pressure drops. Actual • Refrigerant Piping Limits – page 19
(linear) lengths are used when calculating
pounds of R-410A in a line set. (An • Tubing Hints – page 22
elbow contains about the same amount • Air Conditioning Formulas – page 23
of R-410A as does the same length of
straight tubing.)

Table “4” lists equi valent lengths

for elbows, etc. for pressure drop
calculations.

In addition to friction loss, any

pressure drop due to liquid lift must be
accounted for (.43 PSI per foot
for R-410A).

6 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

Suction Lines for Do not use evaporator pressure regulating Do not tape or otherwise fasten liquid
valves (EPR valves) or similar throttling lines and suction lines together unless
Split Cooling and valves in the suction line. Hermetic there is insulation between them. The
Heat Pump Systems compressors depend on suction gases resultant heat exchange would increase
Suction lines must return refrigerant for cooling and as the EPR valve throttles suction gas superheat and may cause
vapor and oil from the evaporator to the down to maintain a constant evaporator overheating of the hermetic compressor.
compressor during system operation; pressure, the quantity of suction gas (See Figure 8 for tubing hints)
however, due to potential damage to the returning to the compressor is reduced
and its superheat is increased. The only Suction lines must be insulated to
compressor bearings, valves, scroll sets,
type of capacity modulation for single prevent condensation and vapor sealed
or diluting of the oil, should not allow
stage cooling units recommended (other on the outside to prevent a build-up
oil or liquid refrigerant to be returned as
than multiple units) is a hot gas by- of moisture in the insulation.
slugs at any time.
pass system properly applied so as It is advisable to avoid running
Unless two hermetic compressors are to keep suction gas superheat within r e f r i g e r a n t l i n e s u n d e r g ro u n d
factory engineered and factory assembled normal limits, and provide proper whenever possible. If it is absolutely
to operate on the same refrigerant circuit, velocity through the evaporator and necessary to run refrigerant lines
each hermetic compressor must be suction lifts (if any) for adequate oil underground, they must be a maximum
connected to a single refrigeration circuit. return. of 15 feet and must be run in 6" P.V.C.
If two hermetic compressors are field
conduit. (See Figure 1 below.)
connected to a single refrigeration circuit, High superheat will result in improper
oil will eventually return to only one cooling of the hermetic compressor, while
of the compressors, leaving the other excessively low superheat or improper
compressor with low or no oil level mixing of hot gas and desuperheating
making proper lubrication impossible. liquid may result in slugging of liquid
refrigerant.

Figure 1
Underground Conduit
(For Underground Refrigerant Lines - Maximum 15 feet)

Both Ends Sealed Water Tight

Note: Figure 1 is for illustrative
purposes only. It is recommended
to avoid forming suction line traps
within the refrigeration system. 45° Ells

No Joints In Copper
6" PVC Pipe Schedule 40 Within The Conduit

Use 45° elbows to facilitate pulling the a drain in the lower parts of the conduit.
tubing through the conduit. The purpose Bear in mind, that if the water table rises
of the conduit is to keep water away from above the drain, water may be forced
the refrigerant lines. Careful sealing, into the conduit. Vapor and liquid lines
where the lines enter and leave the must be insulated inside the underground
conduit is critical. Some installers install chase.

SS-APG006-EN 7
 Application
Guide

About Suction Lines The net capacities indicated in Table 3 for The pressure drop values shown inTable 3
the various equivalent lengths show there are not required in order to select a vapor
and Pressure Drops is approximately 0.6% loss in capacity for line. They are provided for information
ASHRAE recommends that suction line each 1.0 PSI of pressure drop. (Efficiency only. One example of the pressure drop
pressure drop be limited to a pressure losses are approximately 0.3% per 1 PSI values use is for evaluating an existing
corresponding to 2°F. (Approximately of pressure drop.) system.
5 PSI with R-410A) This is usually not
a problem with line lengths of 10 0 If the net capacity, indicated for the Always select of the vapor line sizes listed
equivalent feet or less. calculated equivalent length, falls a in Table 3 for the nominal tonnage of the
little short of your requirement (and selected system. These line diameters
A quick look at the pressure drop per 100ft. you have selected the largest allowable have been evaluated and will provide
listed in Table 3 reveals that using the tube diameter) one of the following the appropriate suction vapor velocity
largest allowable suction line diameter hints may remedy the situation: to assure oil return. The lowest possible
for each tonnage results in a pressure 1 – Move the outdoor unit closer, capacity losses consistent with adequate
drop of less than 5 PSI per 100 equivalent if possible. oil return are addorded by the largest
feet in all cases. tube size listed. Short tubing runs may
2 – Use as few elbows as possible, and provide acceptable losses with a smaller
Obviously, if refrigerant lines exceed 100 use long radius elbows to reduce the tube size. Net capacities are listed for all
equivalent feet significantly, there will equivalent length. approved sizes for equivalent lengths
be cases where the suction line pressure 3 – Increase the indoor airflow somewhat, up to 240ft. Please note, for vapor line
drop exceeds 5.0 PSI. within the 350 to 450 CFM per ton limits. lengths over 150 linear feet add 2 ounces
(Some latent capacity will be lost.) of oil for every 10 feet over 150 feet.
In those cases, where long tubing runs 4 – Se l e c t a d i ff e r e n t e q u i p m e n t
result in higher suction line pressure combination that provides the
drops than desired, do not use a suction needed capacity.
line diameter larger than those listed in
Table “3” for the system tonnage. To do
so would result in refrigerant velocities
too low to ensure oil return.

8 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

Table 1
Pounds of R-410A Required for Line Sets
TUBING Linear Length
SIZES 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200
1/4" – 5/8" .4 .7 1.0 1.4 1.7 2.0 2.3 2.6 3.0
5/16" – 3/4" .7 1.2 1.8 2.3 2.8 3.4 3.9 4.5 5.0
5/16" – 7/8" .7 1.3 1.9 2.5 3.0 3.6 4.2 4.8 5.4
5/16" – 1-1/8" .9 1.5 2.2 2.9 3.6 4.3 4.9 5.6 6.3

3/8" – 3/4" 1.0 1.7 2.5 3.2 4.0 4.8 5.5 6.3 7.0
3/8" – 7/8" 1.0 1.8 2.6 3.4 4.2 5.0 5.8 6.6 7.4
3/8" – 1-1/8" 1.1 2.0 2.9 3.8 4.7 5.6 6.5 7.4 8.3
3/8" – 1-3/8" 1.3 2.3 3.4 4.4 5.5 6.5 7.5 8.6 9.6

1/2" – 7/8" 1.7 3.1 4.4 5.8 7.1 8.5 9.9 11.2 12.6
1/2" – 1-1/8" 1.8 3.3 4.7 6.2 7.7 9.1 10.6 12.0 13.5
1/2" – 1-3/8" 2.0 3.6 5.2 6.8 8.4 10.0 11.6 13.2 14.8
5/8" – 1-5/8" 2.2 4.0 5.7 7.5 9.2 11.0 12.8 14.5 16.3

5/8" – 1-3/8" 3.0 5.4 7.7 10.1 12.5 14.9 17.3 19.6 22.0
5/8" – 1-5/8" 3.2 5.7 8.3 10.8 13.3 15.9 18.4 21.0 23.5

Note: The 15 ft. of tubing included in the nameplate charge has been accounted for, use actual linear length with the above table.

