HeatEX Techologies

Which Material is Best for your Coil?

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:33:51 GMT

In commercial HVAC, one of the largest yet overlooked aspects of a custom coil replacement job is the materials that the coil is made of. Different materials thrive better in different systems and environments, which affects the lifespan and efficiency of the coil. Making sure that your replacement coil is best suited for your unique system and location is integral to any facility, and failure to do so can increase costs and decrease reliability. Here is a breakdown of each material in your coil and what scenarios to select each in.

Copper is the most common material in the tubing of the coil and offers many advantages for use. Copper is stronger and easier to maintain than aluminum and other materials. It has a better heat transfer rate and is much more reliable as a whole. When damaged, it is easier to repair, saving time and energy. Though it offers many pros, it is more expensive than other materials and is not immune to corrosion. In a system where reliability is required, such as chillers, schools, and hospitals, copper is your best option and will save much time and effort on the maintenance side.

Aluminum can be used in both the tubing and fins of the coil. More commonly found in the fins, aluminum comes with a lower cost than other options with more pliability. Aluminum is used in microchannel coil tubing and is much more difficult to clean, repair, and maintain than copper and other materials. In humid environments, Aluminum rapidly deteriorates, making it not the best choice for longevity near coastal environments and in southern areas. Aluminum's cheap and pliable nature makes it cost-efficient, yet be careful, as in the wrong environment it can be difficult to maintain.

Stainless steel is the least common of the materials in a coil; however, it remains a viable option in very specific scenarios. Stainless steel is the most corrosion-resistant material of the three and is extremely durable. However, it is the most expensive material and comes with lower thermal conductivity than the other materials. In highly corrosive environments such as chemical plants and wastewater treatment plants, stainless steel tubing could be a solid choice for durability.

In addition to breaking down these 3 materials within custom replacement coils, it is worth noting that in certain environments, material alone isn’t enough to completely prevent corrosion and other failure types. In scenarios such as these, your best bet is to get your coils coated to fit the environment your system resides in. While more expensive, coatings can be the extra step your system needs to maintain efficiency and reliability.

At HeatEX Technologies, we offer custom coils that utilize these materials for each specific job, taking system and environment into account. This ensures reliability for your unique system and prevents unnecessary extra spending and time in the future. If your coil fails due to wrong material choices, call HeatEX Technologies, and our team will assist you with a more efficient replacement coil option.

Works Cited

“Four Facts to Know About HVAC/R Coil Corrosion: Copper versus Aluminum.” Copper Development Association Inc. , 11 Sept. 2019, https://blog.copper.org/hvac/r/four-facts-to-know-about-coil-corrosion-copper-versus-aluminum . Accessed 27 July 2026.

“Using Copper and Aluminum for HVAC Coils.” Emergent Coils , 12 Jan. 2024, https://emergentcoils.com/blogs/news/using-copper-and-aluminum-for-hvac-coils . Accessed 27 July 2026.

What Actually Goes into Measuring a Coil

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 18:31:28 GMT

For any coil or heat exchanger replacement job, one of the first steps in the process is for HeatEX Technologies to measure the existing coil/heat exchanger to ensure a perfect fit in the unit. Recently, I had the privilege of going out to my second job site to take measurements with HeatEX Technologies. Here is my account of what actually goes into measuring a coil, and my experience from start to finish.

We measured 2 different coils on the jobsite: 1 evaporator coil and 1 steam coil. Evaporator coils absorb heat by allowing refrigerant to evaporate, whereas steam coils transfer heat by running steam through the coil. For measuring purposes, the differences are in the measurements for the headers and connections of the coil, since steam coils require specific header placement measurements and evaporator coils contain different connections.

When measuring a coil, making sure that measurements are accurate and ensuring a perfect fit for the replacement coil is very important. I started off by measuring the fin height and length of the coil. This is the height and length of the fins without the casing. This is important because if these measurements are too big, the coil will not fit, and if they are too small, the coil will lose airflow. I then measured the fins per inch, which is how many fins are in 1 inch. This can be measured either by extending a tape measure out an inch and counting how many fins make up the span, or in certain situations you can use a trick where you take a piece of paper and lightly shade in an area of around an inch with a pencil. You can then count from there. I noted the number of rows in the coil, as well as taking out a caliper and measuring the diameter of the headers, tubing, and connections from the coil. For the evaporator coil, we also measured the casing height and length. In addition to diameter, I measured the center-to-center, top-to-center, and bottom-to-center distances for the connections, as well as taking note of how far the connections protrude from the coil. This is important because every unit is different and has different connections in different places. Making sure that the connections are exactly the same ensures that the coil fits perfectly and prevents further issues in the installation process.

We measured the evaporator coil first, which was in a difficult position to measure as it was in a stairwell with limited access. We were only able to measure it by peering into the air handling unit while holding back a sheet of casing. The steam coil was much easier to measure, as it was already outside of the unit when we looked at it. Each job site presents its own challenges with measurement and installation of the replacement coils, and HeatEX Technologies assists in problem-solving those challenges so that we can take accurate measurements of the coil.

