How to Add Freon to a Refrigerator

Freon is a noncorrosive, colorless compound that works as a refrigerant for air conditioners and refrigerators. If your refrigerator is leaking Freon, you will notice a large puddle of oil in the bottom compartment of your fridge. If you do not have any experience or certification for handling Freon, you need to call a certified technician to add Freon to your refrigerator's compressor. Specialized equipment is required to access the refrigerator's compressor system, which is closed and under pressure.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dry nitrogen Vacuum pump Hoses and gauges Special refrigeration wrench PAG oil (refrigerant oil) Refrigerator owner's manual

1. Locate the compressor. Review the owner's manual to find out where the compressor is. You will be creating an access valve to the compressor.

2. Vacuum the system. You will need to use a specialized vacuum pump before adding the refrigerant.

3. Add the refrigerant. Charge up the refrigerator with the Freon; you will need to attach a hose to the gauge on the valve you have created so that the Freon can be transferred to the compressor.

4. Add refrigerant oil. Finish the process by adding 4-to-5 tablespoons--for a full size refrigerator--of PAG oil to the system.

Tips & Warnings

• You may need a permit to purchase Freon legally in your neighborhood It's best to call a professional, certified technician for any Freon-related work on a refrigerator If you have a Freon leak, you will most likely need to repair coils and other parts before adding more Freon
• If you have existing Freon already running through your refrigerator, you may need to purge the entire system with alcohol Individuals handling Freon evacuation equipment need to be EPA-certified

Resources

• Freon Certification Information
• Refrigerator Problems and Solutions