Figure 2
R-410A Temperature and
Pressure Chart
TEMP. R-410A TEMP. R-410A TEMP. R-410A
-60 1.2 16 71.7 44 127.3
-55 3.4 17 73.3 45 129.7
-50 5.8 18 75.0 46 132.2
-45 8.6 19 76.6 47 134.6
-40 11.6 20 78.3 48 137.1
-35 14.9 21 80.2 49 139.6
-30 18.5 22 81.8 50 142.2
-25 22.5 23 83.6 55 155.5
-20 26.9 24 85.4 60 169.6
-15 31.7 25 87.3 65 184.6
-10 36.8 26 89.1 70 200.6
-5 42.5 27 91.0 75 217.4
0 48.6 28 92.9 80 235.3
1 49.9 29 94.9 85 254.1
2 51.2 30 96.8 90 274.1
3 52.5 31 98.8 95 295.1
4 53.8 32 100.8 100 317.2
5 55.2 33 102.9 105 340.5
6 56.6 34 105.0 110 365.0
7 58.0 35 107.1 115 390.7
8 59.4 36 109.2 120 417.7
9 60.9 37 111.4 125 445.9
10 62.3 38 113.6 130 475.6
11 63.8 39 115.8 135 506.5
12 65.4 40 118.0 140 539.0
13 66.9 41 120.3 145 572.8
14 68.5 42 122.6 150 608.1
15 70.0 43 125.0 155 645.0

SS-APG006-EN 9
 Application
Guide

Table 2 (R-410A) – Liquid Line Selection For R-410A Single Speed

Chart based on 10ºF Sub Cooling

Maximum Allowable Liquid Line Pressure Drop ....................................................................................................... = 50 PSI

Subtract .43 PSI for each foot of Liquid Lift (if any)..........................................................................................................
Do Not Exceed this value when selecting Liquid Line.....................................................................................................

Tube Rated Pressure Drop (PSI) For Total Equivalent Length

O.D. BTUH 20' 40' 60' 80' 100' 120' 140' 160' 180' 200' 220' 240'
1/4" 15000 4.5 9.0 13.6 18.1 22.6 27.1 31.6 36.2 40.7 45.2 49.7 —
18000 6.3 12.6 18.8 25.1 31.4 37.7 44.0 — — — — —
24000 15.4 30.8 46.2 — — — — — — — — —
15000 1.2 2.4 3.5 4.7 5.9 7.1 8.3 9.4 10.6 11.8 13.0 14.2
18000 1.6 3.3 4.9 6.6 8.2 9.8 11.5 13.1 14.8 16.4 18.0 19.7
5/16" 24000 2.8 5.5 8.3 11.0 13.8 16.6 19.3 22.1 24.8 27.6 30.4 33.1
30000 4.1 8.3 12.4 16.6 20.7 24.8 29.0 33.1 37.3 41.4 45.5 49.7
36000 5.8 11.6 17.3 23.1 28.9 34.7 40.5 46.2 — — — —
42000 7.7 15.4 23.0 30.7 38.4 46.1 — — — — — —
24000 1.0 1.9 2.9 3.8 4.8 5.8 6.7 7.7 8.6 9.6 10.6 11.5
30000 1.4 2.9 4.3 5.8 7.2 8.6 10.1 11.5 13.0 14.4 15.8 17.3
3/8" 36000 2.0 4.0 6.1 8.1 10.1 12.1 14.1 16.2 18.2 20.2 22.2 24.2
42000 2.7 5.3 8.0 10.6 13.3 16.0 18.6 21.3 23.9 26.6 29.3 31.9
48000 3.4 6.8 10.2 13.6 17.0 20.4 23.8 27.2 30.6 34.0 37.4 40.8
60000 5.1 10.3 15.4 20.6 25.7 30.8 36.0 41.1 46.3 — — —
42000 .5 1.1 1.6 2.2 2.7 3.2 3.8 4.3 4.9 5.4 5.9 6.5
48000 .7 1.4 2.0 2.7 3.4 4.1 4.8 5.4 6.1 6.8 7.5 8.2
1/2" 60000 1.0 2.1 3.1 4.2 5.2 6.2 7.3 8.3 9.4 10.4 11.4 12.5
Note 1:  A blank space indicates a pressure drop of over 50 PSI.
Note 2:  Other existing sources of pressure drop, (solenoid valves, etc.) must be considered.
Note 3:  A vertical run with a heat pump system always results in a liquid lift (heating or cooling).
Note 4: The smallest liquid line diameter that results in a total liquid line pressure drop of 50 PSI or less results in the most reliable system (fewer pounds of R-410A).
Note 5:  It is recommended to place units where 1/2" liquid line is not required due to the increased refrigerant volume imposed by the larger liquid line.
Note 6:  At the time this manual was printed all outdoor units were rated with 3/8" liquid line.

Example
Given: Rated system capacity  =  42000 BTUH, 68 linear ft., 4 long radius elbows (no solenoid valve or other source of
pressure drop): 20 ft. liquid lift.
Step #1 20  x .43  =  8.6 PSI pressure drop due to liquid lift. 50 minus 8.6 = 41.4 PSI available for friction loss.
Step #2 68  +  (4  x  3.2)  =  80.8 eq. ft. (See Table 4, page 11, for equivalent lengths.)
Step #3 Referring to Table 2, we find that 80 ft. of 5/16" liquid line, (42,000 BTUH) = 30.7 PSI pressure drop.
(Well within our 41.4 PSI limit.)

10 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

Allowable Suction Line Diameters for R410A Single Speed Split

Systems and BTUH Loss Versus Equivalent Length
Table 3
Nominal Tube O.D. Press. Drop BTUH Loss For Equivalent Length
Tons (Inches) PSI/100 Ft. 40' 60' 80' 100' 120' 140' 160' 180' 200' 220' 240'
1.0 1/2 5.0 70 160 250 340 430 520 610 700 790 880 970
5/8 1.5 20 50 73 100 130 155 180 210 235 265 290
1/2 10.8 173 410 640 875 1110 1340 1575 1810 2040 2275 2510
1.5 5/8 3.1 50 120 185 250 320 385 450 520 585 655 720
3/4 1.2 20 45 70 95 125 150 175 200 225 255 280
5/8 5.4 115 270 430 585 740 895 1050 1205 1360 1515 1670
2.0 3/4 2.0 45 100 160 215 275 330 390 445 505 560 620
5/8 8.2 220 515 810 1110 1400 1695 1990 2290 2585 2880 3175
2.5 3/4 3.0 80 190 295 405 515 620 730 840 945 1055 1160
7/8 1.3 35 80 130 175 220 270 315 365 410 455 505
5/8 11.7 380 885 1390 1895 2400 2905 3410 3915 4425 4930 — 
3.0 3/4 4.3 140 325 510 700 880 1070 1255 1440 1625 1810 2000
7/8 1.9 60 145 225 310 390 470 555 635 720 800 880
3.5 3/4 5.8 220 510 805 1095 1390 1680 1975 2265 2560 2850 3140
7/8 2.5 95 220 345 475 600 725 850 975 1105 1230 1355
3/4 7.4 320 745 1170 1600 2025 2450 2875 3305 3730 4155 4580
4.0 7/8 3.2 140 325 510 690 875 1060 1245 1430 1615 1795 1980
1-1/83 .9 40 90 145 195 245 300 350 400 455 505 555
3/4 11.5 620 1450 2280 3105 3935 4760 5590 6415 7245 8073 8900
5.0 7/8 4.9 265 615 970 1325 1675 2030 2380 2735 3080 3440 3795
1-1/8 1.3 70 165 255 350 445 540 630 725 820 915 1005
Note 1:  Shaded value indicates more than 10% capacity loss.
Note 2:  Blank space indicates more than 15% capacity loss.
Note 3:  Only approved for cooling units, do not use 1 1/8" vapor lines on heat pumps less than 5 ton.
Note 4: If linear length exceeds 150 feet, add 2 ounces of approved compressor oil per every 10 feet in excess of 150 feet. (Example: if the actual line length is 170 feet, add 4 ounces of oil to the
system)

Suction Line Selection Example (R-410A)

Given:  4 ton system The equivalent length of the rated, Question
132 linear ft. (7/8" O.D.) suction line size = 132 + Would a 3/4" O.D. suction line be
(8 x 5.3) or 174.4 ft. Table 8 indicates adequate for a 4 ton system with a
8 long radius elbows
a capacity loss of 1430 BTUH for 180 piping run of 60 equivalent feet?
equivalent feet (approx. 3%). If this loss
is acceptable, 7/8" O.D. is the correct size. Answer
Obviously, oil return would not be a
Table 4 problem with the smaller diameter tube,
(higher velocity). So, if the capacity loss
Equivalent Length (Ft.) of Non-Ferrous Valves and Fittings (Brazed) of 745 BTUH, (approx. 1.5%) is not a
problem, the 3/4" suction line is O.K.
O.D. Short Long Tee
for the 60 equivalent feet.
Tube Size Globe Angle Radius Radius Tee Branch
(Inches) Valve Valve Ell Ell Line Flow Flow
1/2* 70 24 4.7 3.2 1.7 6.6
5/8 72 25 5.7 3.9 2.3 8.2
3/4 75 25 6.5 4.5 2.9 9.7
7/8 78 28 7.8 5.3 3.7 12.0
1-1/8 87 29 2.7 1.9 2.5 8.0
1-3/8 102 33 3.2 2.2 2.7 10.0
1-5/8 115 34 3.8 2.6 3.0 12.0
Information for this chart extracted by permission from A.R.I. Refrigerant Piping Data, page 28.
*  For smaller sizes, use 1/2" values.

