How to Add Freon to Auto Air Conditioners

You may be able to add Freon to your car's air conditioning.

If your car's air conditioner is suddenly not running like it should, you might need to replace the Freon ® in your system. Freon is a refrigerant used in mechanical refrigeration. It operates based on the principal that when compressed air expands, it absorbs heat. To fix refrigeration issues in your automobile's air conditioning, you will need to purchase a can of Freon with a pressure gauge to test the low pressure line of your system.

Things You'll Need

• Can of Freon with pressure gauge

Instructions

1. Turn the fans on high and turn the temperature setting to its coldest level. Also, turn the air conditioning setting to the "on" position.

2. Open the hood of the car and locate the low and high pressure lines for the air conditioning system. The lines should be located between the compressor on the engine and the evaporator.

3. Remove the cap on the low pressure line and clamp or screw on the gauge located on your Freon bottle.

4. Watch the gauge to see if the pressure in the line is low, filled or over-filled. If the reading is under 25 pounds, it needs to be refilled; however, if the pressure is between 25 and 45 pounds, it does not need to be refilled.

5. Fill the line with Freon, according to the level in the low pressure line. Follow the directions on your specific brand of Freon replacement.

References

• Air Conditioning Systems: History of Freon
• Youtube: How to add freon to a car air conditioner