At HeatEX Technologies, we strive to ensure a perfect fit for your next replacement job. While we can quote coil and heat exchanger replacement jobs based on model and serial number, many older units have undergone changes through their time. In this scenario, HeatEX Technologies will come out and take field measurements to ensure accuracy in custom replacement jobs. Our team prides itself on excellent customer service, and working with our customers to ensure accuracy in our coils is one of the many elements of that broad title. Check out our website for more information on how we can assist you in your next coil or heat exchanger replacement job!

Trane CGAM070 Microchannel Conversion Case Study

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 13:30:17 GMT

After multiple refrigerant leaks sprang from a Trane CGAM070 air-cooled chiller in West Palm Beach, FL, our customer faced a difficult challenge. They had to decide whether to replace the failed microchannel condenser coils with new OEM microchannel coils or pivot and invest in a different, longer-term solution. After much evaluation, our customer decided to convert the chiller from aluminum microchannel coils to copper tube aluminum fin condenser coils.

The challenge for this project was that the original microchannel condenser coil had developed multiple refrigerant leaks to the point where repairs were impractical in the situation, reducing efficiency and reliability for the chiller. Continued patching of the leaks would only grant temporary fixes that increase maintenance costs and downtime in the long run. The customer desired a solution that would improve long-term serviceability and extend the life span of the chiller.

With this challenge present, HeatEX Technologies stepped up and provided a solution. We engineered a copper tube aluminum fin condenser coil conversion from the microchannel coil specified for the Trane CGAM070 air-cooled chiller. Each replacement coil matched the cooling capacity, airflow, requirements, refrigerant circuiting, and piping configuration of the chiller while maintaining fit to the existing unit. With HeatEX Technologies' custom coil replacement job, our customer was able to retain the original chiller while upgrading to a coil fixture that is easier to repair and maintain in the long run. If a leak develops, copper tube aluminum fin coils can often be repaired, unlike microchannel coils, which reduces replacement costs and minimizes downtime for long-term operation.

Our customer made their decision on this project with long-term reliability in mind. This replacement job brought them several benefits, including increased serviceability compared to microchannel coils, easier leak repairs for future damage, lower lifecycle maintenance costs, extended equipment life, and protective coatings for corrosion resistance in the coastal environment of West Palm Beach, FL.

Most facilities in this scenario would assume that the repeated failures in the condenser coils meant that the entire Trane chiller needed to be replaced. In this scenario, and many other cases, that is not the case. A well-done copper tube aluminum fin conversion job restores performance to the existing unit while additionally providing a condenser coil design that is more maintainable. This allows building owners and facility managers to maximize their return on existing equipment investment.

At HeatEX Technologies, we specialize in custom coils of all varieties, including custom condenser coil replacements and microchannel conversions for commercial HVAC equipment. Whatever the issue with your coil may be, HeatEX Technologies can engineer a replacement solution designed to extend the life of, improve efficiency, and reduce future maintenance costs for your existing unit.

The Biggest Takeaways from the 2026 ASHRAE Annual Conference for Commercial HVAC

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:23:00 GMT

Last week, from June 27 ^th to July 1 ^st , ASHRAE held its 2026 Annual Conference in Austin, TX, and brought together more than 2,233 HVAC professionals from all over the world. The conference covered a broad range of many topics prevalent in the industry today, from fundamentals and applications to AI in building design and construction. Here are some of the biggest takeaways from the 2026 ASHRAE Annual Conference for commercial HVAC.

The first takeaway from the conference for commercial HVAC is that decarbonization remains one of ASHRAE's largest priorities. Reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and creating more sustainable infrastructure are something that the conference touched on heavily during its sessions. High energy costs, lack of full unit replacement justification, and keeping costs low on projects fuel this priority, as the industry looks to make projects cheaper and easier for facility managers, mechanical contractors, and building owners. In tune with this, the refrigerant transition from R-410A to R-454B continues to be a primary industry focus. Adopting new refrigerants is only half of the challenge for industry experts, as they need to determine whether their existing rooftop units, chillers, and air handlers can continue to operate efficiently through this transition. Maximizing performance while balancing regulatory changes with existing infrastructure continues to encapsulate the commercial HVAC industry. As decarbonization strategies continue to evolve, facility managers, mechanical contractors, and building owners need to find ways to evolve with them.

Another crucial takeaway from the conference is that existing buildings are attracting much more attention from ASHRAE than new construction. ASHRAE’s new president, Sarah E. Maston, announced that her presidential theme will be Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience, which focuses on existing buildings. Conference sessions emphasized retrofitting, modernization, energy upgrades, and asset management. In today’s industry, many buildings are over 30+ years old, and at the age where maintenance work is due. With this in mind, facility managers are attempting to get as much life out of their existing infrastructure as possible. Retrofitting accomplishes this task, as it integrates new technology with old buildings to maximize system life.