SS-APG006-EN 11
 Application
Guide

Allowable Vapor and Liquid Line Diameters for Multistage Split Systems

Table 5
Minimum Maximum
OD Unit Minimum Maximum
Rated Vapor Vapor Service Rated Liquid Liquid Service Alternative Alternative
nominal Alternative Alternative
Line OD Valve OD Line OD Valve OD Liquid Line Liquid Line
capacity Vapor Line OD Vapor Line OD
OD OD
Two Step Scroll Models
2 ton CLG 5/8" 5/8" 5/8" 3/4" 5/16" 5/16" 5/16" 3/8"
3 ton CLG 3/4" 3/4" 5/8" 7/8" 3/8" 3/8" 5/16" 3/8"
4 ton CLG 7/8" 7/8" 3/4" 7/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8"
5 ton CLG 7/8" or 1 1/8" 7/8" 3/4" 1 1/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8"
2 ton HP 5/8" 5/8" 5/8" 3/4" 5/16" 5/16" 5/16" 3/8"
3 ton HP 3/4" 3/4" 5/8" 7/8" 3/8" 3/8" 5/16" 3/8"
4 ton HP 7/8" 7/8" 3/4" 7/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8"
5 ton HP 7/8" or 1 1/8" 7/8" 3/4" 1 1/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8"
Two Compressor Models
2 ton CLG 3/4" 5/8" 5/8" 3/4" 3/8" 3/8" 5/16" 3/8"
3 ton CLG 3/4" 3/4" 5/8" 7/8" 3/8" 3/8" 5/16" 3/8"
4 ton CLG 7/8" 3/4" 3/4" 7/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8"
5 ton CLG 7/8" 3/4" 3/4" 7/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8"
3/4" - 50 feet
2 ton HP 5/8" 5/8" 5/8" 3/8" 3/8" 5/16" 3/8"
max length
3 ton HP 3/4" 3/4" 5/8" 3/4" 3/8" 3/8" 5/16" 3/8"
4 ton HP 3/4" 3/4" 3/4" 3/4" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8"
7/8" - 50 feet
5 ton HP 3/4" 3/4" 3/4" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8" 3/8"
max length

Two compressor models share the same refrigeration circuit, however, do not operate simultaneously. Therefore, it is crucial that
refrigerant lines be properly sized and do not exceed the length set forth in this guide. Please note it is recommended to use the
service valve connection size tubing.
A. Limitations:
1. Line length limits as shipped:
A. Vapor line = 80 feet linear length / of the linear length, 25 feet may be installed vertical.
B. Liquid line = 80 feet linear length / of the linear length, 25 feet may be installed vertical.
C. When using an alternate diameter tube follow procedure form page 10 and 11 to assure maximum vapor and liquid pressure
drop are not exceeded.
B. Explanation:
1. Refrigerant lines shall not exceed 80 feet total line length. / 25 feet of the 80 feet may be vertical.
A. Liquid sub-cooling may not be achieved on second stage if the liquid line exceeds 80 feet.
B. Oil return may be sacrificed during first stage operation if the vapor line exceeds 80 feet.

12 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

SECTION II 3. Compressor crankcase heat is required

for line lengths over 80 feet.
Condensing Units Utilizing 4. It is recommended for new installations
Micro-channel Coil to use only the line diameters in Table
5. However, in a retrofit application,
Technology the line listed in Table 6 may be used.
B. Charging Methods:
1. The recommended charging method
Refrigeration Piping is indicated in the Condensing Unit(s)
installer ’s guide. Please refer to
This section deals specifically with the
the installation manual publication
unique refrigeration piping requirements
18-AC78D1-** (latest publication).
for the Condensing Unit(s).
2. Reference Table 8 if the unit cannot
A. Piping Limits:
be started at the time of install. If
1. Below 110Fº outdoor ambient design
t h e ch a r g e i s w e i g h e d i n , i t i s
temperature:
recommended to return to the job site
a) Reference the limits indicated in
in order to verify the system is charged
Table 6
correctly based on the installation
b) Do not exceed 60 feet vertical
instructions.
change with the outdoor unit below
the indoor unit.
c) Do not exceed 200 feet vertical
change with the outdoor unit above
the indoor unit
2. Above 110Fº outdoor ambient design
temperature:
a) A. Maximum line length = 10 0
feet.
b) Maximum vertical length = 60 feet.

Table 6
Service Valve
Line Diameters
Connection
Unit Size
Vapor Liquid Vapor Liquid
Line Line Line Line
1.5 Ton 5/8" 3/8" 5/8" 3/8"
2.0 Ton 5/8" 3/8" 5/8" 3/8"
2.5 Ton 3/4" 3/8" 3/4" 3/8"
3.0 Ton 3/4" 3/8" 3/4" 3/8"
3.5 Ton 7/8" 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
4.0 Ton 7/8" 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
5.0 Ton 7/8" 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"

SS-APG006-EN 13
 Application
Guide

Alternate Liquid Lines

UseTable 7 for retrofit applications. This table should not be used for systems installed in geographical locations where the outdoor
ambient exceeds 110Fº.

For Table 7:
Each short radius elbow accounts for 4.7 equivalent feet.
Each long radius elbow accounts for 3.2 equivalent feet.

Table 7
Allowable Liquid Line Diameters For Condensing Units Utilizing Micro-Channel Coil Technology

Nominal Pressure Drop (PSI) Versus Equivalent Length

Refrigerant
Capacity Equivalent Length (feet)
Line OD
in Tons 10 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 150* 160 180 200
1.5 3.1 6.2 12.6 18.8 25.1 31.4 37.7 43.9 47.1
1/4"
2 7.7 15.4 30.8 46.2

1.5 0.8 1.6 3.2 4.9 6.5 8.2 9.8 11.5 12.3 13.1 14.7 16.4
2 1.3 2.7 5.5 8.2 11 13.8 16.5 19.3 20.7 22.1 24.8 27.6
5/16"
2.5 2 4.1 8.2 12.4 16.5 20.7 24.8 28.9 31 33.1 37.2 41.4
3 2.8 5.7 11.5 17.3 23.1 28.9 34.6 40.4 43.3 46.2

1.5 0.4 0.7 1.5 2.2 2.9 3.7 4.5 5.2 5.6 5.9 6.7 7.4
2 0.5 0.9 1.9 2.9 3.8 4.8 5.7 6.7 7.2 7.7 8.6 9.6
2.5 0.72 1.4 2.9 4.3 5.7 7.2 8.6 10.1 10.8 11.5 12.9 14.4
3/8" 3 1 2 4 6.1 8.1 10.1 12.1 14.1 15.1 16.1 18.2 20.2
3.5 1.3 2.6 5.3 7.9 10.6 13.3 15.9 18.6 19.9 21.3 23.9 26.6
4 1.7 3.4 6.8 10.2 13.6 17 20.4 23.8 25.5 27.2 30.6 34
5 2.6 5.1 10.3 15.4 20.5 25.7 30.8 35.9 38.5 41.1 46.2
*If linear length exceeds 150 feet, add 2 ounces of approved compressor oil per every 10 feet in excess of 150 feet. (Example, if the actual line length is
170 feet, add 4 ounces of oil to the system)

Charge Adjustment
Units ship from the manufacturer with enough refrigerant for 15 feet of the rated line diameters. All micro-channel units are rated
with 3/8” liquid lines. Table 8 provides data for removing or adding R-410A.

