As an air conditioning and electrical business, we see firsthand what works in the real world and what doesn’t. One issue that keeps coming up across the industry is the use of white pair coil pipework in air conditioning installations.
On the surface, it looks like a cheap and easy option. But in reality, it’s causing major problems for homeowners and businesses down the track.
The Problem With White Pair Coil
The copper inside the white pair coil is prone to something known in the industry as “ant nesting.”
Here’s what happens:
- Moisture builds up inside the insulation surrounding the copper pipe.
- Over time, that trapped moisture causes the copper to corrode and become porous.
- Eventually, the pipework develops tiny pinhole leaks, leading to refrigerant loss and system failure.
We’ve come across this countless times at Airmelec, even on some of our earliest installations before we changed our processes. It’s frustrating for both the customer and the installer, because nobody wants to deal with costly leaks or premature breakdowns.
Beyond the expense, refrigerant leaks also impact the environment and can leave you with higher energy bills as your system struggles to run efficiently.
Why Some Companies Still Use It
The reality is simple: a white pair coil is cheaper. Many companies continue to install it because it helps cut upfront costs.
But saving money on day one often means paying more in the long run. A leaking system isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s an expensive fix that may involve gas refills, pipe replacements, or, in worst cases, full system replacement.
At Airmelec, we believe that doing the job right the first time is always the smarter (and fairer) option.
What We Do Instead
About two years ago, we made the decision to stop using the white pair coil altogether. Since then, every installation we’ve carried out has used a fire-rated pair coil instead.
The difference has been night and day:
- Zero leaks on our installs since making the switch.
- Greater durability and protection against corrosion.
- Better long-term outcomes for our clients.
This decision wasn’t about cutting costs; it was about delivering reliability, safety, and peace of mind for the people who trust us to look after their homes and businesses.
The Airmelec Difference
Unfortunately, many HVAC companies are still using white pair coil to save a few dollars. But at Airmelec, we’ve seen the damage it causes, and we refuse to take shortcuts.
When you choose us, you’re not just getting an air conditioning system installed — you’re getting the assurance that we’ve chosen materials and methods that stand the test of time.
We’d rather absorb a little extra cost upfront than leave our customers across Emerald and the Central Highlands with systems that fail years before they should. That’s why so many locals trust Airmelec to keep their homes and businesses comfortable year-round.
Need Your System Checked?
If you’ve had issues with leaks or suspect your system might have been installed with a white pair coil, get in touch with Airmelec. We’ll assess your system and recommend the best long-term solution to keep you cool, comfortable, and confident in your investment.
Contact us today, and let’s make sure your air conditioning system is built to last.