why use expansion valves
do expansion valves matter
Today’s high efficiency air conditioning systems require a more precise control of the cooling process
than our older, less efficient systems of the past. There are basically two
ways to regulate refrigerant flow into the cooling coil. One is a fixed
orifice and the other an expansion valve. Orifice type refrigerant controls are
typically used in many homes because a lower initial cost.
Expansion valve control offers a much improved method and dramatically increases overall efficiency,
performance, and reliability. It’s kind of like comparing an automotive
carburetor to fuel injection. Expansion valves allow for modulating the
refrigerant flow into the evap
orator delivering exactly the right amount of
refrigerant to the coil under varying operational conditions keeping the
coil as cold as possible. This precise refrigerant control allows your
system to actually remove more humidity, provide a more comfortable home,
lower utility expense, and increase system reliability.
The most efficient operation can only be obtained with the use of expansion valves to control the
refrigerant. Today’s systems will not meet the required minimum 13 SEER
efficiency standard with orifice control. The use of expansion valves are
now required with all new system installations and any older systems that
are above 10 SEER.
Orifice control systems work well enough in dry climates. However, they promote
increased mold growth in the duct systems by leaving too much humidity in
the air in humid climates such as ours. This is why they are the wrong type
of control to use in Houston or other high-humidity climates. Expansion
valves reduce the potential for mold growth and air duct contamination
caused by inadequate moisture removal. The installation will provide you
with cleaner healthier home, maximize humidity removal, lower your operating
cost, and lengthen the life of your system.
There are three cost associated with owning an air conditioning system, the cost of the initial
purchase, the cost for electricity, and the cost of repairs. At today’s
utility rates the payback on these valves are less than 2 years in most
cases. The choice is obvious. Yes you do need expansion valves on your A/C
system. If you are buying a new system or own an existing system that needs
upgrading we can help.