The last takeaway from the conference is the increasing impact of AI and smarter data on the industry. AI is becoming a very practical tool for identifying and solving issues within systems. Systems are using AI to analyze temperature differentials, energy consumption, performance, abnormal compressor runtime, airflow changes, and much more. This new technology is rapidly spreading into infrastructure, and helping predict failures, find and locate performance issues, and monitor system health, which assists with maintenance on commercial units. In addition, building analytics and digital building management help facility managers find problems earlier, which in turn reduces price and downtime associated with maintenance projects.

With this new industry direction set, HeatEX Technologies is positioned well to assist facility managers in adapting. As smart retrofitting continues to grow, HeatEX Technologies supplies custom coils and heat exchangers that improve energy efficiency, lifespan, and sustainability for existing systems and infrastructure. We work with facility managers to find the perfect fit for their unit with the performance metrics they desire. As smart data assists commercial facility managers with the timing of their maintenance jobs, HeatEX Technologies steps up and completes the job with low lead times and excellent customer service.

Works Cited

"ASHRAE Highlights Industry Priorities in 2026 Annual Conference Technical Program." ASHRAE , 22 May 2026, https://www.ashrae.org/about/news/2026/ashrae-highlights-industry-priorities-in-2026-annual-conference-technical-program .

"ASHRAE Annual Conference Showcases Innovation and Leadership for the Future of the Built Environment." ASHRAE , 2 July 2026, https://www.ashrae.org/about/news/2026/ashrae-annual-conference-showcases-innovation-and-leadership-for-the-future-of-the-built-environment .

5 Warning Signs Your Coil Needs Replacement

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:26:49 GMT

In a commercial HVAC unit, coil failure is one of the most frequent and costly problems a system can have. Coil failure in a commercial HVAC unit leads to performance, efficiency, and reliability issues, making it one of the most important aspects in the system. Coils can fail for many different reasons, and understanding when a coil is starting to need replacement can save facility managers tons of extra downtime and stress. Here are 5 warning signs that your commercial HVAC coil needs replacement, so that the next time your coil fails, you can be on top of the problem.

1. Declining Heating/Cooling Performance

One of the earliest signs of coil failure is a drop in performance. When a coil fails, the HVAC system must work harder to reach setpoints. A system that is struggling to reach its setpoints runs longer cycles than normal, which declines performance for the unit. Facility managers may also notice hot and cold spots throughout the building or occupants complaining about uncomfortable temperatures. This issue can point to fin oxidation, bent fins, contamination, or corrosion that reduces the coils’ ability to transfer heat to the refrigerant. This increases operation costs for HVAC units and puts unnecessary extra wear on other aspects of the unit.

2. Visible Corrosion or Physical Damage

Visible corrosion or physical damage to your coil is one of the clearest signals that there needs to be a replacement. The earlier facility managers identify corrosion or damage to their coil, the more time they have until the entire unit fails. Corrosion is most common in coastal environments, where the salt concentration in the air degrades coils more quickly. However, this can happen outside of coastal environments as well, due to airborne contaminants. When this happens, you’ll notice green or rusty corrosion deposits, surface discoloration, and damaged tubes. As soon as you notice corrosion or damage to your coil, you need to start planning a replacement job.

3. Rising Energy COnsumption

When a coil isn’t absorbing heat as efficiently as it should be, the compressor in the unit works harder to compensate. As coils become less efficient, they require more energy to hit setpoints and performance metrics. Facility managers will notice increasing energy costs, increased fan operation, and reduced building efficiency scores when this warning sign appears in your unit. This can make units much more expensive, and often a coil replacement is the cheaper option in the long run.

4. Increasing FRequency of Repairs

Over the lifespan of a commercial HVAC coil, material breaks down and reliability decreases. If your coil is experiencing a higher frequency of service calls, that is a sign that you need to replace the coil. If the same symptoms keep recurring, that indicates that the coil has almost completed its service life. There comes a point when replacing the coil entirely is more cost-efficient and effective for the system than repairing it over and over and over again.

5. Frequent Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant leaks come from corrosion, vibration, or pinholes from chemical exposure. While a single leak can be repaired, if your unit is having recurring leaks, that indicates deterioration of the coil, and signals that it may be time to replace it. Facility managers may notice a loss of cooling capacity, oil residue around the coil tubing, and repeated refrigerant charging when this problem occurs. Repeated leaks also signal tube wall breakdown. When frequent refrigerant leaks occur, coil replacement eventually becomes the better option in terms of cost efficiency.

Most commercial HVAC coils last around 10-20 years, with lifespan differing based on the specific type of coil in your unit. When your coil starts to send one of these warning signs, call HeatEX Technologies, and we will take care of your problem. At HeatEX Technologies, we provide custom coils for replacement jobs, with excellent service and speedy lead times. We help save facility managers time and stress during coil failures. Explore our website for more information on how we can assist with your next coil replacement job.

