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**Rising Copper Costs: Are Copper HVAC Coils Still Worth the Investment?**
The rising price of copper is making waves across the HVAC industry, and many are questioning whether copper coils are still a smart choice. With prices climbing and uncertainty in the market, it's important to understand the value behind this traditional material.
Copper has been a vital part of human development for thousands of years. Known for its reddish hue and metallic sheen, this soft, malleable metal boasts excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. In the HVAC world, copper is used extensively—whether in pipes, fittings, fins, or coils.
In early 2011, copper reached an all-time high of $4.63 per pound. As we head into 2025, the price is once again on the rise, currently hovering around $3.80 and showing no signs of slowing down. But what’s driving this increase?
The global economic recovery, especially in China, combined with a weaker U.S. dollar, has contributed to inflation in copper prices. Additionally, ongoing supply chain challenges linked to the pandemic have created further instability. While copper production is spread out globally, these factors continue to push prices upward.
Despite the cost, there are still strong reasons to choose copper coils over alternatives like aluminum. Here are five key benefits that make copper the better long-term investment:
**1. Superior Heat Transfer**
Copper has significantly better thermal conductivity than aluminum. In fact, aluminum only transfers about 60% of the heat that copper does. This means more efficient operation and lower energy bills over time.
**2. Strength and Flexibility**
Copper is not only strong but also highly flexible. It can be easily shaped and expanded without breaking, which is crucial when manufacturing HVAC coils. For example, expanding copper tubes into fin collars improves heat transfer and system performance.
**3. Easy to Repair and Recycle**
If copper tubing becomes damaged, it can be brazed and repaired relatively easily. Aluminum, on the other hand, is harder to fix and often leads to costly future repairs. Plus, copper is one of the most recycled metals, maintaining its quality even after multiple reuses.
**4. Corrosion Resistance**
Copper is naturally resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for use in harsh environments—whether in coastal areas with salty air or colder climates. This durability ensures longer-lasting performance.
**5. Natural Antimicrobial Properties**
Copper has natural antimicrobial properties that help reduce the growth of bacteria and mold. This is especially beneficial in HVAC systems, where clean air quality is essential.
At Nationwide Coils, we believe in quality and long-term value. Even as copper prices rise, we continue to use copper in all our custom and OEM replacement coils because of the proven benefits it offers. Whether you're looking for standard coils or microchannel conversions, copper remains the superior choice.
For more information or to get a quote, feel free to contact us anytime.
**Written by: Kimberley Stephens**
Director of Marketing at Nationwide Coils