How To Braze AC Copper Lines With Nitrogen

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In this video I walk you through how to braze a copper lineset from start to finish with a nitrogen flow! I hope you found this video informative, if so make sure and leave it a like and subscribe to our channel!
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[@diyhvacguy]

All My Favorite HVAC Tools: www.amazon.com/shop/thediyhvacguy?ref=ac_inf_tb_vh

[@keving2918]

I can’t believe how easy you make the braze look.

[@adrianvidal4471]

I really like that tank setup. Me and my wife are buying our first home out in the middle of nowhere. I think I'll be watching all these videos. For sure, help won't be but a couple hours away, lol. DIY to the rescue!

[@staytight6340]

Your videos literally pay my bills When i copied you today(second week at new job)they were impressed. I was trained and working for 10 years and never heard of the nitro thing. Those units are 10 yrs old (that i installed)are working perfect. But doing your nitro thing impressed them😊 Didn't tell them i watched your video last night😮

[@mxcollin95]

I love your channel man! I’ve learned a ton from your videos so thank you!!!

[@kenhugen285]

Love your vids! You have inspired me! I just purchased a 5 Ton Goodman Inverter AC, 100000 btu modulating furnace and a Goodman D Evaporator Coil. I was quoted $27k for a Carrier system and a Bryant System from two other companies. My Goodman system cost $10k, Testo 557s, 1-1/8 and 3/8 coil set and insulation, 1-1/8’ tube bender, Harbor Freight dual stage vacuum pump and all supplies added $2k. I messed up my 1-1/8’ ACR tubing so now I will use hard L copper and will rent the Nibco crimp system. That will add $650 including fittings. So $13k to $14k all in. I also pulled a permit from my county since doing this correctly with over-site is very important. I want to thank you for you channel and your passion for the industry! You gave me the confidence to dive into this. I was disappointed to damage the !-1/8” ACR tubing, but it’s par for the course. I’m fortunate enough to be able to afford the higher end tools. I’m renting the Nibco system and was disappointed with their week presence on KZbin. I sent them a note to send you a Nibco Press ACR and do their product justice! Thanks for educating this 59 year old high end DIYer!

[@ReliableHVACR]

That little kit is pretty dope

[@aperlia6603]

Learned that lesson in the field real quick about just putting a few psi of nitrogen in to pretest for leaks. Seen many a tanks wasted b/c people didn't do that. You know very quickly if you have a leak.

[@diyhvacguy]

Exactly

[@jontnoneya3404]

Do you know how many HVAC guys I've had arguing with me on running Nitrogen? OMG it's awful they're like "I've been in this biz 11ty billion years and never needed nitrogen" and I'm like "Yeah well I not only watched a KZbin video, I've seen what comes out of my pipes when my plumber brazes copper and it ain't pretty" and they're like, "Yeah no shit. That's why we add a filter to the line" and I'm like "Yeah but there's no need to fill it up cuz you're lazy" and they're like "Let's step outside and settle this like men" and I'm like "NO Run Nitrogen bitch" which is why I now have a full set of dentures. But hey....I'm not wrong.

[@diyhvacguy]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@w8what575]

Lol…that was a good narration! 😂

[@staytight6340]

Lol

[@bilskro]

