Repair Procedures

Refrigerant System Service Basics

Refrigerant Recovery: Use only service equipment that is UL listed and certified to meet SAE J2210 requirements for removal of HFC-134a (R-134a) from air conditioning systems.If the system is accidentally discharged, ventilate the work area before resuming service. Additional health and safety information may be obtained from refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers.

1. 1
   1. Connect the R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging system (A) to the high pressure service port (C) and the low pressure service port (B), as shown, following the equipment manufacturer's instructions.

   

   

2. 2
   Measure the amount of refrigerant oil removed from the air conditioning system after the recovery process is complete. Be sure to add the same amount of new refrigerant oil back into the air conditioning system before charging.

System Evacuation: Use only service equipment that is UL listed and certified to meet SAE J2210 requirements for removal of HFC-134a (R-134a) from air conditioning systems.If the system is accidentally discharged, ventilate the work area before resuming service. Additional health and safety information may be obtained from refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers.

1. 1
   When the A/C system has been opened to the atmosphere, for example during installation or repair, it must be evacuated using an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/recharging system. (If the system has been open for several days, the receiver/drier should be replaced and the system must be evacuated for several hours.)
2. 2
   Connect the R-134a Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling/Charging System (A) to the high-pressure service port (B) and the low-pressure service port (C) as shown, following the equipment manufacturer's instructions.

   

3. 3
   If the low pressure does not reach 93.3 kPa (700 mmHg, 27.6 inHg) within 10 minutes, there may be a leak in the system. Partially charge the system and check for leaks (refer to Leak Test).
4. 4
   Remove the low-pressure valve from the low-pressure service port.

System Charging: Use only service equipment that is UL listed and certified to meet SAE J2210 requirements for removal of HFC-134a (R-134a) from air conditioning systems.If the system is accidentally discharged, ventilate the work area before resuming service. Additional health and safety information may be obtained from refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers.

1. 1
   Connect the R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/recharging system (A) to the high pressure service port (B), as shown, in accordance with the equipment manufacturer's instructions.

   

2. 2
   Add the same amount of new refrigerant oil to the system as was removed during recovery. Use only the specified refrigerant oil. Charge the system with 19.4 ± 0.88 oz. (550 ± 25 g) of R-134a refrigerant. Do not overcharge the system, or the compressor will be damaged.

Refrigerant Leak Test: Always check for leaks using an electronic leak detector whenever a leak is suspected or refrigerant is lost, and during any service operation that involves disassembly, loosening or disconnecting of fittings.

To use the leak detector correctly, read the manual provided by the manufacturer.

If a refrigerant leak is detected, perform the following steps:

1. 1
   Check the torque on the connection fittings and, if loose, tighten to the specified torque. Check for refrigerant leaks using a leak detector (A).
2. 2
   If the leak continues even after the fitting has been tightened, discharge the refrigerant from the system, disconnect the fittings and inspect their sealing surfaces for damage. Always replace the fitting, even if the damage is minor.
3. 3
   Check the compressor oil and add oil if necessary.
4. 4
   Charge the system and recheck for refrigerant leaks. If no leaks are found, evacuate and recharge the system again.