Works Cited

“ Signs It's Time for an Evaporator Coil Replacement. ” CS Coil Products, Inc. , https://www.cscoil.com/evaporator-coil-replacement-signs/ . Accessed 29 June 2026.

“ What Is an Evaporator Coil and How Does It Work? ” HVAC.com , https://www.hvac.com/expert-advice/what-is-an-evaporator-coil/ . Accessed 29 June 2026.

“ Replacement Coil Applications. ” Emergent Coils , https://emergentcoils.com/pages/replacement-coil-application . Accessed 29 June 2026.

What Makes a Coil Custom?

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 18:43:36 GMT

What exactly makes a custom coil custom? Most facility managers assume that a custom coil only differs from OEM in sizing. The reality is that dimensions are only a fraction of what makes a custom coil custom. Each job is different, with many different factors going into a custom coil, such as dimensions, tube configuration, fin design, materials, and performance requirements.

The most commonly thought of aspect when it comes to custom coils is the dimensions. This includes height, width, and depth of the coil, which allows for custom replacement coils to fit perfectly into the system they are designed for. Doing this without major modifications is crucial when manufacturing a custom replacement coil.

The tube configuration of the coil also plays a very important role in customization. The circuitry, number of rows, and tube diameter all impact this aspect and contribute to the efficiency and heat transfer of a custom coil.

Fin design affects the airflow and heat transfer efficiency of a custom coil, which is very specific for each job. Fin types can be straight, corrugated, louvered, or ripple. A straight fin type is the simplest design and is easier to clean, which makes it more suited for industrial environments and dirty facilities. Corrugated fins are wavy in pattern and transfer heat better than straight fins, making them good for rooftop units and air handlers. Louvered fins contain small, angled cuts and work best in high-performance and energy-efficient systems. The specific spacing of the fins matters as well, since each job contains different airflow and pressure drop requirements.

Another factor that must be taken into account for a custom coil is the material the coil is manufactured with. Custom coils can be made with copper, galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum, cupronickel, and more. Copper is traditionally the industry standard for tubing; however, it can also be found rarely in the fins. Copper transfers heat very efficiently and is very easy to repair, but this comes with higher costs and corrosion concerns. Galvanized steel is most common in the case of the coil, since it is durable and affordable, yet it faces shorter lifespans in harsh environments. Stainless steel is an option for tubing, fins, and casing, and is commonly selected for its durability and corrosion-resistant nature. It’s often one of the more expensive options and does not transfer heat as well as other materials. Aluminum is the most common material for the fins in a coil and is often chosen for its inexpensive and lightweight properties. For fin purposes, it is ideal, yet for tubing and casing purposes, it can be more difficult to repair and more susceptible to physical damage. Cupronickel is only used for the tubes and is the premium corrosion-resistant option. It is very expensive, which puts it behind copper in terms of commonality.

The final factor that goes into a custom coil is the performance requirements that each job entails. Pressure drop, operating temperatures, capacity, and airflow all differ based on the requirements of the job. When it comes to performance requirements, flow rate is one of the most important elements. Flow rate is the volume of air or fluid moving through the coil, and having a flow rate that is too high or too low results in inefficiency and lower coil performance. Which type of refrigerant the coil uses impacts customization since different refrigerants behave differently. With the new refrigerant guidelines shifting coils towards R-454B and R-32, custom coils need to be manufactured to handle these refrigerants.

At HeatEX Technologies, we carefully consider each of these factors to make sure that every coil replacement is engineered for the specific job and system. Specializing in a wide variety of coils and jobs, we understand that successful custom coil replacement accounts for performance, not just size. Explore our website for more information on how we can assist with your next replacement job.

Works Cited

KCL Systems. What Is a Custom Coil in HVAC? Behind the Scenes of Precision Coil Fabrication . KCL Systems, https://kclsystems.com/what-is-a-custom-coil-in-hvac-behind-the-scenes-of-precision-coil-fabrication/ .

CFM Distributors. How Do You Select and Design a Custom Coil Replacement? CFM Distributors, https://rc.cfmdistributors.com/helpful-tips/how-do-you-select-and-design-a-custom-coil-replacement/ .

Precision Coils. Coil Dimension Guidelines . Precision Coils, https://www.precision-coils.com/resources/coil-dimension-guidelines/ .

How Aging Infrastructure is Challenging Commercial Buildings

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 14:43:11 GMT

As a building gets older, it becomes much more likely to experience several different types of HVAC failure, which results in decreased efficiency and reliability in the system. Considering the fact that most commercial buildings in the US were built between 1970 and 2000, this aging infrastructure is becoming increasingly problematic in the world of HVAC.

To increase difficulty, many organizations postponed renovation and retrofit projects during COVID and during times of economic uncertainty and inflation. Those decisions extended HVAC equipment beyond its initial design life in many cases, and now that it is finally time to renovate, there are significant challenges to doing so in those buildings. With today’s rising equipment costs, aging building stock, high energy costs, sustainability pressures, and limited budgets, many facility managers are burdened with attempting to keep their equipment running smoothly.

