How to Add Freon to a Home Air Conditioning Unit

Contributor

By Virginia Franco
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (3 Ratings)

Do NOT attempt to add freon to your AC...this is NOT a DIY project.

Contrary to popular belief, home air conditioning units do not eat through freon in the same way cars guzzle oil or even gas. When your air conditioner is low on freon, this is usually due to leaks that can begin to occur as your unit ages. Adding freon yourself is not a do-it-yourself project. Freon is an Environmental Protection Agency-controlled substance and could be hazardous to people and the environment if it is released into the atmosphere. Further, improper handling could subject you to costly EPA fines. It is critical that you hire a certified HVAC technician to check your system for leaks and add freon as necessary.

How Does an HVAC Work?
… More
About HVAC Certification & Training
HVAC is an acronym for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. The path to receiving this certificatio… More
About HVAC as a Career
People who live in a hot or cold environment know how important heating and air conditioning systems are f… More
About HVAC Zone Control Dampers
HVAC stands for "heating, ventilating and air conditioning." It is often simply called "climate control." … More
How to Buy HVAC Tools
Tools used for HVAC systems are more difficult to find than more commonly used tools. Buyers in search of … More
Scholarships for HVAC Training
Scholarships for HVAC training are available through specific trade schools, online and through private or… More
How Does an HVAC Technician Spend a Workday?
… More
Air Duct Inspecting & Cleaning
Air ducts are part of a home's heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. They transport air… More
What Is a Condensing Unit?
Condensing units are familiar temperature-control devices in refrigerators, air conditioners, heat pumps a… More
Types of Central Heating & Air Units
In many parts of the world, heating is of primary importance, while the climate makes the need for cooling… More
How to Replace a Heating Thermostat
Furnace systems, as complicated as they can be, are ultimately controlled by a simple process within your … More
How to Check for Duct Loss from Air Conditioning Units
Learn how to check for duct loss from air conditioning units when conducting a duct test on a house from a… More
How to Add Freon to a Home Air Conditioning Unit
Contrary to popular belief, home air conditioning units do not eat through freon in the same way cars guzz… More
How to Balance HVAC Air Flow
To balance HVAC air flow, adjust the diffuser blades to close off seldom-used rooms and open up main livin… More
HVAC Troubleshooting
Troubleshoot problems with the HVAC, or heating, ventilating and air-conditioning, system by checking the … More

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Finding a qualified technician to check your air conditioner for freon leaks

Step 1

Turn on your computer and open up your web browser.
Step 2

Log-on to your preferred Internet search engine (i.e. Google, Yahoo), and type in the terms "HVAC" and the name of your town and state.
Step 3

If you do not have a computer or prefer using the Yellow Pages, thumb through the pages until you reach "HVAC contractors."
Step 4

Locate the names of three or four companies that repair and maintain air conditioners in your area.
Step 5

Call these companies and compare their pricing for a service visit, and for potentially fixing leaks and adding freon.
Step 6

Make an appointment with the company that best meets your budget and air conditioning service needs.

Tips & Warnings

Confirm your selection of a licensed HVAC company with the Better Business Bureau to check for reputability. Read through any filed complaints to see if they raise any red flags.
If you choose to observe from the sidelines while an HVAC technician inspects your air conditioning unit and possibly adds more freon once leaks are fixed, be sure to wear safety glasses with side shields. Freon is absolutely hazardous and dangerous--and can cause permanent vision loss if even a drop gets into your eye.

Resources

Who Can Help Sponsored