Table 8
Charge Adjustment Table Based On Liquid Line Diameter and Length

Installed Charge adjustments in pounds of R-410A

Factory
Liquid Actual Line length
Connection
Line 0 10 15 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200
3/8" 1/4" -0.60 -0.43 -0.35 -0.25 0.05 0.35 0.65 1.05 1.35 1.65 1.95 2.25 2.65
3/8" 5/16" -0.60 -0.28 -0.15 0.05 0.55 1.05 1.65 2.15 2.65 3.25 3.75 4.35 4.85
3/8" 3/8" -0.60 -0.40 0.00 0.20 1.00 1.80 2.60 3.40 4.20 5.00 5.80 6.60 7.40

14 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

Section III As mentioned earlier, the interactive through the heat exchanger.) Instead,
piping program will call for the normal liquid flow is through the
High Rise Heat Pump the subcooler when ever it is required, suction side of the heat exchanger. A
Applications (R-410A) size the capillary tube and call for any small portion of the liquid is fed through
other required accessories. The rest the capillary tube to the other side of the
The demand for greater vertical separation of this chapter is designed to help the heat exchanger where it is evaporated
between the indoor and outdoor sections system designer who does not have to chill the liquid refrigerant the required
of heat pumps systems, over the years, access to the computer program to apply number of degrees. A 3/8" O.D. suction
has led to the development of the high the high rise system. line (insulated) is run from the heat
rise system. Without using the high rise exchanger (located at the bottom of
system, the longest vertical separation The heat exchanger used with the high the liquid lift) to the common suction
between a split system heat pump and rise system (Refrigeration Research line of the outdoor unit (between the
indoor coil is limited to a pressure drop of #H-100, or Heat-X 3/4 HP) has sufficient switch-over valve and the compressor).
50 PSI or less. (This assumes a minimum heat exchange capacity to provide the
10°F sub-cooling) If more vertical required additional subcooling for The 3/8" O.D. suction line is teed into the
separation is required than allowed by systems up through 10 tons. top of a horizontal common suction line,
the unit’s installation manual, this guide or into the side of a vertical common
can be of assistance. It should be noted that although the suction line, thus preventing the drainage
heat exchanger used with the high of oil down the 3/8" O.D. tube.
If the liquid pressure drop is calculated rise system is designed as a suction to
(equivalent length + vertical lift) to produce liquid heat exchanger, it is not used in
more than 50 PSI, the high rise system is that manner. (Suction gas is not routed
required. The high rise system is to be
applied to heat pump systems only and
only on systems where the outdoor unit is
Table 9
above the indoor unit.Thermal expansion
Subcooling Heat Exchangers
valve is the only acceptable refrigeration
control when applying a heat pump with
the high rise system.

The high rise system consists of a properly

sized capillary tube and a suction to liquid
heat exchanger produced by Refrigeration
➤
Research.The Refrigeration Research part
number is Model H-100 (This same part Shell Overall Suction Liquid
can be obtained by ordering Service First Catalog O.D. (B) Length (E) Line (C) Line (D) Weight
part number EXC01082). Number H.P. (Inches) (Inches) (Inches) (Inches) (Pounds)
H 33 1/4 & 1/3 1-1/4 8-5/8 3/8 1/4 .8
The purpose of the subcooler is to provide H 50 1/2 2 10 1/2 1/4 1.3
subcooling beyond the 10° typically H 75 3/4 2 12-1/8 5/8 1/4 1.7
provided by standard systems. This H 100 1 2 13-1/8 5/8 3/8 1.9
is necessary in order to tolerate the H 150 1-1/2 2 17-3/8 7/8 3/8 2.5
higher liquid line pressure drops resulting H 200 2 3 13-1/4 7/8 3/8 3.1
from high liquid lifts (plus friction loss) H 300 3 3 15-1/4 1-1/8 3/8 3.8
without “flashing” of liquid refrigerant H 500 5 5 14-3/8 1-1/8 1/2 7.0
to vapor. This “flashing,” when it occurs, H 750 7-1/2 5 15-5/8 1-5/8 5/8 9.0
chokes up the liquid line with large H 1000 10 5 18-5/8 1-5/8 5/8 11.0
volumes of vapor, as well as substantially
reducing the capacity of the metering
device because of the mixture of vapor
Figure 3
and liquid it would be forced to handle.
Internal Illustration of Liquid Sub-cooler Heat Exchanger
It is not unusual for high rise systems
to operate with total liquid line pressure
drops in excess of 100 PSI without flashing
liquid refrigerant to vapor.

SS-APG006-EN 15
 Application
Guide

The fact that a small portion of the liquid Figure 4 (below) indicates the hook-up Note that there are now three connecting
refrigerant, being circulated, is diverted for the heat exchanger and capillary tube. lines between the indoor and outdoor
to the heat exchanger, and boiled to a The heat exchanger is to be located at the units (liquid line, gas line and a 3⁄8”
vapor, has no effect on system capacity. bottom of the liquid lift (near the indoor insulated suction line) running from the
While a slightly reduced quantity of unit). heat exchanger to the common suction
liquid refrigerant is delivered to the Figure 5, page 17, shows the piping hook- line (between the switchover valve and
system evaporator, each pound contains up between the indoor and outdoor units. the compressor).
less heat, because of the additional
subcooling and the net cooling effect is
the same. Figure 4
The heat exchanger and capillary tube Piping
Piping Detail
Detail – Heat
– Heat Exchanger
Exchanger
are to be purchased at your local parts
wholesaler.
Table “9” page 15, provides a picture and
dimensional information for the heat
exchanger.
Note that the heat pump indoor unit
must utilize expansion valve refrigerant
control.
To liquid line
connection at
SUBCOOLER INSTALLATION outdoor unit Insulated 3/8" line.
Tee into common suction
NOTES line, between S.O.V. and
Refrigeration Research H-100 or

For Heat Pump High Rise Applications compressor

1. Recover the refrigerant charge from

the heat pump unit.
Heat X 3/4 HP
Sub-Cooler

2. Evacuate the heat pump unit to Large connection

remove any refrigerant that may be to minimize
absorbed in the compressor oil. pressure drop
Small connection
3. Let the pressures equalize.
4. Cut the common suction tube
i n b e t w e e n t h e S OV a n d t h e
Compressor
5. Braze a “T” fitting between the
Capillary tube (sized by
compressor and SOV. computer program)
6. Connect the subcooler in the
refrigeration circuit as shown in
figures 4 & 5.
7. Remove and replace the factory
installed liquid line filter drier.
Service First Part Numbers
Sub-cooler EXC01082
To liquid line connection
Tee in air handler
Note: Do not leave system open more
that 4 hours.
Capillary tube connection
Liquid line connection
from indoor unit

16 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

Figure 5
High Lift Heat Pump Piping Schematic (Outdoor Unit above Air Handler)

Reversing Valve Discharge Line

Common Suction Line*
Outdoor Unit Compressor
Liquid

* Tee into side or top of

Suction Line from Sub-Cooler (3/8" O.D.)

Liquid Line Gas Line

common suction line to
(Insulate to avoid sweating problems)

prevent the drainage of

oil into the 3/8" line.
Up to 150 Feet

Note: Sub-cooler, if located

outside the indoor unit’s
cabinet, must be insulated to
prohibit sweating.

