HVAC-- Converting a R-22 AC over to new R-407 freon. Can it be done by changing out orifice in the M coil?

Question

I have a 9 yr old Rheem 3 1/2 ton Central Air. The "M" coil is leaking and needs to be replaced. Can I put in a new coil with a R-407 orifice and convert it over, while still using the same compressor?

I would prefer a licensed HVAC tech answer, who has done it before. Thanks

Debbie, thanks for the compliment. John, always good to hear from other trade people.
I gave the best answer to Orak, since he had some info on the queston.

I found out that the new freon is 410a instead of 407c. Carrier calls it Puron. I wanted to get an idea if I could get away wothout replacing the whole unit. The AC guys that I deal with, wanted to completely replace everything including the two lines that connect the compressor and condenser. I wanted to find out if they were jerking my chain.

Finallly, thanks for all the answers and taking time out to say HI. I do appreciate it. The next time this happens with the AC, then I'll just change it out myself, and get a vacuum pump and evacuate the system, put in a whole new system with the new freon. Thanks again.

Answer 1

From the Gentron (distributor of refrigerants) site: :

"Relative to R-22, there is little to no capacity decrease with Genetron 407C, making it easy to use in R-22 equipment designs. However, some loss of efficiency may occur and some equipment modifications will be required when retrofitting these systems to Genetron 407C. For retrofitting R-22 systems, the equipment manufacturer should be consulted for their specific guidelines for R-407C.

"Genetron 407C has been designed as a substitute for R-22, but it is not a drop-in replacement. Mineral oils used with R-22 are immiscible with Genetron 407C. Service technicians should consult the original equipment manufacturer for the recommended lubricants and retrofit guidelines. Genetron 407C is a blend of HFC-125, HFC-32, and HFC-134a, should always be charged in liquid phase, and reclaimed R-407C should be tested for proper composition before use."

Why can't you replace the ID coil with an R-22 coil?

You will need to contact the original equipment manufacturer to see what size piston and indoor coil will be compatible with the new refrigerant AND if your existing OD unit is compatible with the retrofit.

To be frank, whenever I approach a machine and see Rheem/Ruud on the label, my heart sinks and I think "P.O.S." They're cheaply assembled, poorly engineered, and prone to problems, and when problems do occur, they are incredibly difficult to remedy. If it weren't for Intertherm and Coleman, R/R would be the worst product available.

Call your distributor and ask if they have a freight-damaged Carrier they can sell for less. If you have to go chlorine free, go with the 410a. Fractionated refrigerants are a royal pain when leaks occur.

Keep Kool

Answer 2

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
HVAC-- Converting a R-22 AC over to new R-407 freon. Can it be done by changing out orifice in the M coil?
I have a 9 yr old Rheem 3 1/2 ton Central Air. The "M" coil is leaking and needs to be replaced. Can I put in a new coil with a R-407 orifice and convert it over, while still using the same compressor?

I would prefer a licensed HVAC tech answer, who has done it before. Thanks

Answer 3

Hey Fordman......this is not an answer to your question, but I had asked one about why my brand new 4ton AC was not cooling my house and you had responded........
Well we finally figured it out.......it was the thermostat....the unit that we bought had 2 speeds, which required a new 2 speed thermostat......the morons that wired it originally just hooked it up to the thermostat that we already had....which caused it to run on LOW speed only.......

The AC man that Sears sent out THIS time was a great guy... he was determined to figure out what the problem was......so he asked us if he could come back the next day since he wanted to do some research on our particular unit and of course we agreed.......he came back the next day and replaced the thermostat...........and charged it to Sears......for the idiots they sent out the first time......

Moral of the story.........Not all AC guys are the same.....some actually care about fixing the problem and doing it right.... Others just measure the air temp coming out of the vent and say Hey.........its working......I bet you are the FIRST type.

Debbie B.

Answer 4

Retracted by the guy with the big mouth. I'll watch to see if you get a real HVAC guy to answer. Good luck.

Answer 5

For the best answers, search on this site https://shorturl.im/avl50

Without a license you may not be able to buy it. Heating and air-conditioning wholesales sell it. You can also advertise, someone may have some in their garage they are willing to sell.