How to Replace Refrigerant in a Car Air Conditioner?
2 Answers
To replace the refrigerant in a car air conditioner, follow these steps: 1. Evacuate the system and close the manual valves on the pressure gauge along with the high and low-pressure manual valves; 2. Connect one end of the hose to the injection valve fitting of the refrigerant canister; 3. Open the refrigerant canister, loosen the nut on the pressure gauge hose to allow some gas to escape, then close it; 4. Open the high-pressure side manual valve and invert the canister; 5. Inject the specified amount of liquid refrigerant, then close the refrigerant injection valve and the high-pressure manual valve. To determine if the car air conditioner lacks refrigerant: 1. If bubbles continuously appear in the sight glass during normal operation, it indicates insufficient refrigerant; 2. If no bubbles appear in the sight glass during normal operation but briefly appear when the air conditioner stops, it indicates the refrigerant level is normal.
I've replaced the refrigerant myself, and honestly, it's a bit of work. You'll need to prepare the necessary tools, like a manifold gauge and a vacuum pump, which cost a few hundred bucks online. First, pop open the car's hood and locate the high and low-pressure ports of the A/C system, then connect the manifold gauge. The first step is to evacuate the system, removing all air and residual refrigerant—this requires patience, waiting at least 20 minutes to ensure the pressure drops to a negative value. Next, check for leaks in the system; if you hear a hissing sound, stop and fix it. Then, add the new refrigerant, monitoring the pressure gauge to avoid exceeding the standard value. Always wear gloves and goggles—refrigerant can seriously damage your skin. After filling, start the A/C to test the cooling effect. If it blows cold air, you've succeeded. But remember, DIY comes with risks—a mistake could fry the compressor. I recommend watching tutorial videos carefully—don't cut corners only to pay more later.
