Have you ever experienced driving with a car AC that blows hot air instead of cold? It’s not only uncomfortable but also dangerous during hot weather. One possible cause of this scenario is an overcharged AC. In this article, we will guide you on how to bleed off an overcharged car AC to get it working efficiently again.
What is an Overcharged Car AC?
An overcharged car AC means that the refrigerant level is higher than the manufacturer’s recommended level. This situation can cause damage to your car’s AC system and affect its efficiency. Overcharging can happen when you add too much refrigerant or when you use the wrong type of refrigerant.
Signs of an Overcharged Car AC
Aside from blowing hot air, there are other signs that your car AC is overcharged. These include:
- Increased pressure in the AC system
- Icing on the evaporator coils
- Unusual noises from the compressor
- Leaking refrigerant
- Reduced cooling efficiency
How to Bleed Off an Overcharged Car AC
Bleeding off an overcharged car AC involves removing excess refrigerant from the system. Here are the steps on how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Tools and Equipment
You will need the following tools and equipment:
- AC gauges to measure the refrigerant level
- A refrigerant recovery machine to remove excess refrigerant
- A refrigerant tank to store the recovered refrigerant
- A wrench to connect and disconnect the AC hoses
- Gloves and goggles to protect yourself from refrigerant exposure
Step 2: Connect the AC Gauges
Connect the AC gauges to the low and high-pressure sides of the AC system. The low-pressure side is usually the larger hose, while the high-pressure side is the smaller hose. Make sure that the gauges are securely attached to both sides.
Step 3: Turn on the AC System
Start the car engine and turn on the AC system to the maximum level. This step is necessary to get an accurate reading of the refrigerant level on the gauges. Wait for a few minutes to stabilize the readings.
Step 4: Check the AC Gauges
Read the pressure levels on the AC gauges. The low-pressure side should be between 25 to 35 psi, while the high-pressure side should be between 200 to 250 psi, depending on the car’s make and model. If the pressure levels exceed these ranges, it means that the AC system is overcharged.
Step 5: Recover the Excess Refrigerant
Attach the refrigerant recovery machine to the AC system’s service port. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to operate the recovery machine. The machine will automatically remove the excess refrigerant from the system and store it in the refrigerant tank.
Step 6: Disconnect the AC Gauges
After the recovery process, disconnect the AC gauges from the low and high-pressure sides of the AC system. Make sure to close the valves on the gauges to prevent refrigerant leaks.
Step 7: Check the AC Gauges Again
Start the car engine and turn on the AC system to the maximum level. Check the pressure levels on the AC gauges again. The readings should now be within the recommended range. If not, repeat the recovery process until you reach the correct pressure levels.
Conclusion
An overcharged car AC can cause discomfort and damage to your car’s AC system. Bleeding off the excess refrigerant is a simple process that you can do on your own with the right tools and equipment. Follow the steps outlined in this article to get your car AC working efficiently again. Remember to wear protective gear and follow safety precautions when working with refrigerants.