Updated at: 29-09-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

Do you know how to properly re-charge a window air conditioner with Freon? In order to perform this on your own, you’ll need certain specific gear and understanding regarding air conditioners. If you’re unsure of what you’re doing, it’s best to engage an HVAC specialist because this technique is regarded as hazardous. As an alternative, you might begin by performing a diagnostic test on your machine. As a result, you can be certain that the problem with your air conditioner is caused by a shortage of refrigerant. There are a slew of additional considerations to bear in mind before attempting to recharge your air conditioner with Freon. Let’s get this party started, shall we?

Signs That Your AC Needs Freon

Having a clear idea of what’s wrong with your appliance before calling in a repairman is a good idea. The following symptoms indicate that the refrigerant level may be low.

Sign #1. The air conditioner does not cool the house

The warm air in your home is being absorbed by Freon. If your air conditioner’s refrigerant level is low, it won’t be able to remove heat from your home as effectively. Running the AC all day and yet not getting cold may be a sign that your r-22 refrigerant level is too low.

Sign #2. Higher electric bills

If you’ve seen a significant increase in your utility bill, it may be a sign that your air conditioner needs more Freon.

Sign #3. The vents are blowing warm air

It’s important to note that if the air conditioner doesn’t have enough refrigerant, it won’t be able to cool the room. Thus, the air that emerges from the vents may be neither frigid nor even warm. Vents may produce less air than usual at times.

Sign #4. Ice build-up in the refrigerant line

Make sure that your outdoor air conditioner has no ice buildup on its refrigerant line; if so, the Freon may be insufficient. Because of a lack of refrigerant, the AC’s evaporator coils will be significantly colder. If you don’t fix this problem, the refrigerant will find its way into your compressor and cause it to malfunction. It is quite costly to fix this problem if the compressor is destroyed or damaged. Or, even worse, you’ll have to get a new air conditioning unit installed altogether.

Sign #5. Bubbling or hissing sound coming from the Freon line

Freon line leaks are the most common cause of refrigerant loss. In the event of a refrigerant leak, you will hear a faint dripping sound. You might hear a hiss or bubbling noise.

Wait, Why Would You Need To Put Freon In An AC Unit?

What we’ve covered thus far leaves out an essential condition. The refrigerant loop of an air conditioner is truly closed. Technically speaking, this means that unless something goes horribly wrong, no refrigerant should ever leak. In the majority of cases, a leak has occurred, which can pose a serious health and environmental hazard. Fixing the leak is as important as knowing how to add Freon to an air conditioner. You’ll go back where you started if you don’t catch the Freon. If your technician just charges your air conditioner and doesn’t explain why it has to be charged, you should be wary. Contact us at American Home Water and Air if you notice that your refrigerant is leaking. Because we’re one of the top companies in Phoenix, AZ for AC Repair, you can count on our crew to get the job done quickly and correctly.

How To Put Freon In An AC Unit

Let’s talk about how to add Freon to an AC unit now that we’ve cleared up some misconceptions.

Step #1: See If Your Air Conditioner Is Blowing Warm Air

A refrigerant leak is most likely the cause of any additional problems you’re experiencing with your air conditioner. Repair any damage to your air conditioning system before moving on to the next step. Calling a professional may be necessary. Learn more about our Phoenix, Arizona, HVAC services here.

Step #2: Perform Regular Maintenance Prior To Refilling Your AC

It’s a good idea to get your air conditioner checked out and fix any problems it’s having right now. To get a sense of what you should be doing in terms of upkeep, take a look at this page.

Step #3: Select And Purchase The Right Refrigerant

Despite the fact that this article focuses on Freon, the term “Kleenex” can be used to designate any type of tissue. In order to replenish your unit with Freon, the trademarked product, you’ll need to buy it. Freon has become increasingly difficult to get, and as a result, prices have risen sharply. Find out where to buy Freon near you with this tool. Consult a professional or your AC’s owner’s manual if you’re unclear about the refrigerant kind. Following is a list of commonly used contemporary refrigerants:

  • R12
  • R410A
  • R134

Vendors may ask for certification before selling to you, depending on the refrigerant type and local requirements. You’ll have to go through a licensed company in this situation.

Step #4: Gather The Proper Safety Equipment

Inhaling or merely coming into contact with freon is not recommended. As a result, the following should be utilized:

  • Goggles
  • Gloves
  • a shirt with long sleeves
  • The use of a breathing apparatus

Don’t put your health at danger if you have a respiratory disease or are concerned about your own safety. Your air conditioner’s refrigerant can be easily replenished by HVAC technicians. No, it’s not a simple task that would be a bother to them at all. Make sure you’re ready to take all the precautions recommended in the documentation that should come with your refrigerant before proceeding if you’re a do-it-yourselfer.

Step #5: Wait For The Right Temperature

The coldest spot is where a gas like freon will always gravitate. Chemicals become “confused” and more drawn to the outside air if the temperature outside falls below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step #6: Once More, Consider Seriously Whether You’re Confident Doing This

It’s a good idea to get the help of a licensed expert, even if regulations in the United States do not require it. When handled incorrectly, Freon can be dangerous. Accidents do happen, and you should only proceed if you are completely confident in your ability to avoid them.

Step #7: Add The Refrigerant

Turn off your air conditioner at the breaker and thermostat before you start putting Freon into it. Then, proceed as follows:

  • For the time being, connect only the left and right tubes. The refrigerant tank will be connected in the middle.
  • This will give you enough time to get an accurate reading on the gauges.
  • This will give you enough time to get an accurate reading on the gauges.
  • An accurate gauge reading will be possible in this amount of time.
  • To determine whether your AC has reached the proper subcooling temperature, look for a rating plate attached to your outdoor AC unit and check the low-pressure gauge.
  • Once the desired temperature has been reached, close the valve to stop the flow of air.
  • To halt the flow of Freon in the refrigerant container, turn the knob.
  • Remove the AC unit’s hoses and gauges.
  • For those without a gauge, you can request a technician with one from your local HVAC firm.

Step #8: Store The Remaining Refrigerant Properly

It’s recommended that you keep your tank of refrigerant in a safe location. The tanks are pressurized and might be harmful if kept incorrectly, so be sure to follow the instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to put Freon in an AC unit?

If you hire a specialist to buy and install Freon for you, you may expect to pay between $100 and $150. Because of the increasing scarcity of Freon, this is becoming increasingly expensive.

How do you know if your AC needs Freon?

Detecting a refrigerant leak is essential. Frozen coils and inadequate cooling are among the most common issues. Unless there is a leak, you do not need to re-charge your air conditioner with Freon. The Freon in air conditioners is meant to last the entire life of the machine. If a company says it can “recharge” your account without looking for these leaks, beware.

Can I buy Freon for my home AC?

Individuals may be able to get their hands on Freon for their home air conditioners in certain situations. In some jurisdictions, you may be required to supply a certification number. You’ll need to get Freon from a local HVAC firm in this situation.

Is Freon being banned?

All production and importation of Freon in the United States will cease by the year 2020. Until the supply runs out, those in need of recharging will have to rely on the existing infrastructure.

It’s A Wrap!

Window air conditioners use Freon as a refrigerant. Unfortunately, the majority of window air conditioners do not provide a port for the addition of Freon. You can, however, fix your AC unit’s Freon shortage by following the methods outlined above.