Microchannel is a coil type used in many evaporator and condenser coils. You can easily identify it by its flat tubes, and its fins look like waves between the tubes. The technology was developed for use in the automotive industry and is used for radiators and automotive A/C condenser coils.

These coils are made of all aluminum, and people use them because of their superior heat transfer; these coils have greater surface contact between the refrigerant and the metal. They also have a lighter weight and smaller refrigerant charge.

These coils have come under a lot of criticism from technicians due to an undisputed high failure/leak rate of the condenser coils in some systems. Some have felt these failures occur due to inherent issues with the design, while others have stated that the leaks were due to specific manufacturing issues on a few coils and that these issues are largely in the past. No matter how you feel, it's likely that microchannel coils are here to stay due to the increased heat transfer efficiency and decreased weight. Here are a few things you need to know when installing and servicing microchannel coils.

Don't Pump it Down 

Microchannel condensing units are not sent with the full system charge; HVAC professionals must add the charge according to the manufacturer's specs, even with a short line set (say, 15′). Of course, if you have long lines, you'll have to add more charge carefully.

You cannot and must not attempt to pump down a system with a microchannel condenser. Otherwise, you risk causing a catastrophic failure of the coil.

Instead, you must recover the charge when making a refrigerant circuit repair and then carefully weigh in the proper charge after the repair is made.

Use Proper Brazing/Evacuation/Refrigerant Practices

It's right in the name: “micro” channel. The flat tubes have tiny refrigerant channels in them, and they are susceptible to blockage by any solid contaminants in the system.

To prevent contaminants from getting into the system, make sure to flow nitrogen while brazing, install a new liquid line drier after making a refrigerant circuit repair, and pull a proper vacuum (as always). You also need to take extra care to keep shavings out of the system when cutting and reaming.

Also, keep tubing ends and hoses away from dirt and debris. For example, if you replace a compressor, anything allowed to get in your pipework will hit the condenser coil before it ever reaches the liquid filter/drier and has the opportunity to clog part of the microchannel coil.

Wash Carefully

Most manufacturers advise against using any cleaner on microchannel coils to avoid damage. Either use a garden hose or low-pressure “fan” pattern pressure washer less than 100 PSI. If you must use a cleaner, be sure to use one approved for use on microchannel. In any case, work carefully. The refrigerant channels go all the way to the edge of the coil and can be easily damaged if impacted.

The Charge is CRITICAL

When charging microchannel, you will want to follow manufacturers' specs and weigh in the charge whenever possible. If you see low suction, don't start dumping in charge until you are certain it is a charge issue and not an airflow issue or a restriction. Subcooling on microchannel systems tends to be more erratic due to the lower volume of the condenser coil.

Install Thoughtfully

Many manufacturers will swear that microchannel coils are just as resilient as tube and fin coils. Based on my personal experience, I would suggest taking greater care to protect microchannel coils. It may make sense to keep microchannel coils away from areas of the lawn that will have equipment going near the unit and possibly shooting debris into the surface.

When a microchannel condenser leaks, it is often fairly evident by the oil stain that appears on the surface. These leaks can be quite small because of the channels, so if you see a telltale oil spot, it is best to investigate.

Repair

I confess: I have never attempted a microchannel repair myself, but there are many techs who claim to do it regularly. Here is a video showing it being done:

So, take extra care when installing and servicing microchannel systems when cleaning, charging, and repairing.

—Bryan