How to Recharge a 134 Auto Air Conditioner
- 1). Purchase a can of R134a refrigerant. The refrigerant can be found at most automotive supply stores and in some larger discount chains.
- 2). Locate the air-conditioning system service fittings. R134a fittings are small metal protrusions with no outer threading. The LOW fitting is found on the line connecting the accumulator and compressor, while the HIGH fitting is found between the compressor and condenser.
- 3). Attach the valve to the air refrigerant canister. Attach the opposite end of the valve to the service hose.
- 4). Rotate the valve clockwise to tighten and seal the mechanism and pierce the top of the canister.
- 5). Slowly rotate the valve counter-clockwise to loosen the seal and allow a small amount of refrigerant into the hose. The refrigerant will flush any remaining air out of the hose. Rotate it clockwise again to seal the refrigerant.
- 6). Attach the open end of the service hose to the LOW service fitting.
- 7). Start the car and turn the air conditioning to maximum power.
- 8). Hold the refrigerant upright and completely turn the valve counter-clockwise to release the refrigerant and begin the recharge. Keeping the can upright keeps the refrigerant liquid from entering the system and causing damage.
- 9). Wait at least 10 minutes to ensure that the canister is empty.
- 10
Check the air flow inside the vehicle. If the air is cold enough, turn off the car, tighten the valve and remove the service hose. If the air is still warm or not properly cool, turn off the engine and repeat the process with a new can of refrigerant until the system is fully recharged.
