There will come a time when you window AC would not be as performing as before.
When this happens, it might be because refrigerant has lost that substance that makes it emit cool air.
The one solution to that is to recharge your window AC.
But how do you do this?Simple.
Refill it with freon.
In this article
Why do you better recharge a window AC?
Window AC units are generally sealed and ideally, they do not require constant recharging at all.
Some states do not allow house owners to tinker on their ACs.
1.Unplug the window AC
This is always the first step in maintaining your window AC.
Wear protective gears
There is a reason why gloves and protective eyeglasses are needed for AC recharging.
The substance that you will fill it with, the freon, contains toxic elements.
Newer models would require a screwdriver for the AC case to be opened.
Related:Is A Freon Leak In Your Home Dangerous?
Connect the ACs valves to its compressor
Locate the compressor using your users manual.
There should be two connectors attached to it.
Next, attach one of the two compressors lines to the service valve found in your freon kit.
After that, attach the tap valve.
Position the freon dispenser in between the two valves.
Check for wheezing sounds or air leaks.
Read your users manual and identify the volume of freon required by your AC brand and model.
After that, turn on the AC and set it to the highest power setting.
As it runs, the refrigerant shall fill the AC with freon.
Check the freon gauge and see if it has met the freon limit.
When it has gotten its fill, turn down the AC into the lowest power setting.
Let it run for at least 10mins on that setting.
Next, unplug the AC, remove the valves attached to it.
Check the performance of the AC if it has gotten cooler.
Can an AC be undercharged?
Chances are, your window AC needs recharging because it was undercharged when you bought it.
This is not your fault to begin with, but you must face the consequences.
So, to answer this question, yes, your AC can be undercharged.
How long can freon last?
In theory, freon lasts forever (and this is not an overstatement).
The ACs refrigerant transmission gear is a sealed system.
As such, no freon should be able to escape your AC system.
But when there is a leak in your AC, the freon will escape.
This is the reason why you gotta recharge your AC at some point.
As a matter of fact, it would be abnormal to lose freon in your AC.
Is it bad to run window AC with a very low freon?
If it is overworked the compressor can be damaged.
Can an AC be low on freon without leaks?
In some instances, yes.
This is the reason why an annual AC tune-up should be done.
When to call a professional?
Part of recharging the window AC is checking for leaks in the compressor and refrigerant gear.
Sometimes, fixing it requires more than just soldering the leaks.
If the damage is way beyond your capacity and knowledge, you must call for professional help.
How much does it cost to recharge a window air conditioner?
Recharging a window AC is part of the maintenance procedures to ensure its longevity.
As such, you must invest in this once in between 1-2 years.
Hiring someone to recharge your window AC willcost you in between $100-150.
DIY window AC recharging is just about $50 max.
This includes gauge and freon kits.
However, you must check first if your state allows you to do these maintenance checks.
If not, might as well consult with a trusted AC/freon technician.