As HVAC systems age, they experience coil degradation, efficiency losses, corrosion, and increased failures and downtime in general. Coils are usually one of the first parts to deteriorate, as they are exposed to plenty of different weathering aspects in the air, such as salt, moisture, and pollutants, to name a few. When a coil deteriorates, it reduces system capacity as a whole. Efficiency losses in older units are common as well, since with time, the unit has to work harder and harder to remain operating at the same capacity as it was when it was new. Reliability decreases for units due to increased unexpected failures and downtime, along with it becoming harder to source parts for repairs as technology advances and changes.

Unlike common belief, most of the time failure in commercial HVAC systems resides in just one aspect of the entire unit. Different components in different systems age differently, leaving many parts in a failed unit perfectly fine and replaced unnecessarily. For example, an HVAC system in a 25-year-old building may have corroded coils, but the fans, cabinet, and structural components are perfectly fine.

The solution to issues such as these is answered through retrofitting instead of full equipment replacement. While many facilities managers assume that they will have to fully replace entire systems, it’s much easier to replace specific parts of the system. Retrofitting makes projects cheaper, easier, and much quicker overall. Because it's only specific components of full systems that need replacement, you can extend the life of entire HVAC systems and buildings with smaller projects. This is much more sustainable in the long run.

When facing issues with aging HVAC infrastructure, HeatEX Technologies offers many different solutions. HeatEX manufactures custom coils and heat exchangers of all kinds, fit specifically to the specifications of each individual project and retrofit job. For aging buildings with different dimensions and challenges, HeatEX Technologies helps lower costs and time while raising efficiency and reliability.

Works Cited

Guckes, Bill. “The Who, What and Why of Replacing Aging Cooling Systems.” FacilitiesNet, 1 Oct. 2018, www.facilitiesnet.com/hvac/article/The-Who-What-and-Why-of-Replacing-Aging-Cooling-Systems---17882. Accessed 17 June 2026 .

Long, Jordan. “Retrofitting Aging Buildings Requires Strategic Tech Integration.” Buildings, 28 Jan. 2025, www.buildings.com/architecture/renovation-adaptive-reuse/article/55295290/retrofitting-aging-buildings-requires-strategic-tech-integration . Accessed 17 June 2026.

YCAV Air-Cooled Chiller Conversion Case Study

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 14:34:11 GMT

Location: Hotel – Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Overview:

A 6-year-old York YCAV air-cooled chiller serving a hotel experienced premature condenser coil

failure. Out of 10 total coils, 4 had already failed (40%), with the remaining coils showing active

corrosion. The unit operates continuously, making reliability critical for guest comfort

Challenges:

- Coastal environment (humidity, salt air, pollutants)

- Microchannel aluminum coils susceptible to corrosion

- Thin wall design prone to leaks

- Continuous 24/7 operation accelerating deterioration

- Vibration from fans and compressors causing fatigue and cracking

Solution:

A full conversion from microchannel to copper tube / aluminum fin coils was performed:

- Replaced all 10 coils with custom-engineered coils

- Designed to match original chiller performance

- Factory-applied protective coating for corrosion resistance

Benefits:

- Increased durability and resistance to corrosion

- Copper tubes better withstand vibration and mechanical stress

- Coils are repairable (unlike microchannel)

- Improved reliability for continuous operation

- Restored heat transfer and system efficiency

Results:

- Eliminated refrigerant leaks

- Restored system performance

- Reduced compressor strain and energy use

- Avoided full chiller replacement

- Extended equipment life by 10+ years

Key Takeaway:

In coastal, high-runtime applications, microchannel coils can fail prematurely due to corrosion and

vibration. Converting to coated copper tube/aluminum fin coils provides a long-term, reliable

solution

HVAC's newest Refrigerants

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 20:44:41 GMT

New refrigerant requirements from EPA mandates aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions are shaking up the HVAC industry. These requirements are causing a shift from R-410A refrigerant to A2L refrigerants R-454B and R-32. A2L refrigerants are low in toxicity and flammability. The shift is based around a metric called GWP, standing for Global Warming Potential, which measures how much heat a gas traps in the atmosphere compared to carbon dioxide. R-410A has a GWP of around 2,088, which means that 1 pound of R-410A released into the atmosphere has the same warming effect of 2,088 pounds of CO2.

The primary replacement for R-410A currently is R-454B, which has a GWP of around 466, which is 78% lower than the old refrigerant. It offers similar performance characteristics as R-410A, which makes it a valid choice to transition to. The other popular replacement is R-32, which yields higher energy efficiency at a GWP of 675. Both R-454B and R-32 are very similar, with a practical difference in GWP. Most manufacturers are choosing R-454B because regulations are tightening over time, which gives R-454B more time before it faces new regulatory restrictions.

