Air Conditioning Recharge Tutorial

Introduction

• DIY air conditioning (AC) recharge for vehicles using R134a refrigerant.
• Host notes he is not a professional mechanic; video is for entertainment.

Symptoms of AC Issue

• AC not cooling effectively; only able to cool to about 60°F despite running on full blast.
• Temperature gauge reading 90°F initially.

Tools and Equipment

• Air Conditioning Manifold Gauge Set for R134a systems.
• Adapter for R134a canister.
• Infrared thermometer.
• Safety gear: eye protection, gloves.

Steps for Diagnosing and Recharging AC

1. Initial Check: Compressor

   • The compressor should kick on, indicating some refrigerant in the system.
   • If the compressor runs but the system isn't cooling effectively, it may be low on refrigerant.

2. Setting Up the Manifold Gauge Set

   • Hoses: Blue (low pressure), Red (high pressure), Yellow (refrigerant).
   • Connect hoses to the correct ports on the manifold.
   • Attach couplers to the AC system's low and high pressure sides.

3. Safety Check

   • Ensure hoses are safely out of the way to avoid getting caught in belts or fans.

4. Checking Initial Pressure Readings

   • Open valves and check pressure with the compressor running.
   • Ideal pressures (for an 80°F day): 40-50 psi (low side), 175-210 psi (high side).

5. Purchasing and Connecting R134a Refrigerant

   • Ensure refrigerant is pure R134a with no additives.
   • Use adapter to connect refrigerant can to yellow line of manifold.
   • Purge air from yellow line by briefly pressing the Schrader valve.

6. Recharging the System

   • Open the low side valve to allow refrigerant to enter the system.
   • Observe sight glass for movement of refrigerant.
   • Shake the refrigerant can to assist flow if necessary.
   • Close the valve once refrigerant is fully transferred.
   • Evaluate pressures and repeat with additional cans as needed.

7. Final Pressure and Temperature Checks

   • Aim for pressures within the ideal range.
   • Check temperature coming from vents; should be significantly cooler.
   • If temperatures are still not ideal, may require driving the vehicle to circulate refrigerant.

Findings and Conclusion

• Initial recharge brought vent temperature to 42°F, but pressures were still low.
• Added another 12 oz. can, checked pressures and temperatures again after driving.
• Final vent temperatures reached as low as 36.5°F, indicating effective cooling.
• Final decision: AC system is performing well, did not want to risk overfilling.

Recommendations and Final Thoughts

• If the AC system is completely non-functional, a vacuum may be needed before recharging.
• Ensure no leaks and no moisture in the system before adding refrigerant.
• Encourages viewers to do their own research and be cautious.

Note to Viewers

• Emphasizes that he’s a DIY-er, not a professional.
• Video is for educational and entertainment purposes only.
• Encourages viewers to comment with their own experiences and suggestions.