DIY AC Line Repair
Air conditioners work by compressing gas into a chilled liquid, sending the liquid through a set of coils and lines that are fanned. The forced air from the fans strikes the chilled coils, making the air forced out cold as well. The chilled liquid is then returned to a compressor, and the cycle is repeated. AC lines are made of aluminum, which can become punctured, causing the appliance not to work correctly. This can easily be repaired by any do-it-yourselfer with the right tools. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Wire brush
- Steel wool
- Welding mask
- Gloves
- Aluminum flux
- Acetylene torch
- Microfiber cloth
Instructions
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1
Clean off the AC line with a wire brush, knocking off any dirt and grime that have accumulated on the line's surface.
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2
Rub the AC line vigorously and thoroughly with steel wool, after cleaning it, until the bare aluminum is visible.
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3
Put on a welding mask and gloves. Set aluminum flux near the AC unit, within reach of the damaged line.
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4
Light an acetylene torch then hold it about 5 inches away from the AC line. Heat the AC line for about six to seven seconds.
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5
Grab the aluminum flux and melt it onto the AC line. Once the AC line is sufficiently patched with the melted flux, turn off the torch. Allow the flux to set for about 10 minutes.
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6
Buff the AC line patch with a microfiber cloth, once it is cool, to finish the job.
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