Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Refrigerant Recovery


The use of refrigerant recovery and recycling stations allows the recovery and reuse of refrigerant after contaminants and moisture have been removed.
When using a recovery or recycling station , follow manufacturer's operating instructions, while noting the following:
1. Use extreme caution and observe all safety and service precautions related to the use of refrigerant.
2. Connect refrigerant recycling station hose(s) to vehicle A/C service port(s) and recovery station inlet fitting. Hoses should have shutoff devices within 12 inches of hose ends to minimize introduction of air into recycling station and to minimize amount of refrigerant release when hose(s) are disconnected.
3. Turn on recycling station to start recovery process. Allow recycling station to pump refrigerant from A/C system until station pressure gauge indicates vacuum.
4. After vehicle A/C system has been evacuated, close station inlet valve, if equipped.
5. Turn off station. On some stations the pump will automatically be turned off by a low pressure switch.
6. Allow vehicle A/C system to remain closed for about two minutes. Observe vacuum level indicated on gauge. If pressure does not rise, disconnect recycling station hose(s).
7. If system pressure rises, repeat steps 3 through 6 until vacuum level remains stable for two minutes.
8. Service A/C system as necessary, then evacuate and recharge A/C system.