Generally speaking, if you need to tape something HVAC you should use foil tape, not other tape. While it won’t “harm” anything to use other tape, foil tape is made from metal so it forms a new solid connection.

What can I use to insulate AC hose?


Quote from Youtube video: Other people we've talked to use bubble wrap different size bubbles wrap several layers and secure them to the hose.

What do you wrap AC lines with?





A typical residential AC unit has two copper lines that both exit the building exterior and run to the outside condenser unit.



Required Materials:

  • Foam insulation (ArmaFlex® Self-Seal or ArmaFlex Pipe Insulation)
  • Insulation tape (ArmaFlex Insulation Tape®)
  • Armacell 520 BLV Adhesive.


How do you insulate an AC pipe?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: But you'll need to measure your outside diameter of your pipe. And find out which works best for you. So this is a very thick insulation here it's a like a micro cell kind of a foam.

What happens if AC pipe is not insulated?

If the return line is not insulated, the refrigerant returning from evaporator to the compressor will absorb some heat, more heat than it had at the outlet of the evaporator. This extra heat will also be present in the compressed refrigerant going to the condenser, downstream of the compressor.

What kind of tape do you use for foam pipe insulation?





Shurtape IT-100 Pipe Wrap Insulation Tape is a 43 mil foam tape, utilizing a closed-cell elastomeric insulation backing, used to cover pipes to inhibit condensation. Designed for covering cold pipes to prevent condensation dripping, or covering hot pipes to reduce heat loss on a variety of pipe surfaces.

How do I seal the AC lines in my house?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: If he had exterior paint because i could also use exterior caulking. And then paint it it'll look a little bit better because it'll be painted.

How do you wrap an AC line?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: So that the compressor can cool down. So just kind of fit it over there like that and I strip the old insulation off already. So you get it to a comfortable length where you're happy with it.

Do both refrigerant lines need insulation?

You typically don’t need to insulate the high-pressure refrigerant line. You should, however, insulate the low-pressure refrigerant. Insulating the low-pressure refrigerant line will protect against condensation.

Does insulating AC lines help?



It’s not so important to insulate the inside pipe because it’s so short it doesn’t absorb much heat. Your AC would be slightly more efficient if you insulated the inside pipe — but you get 99% of the benefit from insulating the outside, and only 1% of the benefit from insulating the inside pipe.

Can you duct tape pipe insulation?

Use duct tape to hold the ends of the insulation in place or to keep it tight around joints and corners in the pipe. For additional insulation, add a second layer of tape over the first layer.

Is there insulation tape?

Thermal insulation tape is a great option if you construct products or structures that must reflect heat. Certain types of insulation tape may contain metallic plastic or foil that can reflect heat.

Can you put heat tape over pipe insulation?



Do not install heat tape around pipe insulation – only the pipe itself. Don’t cover heat tapes with insulation even if the tape manufacturer permits it. If you do add insulation, only use fiberglass or another non-flammable material. Do not use foam or vinyl insulation as they could catch fire easier.

Can heat tape cause a fire?

Sadly, heat tape has the potential to cause fires in homes and businesses. Many of these products consist only of non-regulating tape which plugs into a wall outlet. If the heat tape remains activated for long periods of time – especially if temperatures rise and/or the tape is well-insulated – it can spark a fire.

How long does heat tape last on pipes?

On average, if the type of heating tape is well-suited to pipe make, they can last for three years. It’s far more common that heating tapes tap out at two years, which is why it’s so essential they be regularly checked on.

What is better heat tape or insulation?

Heat tape is better than pipe insulation due to its warming abilities, as opposed to helping keep heat in. From metal to fiberglass pipe, heat tape is a preferred choice for short-term heating needs.

How warm does heat tape get?



Heat tape and cords can be used on any surface or body, such as wrapping pipes, requiring fast and efficient direct contact heating, with maximum exposure temperatures up to 1400°F (760°C).

How effective is heat tape?

Heat tape generally generates temperatures in the range of 450 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, but some products can produce temperatures up to 1,400 degrees.