Ask the Chemist: Anti-corrosion treatments for air conditioning systems

1) What are the consequences of corrosion in air conditioning systems?

Corrosion, depending on whether the cause is internal or external, can affect various components of a system such as pipes, heat exchangers, windings, but also finned coils, condensers and body of outdoor units, causing holes and perforations of various kinds. Their presence inevitably reduces systems efficiency and reliability and, in the long term, damages its appearance, as well as decreasing its lifespan. In the most severe cases of acid, corrosion can even lead to compressor failure.

2) What are the causes of corrosion in an A/C system?

As mentioned before, corrosion in A/C systems can be attributed to two main causes: internal or external. On the one hand, the acidity caused by the reaction of moisture (normally present in an A/C system) with the elements generated by the decomposition of refrigerants and refrigeration lubricants in the system. On the other hand, the strongly oxidising environments and areas in which the A/C systems are installed. Just think about seaside locations or highly polluted places, where salt and acid rain can cause corrosion to the outdoor units of AC systems.

3) Are you saying, then, that climate can affect the corrosion of A/C systems?

Yes. More in general, we could say that it is the atmosphere that determines corrosion. Humidity, salt, smog, etc., are corrosive agents from which A/C systems must be protected.

4) So, is it a problem that affects only outdoor units, or indoor ones too?

Generally speaking, outdoor units are certainly the most exposed to the risk of corrosion. Anyway, it’s a problem that affects indoor units too, especially if they are located in particularly oxidising indoor environments. Some examples? Kitchens and food processing industries, chemical, metal treatment companies, and so on.

5) Again, maintenance and prevention seem to be the solution to the problem. Is this correct?

That is correct. It is essential to use appropriate products to keep under control the contaminants and protect metals from the risk of corrosion.

6) What products do you recommend then?

If you are looking for a product to be used as an anti-corrosion treatment for large volume surfaces, then NO-AGE is perfect. Its formula has been designed by Errecom to protect the metal components of A/C systems installed in highly oxidising areas, while the spray format makes it particularly easy to use for treating large volumes. Once sprayed on the condenser, previously cleaned with an acid or alkaline detergent to remove any dirt, NO-AGE creates a long-lasting anti-corrosion film that also maintains the heat exchange of the condenser, thus extending its life. NO-AGE PLUS, on the other hand, is the anti-corrosion treatment to be used for smaller volumes. Its aerosol format guarantees a rapid and uniform application over the entire surface treated. As NO-AGE, NO-AGE PLUS creates a thick, transparent protective film formulated to resist corrosive agents.

7) Are there any other components of air conditioning systems that you think should be treated to prevent corrosion and damages?

Yes, A/C copper pipes. They can be affected by contaminants such as humidity, smog, salt, sand, and dust that, if not kept under control, can lead to serious consequences, such as the reduction of the A/C system efficiency or the breakage of the condenser. NO-AGE GELLY is the anti-corrosion gel developed by Errecom specifically for copper pipes treatment. Besides, thanks to the special brush contained in the package, is very easy to apply.

8) Do you have any other advice for our readers?

I don’t want to sound repetitive, but I would like to conclude by emphasising, once again, the importance of good maintenance. It’s the rule to follow to have a high-performance A/C system that guarantees good energy savings. The use of NO-AGE as an anti-corrosion treatment extends a system life, as well as preserving its appearance. Let’s keep in mind that corrosion often occurs in hardly visible places. No prevention means becoming aware of its presence when it is too late.