Converting the Microchannel Coil in the York® ZJ150: Improve performance and reliability

When it comes to replacing commercial condenser coils, the York ZJ150 is one of the most commonly encountered units. But what many don’t realize is that these units often come equipped with all-aluminum microchannel coils — which, while cost-effective, can be problematic over time.

One of the most common solutions is converting the microchannel coil into a copper tube, aluminum fin coil. This upgrade is becoming increasingly popular among HVAC professionals who are looking to improve both performance and reliability without breaking the bank.

Microchannel coils have been widely used in the air conditioning industry for over a decade. They're favored for their lightweight design and lower refrigerant charge. However, they also come with several drawbacks that can impact system efficiency and long-term durability.

The Drawbacks of Microchannel Coils

Microchannel coils are prone to dirt buildup, similar to a dryer filter. If not cleaned regularly, this can lead to high head pressure and poor system performance. Additionally, because they use a very small amount of refrigerant, precise charging is critical — any mistake can result in inefficient operation or even system failure.

Repairing an all-aluminum coil can also be challenging. It often requires specialized techniques like two-part epoxy or soldering with a torch, which can be time-consuming and costly. Plus, aluminum is more sensitive to environmental conditions, making repairs less reliable and more prone to future leaks.

Why Choose a Copper Tube, Aluminum Fin Coil?

Switching to a copper tube, aluminum fin coil offers numerous advantages. These coils are more durable, easier to repair, and better suited for long-term use. One of the biggest benefits is the ability to pump down the system during repairs, eliminating the need to recover all the refrigerant first. This saves time, reduces costs, and minimizes refrigerant loss.

Other key benefits include:

• Increased durability and longer lifespan
• Easier maintenance and repair processes
• Improved system efficiency and performance
• Reduced long-term costs due to fewer repairs and leaks

What You Need to Know About Circuit Completion

When replacing a microchannel coil with a copper tube coil, it's important to complete the circuit properly. For example, if your York ZJ150 has four coils per circuit and one fails, you’ll need to replace all four. This is because the refrigerant charge and pressure drop differ between microchannel and copper tube coils. Mixing them can cause serious operational issues and reduce system efficiency.

Why Choose Us for Your Microchannel Conversion?

While the York ZJ150 is one of the most common units requiring a microchannel conversion, we specialize in upgrading all major commercial HVAC systems. With years of experience and thousands of conversions under our belt, Nationwide Coils has earned the title of #MastersOfMicrochannelConversion.

If you're looking to improve the performance and reliability of your HVAC system, contact us today. Whether you call us at 1.888.CoilPro or email us anytime, we’re here to help. Just provide the make and model of your unit, and we’ll get started on your custom microchannel conversion.