1. Attachments are working again! Check out this thread for more details and to report any other bugs.

AC chilled line question for HVAC experts

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Technical Discussion' started by KS_prius, Aug 11, 2006.

  1. KS_prius

    KS_prius New Member

    Joined:
    Aug 8, 2005
    34
    0
    0
    In a home AC system the chilled line is insulated. Why don't they do that for cars? The engine compartment is a much hotter environment than outside air.

    For the Prius, I note the chilled line begins down close to the oil filter, turns up and runs up and into the cabin. Most of it is plain bare metal exposed to the harsh engine compartment temps. Would it be helpful or harmful to put standard pipe insulation on this line?
     
    #1 KS_prius, Aug 11, 2006
  2. hobbit

    hobbit Senior Member

    Joined:
    Mar 23, 2005
    4,089
    468
    0
    Location:
    Bahstahn
    Vehicle:
    2004 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    all depends on where the expansion valve is, doesn't it?
    .
    _H*
     
    #2 hobbit, Aug 11, 2006
  3. c4

    c4 Active Member

    Joined:
    Mar 29, 2005
    607
    51
    0
    The other issue is that unless the insulation is pretty well hermetic, you end up with condensation on the line.. If the line is exposed, the hot engine dries it off quickly, but if enclosed by insulation, the water just sits there, next to the line and can cause corrosion and leaking A/C lines and eventually A/C malfunction..
     
    #3 c4, Aug 11, 2006
  4. mrbigh

    mrbigh Prius Absolutum Dominium

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2005
    3,686
    699
    2
    Location:
    Long Island, NY
    Vehicle:
    Other Electric Vehicle
    <div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(KS_prius @ Aug 11 2006, 06:43 AM) [snapback]301394[/snapback]</div>
    The refrigeration lines in our cars do not need to be insulated, the design call for the condensation evaporation do to engine compartment temperature. Thas the efficient way to extend the live of mechanical components. ;)
     
    #4 mrbigh, Aug 11, 2006
(You must log in or sign up to post here.)