I rehab homes and while I don’t braze on a regular basis, I have experience with both Stay Brite 8 and Brazing. Stay Brite 8 has served me well for the most part, but I've encountered challenges when working with soft copper rolled tubing, which differs from hard copper due to its roundness and susceptibility to gaps. Dealing with these gaps has proven to be a hurdle when using Stay Brite 8. On the other hand, my attempts at brazing have often felt like a nightmarish endeavor. Equipped with an oxy/acetylene setup, I've come to realize that mastering brazing requires extensive practice. Unfortunately, my learning curve has involved inadvertently burning holes in the copper or even melting it. I use Sil-Fos 15. I have experimented with less intense torches such as the turbo torch, which hasn't yielded satisfactory results either. In fact, attempting to braze a 7/8” line with such torches can be an all-day ordeal and still end up with leaks. I have also experimented with an Acetylene air setup, only to find that the process remains time-consuming and often results in leaks. I yearn for a solution akin to Stay Brite 8 that functions effectively at lower temperatures and is capable of bridging gaps. It would be ideal if you would make a comprehensive video guide detailing the art of brazing, including meticulous instructions on setting optimal Oxygen and Acetylene flow rates, along with insights on achieving the perfect flame and which tip size to use. Additionally, any strategies or tips to simplify the brazing process would be greatly appreciated for example does that smaller torch you are using work better? I will also add I tried to use the Cap’n Hook tip and what a disaster, completely burnt up a 3/8” line when brazing a filter/drier. No way to hold that Cap’n Hook steady and even and the rod and braze all at the same time. I have heard some say to use a Rosebud tip, but not sure that will end up with better results. I find myself wishing for a product that combines the benefits of Stay Brite 8 with the capacity to handle gaps, especially when it comes to soft copper rolled tubing. If you've developed techniques for utilizing Stay Brite 8 in scenarios involving gaps, I would eagerly anticipate a detailed video tutorial on this subject as well.

[@bilskro]

I should add when I use my Acetylene/Air setup I am using a soft flame torch, which is not hot enough to braze. I thought about trying the Turbo Torch they sell for Air / Acetylene but did not want to spend the money for another setup that might not work.

[@30roundclipazine79]

You need to constantly keep your footage moving around the joint and often of of the joint. With oxi acetylene it is very easy to overheat. Great both sides of the joint until your rod flows and get off of it. If you turn the chipper cherry red you have way overheated it and the alloy won't flow. Try a couple seconds of heat then move the flange back then a couple seconds then move the flame back. I have done lots of 1/4" soft copper on refrigerators like this

[@chmasood294]

❤

[@AndrewHiggins-bb6yg]

What rods do you use on TXV’s? Thanks for all the content, I really appreciate it and learn a ton from you.

[@Otis884]

Very nice .

[@floorpizza8074]

Hey Dave, I'm down here in sunny St. George. I'm betting you probably serve the Salt Lake Valley and/or Utah Valley areas, but if you happen to be here in St. George, I'll be giving you a call next time we need service. Thanks for the great videos!

[@diyhvacguy]

I’d be happy to take a trip down to St. George for a replacement job but it’s a bit far for a service call 😀 feel free to email me at [e-mail] and I’ll give you my number! Cheers

[@phoneblaster]

...I have just become interested in HVAC . You are a great video maker, I love it. If I can ask a stupid question, is it better to braze or solder HVAC lines ? . I have already invested in soldering equipment.

[@kevinikola8003]

I love that torch!! Beautiful welds. What pressure do you run the nitrogen at?

[@diyhvacguy]

It is extremely low, probably 1-2 psi or less even. All you need is a nitrogen presence basically

[@jeffsams2245]

Thank you for posting these videos. My new gas furnace with 3.5 Ton compressor was delivered yesterday. After doing some research it seems that all line sets are not of equal quality. My system requires 25 feet of 7/8 and 3/8. How do you know if a line set is high quality? Do you have a recommendation for a good supplier? Thank you again.

[@23x31]

Most DIY people might be better off with a Turbo Torch. Just one tank (no oxygen) and less of a chance of getting the fitting too hot and melting the base metal. Good video.

[@w8what575]

Yes! Thank u for the comment! I’m a diy homeowner blacklisted on the hvac list in my area cuz my home isn’t a new home…and I’m a single woman so they assume I’m broke 🤣 not everyone is out to rip the contractors off! I miss the days when it was all the old timers that knew my dad who is a contractor in construction and framing and the local sign guy…the older crews had chivalry and respect towards their fellow contractors…not anymore…I’ve never had so much trouble hiring a contractor as I do now…and this idea that women don’t matter lol…well this woman has raised two men…who are respectful towards others and are real men…so I’m teaching myself how to do this crap….and possibly going to get certified cuz the hvac guys are leaving a lot of homeowners without ac or heat cuz they’re allowed to discriminate …shameful really…not a problem though…I have two sons who wouldn’t discriminate and be willing to take up the work from these other creeps…sometimes bad attitudes and personalities are more damaging to a business then anything else….I wouldn’t mind seeing the local guys get put out of business! The towns meth dealer…they ran right over and fixed their ac! Odd!

