Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q.

Where can I buy Inaba Denko products?

A.

We do not sell directly to general customers. Please inquire with a HVAC contractor/dealer first. You can also contact us for our referral to a nearest dealer.

Q.

How can we become a distributor or dealer?

A.

Please contact us via Contact Form.

Q.

Can I get a prodct catalog?

A.

You can view our digital catalog here and download PDF catalog here (68 MB). Please contact us via Contact Form to request a printed catalog.

Q.

Can I receive product samples?

A.

Please request product samples from Contact Form.

Q.

Do you take requests to carry products currently unavailable in the U.S.?

A.

Please contact us via Contact Form.

Q.

Can I request a submittal sheet?

A.

Please contact us via Contact Form.

Q.

Do you have a price list?

A.

We can send a reference price list to distributors. Please make a request from Contact Form.

Q.

Is the insulation for the PAIRCOIL/SINGLECOIL products UV resistant?

A.

The PAIRCOIL/SINGLECOIL products undergo the SWOM test to ensure they are up to ASTM G151 and G152 standards. However, to keep the products in good condition and protect them from severe weather conditions, rainwater damage, pollution, accidental damage, or vandalism, we recommend safeguarding them with our SLIMDUCT and UV Resistant Adhesive Tape.

Q.

Are cables included in the PAIRCOIL/SINGLECOIL packaging?

A.

No, the cables are not included and need to be prepared separately.

Q.

Are both ends of the copper tubes flared?

A.

The copper tubes are not flared to allow for use in all types of installation. Flare nuts are also not included. Both the flare nut and the flaring work must be done by the workman.

Q.

Are PAIRCOIL/SINGLECOIL compatible with R32 refrigerant?

A.

R32 refrigerant is designed to withstand the same pressure as the R410A (maximum operating pressure: 4.3 Mps = 624 psi). Our refrigeration copper tubing is compatible with up to 700 psi.

Q.

Can these products be used for applications outside of heating and air conditioning?

A.

PAIRCOIL/SINGLECOIL are manufactured and sold as copper tube linesets specifically for use in air conditioners. Our warranty does not cover the products when used for heating or other purposes.

Q.

How are the products packaged?

A.

All of our PAIRCOIL/SINGLECOIL products are supplied in individually-wrapped cardboard cartons to prevent damage during transportation.

Q.

A customer is requesting to update a mini-split air conditioner. Can I use the current pipes?

A.

We do not recommend reusing existing pipes. Certain air conditioning oils are used in combination with the most suitable refrigerants and air conditioning devices. If existing pipes are reused when replacing an air conditioner, residual oils in the pipes may create need for more maintenance. Considering the cost of cleaning the pipes and possible equipment trouble, replacing the existing pipes would be the better option. Additionally, if there is damage to the insulation (such as reduction in thickness, damage from pests, deterioration from UV rays), there is a possible drop in air conditioning and heating efficiency and more condensation could develop.

Q.

I want to hide the pipes on the Mini-split AC. Are there any precautions I should know about?

A.

To hide the pipes of the mini-split AC unit behind a wall or in an attic, please consider the following:

Possible Advantages:
* Aesthetically pleasing with the pipes out of sight.
* Increased number of locations to install the AC unit.

Possible Disadvantages:
* Expensive. There is a possibility that the cost of the initial installation as well as replacement installations could be higher than average. When replacing the pipes, the pipes are stripped from the wall, and wallpaper may need to be redone afterward.
* Possible increase in issues. It may prove difficult to take actions required to solve issues. When there is a problem with the lineset, the unit will cease to function, clearly indicating there is something wrong. However, since issues with leaky drain pipes or condensation are not easily identified from the surface, significant damage could occur before being discovered. Pests and insects could also contribute to the damage.
* Future air conditioning units may be incompatible. The necessary air conditioning output and pipe sizes change depending on the size of the room where the unit is located. Each air conditioner manufacturer also uses different pipe sizes, which should also be taken into account.

