Charging the AC system with a small can and a DIY hose connection is the least accurate method available. There are a few different styles of DIY connections on the market today to allow the general consumer to add refrigerant to his or her vehicle. Typically, these kits are used to top off AC systems when the AC is not working well. Follow the steps below to charge the AC system.
The small can of refrigerant has a threaded connecting point at the top of the can and this is where the charging hose is connected. The charging hose should be connected tightly to prevent a
Charging the AC System with DIY-Type Container
1. Connect the charge hose to the small can of refrigerant.
2. Connect the service end of the charge hose to the low side port of the AC system.
3. Open the valve on the charge hose to allow refrigerant to move from the can into the vehicle. duct temperatures cool to a normal range.
The charging hose has a quick-connect coupling that connects to the low side service port. Once this connection is made, the check valve in the service port is
The valve in the charging hose is turned counterclockwise to open the connection to allow the refrigerant to pass through the connection and into the vehicle AC
4. Start the engine and turn on the AC system.
5. Continue adding refrigerant into the AC system until the
Refrigerant will continue to be added to the vehicle’s AC system until it is necessary to close the valve on the charging hose. The operator should monitor the duct temperature as well as the temperature of the suction hose. When the duct temperature falls to the 40 to 50°F range and the suction line is cold to the touch, the process should be
6. Close the valve on the charge tool and remove it from the low side service port.
The charging process is stopped by closing the valve on the charging hose. The valve should be turned clockwise to close the valve. The quick-connect coupling can now be removed from the low side service
7. Put the cap back onto the service port. If there is any refrigerant left in the small can, it can be used on another vehicle’s AC system. However, the refrigerant will typically leak out before being connected to the next vehicle.