How to Add Car Refrigerant?
4 Answers
Car air conditioning refrigerant, commonly known as car refrigerant, is mainly divided into two types in vehicles: environmentally friendly 134a and non-environmentally friendly R12. The steps to add car refrigerant are as follows: 1. After vacuuming the system, close the high and low pressure manual valves on the manifold gauge. 2. Connect one end of the middle hose to the refrigerant tank injection valve fitting: open the refrigerant tank valve, then loosen the nut at one end of the manifold gauge hose to allow gas to escape for a few minutes, then tighten the nut. 3. Fully open the high-pressure side manual valve and invert the refrigerant tank. 4. Inject the specified amount of liquid refrigerant from the high-pressure side: close the refrigerant tank injection valve and the high-pressure manual valve on the manifold gauge, then remove the gauge. When adding refrigerant to the system from the high-pressure side, ensure the engine is not running and do not open the low-pressure manual valve on the manifold gauge to prevent hydraulic shock.
I've added refrigerant myself several times, and it doesn't seem too difficult but requires caution. First, you need to check if there's any leak in the AC system—spray some soapy water on the pipe connections; if bubbles form, there's a leak. Make sure you have all the tools ready, including a refrigerant kit with a pressure gauge, which you can usually find at auto parts stores. Start the car, turn the AC to the highest fan speed and coldest mode, locate the low-pressure port under the hood, connect the equipment, and check the pressure gauge reading. If it's normal, slowly open the refrigerant can valve. Don’t add too much at once—overfilling can affect the system pressure. Remember to wear gloves and goggles since refrigerant spray can harm your skin. After adding, check the air vent temperature; if it drops quickly, you’ve succeeded. DIY can save money, but if there’s a major leak, it’s better to visit a professional shop to avoid wasted effort.
As someone who often helps friends with air conditioning issues, I say adding refrigerant should be done step by step to be reliable. First, confirm the system pressure is normal—the low-pressure port is usually near the engine side cover. Connect the pressure gauge and check the reading; if it's too low, it indicates a refrigerant shortage. Start the engine and run the AC at maximum setting, then slowly add new refrigerant while keeping an eye on the pressure gauge to avoid exceeding the manufacturer's recommended range. Use a refrigerant can compatible with the vehicle model. After filling, use a vacuum pump for a seal test to ensure no leaks. Common mistakes beginners make include adding refrigerant without checking pressure or forgetting to turn on the AC, preventing proper charging. Dispose of old refrigerant at a proper recycling point—don't dump it and pollute the environment. Regular maintenance can prevent refrigerant shortages.
When the air conditioning in my family car isn't cooling, I directly go to a professional shop to recharge the refrigerant—it's safe and hassle-free. DIY attempts carry high risks; improper handling of refrigerant cans can cause frostbite, and there are environmental regulations for disposing of old refrigerants. Certified technicians will first check for leaks, safely extract and recycle waste gas using professional equipment, then add new refrigerant. They'll adjust the system pressure to optimal levels to avoid compressor damage. For those on a tight budget, adding canned refrigerant for minor issues might work, but always choose reputable brands. Remember to have the AC checked during regular maintenance to minimize leakage risks.