[@EarlHayward]

Except, they generate much more heat even though operating at a lower temp… So, before the copper gets to temp for a lower silver brazing allow, the heat can travel and damage other parts… Just run oxy-acetylene with a rather low oxygen mix (sorry, I forget the term for that)… Edit: just remembered it is called a carburizing flame - figures, once I moved on then it came to me…

[@staytight6340]

I get paid 40 an hour 4 an hvac company He helps me every month Legit knowledge

[@mxcollin95]

So is a turbo torch used with map gas since you said oxygen isn’t required? If anyone knows please answer… I’m a regular home owner trying to educate myself on this stuff since I’m tired of getting completely ripped off by AC companies.

[@23x31]

@@mxcollin95 Use acetylene. A turbo torch uses the ambient oxygen. Its not quite as hot as an acetylene-oxygen torch but plenty hot enough.

[@vanhala7]

Hi! How many cu ft of nitrogen is used/ needed for a pressure test? Would a 20 cu ft tank be enough for a 20-foot lineset? Thanks!

[@daddygc5814]

I just like my turbo torch when brazing

[@MarcelHVAC]

downside is they are noisy

[@SergeUnburnt]

Hello! Good job! And why do you use acetylene-oxygen and not propane-oxygen?

[@richlikeg3722]

Not sure if you said it but what size tip you running? Seems you got copper hot within seconds

[@mattyb7607]

Hey! I like your videos - they have been very helpful. How do I convince a hvac installer to use staybright 8 instead of brazing?

[@diyhvacguy]

Just find a new one 🤣 some guys refuse to use it

[@JoseRodriguez-pn9hx]

Are there others options as far as heating the metal and brazing the pipes? Can a torch be used instead of carrying those tanks

[@Chuy1988]

How did the press crimp work on the liquid line?

[@user-my9ij8eo6x]

How would u do 2 separate isolated lines like on a heatpump differently?

[@Dicofole]

What is the name of the song you played during the welding footage @ 3.22 ?

[@oglerdeleon9494]

What's the psi on the nitrogen running to the suction line. ?

[@sakethk4184]

Thanks for Video. The second small copper wire at 2:41 seems to be a little loose on our AC unit. Does it need to be tightly secured?

[@diyhvacguy]

The bulb that it’s attached to just needs to be securely mounted to the pipe is all 👍🏼

[@sakethk4184]

@diyhvacguy thanks for the quick reply. What does the small copper (the one in your video with black washer) wire do ? I could see the bigger one is properly insulated and connected very securely to AC unit, whereas the small is just inserted but not sealed to the Ac unit in attic. Sorry if I'm asking basic questions :-)

[@randytucker3083]

I'm just a welder so I'm not great at recommendations. We always cleaned like you but use flux. Seemed to help flow? Thanks great video.

[@diyhvacguy]

Flux is for soldering. This is brazing, so no flux is needed. This method gets to about 1200 degrees Wheras soldering is only 400. Cheers

[@MarcelHVAC]

flux is needed for soldering copper on brass tho.@@diyhvacguy

[@bearoutdoors6278]

Where do I get that turbo tote at ?

[@Atekcs]

Do those fittings require a press tool or are those a push to connect style similar to shark bite?