Sub-Cooler

Sub-Cooler
Capillary
Air Handler with
TXV Expansion Valve Coil

Air Handler

SS-APG006-EN 17
 Application
Guide

Table 10
Table 10 (R-410A) allows you to select the Capillary Tube Selection Table for R-410A Subcooler
proper capillary tube size, based on ex-
(Total Liquid Line Pressure Drop Minus 50 PSI = Excess Pressure Drop)
cess liquid line pressure drop and system
tonnage. The example below illustrates Excess Liquid Line Pressure Drop (PSI)
typical calculations for a system utilizing System
Tons 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150
(R-410A).
1.0
Given: R-410A Subcooler, 3/8" O.D. 1.5
30" x .042"
liquid line, 195 equivalent 2.0 CAPILLARY TUBE
feet, 182 ft. liquid lift 2.5
(3 1/2 tons).
3.0 34" x .054"
Step #1 Friction loss from Table CAPILLARY TUBE
3.5
7 (13.3 x 1.95) = 25.9 PSI.
4.0 20" x .064"
Step #2 Pressure drop due to lift CAPILLARY TUBE
(182 x .43) = 78.3 PSI. 5.0
6.0
Step #3 Total pressure drop
(25.9 + 78.3) = 104.2 PSI.
Example: 3-1/2 ton system with 54 PSI excess pressure
Step #4 Excess pressure drop
drop requires 30" x .042" capillary tube.
(104 – 50) = 54 PSI.
Step #5 From Table 12, 3 1/2 tons
at 54 PSI excess pressure
drop requires a 30" x .042"
capillary tube.

18 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

024 UNITS Table 11

Section IV - Split Systems with Variable 2.0 TON SUBCOOL CHARGING CHART CORRECTIONS TABLE (FOR LINE LENGTH AND RISE)

Speed Compressor 50 Add 1° Add 2°

REFRIGERANT LINE LIFT (FEET)

40 Add 1°

A. Subcooling Charging 30
25 Use Design Subcooling
Subcooling Charging in Cooling Above 15

55°F Outdoor Ambient Temperature 10

0
The manufacturer has always recommended installing 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150
Trane/American Standard approved matched indoor and TOTAL REFRIGERANT LINE LENGTH (FEET)
outdoor systems.
All split systems are AHRI rated with TXV or EEV indoor 036 UNITS Table 12
systems. 3.0 TON SUBCOOL CHARGING CHART CORRECTIONS TABLE (FOR LINE LENGTH AND RISE)

The benefits of installing approved indoor and outdoor split 50 Add 1° Add 2°

REFRIGERANT LINE LIFT (FEET)

systems are maximum efficiency, optimum performance 40 Add 1°

and the best overall reliability. 30

The following charging methods are therefore prescribed 25 Use Design Subcooling
15
for systems with indoor TXVs or EEVs.
10
1. Subcooling (in the cooling mode) is the only 0
recommended method of charging between 55° and 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150
120° ambient temperatures. TOTAL REFRIGERANT LINE LENGTH (FEET)
2. When charging for ambient temperatures above 120°,
charge to 10° subcooling. It is important to return when 048 UNITS Table 13
outdoor ambient temperature is between 55° and 4.0 TON SUBCOOL CHARGING CHART CORRECTIONS TABLE (FOR LINE LENGTH AND RISE)

120° to verify system charge per these instructions. 50 Add 1°

REFRIGERANT LINE LIFT (FEET)

Add 2°
3. For best results—the indoor temperature should be 40 Add 1°

kept between 70 ° to 80°. Add system heat if needed. 30 1°

1°
4. Locate the designated subcooling target from the unit 25 Use Design Subcooling
1°
nameplate. 15
10
5. Run the system using the Charging Mode-Cooling
0
test mode found in the 950 control. This is the only 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150
approved method for setting the system charge level. TOTAL REFRIGERANT LINE LENGTH (FEET)
To access Charge Mode-Cooling from the 950 control
home screen go to: 060 UNITS Table 14
ff Menu 5.0 TON SUBCOOL CHARGING CHART CORRECTIONS TABLE (FOR LINE LENGTH AND RISE)
ff Service 1° Add 4°
50
REFRIGERANT LINE LIFT (FEET)

ff Technician Access (hold for 5 seconds) Add 1° Add

40
ff Proceed 2°
30 Use Design Subcooling
ff Test Mode 25
Add 1°
ff Variable Speed 15 AC: 1-1/8” Vapor Line Limit
ff Charging Mode-Cooling and follow the on- 10 Add 1°
screen prompts. Charging Mode-Cooling and 0
HP: 1-1/8” Vapor Line Limit 1°
follow the on-screen prompts. 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150
6. At startup, or any time charge is removed or added, TOTAL REFRIGERANT LINE LENGTH (FEET)
the system must be operated for a minimum of (20) NOTE: 150 ft. length is approved ONLY with 7/8” vapor lines.
minutes to stabilize before accurate measurements
can be made. of the table, and the intersecting liquid line gage
7. Measure Liquid Line Temperature and Refrigerant pressure under the subcool selection column. Add
Pressure at service valves. refrigerant to raise the pressure to match the table, or
8. Determine total refrigerant line length, and height remove refrigerant to lower the pressure. Always wait
(lift) if indoor section is above the condenser. Follow (20) minutes for the system conditions to stabilize
the Subcool Charging Corrections Table to calculate before adjusting charge again.
additional subcooling target value. 10. When system is correctly charged, you can refer to
9. Locate your liquid line temperature in the left column System Pressure Curves to verify typical performance.

SS-APG006-EN 19
 Application
Guide

B. Weigh-in Method
Weigh-in Method can be used for the initial installation or anytime a system charge is being replaced. Weigh-In Method
can also be used when power to the equipment is not available or operation conditions (indoor/outdoor temperatures)
are not in range to verify with the subcooling charging method. (Tables 15-17 assume 3/8" Liquid Line.)

Table 15 Table 16
18 SEER HEAT PUMPS 20 SEER HEAT PUMPS
A B C D A B C D
Charge Adder for Charge Multiplier for Interconnecting Charge Adder for Charge Multiplier for Interconnecting
Model Factory Charge Model Factory Charge
Indoor Coil Refrigerant Tube Length Indoor Coil Refrigerant Tube Length
024 7lb, 6oz 6oz 0.6oz per foot 024 7lb, 6oz 6oz 0.6oz per foot
036 8lb, 3oz 8oz 0.6oz per foot 036 9lb, 8oz 12oz 0.6oz per foot
037 9lb, 8oz 12oz 0.6oz per foot 048 10lb, 12oz 15oz 0.6oz per foot
048 9lb, 13oz 13oz 0.6oz per foot 060 11lb, 14oz 1lb, 2oz 0.6oz per foot
049 10lb, 12oz 15oz 0.6oz per foot
060 11lb, 14oz 1lb, 2oz 0.6oz per foot Table 17
18 & 20 SEER AIR CONDITIONERS
Note: The only mode approved for setting or validating A B C D
system charge is using Charging Mode-Cooling.
Factory Charge Adder Charge Multiplier for Interconnect-
Charging Mode-Cooling is a variable speed test mode Model
Charge for Indoor Coil ing Refrigerant Tube Length
found in the 950/850 comfort control Technician Menu.
Outdoor Temperature must be between 55°F and 120°F 024 7lb, 6oz 6oz 0.6oz per foot
with Indoor Temperature kept between 70°F and 80°F. 036 7lb, 14oz 7oz 0.6oz per foot
048 11lb, 1oz 1lb, 0oz 0.6oz per foot
060 11lb, 14oz 1lb, 2oz 0.6oz per foot

STEP 1 - Measure in feet and record the distance between

the outdoor unit and the indoor unit. Include the entire New Installation Weigh-In Method Worksheet
length of the tubing from the service valve to the IDU.
STEP 2 - Record the Charge Multiplier from Column D. (Step 1) Line Length (ft) _____________
STEP 3 - Multiply the total length of refrigerant tubing
(Step 2) Value from Column D x____________
from Step 1 times the value from Step 2. Record the result.
STEP 4 - Locate the outdoor equipment size from Column (Step 3) Step 1 times Step 2 =____________
A of the appropriate table above and record the value
found in Column C. (Step 4) Charge Adder (column C) +____________
STEP 5 - Add the values from Step 3 and Step 4 and record
the resulting value. This is the amount of refrigerant to (Step 5) Refrigerant (Steps 3+4) =____________
weigh-in prior to opening the service valves.

