How do I charge a home air conditioner?

Question

I have the gauges and a full freon tank.

Central Air Conditioner, not window unit.

Answer 1

Your charge will depend on a number of factors. First, determine the ambient temperature outside. Then, put a thermometer on the suction line, the bigger of the two pipes on your outside condenser. Watch the temp of the suction line as you charge the unit. At 95 degress outside with 68psi of freon on your low side (big pipe) you should have a line temp of 43 - 45 degrees. Then check the temperature of the air coming out of the vent closest to your a/c inside your home. Proper outlet temp will be 55-57 degrees. Do not charge more than 75psi of freon. This will cause your a/c to not properly change from vapor to liquid to vapor in the cycle.

A/C is a tricky and time-consuming proposition. If nothing else, hook your blue hose up to the large line Schrader valve (looks like a tire valve) on the outside unit. Charge it to 70psi and WAIT. Keep checking the large line temp and the inside vent temp til you get 43-45 degrees outside on the line and 55-59 degrees inside. Do not over-charge the freon. As your unit balances the freon in liquid and vapor forms, the pressure will drop, so be patient and use temperature to achieve maximum cooling efficiency. Stick with 68 - 7O psi on the low-side (large line) on the outside unit if nothing else. And let it run to allow it to properly balance out the freon.

If you get confused, call a tech. Better to pay him now than make things worse.

Answer 2

Most window air conditioners now do not have the port to recharge the airconditioner. However a licensed air conditioner service rep can put in the ports. But as the previous poster said freon can only be purchased by licensed individuals.

Answer 3

You have to have special tools to charge an AC, some types of freon you need a license to purchase.

Answer 4

Use your Amreican Express Card, don't leave home without it....