These refrigerants are not drop-in replacements, and need specialized new coils engineered specifically around them. Because coils and heat exchangers are engineered for specific refrigerant properties, manufacturers are having to redesign their systems around these new refrigerants. These changes may shift aspects such as efficiency targets and pressure drops, as well as coil circuitry. In addition, the demand for coils is increasing and pushing HVAC prices up. When replacing the refrigerant in already existing projects, custom coil solutions are needed to match old equipment with the new requirements.

This change also brings about new installation procedures for contractors to learn, and training for technicians on A2L refrigerants. Because old and new equipment in certain projects cannot be used jointly, this makes inventory management more complicated as well.

HeatEX Technologies is in a terrific position to handle this change, offering specialized coils that can be used in adapting to R-454B and R-32 refrigerants. As the industry adapts to this transition, the need for engineered heat transfer solutions grows larger and larger. HeatEX Technologies helps support new equipment designs and retrofit applications by providing custom coil solutions designed to meet these new refrigerant requirements while maintaining system performance and reliability. We are able to do this by running performance on the spec’d coil in order to ensure that it meets the requirements of the system regardless of what refrigerant is being used.

To learn more about the EPA SNAP program, please visit the following website: Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) Program | US EPA

Works Cited

“What Is R-410A Being Replaced With? R-454B and R-32 Explained.” Science Insights, Science Insights, https://scienceinsights.org/what-is-r-410a-being-replaced-with-r-454b-r-32/ . Accessed 8 June 2026.

“Important Changes Coming to Air Conditioning Refrigerants.” Air Flow Designs, Air Flow Designs, https://www.airflowdesigns.com/blog/important-changes-coming-air-conditioning-refrigerants/ . Accessed 8 June 2026.

How AI is Reshaping the Future of HVAC

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 14:25:37 GMT

Increasing demand for AI, high performance computing, along with hyperscale data center expansion are creating a massive new market for HVAC. The shift is in cooling, as data center cooling is moving beyond incremental airflow optimization, and towards liquid cooling in order to support AI and its specific cooling needs. Because of this, the data center liquid cooling market is projected to expand from 6.6 billion dollars to 38.4 billion dollars by 2033. North America is the current hotspot for this investment as it hosts the largest concentration of AI training clusters globally.

Historically, data centers have relied on air-based systems for their cooling, which includes CRAHs, chilled water systems, and precision cooling equipment. Because AI servers are now generating higher heat loads than previously (Modern AI racks can exceed 100 kW per rack compared to the traditional 5-15 kW loads of the past), facilities need heavier duty cooling, sparking the transition to liquid cooling solutions.

This transition to liquid cooling is not removing HVAC systems and instead restructures their role within AI facilities. Removing building heat, maintaining environmental conditions, and supporting chilled water distribution systems are all issues that HVAC remains a critical solution to. As a result of this, specialized coils, such as the ones HeatEX produces are growing in demand along with cooling towers, heat exchangers, and other thermal regulation components necessary for dealing with high heat rejection requirements.

This trend to support AI with Liquid cooling brings new challenges with infrastructure and compatibility for projects, as operators prioritize power usage effectiveness reduction and carbon footprint optimization. Ensuring coolant compatibility with diverse server architectures, leak prevention, and aligning cooling with rapidly advancing cycles are a few of these challenges. Operators are looking for companies that can specialize towards their plants and customize them to their need.

This emerging market puts HeatEX Technologies in a great position to assist these operating facilities. As custom cooling systems become more specialized, standard equipment may not always meet the same requirements for performance. Custom coil solutions, such as the ones HeatEX provides, can be engineered to meet these specifications and adds a key flexibility aspect to our product. Our precise and specialized coil technology positions HeatEX very well for the future of the HVAC industry.

In a market where air is no longer sufficient as the default for AI facilities, HeatEX is well positioned for this industry change.

Works Cited

“Data Center Cooling Trends 2026: From Air to Liquid.” Global InduVista, Thermal Logic, 2026, https://www.globalinduvista.com/news/Industrial_HVAC/Thermal_Logic/Data_Center_Cooling_Trends_2026_From_Air_to_Liquid.html . Accessed 2 June 2026.

“Data Center Liquid Cooling Market to Witness 28.7% CAGR Driven by AI Adoption, Investments and Sustainability Targets.” GlobeNewswire, 17 Feb. 2026, https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/02/17/3239044/0/en/data-center-liquid-cooling-market-to-witness-28-7-cagr-driven-by-ai-adoption-investments-and-sustainability-targets.html . Accessed 2 June 2026.

Murray, Lance. “Skilled Trades Workers Can Command Six-Figure Salaries as Data Center Boom Drives Demand.” Fortune, 20 Mar. 2026, https://fortune.com/2026/03/20/skilled-trade-demand-randstand-report-electricans-technicans-construction-workers-six-figure-salaries-data-center-boom/ . Accessed 2 June 2026.

Condenser Coil Replacement Project

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:03:21 GMT

Renaissance Hotel @ Ft. Lauderdale

Project Overview

At the Renaissance Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, the facility experienced severe deterioration of the condenser coil on a Trane RTAC225 air-cooled chiller. The unit was equipped with four condenser coils that had suffered extensive corrosion from environmental exposure, ultimately leading to coil failures and loss of system reliability.