STEP 1 - Measure in feet and record the distance between

the outdoor unit and the indoor unit. Include the entire Sealed-System Weigh-In Method Worksheet
length of the tubing from the service valve to the IDU.
STEP 2 - Record the Charge Multiplier from Column D. (Step 1) Line Length (ft) _____________
STEP 3 - Multiply the total length of refrigerant tubing
(Step 2) Value from Column D x____________
from Step 1 times the value from Step 2. Record the result.
STEP 4 - Locate the outdoor equipment size from Column (Step 3) Step 1 times Step 2 =____________
A of the appropriate table above and record the value
found in Column C. (Step 4) Charge Adder (column C) +____________
STEP 5 - Record the value in Column B.
STEP 6 - Add the values from Step 3, Step 4 and Step 5 (Step 5) Factory Charge (column B) +____________
and record the resulting value. This is the amount of refrig-
erant to weigh-in. (Step 6) Refrigerant (Steps 3+4+5) = _____________

20 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

C. Charge Chart Alternate Line Sizes

Table 18 Table 20
R-410A REFRIGERANT CHARGING CHART SERVICE
DESIGN SUBCOOLING (°F) MODEL LINE SIZE VALVE CON-
LIQUID
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 NECTION SIZE
TEMP
(°F) LIQUID GAGE PRESSURE (PSI)
HP 4TWV/4A6V Vapor Line Liquid Line Vapor Line Liquid Line
HP 024 3/4" (a) 5/16" (d) 5/8" 3/8"
55 179 182 185 188 191 195 198
60 195 198 201 204 208 211 215 5/8" (a) 5/16" (d) 3/4" 3/8"
HP 036
65 211 215 218 222 225 229 232 7/8" (c) 5/16" (d) 3/4" 3/8"
70 229 232 236 240 243 247 251
5/8" (a) 5/16" (d) 3/4" 3/8"
75 247 251 255 259 263 267 271 HP 037
80 267 271 275 279 283 287 291 7/8" (c) 5/16" (d) 3/4" 3/8"
85 287 291 296 300 304 309 313 HP 048 3/4" (a) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
90 309 313 318 322 327 331 336
HP 049 3/4" (a) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
95 331 336 341 346 351 355 360
100 355 360 365 370 376 381 386 3/4" (a) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
HP 060
105 381 386 391 396 402 407 413 7/8" (a) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
110 407 413 418 424 429 435 441 AC 4TTV/4A7V
115 435 441 446 452 458 464 470
120 464 470 476 482 488 495 501 AC 024 3/4" (a) 5/16" 5/8" 3/8"
125 495 501 507 514 520 527 533 5/8" (a) 5/16" 3/4" 3/8"
AC 036
Refer to Service Facts or 7/8" (c) 5/16" 3/4" 3/8"
Installer's Guide for charging method.
AC 048 3/4" (a) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
From Dwg. D154557P01 Rev. 3
3/4" (a) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
D. Line Sizes AC 060
7/8" (a) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
Rated Line Sizes Table 19 (a) The maximum length of refrigerant lines from outdoor to indoor unit must
NOT exceed 150 feet. The maximum vertical change must NOT exceed 50 feet.
1 2 3
SERVICE (b) The maximum length of refrigerant lines from outdoor to indoor unit must
RATED LINE
MODEL 1 2 3
VALVE CON- NOT exceed 80 feet. The maximum vertical change must NOT exceed 10 feet.
SIZE
NECTION SIZE (c) The maximum length of refrigerant lines from outdoor to indoor unit must
NOT exceed 80 feet. The maximum vertical change must NOT exceed 25 feet.
HP 4TWV/4A6V Vapor Line Liquid Line Vapor Line Liquid Line (d) If using 5/16", the change adder is 0.0270 lbs/ft (0.43 oz/ft).
HP 024 5/8" (a) 3/8" 5/8" 3/8"
STATUS (GREEN) LED FLASH CODES
HP 036 3/4" (a) 3/8" 3/4" 3/8"
RATE DESCRIPTION INDICATION
Slow 1 time per second Standby / idle
HP 037 3/4" (a) 3/8" 3/4" 3/8"
Medium 2 times per second Call for capacity
HP 048 7/8" (a) 3/8" 7/8" Fast 3/8" 5 times per second Power up delay
Solid On Solid Test mode
HP 049 7/8" (a) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
Intermittent 1 Flash every 4 seconds Hard Lockout

HP 060 1-1/8"(b) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8" (AMBER) LED FLASH CODES

COMM
AC 4TTV/4A7V RATE DESCRIPTION INDICATION
Slow 1 time per device Device Count
AC 024 5/8" (a) 3/8" 5/8" Fast 3/8" 5 times per second Loss of communication
AC 036 3/4" (a) 3/8" 3/4" 3/8"
AC 048 7/8"(a) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
AC 060 1-1/8"(c) 3/8" 7/8" 3/8"
(a) The maximum length of refrigerant lines from outdoor to indoor unit must
NOT exceed 150 feet. The maximum vertical change must NOT exceed 50 feet.
(b) The maximum length of refrigerant lines from outdoor to indoor unit must
NOT exceed 80 feet. The maximum vertical change must NOT exceed 10 feet.
(c) The maximum length of refrigerant lines from outdoor to indoor unit must
NOT exceed 80 feet. The maximum vertical change must NOT exceed 25 feet.

SS-APG006-EN 21
 Application
Guide

Section V 1) Some heat pump units have b) Line length with the condensing
factory installed suction line unit below the indoor unit:
Compressor protection and accumulators. If additional 1) Liquid line pressure drop shall
piping limitations capacity is required, the factory not exceed 50 PSI or 60 feet
installed accumulator will need maximum vertical separation.
A. Compressor Protection: compressor to be replaced with a larger 2. Single speed heat pump systems:
crankcase heaters, expansion valves, capacity accumulator. a) I n m o s t c a s e s t h e l i n e s c a n
limited line lengths, suction line d) Only use a vapor line that is listed in e x c e e d 15 0 f e e t w i t h o u t a ny
accumulators, and solenoid valves. table 3 for or table 5. vertical separation. However, it
1. Some compressor protection methods 3. Suction line accumulators, if required, is recommended to maintain a
are listed below. The two basic should be sized to hold 1/2 of the total line length in which the liquid line
devices utilized today are compressor system charge. (Unit Nameplate + pressure drop does not exceed 50
crankcase heaters and expansion Additional charge for the refrigerant PSI with the rated liquid line.
valves. Other devices such as solenoid lines) – See table 1 b) Heat pump outdoor section above
valves are discussed within this 4. If refrigerant lines are longer than 150 the indoor unit:
section. feet, add 2 ounces of oil for every 10 1) Maximum vertical change is 150
a) Systems with refrigeration lines feet over 150 feet. (Example: if line is feet using the high rise system.
that exceed 60 feet or in which the 170 feet, add 4 ounces of compressor Otherwise, 60 feet or 50 PSI is
total system charge exceeds the oil). the pressure drop maximum
limits described in subsection C, a) Obtain oil from Service Fir st vertical separation in most
require a compressor crankcase Distribution or the local Trane cases.
heater and a thermal expansion distributor. c) Heat pump outdoor section below
valve or electronic expansion valve 5. Liquid line solenoid valves, if used the indoor unit:
where applicable. in a heat pump system, shall be 1) Maximum vertical separation is
b) Add compressor crankcase heat if bidirectional. The pressure drop 60 feet in most cases.
system charge exceeds: imposed by the valve must be 3. Multistage systems:
1. 6 lbs in systems utilizing 1 cylin- considered in both directions of flow. a) Please reference Table 5.
der reciprocating compressors The pressure drop in either direction C. Suction Traps
2. 12 lbs in systems utilizing 2 shall not exceed 50 PSI for systems 1. If using an AHRI rated system combi-
cylinder reciprocating compres- with 10F subcooling. nation and the indoor coil is manufac-
sors 6. Liquid line solenoid valves in cooling tured by Trane or American Standard
3. 8 lbs in systems utilizing small systems (non-heat pumps). Heating and Air Conditioning, suction
diameter scroll compressors a) If the compressor is above the traps are not required and not recom-
4. 10 lbs in systems utilizing large indoor unit, locate the liquid line mended.
diameter scroll compressors solenoid valve within 10 feet of the 2. If using a Trane Blower Coil (BCHC /
c) C o n s u l t t h e c u rr e n t p r o d u c t indoor unit. BCVC) or Trane LPCA or M series in-
data catalog for factory installed 1) Solenoid valves shall be used for door unit, it is recommended to install
components refrigerant isolation purposes. a suction trap leaving the evaporator
2. Lines should be kept as short as Wire the solenoid to open when coil.
possible. the compressor is energized and D. Article D – Reference SS-APG010-EN
a) It is recommended to maintain a to close when the compressor for piping split small split systems
liquid line pressure drop that is is de-energized by the system when utilizing a Trane BCHC or BCVC
within 50 PSI with the rated liquid controls. blower coil.
line. (In most cases, the rated liquid 2. So l e n o i d v a l v e s r e q u i r e a E. Please contact the your Territory
line is 3/8”) separate transformer. In most Manager, Field Service Representative
b) If a larger line diameter than cases the factory installed or Trane Commercial Sales Engineer
the rated liquid line is required, transformer is not large enough if there are questions regarding this
a suction line accumulator may to power the solenoid and other manual.
be necessary, or other means of low voltage controls. 1. FSR's, TM's and Trane SE's contact
refrigerant isolation. B. Refrigeration piping limits: Application Engineering.
c) If the system charge is greater than 1. Single speed cooling systems: (AHRI
12 lbs. in a heat pump system, rated)
a suction line accumulator is a) Line length with the condensing
required to be installed between unit above the indoor unit:
the compressor and reversing 1) Maximum of 200 feet, 200 of this
valve. may be vertical. (Suction lift)