[@diyhvacguy]

Yes they require a press tool. I have a separate video on that. 👍🏼

[@DobleWhiteAndStabley]

I have a challenge for you. Is it possible to make an AC, window unit preferred, run purely mechanically. Like, with an engine or some other rotary input. You can't cheat with an old car that lacks a computer lol I already know that is possible. My thoughts is a steam engine powering a window ac, while also powering my lineshaft workshop. I have a dream! ... That might be completely idiotic, but its a dream lol. I think it is possible, but having an expert explain what I suspect is possible would be a lot more awesome.

[@markb3866]

Can you do a video of HVAC units/systems from best to worst (brand wise), tell us what company owns what other company, grades, which has the most quiet condenser, power draw, etc. Im hearing very mixed info. In guess Trane, York, Goodman, in that order? Who else. ?

[@w8what575]

The brand I’ve had the most luck with and ran the best and longest without breaking down are the Carrier brand units…sucks cuz the local carrier dealer is a creep

[@2bnax]

WHICH TYPE COPPER IS ON HVAC 3-TON UNITS / OR SHOULD BE USED??? L OR M

[@garypoplin4599]

3:20 - How long did this actually take to do? You sped up the video so I couldn’t tell.

[@zoltanszucs9346]

ez pont olyan gyönyörű lett, mint te

[@diyhvacguy]

Lol thanks

[@HakeemKhan-tq8sg]

I'm Pakistan AC technician .. good 👍👍👍 good 💯💯💯

[@planetvance]

Can I use compression fittings to connect the lines?

[@diyhvacguy]

No that is for plumbing. They do make some that are kind of like a compression fitting but they’re hard to get. I’ll see if I can do a video on that soon

[@timvala7577]

@@diyhvacguyWhy can’t they make connectors like they make on TXVs? They are similar to natural gas connectors. They have plastic o rings and never seem to leak.

[@DLRPyro1]

What's the difference between brazing and soldering?

[@pingpong9656]

Chemistry and temperature.

[@diyhvacguy]

Brazing is way higher temperature (1200 degrees Fahrenheit and soldering is closer to 400 degrees. The technique is similar but some prefer one over the other. Staybrite 8 is specifically made for HVAC applications and a lot of people use it for linesets.

[@SSC_puglord]

Wait, if you pro press the liquid line, why you worry about braising the low pressure side?

[@timothywright5449]

Right!! Why??

[@giantkillin8278]

noice.!!!

[@davidgearardo1788]

is that a jewelry torch?

[@diyhvacguy]

Similar but different tips I believe. It works great! And much more nimble and light weight

[@christopherhaak9824]

Why not stay with the staybrite 8?

[@diyhvacguy]

I wanted to make a video specifically for brazing, but the next one I will absolutely do Staybrite 8 🙂 I’m practicing my soldering skills is all haha

[@joshsansone5113]

​@@diyhvacguy does the staybrite 8 stand up to the vibration?

[@SixTwoHemi]

Stay bright 8 FTW

[@pingpong9656]

You have to be careful with those crimp fittings - they have o-rings that will be destroyed with heat - right?

[@aperlia6603]

He wasn't brazing on the liquid line inside the house.

[@diyhvacguy]

Yes I made sure not to heat up those while brazing the suction line. One could cover them with a rag to be sure.

[@timvala7577]

I use a swaging tool and pipe bender. You got too many connections! Crimped tube on high pressure liquid line? Too risky.

[@kenanbilge9470]

Is that a plumbing fitting on the suction side?

[@diyhvacguy]

Acr fitting

[@user-lb7ki5yv3z]

You forgot to mention to be careful when flushing nitrogen through the system as this can damage the TXV always remember to keep it at 2PSI.

[@tbboy6532]

Butchered that braze job....heat rises...hold the flame at the bottom...get it to glow, and dip the rod or tap the filler on it and let the CAPILLARY ATTRACTION happen

[@FrankiePool]

Brazing shouldn’t be diy I’ve seen journeyman fuck shit up brazing

[@bobjohn832]

Hey dude let him be he’s telling people to try it he’s giving job security he doesn’t even have his flame set up properly looks like it’s oxidizing