Generally speaking, underground (hidden) piping often sustains poorer conditions (in terms of temperature, moisture, and ventilation) than typically exposed piping and requires extra caution to fend off condensation. Please make sure to have an experienced contractor perform the installation.

Q.

What can I do to support/stabilize vertically installed covered copper tubes?

A.

We recommend using our LinesetSupport metal fixtures designed for vertical installation to directly fix the linesets in place. Insulation decreases in thickness with use over time. If the linesets are secured with the insulation covering the outside, the pipes will eventually be prone to sliding. It is safer to prevent the pipes from deviating not just by securing the linesets, but also by securing the insulation from above when installing pipes vertically. By securing around the center of the pipes with the LinesetSupport, the weight of the pipes is distributed to prevent buckling at the lowest elbow, and thermal expansion in the copper tubes will be reduced to half. Moreover, when it comes to vertical installation and trying to prevent damage to the elbow, please utilize curved expansion pipes (such as expansion loops or expansion offsets) which take the thermal expansion of the linesets into consideration.

Q.

When installing the unit and the pipes are exposed no matter what, what can I do to effectively protect insulation?

A.

Please use our UV Resistant Tape (UVT), which has been proven to be excellent at withstanding UV rays.

Q.

Can you supply only insulation?

A.

We are able to supply only small amounts of insulation. Please inquire in advance for arrangements.

Q.

What kind of caulking agent should I use?

A.

Please use a silicone caulking with a strong UV resistance.

Q.

To use as a reference when cutting the straight duct, what are the measurements of the product?

A.

The center of the straight duct hole for the screw fitting (half open hole) is 100mm or approximately 4" pitch (both ends are about 55mm or approximately 2").

Q.

Can SLIMDUCT SD also be used indoors?

A.

Yes. It will not negatively affect the aesthetic of the room when used indoors.

Q.

What can I do to mount it on the wall?

A.

Please use the specified option parts from the Residential Elevating System.

Q.

Can SLIMDUCT SD be used with the SLIMDUCT PD (separate series)?

A.

Yes, it can. Please use the PD-SD Coupler (PSDR) from the SLIMDUCT PD series.

Q.

Can I use SLIMDUCT SD for protecting things other than air conditioning pipes?

A.

Yes, it may be used for other kinds of pipes as long as the product is being used as directed by the Instruction Manual.

Q.

Do I need any specific tools to install the product?

A.

No, specialized tools are not necessary.

Q.

What is the best way to make a straight cut?

A.

Please use a cutting tool, such as a widely available hacksaw. We also have the SLIMDUCT CUTTER (VD-2100) available, which is specialized for the SLIMDUCT SD.

Q.

Can I install the product in combination with another company's lineset cover?

A.

Please use only other Inaba Denko products for installation. Our warranty does not cover outside products.

Q.

I installed the lineset cover outside and it deformed. What should I do?

A.

If the product sustains excessive heat reflection, etc., there is a possibility it will deform. Also, when installed horizontally, if the inner piping of the product is not properly supported, it could deform from the weight of the piping. Please refer to the Instruction Manual for details.

Q.

What are the protrusions inside the SW and the SK?

A.

The protrusions (pins) are meant to be inserted into a hole in the duct covers to prevent the duct cover from slipping off and falling when being installed vertically. If those protrusions are not needed, like for horizontal installations, please clip them off with pliers.

Q.

Can this be used in soil affected by salinity?

A.

Yes. Please refer to the Instruction Manual for details.

Q.

Can the standard type withstand a person's weight? Can it act as a passage?

A.

The standard type is not meant to be climbed upon by a person. There is a walkway type designed with the assumption that a person might walk on it. However, it is only meant to be used as a temporary path for maintenance purposes and not as a normal walkway.

Q.

The surface is starting to rust. Is it not resistant to corrosion?

A.

Marks and the surface of cuts may develop rust, but over time, the layers of zinc protective coating will conceal the rusty edges. Please refer to the Product Catalog or Instruction Manual for details.

Q.

I want to switch from the standard type to the walkway type. Can I just change out the cover?

