How To Add Freon to Window Air Conditioner
Window air conditioners only cool air efficiently when the unit has the proper refrigerant charge.
Refrigerant does not evaporate or wear out.
Only leaky systems need Freon added.
Freon, a DuPont trademarked name for certain types of refrigerant, has become the generic term used in place of refrigerant.
Window air conditioning units, classified as self-contained systems, have the compressor, fan and both the evaporator and condensing coils in a single structure.
Window air conditioning units use a single double-shaft fan to blow air over both coils.
How to Add Freon to Window Air Conditioner
Remove air conditioner from window
Remove the air conditioner from the window. Set it on a secure level surface that can get wet and has an electrical outlet nearby. Look at the identification tag to verify the refrigerant type used.
Locate and remove screws that hold air conditioner's shell in place with a 1 or 4-inch nut driver
Locate and remove the screws that hold the air conditioner's shell in place with a 1 or 4-inch nut driver. Lift the shell off of the unit. If the shell does not easily slide off, check for hidden screws in the center of the shell along the top.
Find refrigerant access valve on thick copper line that comes from compressor
Find the refrigerant access valve on the thick copper line that comes from the compressor.
The access valve comes in two types.
A stem valve has a skinny neck soldered into the thick copper line.
A saddle valve comes in two halves, in a block shape, wrapped around the thick copper line.
In the case of a system without an access valve, install a saddle valve using the valve's installation instructions.
Remove the access valve cover with an adjustable wrench.
If the stem valve cover's O-ring sticks to the stem valve, remove it and set it back in the cap.
Connect the gauge side of a refrigerant-charging hose and gauge kit to a jug of refrigerant.
This refrigerant must match the type listed on the tag.
Remove the access valve cover with an adjustable wrench.
If the stem valve cover's O-ring sticks to the stem valve, remove it and set it back in the cap.
Connect the gauge side of a refrigerant-charging hose and gauge kit to a jug of refrigerant.
This refrigerant must match the type listed on the tag.