AC RECHARGE

[bigblue37]

I have used the harbor freight vacuum pump and manifold gauges in the past several times with excellent success. Like others have said, make sure you pull a vacuum first and let the system sit for a while to ensure there are no leaks. You will also need to pull a vacuum if the system got any air in it whatsoever. Our atmospheric air has moisture in it, which will cause the system to overheat and destroy components. Prior to owning my own ac tools, I’ve used Meineke to service my systems. They’re middle of the road pricing. An important note is that if adding refrigerant you will want to 1. add oil if you replaced any components, and 2. Ensure you add the correct amount of refrigerant, which is usually calculated in ounces. Never trust the built in gauges on the bottles of refrigerant.

Eric the car guy has several videos on YouTube with step be step instructions on how to pull the vacuum and add refrigerant. Recommend watching them if you’re doing it yourself.

 

[Maxx]

There are advantages to pulling a vacuum and dialing in the correct charge with a metered machine vs recharging w a can tapper.

Modern AC systems have much smaller capacities that they did in the old days. Slightly over charging an AC system can affect the system even more than under charging it, especially when it gets super hot in the middle of summer.

A lot of times you can get by w a can tapper, but if you want your AC charge to be what it should be, you need a machine.