A.

When comparing the standard type with the walkway type, the specifications of the main grinder are the same, but there is a difference in the specifications of the reinforcement plates used to bolster the product. If only the covers are changed, then it cannot be used as a walkway. If you wish to change from an already-installed standard type to a walkway type, please contact us or a nearest dealer.

Q.

What kind of brackets should I use to mount it on the wall?

A.

Please use the S Type RZM Bracket and RZB Riser. When doing the RD-150 type installation, please use the 300 S Type or other brackets (such as RZW) used for mounting to the wall. Please do not use a bracket that is longer than the S type because it will lose its center balance on the wall and problems resulting from the installation may arise. Please use an S Type or some other bracket meant for the wall.

Q.

Is it possible to buy just a reinforcement plate?

A.

Yes. Please contact us or a nearest dealer.

Q.

Do I need a wall plate or wall sleeve?

A.

Generally speaking, yes, it is necessary. A wall plate or wall sleeve is used to prevent and dispose of rainwater leaking inside a building. You can do without a wall plate or wall sleeve by disposing of water in other ways such as creating a chamber box.

Q.

If I install a standing Wall Sleeve or Wall Plate, will it completely stop the water?

A.

If it is installed as written in the Instruction Manual, then normally the rainwater can be stopped from turning into standing water. However, there is no guarantee that the water can be stopped in cases of emergency. The wall plate has been subjected to the JIS C 0920, a standard for testing standing water, and have confirmed that there are no signs of water penetration when properly using the plate.

Q.

What is the difference between a fixed joint (RSJ) and a free joint (RFJ)?

A.

Please use a free joint (RFJ) only when you are performing a cutting process (where you cannot use a fixed joint).

Q.

Can I use a free joint in place of a fixed joint?

A.

If it is level to the ground, then yes. However, it is not recommended since the degree of strength after installation declines. Please refrain especially from continuous use of free joint connections and corner part connections.

Q.

What should I know when cutting a straight line duct?

A.

Please use a high-speed cutter or a sander. If it is higher than a 450 type, we recommend using a sander. Moreover, to prevent the cut surface from corroding, make sure after using a deburring tool or file to smooth out the cut surface to apply an anti-rust treatment (a Zn-Al type or zinc-rich paint that repairs).

Q.

Are there any proven cases of installation?

A.

With sales in Japan and the world, we have about 600,000 units of actual installation.

Q.

Can I use DSH-UP for equipment besides air-conditioning units?

A.

DSH-UP was developed to be used for drain-up piping on indoor air-conditioning units. It is not suitable to be used for other purposes.

Q.

Can DSH-UP be used outdoors?

A.

It is specialized for indoor use. Please do not use it outside.

Q.

When connecting the DSH-UP coupler to a PVC pipe, is it okay to use an adhesive instead of a metal band to make the connection?

A.

Please do not use adhesive. Only use the metal hose band for connections.

Q.

Are the DSH-UP couplers and other parts included in the kit also sold separately?

A.

No, the parts must be purchased as part of the kit.

Q.

What should I do about condensation around the product?

A.

Depending on the surroundings, insulation can be wrapped around the hose and coupler as a countermeasure to condensation.

Q.

Are the DH-14 and DH-16 UV resistant?

A.

No. The DH-14 and DH-16 are outdoor drain hoses, but they are not UV resistant. A lineset cover with UV protection is needed for piping. For installations resulting in outdoor exposure, we recommend using UV Resistant Drain Hose DHQ-14 and DHQ-16.

Q.

Do the openings to the DH and DHQ products have the same measurements?

A.

Yes. Regardless of the size or classification, DH-14/DH-16 and DHQ-14/DHQ-16 openings all have the same measurement. However, inner diameters and bellows have different measurements.

Q.

Can I use a Drain Hose product to conceal pipes?

A.

