How to Add Freon/Refrigerant to a Refrigerator with a Piercing Valve - Easy DIY Repair!

In this video, I demonstrate how I repaired a mini fridge that had its refrigerant leak out by adding more refrigerant. Before attempting this project, check your owner's manual and other diagnostic information to ensure you have a refrigerant problem, not something else.
While this video demonstrates adding R-134a to a refrigerator, the procedure is nearly identical for R-12, R290, R600a (isobutane, common on modern appliances), or any other refrigerant. It works on water coolers and similar appliances too.
Links to tools and materials used:
Refrigerant is best obtained locally to avoid shipping issues with pressurized gases.
Can tap, pressure gauge, and hose set (don't use the included piercing valve):
www.amazon.com...
Supco piercing valve:
www.amazon.com...

[@PoeLemic]

Thank you for showing us how to do this. It's getting too expensive to take things places, so we are learning to do stuff ourselves. This is very helpful. I didn't know it was that easy.

[@dontwanadisplaynameonutube2951]

It's not that easy. Your breaking the law. By charging 134a with a known leak in a system is against EPA regulations because 134a is harmful to the atmosphere. Hence why sealed system certification is a thing. That's all I'll say.

[@chris2902010]

Now try it with R600 😂🎉😅 , hehe

[@roccoverducci397]

I was on the verge of throwing my wine cooler in the trash. I had previously changed the starter relay and that fixed it the first time. The second time it didn't respond to the replacement. So, I watched your video and implemented your instructions. After about 24 hours for the cooler to cycle, I had my dual zone cooler working with the upper zone at 46 degrees and the lower zone at 60 degrees. Thanks for the video. Ciao, Rocco

[@DragonBuilds]

Glad to hear that it worked for your wine cooler! Cheers! 🥂

[@DrinkWhiskeyRaiseHell]

If you have to add Freon to anything it means it has a leak. Freon does not wear out and does not need topping off. Adding Freon does not fix the problem.

[@beernutzbob]

Good video. I recommend cleaning the copper tubing with some sandpaper before adding the freon port.

[@jasondroyd9373]

Many pro's would tell you that these valves always leak. The reason they leaked was they were not installed correctly. You MUST CLEAN the tube you're installing it onto. I've installed thousands of these valves and not one ever leaked! Just like any other gasket the mounting surface must be clean. I use a piece of steel wool or even a piece of Brillo pad and wipe it clean with alcohol.

[@DragonBuilds]

I used the green side of a sponge which is basically a Brillo pad to clean it.

[@marciawilliams8990]

​@@DragonBuildswhere can I buy the taping valve. I keep seeing piercing valves. Thanks

[@jima3129]

Yeah, I used 1500 grit Emory. Mine seems fine so far.

[@williamflanigan2829]

​@@marciawilliams8990it's the same thing

[@marciawilliams8990]

@@williamflanigan2829 Thanks

[@dansdynamics]

Just saved me $350!!! Great video!

[@MrSkott16]

Thank you thank you thank you!!! Salvaged 2 good portable fridges!!

[@DragonBuilds]

Glad you found my video useful!

[@ElectroTree01]

When charging as a vapor(top of can up), you can leave the valve open for longer than short bursts. When charging as a liquid(top of can to ground), you have to allow the refrigerant out in short bursts otherwise the liquid refrigerant can damage the compressor. Also, make sure you put the piercing valve on the suction line(usually larger, comes from the evaporator), not the discharge line. Great video!

[@CodyHVAC]

So did you repair the leak??

[@philipwalker1267]

Just to make sure to check the manufacturer plate it will tell you what refrigerant to use . And how much the system holds most small appliances runs are 7 to 7.4 oz . Always adding a piecing valve reclaim what’s in it pull a vacuum then weigh it in . I always use gages. And braze in two ports on on the low side and high side and make sure the condenser coil is clean. Check amps and high side pressure it will tell you a lot. Lot of times leaks are in the evaporator. Also if it doesn’t cool it can be number of things like the thermostat. Or evaporator fan not working. If you have low suction and high head pressure there a restriction somewhere. Could be line dryer or in the condenser coil or evaporator coil. Good job on the video short and straight too the point.

[@the1der]

Do you need that copper adapter for the refill hose?? Or can you just tap it straight into the piercing valve??

[@CubanMofo]

Can you add the freon that comes with a sealer?

[@DragonBuilds]

Yes you can, and it might work to seal the leak but I have not tried it myself.

