Among the various innovations that have made a substantial difference in the HVAC industry, one that might be missed in the introduction of plastic mounting pads. These often-overlooked stand outs should be recognized for their exceptional contribution to reducing maintenance expenses. These injection-molded pads offer a combination of durability, strength, and lightweight convenience, making them an ideal choice for supporting light, ground-supported equipment such as air conditioning condensers, heat pumps, and swimming pool filters. .
The merits of polyethylene plastic pads
While many plastic condenser pads are made with polypropylene, the better choice of material is polyethylene— renowned for its resilience and ability to withstand a variety of environmental stressors, including UV radiation, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. When used in the construction of HVAC mounting pads, this material ensures a product that is not only strong and durable but also lightweight. This combination is crucial for ease of installation and longevity, as the pad must support heavy equipment without succumbing to wear and tear over time.
The injection molding process DuraPals used to create our unique HVAC mounting pad, the Polar Pad, allows for precise control over shape and features, leading to a design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. One of the standout features of these plastic pads is the strong uniform ribbing along their underside. This ribbing provides additional support and stability, ensuring that the pad can distribute the weight of the mounted equipment evenly. This is particularly important in preventing sagging or warping over time, which can lead to inefficiencies in the HVAC equipment's operation and potential damage.
Cost savings through design
The unique design of the plastic HVAC mounting pads contributes significantly to their ability to save costs in the long run. The strong uniform ribbing not only adds structural integrity but also helps in dissipating heat more effectively, a critical aspect for equipment like air conditioning condensers that generate a lot of heat. This efficient heat dissipation can prolong the life of the equipment by preventing overheating, thus reducing the need for repairs or premature replacement.
Furthermore, the pad is molded with a textured top surface and rounded edges on the sides, giving it a clean, concrete-like appearance and feel. This aesthetic quality ensures that the pads blend seamlessly into their surroundings without sacrificing functionality. The textured surface also provides additional grip, reducing the risk of the equipment sliding or shifting due to vibration, which can lead to wear and tear or even disconnection of critical components.
The long-term benefits
Choosing plastic HVAC mounting pads for ground-supported equipment offers several long-term benefits that extend beyond the initial installation. Their durability and strength mean they can last for many years without needing replacement, unlike other materials that may degrade or crumble over time. This longevity translates into direct cost savings, as the need for frequent replacements or repairs is significantly reduced. This also means fewer warranty calls for the installer/contractor.
Additionally, the lightweight nature of these pads makes them easier and cheaper to transport and install, further reducing initial costs. Their resistance to environmental factors means that they require minimal maintenance, saving on the costs associated with upkeep and extending the lifespan of the HVAC equipment they support.
Plastic HVAC mounting pads offer a cost-effective solution for supporting light, ground-supported equipment. Their unique design features provide stability, efficiency, and durability, contributing to significant cost savings in maintenance over the life of the HVAC system. By ensuring proper placement on a compacted base, these pads can maximize the efficiency and longevity of air conditioning condensers, swimming pool filters, and heat pumps, making them an invaluable addition to any HVAC installation. Duraplas’ Polar Pad is best in class in all of these categories, and we’d love to share more about how you can upgrade your HVAC system with us today.