22 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide

Section VI 4. Moisture compromises performance II. Refrigerant Lines

and operation of all HCFC / HFC A. Compatible line diameter s and
Refrigerant Handling, refrigerant systems. lengths:
Retrofit, and Reusing a) Keep all oil bearing containers When replacing any HVAC system,
sealed tight until ready to use. the existing refrigerant lines must
Existing Refrigerant Lines b) Do not open system service valves be evaluated to determine if they are
until ready to start up. properly sized for the new system.
I. Basic practices for HVAC systems 1) Leak check system as soon as Refer to Table 3 for compatible vapor
The following guidelines should be possible after brazing joints. line and maximum lengths and Table
observed when installing any refrigerant 2 for approved liquid line sizes, length
bearing system in order to assure reliable ! WARNING
and vertical change. For multistage
and efficient operation. Explosion Hazard! reference Table 5.
These practices apply regardless of NEVER leak test with air and R410A. B. Preparation for re-use:
refrigerant type. At pressures above 1 atmosphere, After verifying the line diameters and
1. Use only compatible indoor and just like R-22, mixture of R-410A length are compatible, the existing
outdoor coil combinations. and air can be combustible! Failure line set must be cleared of as much
a) Retrofitted systems in most cases, to follow this warning could result existing mineral oil and contaminants
will not be rated in the AHRI in property damage, personal injury as possible.The lines should be cleared
directory. or death. prior to installing new outdoor and / or
1) There is no plan to supply ratings indoor units.
2) B e g i n e v a c u a t i o n p r o c e s s
to AHRI for retrofitted systems. Existing indoor equipment:
immediately after leak check
b) S o u r c e s f o r r a t e d s y s t e m
process is completed. Reference APP-APG011-EN or APP-APG012-
combinatons:
a) Do not leave service valves open EN. In January 2001, the Department of
1. www.ahrinet.org
longer than four hours. Moisture Energy published a rule under NAECA
2. www.comfortsite.com
absorbed into the system is (National Appliance Energy Conservation
3. Electronic Performance Data
removable only by driers. Act of 1987) to advance the minimum
4. Local distributor or sales office
a) Evacuate to 300 microns, then SEER to 13 effective January 23rd, 2006
2. Refrigerant line sets must be sized
close all service gauge valves. for single phase HVAC systems. (three
properly.
After one minute, if the phase systems with capacity ratings
a Refer to the current refrigerant
reading on the micron gauge under 65,000 BTUH followed at a later
piping publications:
rises above 500 microns, leak date). In 1992, the minimum SEER was
1) SS-APG006-EN for 1.5 through
check and evacuate the system increased to 10.0. Prior to 1992, SEER
5.0 ton split systems.
again. (Please note that a micron ratings were as low as 7.0. In addition, in
2) SS-APG008-EN for 6 through 20
gauge must be used, dial gauges 2006, HSPF was required to be 7.7. Before
ton split systems.
cannot read microns.) 2006 HSPF’s were as low as 6.8.
3. Sealed refrigerant systems must be
5. Proper refrigerant handling is a must.
kept clean!
a) S e r v i c e p e r s o n n e l m u s t b e Some of the ways in which the HVAC
a) De-burr all ends of copper tubing to
properly certified in order to handle industry achieved the higher efficiencies
assure free flow of refrigerant.
refrigerant! include:
b) Use emery cloth or scuff pad to
b) Refrigerant in existing system must
clean the ends of the copper tube
be recovered in accordance with all A. Increased air to coil surface contact.
to assure good braze joints. Special
applicable federal, state and local 1) Normally, increasing the air to
care should be taken to eliminate
standards. coil surface contact meant the
any shavings from entering the
1) New or recycled refrigerant refrigeration coils increased in both
tubing.
must be used when charging a physical size as well as refrigerant
c) Always allow dry nitrogen to flow
system volume size.
through the refrigerant lines to
2) Recovered refrigerant must B. Compressor motor, blower motor, and
prohibit oxidation while brazing.
be recycled at an approved fan motor efficiencies increased.
d) Re f e r t o Se r v i c e Pr o c e d u r e s
recycling facility or disposed C. Improved heat transfer technologies
publication 34-1005 and / or Service
of in accordance with national, D. Combination of the above.
Procedures publication 34-3458-01
state, and local standards.
for proper brazing techniques.

SS-APG006-EN 23
 Application
Guide

Regardless of the method, HVAC systems 2. Purging the line set and coil CAUTION
manufacturers typically offer their brand with dry nitrogen may be required
of furnace coils and fan coil units that to recover oil from the horizontal There are multiple HVAC flush agents
are specifically designed and tested to refrigerant piping and coil circuitry. available to our industry. Prior to
operate with compatible outdoor air The indoor coil may require removal using any flush agent, please read and
conditioning units and heat pump units. in order to purge all existing oil understand all directions printed by the
For the reasons listed, when replacing an from the coil. manufacturer as there may be differences
outdoor unit, it is in the customer’s best 3. Oil must be captured and recycled from one manufacturer to another. Flush
interest to replace the indoor furnace or disposed of in accordance with agents should be used for line cleaning
coil or fan coil unit. In the case of a heat national, state, and local standards. only. Do not flush an indoor or outdoor
pump system, the above cannot be Such a standard is the EPA Clean coil for re-use with Trane HVAC split
overstated since refrigerant flows in both Air Act. Reference www.epa.gov systems. The coil may trap residue and
directions, thus requiring the indoor 4. Conduct an acid test using the promote premature compressor and flow
coil and outdoor coil be volumetrically appropriate test kit for R-22 / control failure. If using a flush product in
balanced. In order to locate a list of rated Mineral oil systems. lines where POE oil will be the system
HVAC system combinations, the AHRI a) If the acid test shows negative, lubricant, such as in R410A systems, it
Directory of Certified Systems should then proceed with installing the is recommended to use an HFC flush
be utilized, or the manufacturer’s data be new OD unit. product. In all cases, the system must
obtained. b) If the acid test indicates acid, be evacuated below 30 0 microns in
then treat this system as a order to remove residual flush fluid
However, if, on a retrofit, the building burnout. that may contain unstable chlorinated
owner determines it is not feasible to 1. If at all possible, replace the hydrocarbon solvent. At compressor
replace the indoor section (air handler refrigerant lines. discharge temperatures this solvent will
and coil), some of the previously installed c) If acid test returns positive and breakdown and form strong acids.
indoor sections may be modified to be the lines are inaccessible or if
compatible with R410A. Refer toAPP- there is a concern of debris in
APG011-EN or APP-APG012-EN. Please the lines, a flush agent may be
understand, a retrofitted system may used.
not be listed in the AHRI directory. In d) If the previous system failed as a
addition, the manufacturer will not be result of compressor burnout, it
able to provide any type of performance is recommended to replace the
data. If the component has surpassed the indoor coil.
OEM or extended warranty period, it is e) It is not necessary to measure
recommended to replace the indoor and the amount of residual mineral
outdoor unit with an AHRI listed system. oil left in the system. Clearing the
If the customer requests an outdoor unit indoor coil and or refrigeration
with a nominal rating above 13 SEER, lines as detailed in this document
the indoor and outdoor unit shall be is adequate. However, suction
replaced unless approved by Application line riser traps may pose an
Engineering. System matches may be issue with mineral oil and debris
located in the Certified HVACR Equipment removal. If the existing vapor line
directories @ www.ahrinet.org includes suction riser traps, line
Reusing existing lines and indoor replacement is recommended
if the traps are unable to be
equipment:
eliminated.
! CAUTION f) The new refrigerant flow control
Wear required personal protective device should be installed after
clearing the existing mineral
equipment to minimize the risk of oil
oil from the system. Please
and debris coming in contact with reference APP-APG011-EN & APP-
eyes and skin. APG012-EN for the appropriate
A. Reusing existing refrigeration line and TXV / OD unit match.
indoor coils.
1. Drain as much oil as possible from
line set and / or indoor coil.