Since the DH and DHQ hoses were designed for outdoor use, they would not be covered by our company warranty if used for hiding drain pipes indoors. It is possible to use a Drain Hose product for hiding pipes, but we do not recommend it for the following reasons:
* The Drain Hose and accessories were designed to be used outdoors.
* The Drain Hose is not equipped to retain heat and therefore can be prone to condensation as well as the issues that come with condensation.
* The Drain Hose connections are mere insertions. Therefore, there is a chance that the connection could fall off due to the state of the installation and thermal contraction.
To hide drain pipes, we recommend using Insulated Drain Hose (DSH), PVC pipes, etc., and also using enough insulation.

Q.

What conditions are needed for positioning a Mini Inline Trap (DHB)?

A.

The DHB needs to be at a certain height to collect water at the top. Please position it low in a vertical orientation that is more than 1 meter (approximately 39-3/8") from the indoor unit.

Q.

Should I install the Mini Inline Trap (DHB) inside the lineset cover?

A.

No, please do not install DHB inside the lineset cover so that required inspections and cleaning can be routinely performed.

Q.

Can the Mini Inline Trap (DHB) be used indoors?

A.

No, it is specialized for outdoor use only. When the Drain Hose is inserted into the coupler, there is no adhesion. If, for whatever reason, the drain pipe is clogged, there is a possibility of water leaking from the coupler. Please install it outside in a vertical orientation.

Q.

How can I prevent insects from coming indoors through the Drain Hose?

A.

Please attach the Bug Stopper (DC) to the end of the Drain Hose.

Q.

How can I apply insulation to the Drain Hose to prevent condensation around the indoor unit?

A.

Please use the Insulation for Drain Hose (PMD).

Q.

Can the Condenser Riser be cut to a different length?

A.

Yes, it can be cut to the desired length to fit your needs.

Q.

Are bolts for securing the outdoor unit included in the package?

A.

Yes, the bolts are included in most of the PLALOCK products with a few exceptions. Please check the details on each product in the Product Catalog or product page.

Q.

When does the Anti-Vibration Pad need to be replaced?

A.

We typically recommend that the pad be replaced when the outdoor unit is exchanged. However, since the Anti-Vibration Pad is a consumable good, the time to change the pad differs depending on the environment. Please check for cracks or fissures at least once a year.

Q.

Should the Wall Cap be installed indoors or outdoors?

A.

The Wall Cap can be installed both indoors and outdoors. When installing the Wall Cap with the SLIMDUCT SD, please use the Wall Inlet (SWM, SWX) to stow the Wall Cap away.

Q.

I do not know the thickness of the wall where I will do the installation. Is there a wall sleeve where I can adjust the length?

A.

Yes, there is. Please use the Adjustable Sleeve (NFP). The length can be adjusted between 4" and 7-1/8".

Q.

Please explain the weather resistance properties of the Adhesive Tape (HF, HV) and Non-adhesive Tape (HY, HS, HN).

A.

The Adhesive Tape (HF, HV) and Non-adhesive Tape (HY, HS, HN) are generally unable to withstand long-term sun exposure. The material itself uses UV resistant PVC material, but because the product is thin and soft, please observe the damaged state of the tape and rewrap as needed. To cut down on maintenance, you can also use the UV Resistant Adhesive Tape (UVT) which is highly resistant to UV rays. In cases where a long-term UV resistance is needed for PAIRCOIL/SINGLECOIL (insulated copper tubes), please use SLIMDUCT.

Q.

What is the difference between two shades of ivory for the Adhesive Tape and Non-Adhesive Tape?

A.

Our tape uses two shades of ivory:
Ivory: Nearly the same color as the SLIMDUCT SD (relatively yellow ivory).
New Ivory: Similar in color to the insulation used for PAIRCOIL/SINGLECOIL (relatively white ivory).

Q.

What is the difference between HY and HN?

A.

HY and HN are both non-adhesive tapes. HY will not unravel even after releasing it from the hand and has a construction similar to plastic wrap.

Q.

What is the difference between HY and HS?

A.

The products are manufactured in different countries, but the product specifications are the same.

Q.

What is the difference between HN and HK?

A.

The products are manufactured in different countries, but the product specifications are the same.