Quck answer
To recharge freon and repair a refrigerator, follow these steps:
1. Identify the type of refrigerant your refrigerator uses. It is usually indicated on a label or in the user manual.
2. Purchase the correct freon refrigerant for your refrigerator. Make sure it matches the type specified by the manufacturer.
3. Turn off the refrigerator and unplug it from the power source.
4. Locate the access valve on the refrigerant lines. It is usually found near the compressor or at the back of the refrigerator.
5. Attach the freon canister to the access valve using a charging hose.
6. Slowly open the valve on the canister to release the freon into the system. Follow the instructions on the canister for the recommended amount.
7. Close the valve on the canister and disconnect it from the access valve.
8. Plug in the refrigerator and turn it on. Allow it to run for a few hours to ensure the freon is properly distributed.
9. Check the temperature inside the refrigerator to ensure it is cooling properly. If not, repeat the process or consult a professional.
Remember to always follow safety precautions and consult the refrigerator’s manual or a professional if you are unsure about the process.
Refrigerant, which is the name for CFC and HCFC refrigerants trademarked by Dupont as Freon, is commonly referred to as Freon. Refrigerators made before 1995 typically used R-12, a CFC, as the refrigerant, which can only be purchased by EPA certified technicians. Refrigerators made from 1995 onwards usually use R-134a, an HFC, as the refrigerant, which can be bought by adults at most automobile parts stores. It is important not to mix the incompatible refrigerants R-12 and R-134a as it can cause the compressor to lock up.
Step 1
Remove the compressor access cover at the back of the refrigerator by unscrewing the screws with a Philips screwdriver or a nut driver.
Step 2
Check the tag on the compressor to determine the type of refrigerant used.
Step 3
Attach a saddle valve to the large copper pipe connected to the compressor. A saddle valve is used to access the refrigerant line and consists of two pieces held together by hex-head screws. Use the provided hex-head wrench to tighten the screws.
Step 4
Install a refrigerant valve adapter onto the saddle valve’s service port.
Step 5
Connect a refrigerant charging hose kit to a can of refrigerant. The kit includes a gauge, hose, threaded fitting for the refrigerant can, and a service valve connection that will attach to the adapter on the saddle valve.
Step 6
Attach the charging hose connection to the saddle valve adapter, ensuring it snaps into place securely.
Step 7
Turn the piercing valve, located in the center of the top half of the saddle valve, three full turns using the hex-head wrench. Then, back the wrench out one full turn. This will allow any remaining refrigerant from the refrigerator to enter the charging hose.
Step 8
Turn on the refrigerator and let it run until the pressure gauge stops dropping, which usually takes three to five minutes.
Step 9
Check the pressure gauge, aiming for a range of 25 to 45 psi for R-134a. Open the port on the refrigerant can to allow refrigerant to enter the system, closing the port every minute to check the pressure. Continue adding refrigerant until the pressure falls within the correct range.
Step 10
Close the piercing valve using the hex-head wrench. Disconnect the charging hose and reinstall the compressor access cover.