24 SS-APG006-EN
 Application
Guide
Section VII
Other Applicable Information
Figure 6 Figure 7
Thermal Bulb Location Typical Straight Cooling System
(Outdoor Unit Above Indoor Unit)

LIQUID LINE

SUCTION LINE Maximum Suction Lift = 200 Ft.

(Solenoid valve near expansion valve.)
Solenoid Valve (If used)
SUCTION LINE – Cycle with compressor or,
7/8" DIAMETER – Apply discharge check valve and
OR SMALLER utilize pump down cycle.
Note: If compressor is below the indoor unit, install the
solenoid valve within 25 ft. of the compressor, and cycle
with the compressor, only. (No pump down.)
Maximum Liquid Lift = 60 ft.

TXV LIQUID LINE SOLENOID VALVE

Figure 8
SUCTION LINE
LARGER THAN 7/8"
Tubing Hints

STRAP HANGER

ADJUSTABLE ROD HANGER

SADDLE SUPPORT SADDLE

YES YES NO
Copyright by ASHRAE. Reprinted by Permission from
ASHRAE Guide & DAta Book, System 1970, page 356.

SS-APG006-EN 25
 Figure 9

Basic Air Conditioning Formulas

Application
EXPRESSED
TO DETERMINE AS COOLING HEATING and/or HUMIDIFYING
NT V NT V

Guide
Total Airflow CFMT 1. CFMT = 1. CFMT =
60 min./hr. 60 min./hr.

NO V No V
Infiltration or Ventilation CFMo 2. CFMo = 2. CFMo =
60 min./hr. 60 min./hr.

Number of Air Changes CFMT (60 min./hr.) CFMT (60 min./hr.)

NT 3. NT = 3. NT =
Per Hour – Total V V

Number of Air Changes CFMo (60 min./hr.) CFMo (60 min./hr.)

Per Hour – Outdoor Air No 4. No = 4. No =
V V

Total Heat (HT) Btuh 5. HT = CFMT x 4.5 x (h1 – h2) = Btuh 6. HT = CFMT x 4.5 x (h2 – h1) = Btuh

Sensible Heat (HS) Btuh 7. HS = CFMT x 1.08 x (T1 – T2) = Btuh 8. HS = CFMT x 1.08 x (T2 – T1) = Btuh

Latent Heat (HL) Btuh 9. HL = CFMT x .68 x (W1 – W2) = Btuh 10. HL = CFMT x .68 x (W2 – W1) = Btuh

CFMo CFMo
Entering Air Temperature (T1) °F. D.B. 11. T1 = t1 + x (t2 – t1) = °F.D.B. 1 12. T1 = t1 – x (t1 – t2) = °F.D.B. 2
CFMT CFMT
(Mixed Air)
1 If duct heat gain is a factor, add to T1: 2 If duct heat loss is a factor, subtract from T1:
Duct Heat Gain (Btuh) Duct Heat Loss (Btuh)
CFMT x 1.08 CFMT x 1.08

Leaving Air D.B. HS HS

°F. D.B. 13. T2 = T1 – = °F.D.B. 14. T2 = T1 + = °F.D.B.
Temperature (T2) CFMT x 1.08 CFMT x 1.08
HS (total) HS
Required Airflow CFMT 15. CFMT = = CFM 16. CFMT = = CFM
1.08 x (T1 – T2) 1.08 x (T2 – T1)
OR
HS (internal)3
CFMT = = CFM
1.08 x (t1 – T2)
3 Sensible load of outside air not included

Btu/lb. HT HT
Enthalpy – Leaving Air (h2) 17. h2 = h1 – = Btu/lb. dry air 18. h2 = h1 + = Btu/lb. dry air
dry air CFMT x 4.5 CFMT x 4.5

19. Refer to Enthalpy Table and read W.B. temperature 20. Refer to Enthalpy Table and read W.B. temperature
Leaving Air W.B. Temperature °F.W.B.
corresponding to enthalpy of leaving air (h2) (see #17). corresponding to enthalpy of leaving air (h2) (see #18).
Heat Required to Evaporate
Water Vapor Added to Btuh 21. HL = CFMo x .68 (W3 – Wo) = Btuh 22. HL = CFMo x .68 (W3 – Wo) = Btuh
Ventilation Air
Excess Latent Capacity

( ) ( )
Lbs. Make up = of System x % Run Time HL loss Btuh (see #22)
Humidification Requirements 23. = lbs./hr. 24. Make up = = lbs./hr.
water/hr. Moisture 1060 Btu/lb. Moisture 1060 Btu/lb.
(Industrial Process Work)

LEGEND DERIVATION OF AIR CONSTANTS

CFMT = Total airflow cubic feet/min. The air constants below apply specifically to standard air which is
CFMo = Outdoor air cubic feet/min. defined as dry air at 70°F and 14.7 P.S.I.A. (29.92 in. mercury column).
NT = Total air changes per hour They can, however, be used in most cooling calculations unless extremely
No = Outdoor air, air changes per hour precise results are desired.
V = Volume of space cubic feet 4.5 (To convert CFM to lbs./hr.)
HT = Total heat Btuh
HS = Sensible heat Btuh 60 min./hr.
4.5 = or 60 X .075
HL = Latent heat Btuh 13.33
* h1 = Enthalpy or total heat of entering air Btu/lb. Where 13.33 is the specific volume of standard air (cu.ft./lb.) and
* h2 = Enthalpy or total heat of leaving air Btu/lb. .075 is the density (lbs./cu.ft.)
T1 = Temperature of entering air .24 X 60
T2 = Temperature of leaving air 1.08 = or .24 X 4.5
13.33
Tadp = Apparatus dewpoint °F.D.B.
.24 BTU = specific heat of standard air (BTU/LB/°F)
t1 = Indoor design temperature °F.D.B.
t2 = Outdoor design temperature °F.D.B. 60 1060 1060
.68 = X or 4.5 X
W1 = Grains of water/lb. of dry air at entering condition Grains/lb. 13.33 7000 7000
W2 = Grains of water/lb. of dry air at leaving condition Grains/lb.
Where: 1060 = Average Latent Heat of water vapor (BTU/LB.).
W3 = Grains of water/lb. of dry air at indoor design conditions Grains/lb.
Wo = Grains of water/lb. of dry air at outdoor design conditions Grains/lb. 7000 = Grains per lb.

* See Enthalpy of air (Total Heat Content of Air) Table for exact values.

26 SS-APG006-EN
Literature Order Number
File No. Pub. No. SS-APG006-EN 04/15
Supersedes Pub. No. SS-APG006-EN 12/13
Stocking Location -

The manufacturer has a policy of continuous product and product data improvement, and it reserves the
right to change design and specifications without notice.
© 2015 Trane. All rights reserved.