How to install compression fittings on your immersion chiller
Compression fittings are a great way to create a leak free connection to the inlet and outlet of your chiller. Conversion kits are available on our site or at many of our current retailers. Below is a step by step tutorial on how to install your fittings.
- Start by removing the vinyl tubing and hose clamps that are currently on your chiller
- Check and make sure there is no damage to the ends of the soft copper tubing (i.e. they are still round)
- If there is damage, the end of the tubing may need to be filed or cut back until the tubing is completely round.
- Remove the compression nut and compression ring from the female fitting
- Place the compression nut onto the inlet side of the copper tubing, threads facing the end of the tubing
- Insert the compression ring onto the copper tubing.
- Seat the end of the tubing onto the female fitting and slide the compression ring and nut towards the fitting.
- Hand tighten
- Using a wrench to hold the fitting and another wrench on the compression nut, tighten the nut a 1/2 turn.
- Repeat with the male fitting on the outlet side
Tips:
- If the fitting is leaking, back the compression nut off a 1/4 turn, then re-tighten another 1/2 turn.
- Compression rings can only be used once. Once the ring is compressed onto the copper tubing, you will have to cut the copper tubing behind the ring in order to remove it. Replacements can be found at your local hardware store.