HeatEx was selected to provide direct replacement condenser coils engineered for a precise OEM fit while delivering enhanced corrosion protection.

The Challenge

The existing condenser coils showed advanced corrosion and material degradation, significantly impacting performance and threatening system downtime.

• Severe corrosion across coil surfaces

• Loss of structural integrity in fin and tube material

• Reduced heat transfer efficiency

• Increased risk of refrigerant leaks

• Potential for costly emergency shutdown

Our Solution

• Engineering and manufacturing four replacement condenser coils

• Precision fabrication to ensure perfect fitment

• Verification of coil dimensions prior to shipment

• Delivery ready for seamless installation

Precision Fit Matters

• Matched original dimensions precisely

• Installed without modification

• Maintained proper airflow and refrigerant performance

• Reduced installation time and labor costs

The Results

• Restored chiller performance and reliability

• Eliminated risk of continued refrigerant leaks

• Extended equipment lifespan

• Improved corrosion resistance with protective coating

• Achieved OEM-quality fit and performance

Parc Lofts Condominium

Tue, 19 May 2026 01:40:50 GMT

AAON RN025 Replacement

Our client was looking for a long-term solution to leaking microchannel condenser coils in two separate units serving the common areas of the Parc Loft Condominiums — an issue impacting many residents.

Our team responded quickly, visited the jobsite to verify all connection locations, and manufactured replacement coils designed to match the original manufacturer’s fit and performance specifications.

In this case, we were even able to exceed the original performance requirements through our commitment to high-quality, U.S.-manufactured products and continuous improvement in our manufacturing processes.

At HeatEX Technologies, we combine responsiveness with precision by utilizing internally developed measurement technology and industry-leading performance verification tools to ensure our replacement coils fit properly, perform as intended, and provide reliable long-term solutions for our clients and partners.

Split-Coil Case Study

Thu, 07 May 2026 21:09:35 GMT

Split Coil Solutions for Tight-Space Installations

Redefining How Replacement Coils Are Built and Installed

Replacing coils in older air handlers or equipment rooms with limited access often turns into a costly, labor-intensive challenge. Full-size coils may not fit through existing access doors, stairwells, or hallways—forcing contractors to cut walls, remove louvers, or rent cranes. These complications drive up project costs and downtime. Our split coil design solutions provide a smarter alternative that allows contractors to bring in the coil in sections, assemble it on-site, and restore system operation quickly—without compromising performance, integrity, or operating pressure.

Traditional Split Coil Design

Conventional split coils are typically divided by fin length and joined internally with divider plates and gaskets. While effective in maintaining fluid separation, this approach presents two main drawbacks: - Higher fabrication and field labor costs due to internal divider plates, gaskets, and hardware. - Operating pressure limitations since gasketed divisions restrict system pressure ratings.

Our Simplified Split Coil Options

We engineered two practical alternatives that eliminate the need for divider plates and simplify the field installation process—ideal for contractors working in tight mechanical rooms, basements, or rooftop units with restricted access.

Option 1: Split by Fin Height (Top and Bottom Coil)

A single coil is divided horizontally, creating a top and bottom section. How It Works: The coil’s supply and return headers are fabricated with precision couplings designed to align both sections during installation. Once the coils are set in position, the top and bottom headers are welded or brazed shut, completing the assembly and restoring a continuous circuit. Technical Considerations: Depending on the model or coil geometry, the main connection points may shift slightly between the original and split versions. Minor field repiping adjustments may be required to align the coil’s supply and return lines with existing piping. These adjustments are minimal and typically performed within standard installation practices.

Applications: Ideal for vertical units or air handlers with height restrictions. Perfect for installations where access is limited to door or hallway dimensions. Advantages: - No divider plates or gasket seals. - Maintains full operating pressure rating. - Reduces fabrication complexity and cost. - Simplified field assembly with welded couplings. - Minimizes installation footprint and handling weight.

Top/Bottom Coil Example:

Assembled Example Below:

Option 2: Split by Fin Length (Side-by-Side Coil)

A single coil is divided vertically, creating a header side and return bend side that can be piped together in sequence. How It Works: The Header Side coil is fabricated with four connections—two for the main system supply and return, and two that turn 90° toward the leaving air side. The Return Bend Side coil features its own headers with two connections, also turned 90° toward the leaving air side. Once both coils are positioned, the header side coil feeds the return bend side coil through short interconnecting piping runs, creating a single continuous circuit. Technical Considerations : In certain models, connection orientations or spacing may vary slightly from the original coil design. Installers should anticipate minor repiping or header alignment adjustments to ensure smooth field integration. These are standard adjustments that can be completed without specialized equipment or significant field rework.

For this configuration, additional brackets or center support may be required to stabilize the coils when set in place and to maintain alignment during operation. Applications: Ideal for horizontal units, tight mechanical rooms, or multi-section air handlers. Suitable for retrofits where coil depth or access is restricted. Advantages: - Modular installation for confined spaces. - Eliminates the need for divider plates and pressure restrictions. - Maintains system capacity and flow characteristics. - Simplifies transport and installation logistics.

