Air conditioning system with refrigerant R134a

Bringing air conditioning system into service after charging

~1min read
Note If the air conditioner compressor was removed, the V-belt pulley /freewheel must be turned by hand approx. 10 times prior to initial operation. This prevents any damage occurring from a fluid hammer in the air conditioner compressor when the air conditioning system is switched on for the first time. If there is oil in the cylinder of the air conditioner compressor, it will be forced out by the rotation.
  • Start with engine with air conditioner compressor switched off (if it is the type with a magnetic clutch).
  • Set air conditioner compressor to lowest possible setting; select "ECON" mode or "A/C Off" (if version without magnetic clutch, but with regulating valve).
  • Wait until idling speed has stabilised.
  • Switch air conditioner compressor on and let system run for at least 2 minutes with engine idling.
  • If necessary, check pressures in refrigerant circuit using air conditioner service station.
  • Switch off engine.
  • Turn out handwheel on quick-release coupling adapter.
  • Detach the charging hose from the refrigerant circuit.
  • Screw on sealing caps again.
Bringing air conditioning system into service after charging

Test yourself

A quick Volkswagen Golf quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.