What is the function of adding refrigerant to a car?
3 Answers
Adding refrigerant to a car serves the purpose of achieving rapid cooling effects. Below are detailed explanations about adding refrigerant: 1. Methods of adding refrigerant: There are two methods for adding refrigerant. One is high-pressure side charging, suitable for charging after leak detection and vacuuming. Note that this method must not involve starting the compressor, with the engine turned off, and the refrigerant canister needs to be inverted. The other method is low-pressure side charging, which involves adding gas and is characterized by slower charging speed, typically used for replenishing refrigerant. 2. Precautions for high-pressure side charging: Inject the specified amount of liquid refrigerant from the high-pressure side. Close the refrigerant canister injection valve and the high-pressure manual valve on the manifold gauge, then remove the gauge. When charging refrigerant from the high-pressure side, ensure the engine is not running (compressor off), and do not open the low-pressure manual valve on the manifold gauge to prevent hydraulic shock. 3. Precautions for low-pressure side charging: After adding the specified amount of refrigerant to the system, observe through the sight glass. If there are no bubbles and no excess refrigerant, then adjust the engine speed to 2000r/min and set the blower to the highest speed.
I remember that adding refrigerant to a car is essentially replenishing the air conditioning system's refrigerant, which enables the AC to blow cold air and cool down the interior. The refrigerant circulates through the pipes, first being compressed into a high-pressure liquid that releases heat, then expanding into a low-pressure gas that absorbs heat. This process removes hot air from the car, achieving a cooling effect. If the refrigerant level is low, the AC may blow less cold air or even stop working entirely, so regular checks and top-ups are crucial. Especially during long summer drives, when the AC is under heavy load, refrigerant can deplete quickly, and failing to replenish it promptly can make the car uncomfortably hot. I usually listen for unusual compressor noises or feel if the AC pipes are cold to check for low refrigerant levels. Choosing eco-friendly refrigerants can also reduce environmental impact—for example, the commonly used R134a is much more environmentally friendly than the older R12.
My car has been running for almost ten years, and adding refrigerant is all about making the AC blow cold air powerfully, so the car doesn't get stuffy and unbearable. Refrigerant is the heart and soul of the AC—without enough of it, cooling becomes weak, making driving uncomfortable. If you notice the AC blowing cold intermittently while driving, it’s likely due to a refrigerant leak or low levels, and you should get it checked ASAP. After topping up the refrigerant, you’ll immediately feel the air turn ice-cold, which is especially handy during traffic jams. Also, be careful when checking it yourself—avoid getting refrigerant on your skin, as it’s toxic. It’s a good idea to inspect the AC system before summer each year to avoid sudden breakdowns in the heat and unnecessary costly repairs.
