How can I change fryon in my A/C condenser (ground mount)?

Question

My 3 1/2 ton A/C condenser is at least 15 years old and never has a fryon service. It is getting longer to get to the set temperature. I am thinking to add fryon myself. Is it simple?
Please advise.
Thanks...

Answer 1

You need an E.P.A. license to purchase and handle refrigerant, also, refrigerant does not go bad or get old, you should never need to "juice" it up, if your missing refrigerant it has leaked out, you must fix the leak before anymore is added.

you should try doing maintenence on your ac instead, Change the filter and wash the condensor(outdoor unit), if that does not work, call a service tech. to investigate further.

good luck.

Answer 2

Since you are asking this question on Yahoo, you are not qualified to add refrigerant. Not being snotty, it takes a bit of training to learn how to do this.
What you can do, is inspect the indoor coil to see if it is clean and the air flows across it well. Clean the outdoor unit as well.
Measure the temperature of the air going into your return duct and measure the temperature of the air coming out of the return duct. You should see a 16 to 22 degree difference. If not, your system needs to be checked by a professional technician. He or she will measure the pressure of the refrigerant and compare it to the temperature of the lines. If you've lost refrigerant, the system will need to be leak checked with an electronic sniffer or old fashioned soap bubbles. The leak will need to be repaired before the technician can add refrigerant.
If your system is 15 years old and not performing, you might consider replacement. Your old unit is not energy efficient and you will be replacing it in about five years anyway, as they last about 18 to 22 years. A new unit will be more economical to run, will cool the house quicker, and will come with a warranty.

Answer 3

You need special eqpt. and knowledge to top up with freon.
If you get a full service from your A.C. man you will benefit not only from 'gassing' but also lubrication of moving parts and cleaning the inaccessible places as well as tuning, etc.
Regular professional servicing will not only reduce repair/replacement bills it will also allow your machine to operate more efficienttly and thus reduce you fuel bills.
It is also healthier; dirty AC units can cause Legionaires Disease.

Answer 4

It is simple but now that the EPA and Green gang have ban the avg joe from doing it. It will cost you around 50 -100 bucks or more.

Answer 5

Home depot got this program, no payment for a year and interest free, I got the Trane system.