Header Side Coil Example:

Bend Side Coil Example:

Coil Assembly Example (Side-by-Side Coil Combined)

Installation Advantages

Both split coil options provide significant installation benefits: - Avoid crane rentals: Split coils can be transported through standard service elevators or stairwells. - No wall cutting or structural modifications: Coil sections fit through existing access openings. - Reduced downtime: Assembly and sealing can be completed quickly once sections are in place. - Lower labor and equipment costs: No need for heavy rigging or demolition. - Preserves equipment and building integrity: No compromise to air handler casing or mechanical room walls.

Key Benefits for Contractors

- Simplified field installation in confined or difficult-to-access locations. - Maintains system performance and pressure rating. - Reduces total project cost by eliminating crane, wall, or louver removal expenses. - Shorter lead times and faster turnaround. - Custom-built to match your exact coil design, performance, and circuiting requirements.

Additional Project Requirements

All split coil projects require a site visit before fabrication to ensure accurate measurements and proper design alignment. This step allows us to provide a precise and dependable proposal tailored to your installation conditions.

We can also supply drain pans, either intermediate or main pans, as required by the application to ensure proper condensate management and long-term system reliability.

Comparative Performance Metrics

Coil Tag: As built - Single Piece

Coil Model Number: 4W-08-32.5-10-110.0-52

Hand:Right

Coil Tag: Side-by-Side Split

Coil Model Number: 4W-08-32.5-14-50.5-26

Hand: Right

By adjusting the FPI and circuitry, even though the total surface area decreases on the face of the coil, we are able to increase the overall performance of the unit with minimal effect to fluid and air pressure drops.

Notes:

Certified in accordance with the AHRI Forced-Circulation Air-Cooling and Air-Heating Coils Certification Program which is based

on AHRI Standard 410 within the Range of Standard Rating Conditions listed in Table 1 of the Standard. Certified units may be

found in the AHRI Directory at www.ahridirectory.org

Mechanical and Service Contractors Association of Eastern PA - Allied Member Showcase

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 02:29:52 GMT

HeatEX Technologies at MCAEPA Allied member showcase

Pictured (from left to right): Matt Lane, Nick Bozzi, and Sage Harkins at the Allied Member Showcase for MCAEPA on April 23, 2026

On Thursday, April 23th, 2026, the HeatEX team participated in the Allied Member Showcase for the Mechanical & Service Contractors Association of Eastern Pennsylvania, where they had the opportunity to meet with Mechanical Contractors to explain what sets them apart.

Sage, Nick, and Matt are all passionate golfers, so they brought a little fun to the event by setting up a putting green and raffling off two separate rounds of golf at Applebrook Golf Club to whoever dropped their business card in a basket on their table.

The Allied Member Showcase was held at 2910 DeKalb Pike, Norristown, PA. The event gave allied members the opportunity to set up an 'Allied Tabletop', where the members of the Mechanical Contractors Association (Steamfitters Local Union 420 & Plumbers Local Union 690), Service Contractors Association (Steamfitters Local Union 420: MESJ, MESS, apprentices, & maintenance operatives), National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (Philadelphia Chapter (Chapter 9) of NCPWB), Mechanical Contractors Association of America, & Mechanical Service Contractors of America walkaround and learn about the allied members' services & products.

To learn about more events hosted by the MCAEPA - check the calendar on their website !

Be sure to connect with us on LinkedIn , as we will let you know what events we are going to ahead of time!

Direct Replacement Coil Restores Fresh Air Unit @ Hyatt House - Naples

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:11:10 GMT

Unit Model: Greenheck Model rve-35-36p

Project Overview:

The Hyatt House Hotel in Naples, FL experienced performance issues with a Greenheck Model RVE-35-36P fresh air unit due to a failing OEM coil. The original coil (pictured above) showed visible corrosion and was beginning to lose refrigerant, resulting in reduced efficiency and unreliable operation.

The Solution:

We supplied a direct replacement coil designed specifically to match the original Greenheck coil dimensions and performance requirements. Because this was truly a direct replacement, installation was straightforward and required no modifications to the fresh air unit.

This can be directly attributed to the HeatEX Technologies process. We came out to the job site to measure the coil and ensure connection locations on the replacement coil would fit correctly to the existing unit.

The Results:

With the new coil installed, the fresh air unit returned to proper operation, improving reliability and restoring system efficiency.

Eliminated refrigerant leakage issues
Restored system efficiency
Maintained original equipment performance
Reduced downtime during installation because of proper sizing
Extended the life of the fresh air unit

Why Direct Replacement Coils Matter

Replacing failed coils with direct OEM-fit replacements is one of the most effective ways to restore HVAC performance without replacing the entire unit. This approach minimizes downtime, reduces installation complexity, and ensures the system continues operating as designed.