Copper tubing is more than three time thicker than aluminum tubing. Copper tubing has a higher thermal conductivity level that allows the material to heat or cool faster than aluminum tubing. Heating and cooling systems equipped with copper tubing also perform tasks more efficiently than aluminum tubing. Professional contractors recommend copper tubing for this particular reason.
Air conditioning units in vehicles use aluminum tubing. The tubes are encased inside a containment unit under the hood to avoid the material from being compromised by water or physical damage. Aluminum components also add less weight to vehicles. Copper tubing is more common in large refrigeration and cooling units inside buildings. Home builders also construct plumbing systems using copper tubing because the system's tubing must remain strong when buried.
Repairing an aluminum tube is not easy because of the material's delicate makeup. Trained technicians are required to cut out damaged areas and insert special fittings in this tubing. Regular cleaning also is difficult because aluminum tubing often is placed inside a containment unit for an added layer of protection. Contractors can repair leaky copper tubing with a brazing torch, which requires no additional training.
Project cost disparities won't appear immediately. Copper and aluminum tubing generally will have the same pricing for similar amounts. However, contractors say they generally will use three times more copper tubing on projects, which makes the material more expensive to use. Aluminum is the more expensive material when looking at long-term costs. It is more likely to suffer irreparable damage and require replacement.