“Get Your Fix” Part 3 of 10: Carrier® 38APS/38APD

The Carrier® 38APS/38APD has made it onto our list of condenser coils with repeated service problems. Introduced around 2012, this unit was part of Carrier’s Gemini® Select line, featuring a Puron (R-410A) refrigerant system and a Novation® microchannel heat exchanger. The company marketed these units as a cost-effective and durable alternative to traditional copper tube, aluminum fin designs. However, while they may offer initial savings, long-term reliability can be an issue.

Microchannel coils, although lighter and more compact, are prone to leaks and damage from foreign debris. Repairs can be difficult and costly, often leading to extended downtime for customers. This has led many to question whether the environmental benefits of microchannel technology are worth the trade-off in durability and performance.

Why did Carrier choose microchannel coils?

The main advantage of microchannel coils is their lower refrigerant charge and reduced manufacturing costs, making them ideal for mass production. But when these coils fail, the repair process can be complex and expensive. For some, the upfront savings don’t outweigh the long-term maintenance headaches.

It’s time to #changethechannel

Our hands-on experience with the Carrier 38APS/38APD played a big role in why Nationwide Coils started offering microchannel conversions. Our #changethechannel program allows customers to upgrade from all-aluminum fin coils to more durable copper tube, aluminum fin coils. This not only improves reliability but also makes future repairs easier without sacrificing OEM efficiency.

We can manufacture a copper tube coil that installs with minimal re-piping and performs just as well as the original microchannel coil. While the unit will require 20–30% more refrigerant and needs to be charged via sub-cooling, the result is fewer leaks, more reliable operation, and less downtime.

Smaller tonnage units are available in both dual and single refrigeration circuits (models 025–065), while larger models (070–130) come with dual refrigeration circuits only.

Getting a Quote is Easy.

As a leader in custom and OEM replacement coils for all commercial HVAC systems, Nationwide Coils can #changethechannel on any make, model, or year unit—including these Carrier models:

Unit Size 025 – 050: Offer both Dual & Single Refrigeration Circuit

38APD025

38APD027

38APD030

38APD040

38APD050

38APS025

38APS027

38APS030

38APS040

38APS050

38APD060 (D Only)

38APS065 (S Only)

38APD070 (D Only)

38APD080 (D Only)

38APD090 (D Only)

38APD100 (D Only)

38APD115 (D Only)

38APD130 (D Only)