[@adaniel69]

Hi. What could be wrong with my aor dryer with compressor and R290 if the pressure is going UP when the compressor is working? Same is showing on both pipes. Thanks

[@Lovelifeatallcosts]

I enjoyed your enthusiasm in your decision to attempt this type of repair. I do understand people are always looking for the quicker cheaper repair and in some cases you may find such a repair. My experience tells me , not this time. This kind of repair can leave you in a much worse situation then you first started with. Now having said that on occasion this type of repair may yield some type of short term positive result. Problem is that, hey on a $30 mini bar fridge , you want to give it a shot , go for it. Unfortunately many people my be tempted to try this kind of repair on the $5000 Sub Zero Unit and cause some high end problems. If I may suggest a clear disclaimer is in order. Just saying ......ohh and I believe the can goes upside down. I like to continually shake them as they are refilling. I do like the short burst idea while refilling and keeping the pressure low. Good video. Thank you for making it

[@DragonBuilds]

Thanks for commenting! The mini fridge is still working great, and it is being used as a wine cooler. I agree that this isn't a good idea for a high end kitchen refrigerator.

[@ScottHz]

if you bought a Sub Zero, you’re probably just going to hire someone to fix it! 😉

[@ScottHz]

The cans say to keep the top up. I’m pretty sure if you turn it upside down, the liquid refrigerant will come out, instead of the gas.

[@QuackZack]

On a mini-fridge that would normally cost as much as you paid for it to repair it, yes. On a whole family sized kitchen fridge, just pay to get it professionally checked for seals, patched, brazed, and recharged.

[@kennethloki7011]

These really aren't meant for higher end items. Mainly for wind, mini split, and rv air conditioners. Things where having a tech come out and doing a proper repair will cost as much or more than just buying a new item. That and temporary repairs until you can get a proper job done. That being said I've used these That have lasted years with mo leaks or issues. I pit a little thread locker on the screws and piercing valve to make sure nothing backs off and creates a leak. But that option is up to whoever does the work.

[@DelphiAmnestied]

The piercing valve as shown will most likely interfere with the rear cover when you try to put it back, it should be installed with the hose port facing up. Also 10 psi maybe a bit high. As a rule a thumb, the compressor should pull 0.8 to 1 amp. Overcharging the compressor with freon will make it perform poorly, increase power consumption and may damage it. Always check your fridge thermistor and starter relay before.

[@DragonBuilds]

Yes, it is important to check the starter relay, thermistor and other components first, as well as making sure that the compressor runs! In my case, the fridge didn't have a rear cover so it was not a concern, but that's definitely something to be aware of.

[@QuackZack]

Rear covers are usually on fully sized fridges with condenser fans, as steady air flow in an open space attracts a lot of dust and gunk. In a stagnant little-air flow environment, majority of mini fridge manufacturers don't put covers on as it would only leave less cooling for the compressor.

[@manstersr]

Good point. Also, check the refrigerator spec tag/sticker to make sure you have the correct refrigerant. I'm not sure what most companies use but I just recovered the refrigerant from an old 1990 Frigidaire and it was 134a also. I have an old coke machine (60's) that uses R-12.

[@timd5597]

Does the hose kit come with a fitting to go directly to the threaded piercing valve or do I need to buy a quick connector?

[@DragonBuilds]

The hose kit can be directly connected to

[@drkfuture1305]

so did u do it when the compressor was running? when do u run the compressor?

[@yinyang021979]

Yes, so it can circulate the freon

[@yusifsuleiman5502]

Please I have a question 🙋‍♂️ Why my cheese freezer only has halfway freezing. Thanks 🙏

[@paulatudor691]

That’s a nice video after cleaning the tube attach it evenly like you show ty for the easy to diy video.

[@dutch1589]

Well spoken and very clear

[@ramindadseresht4074]

You mentioned between 5 to 10 psi other videos say 3 psi. So which one is correct? I don’t want to overcharge the system

[@JayDEdits]

Do you always want to pierce the thicker copper line on the compressor?

[@DragonBuilds]

Yes. The thicker line is the low-pressure side. You should never pierce the high pressure side as it can be very dangerous.

[@JayDEdits]

@@DragonBuilds thank you for the response.

[@mik160970]

volevo chiederti se la ricarica la fai con frigorifero acceso oppure spento

[@DragonBuilds]

The refrigerator should be running during the charging process.

[@whoismcboy4434]

Do you had to turn it on the refrigerator while adding a Freon?

[@DragonBuilds]

The compressor must be running while you add the Freon.

[@ELVISRN1]

I was thinking the same thing

[@DrDtsukanov]

Saved my mini fridge with 600a. I did sand and clean the line before putting piercing valve on.

[@nicksalonique]

How many degrees had the fridge before the fix? Mine has 10Celcius and thinking of doing the same

[@DrDtsukanov]

My wine/beer was not cooling much and compressor would be on constantly. My fridge said it takes 1.4 ounce. Got a 6 ounce can, used a scale and put 1 ounce in. Then waited and next day the beer ice cold at 40c. Alternative is to throw out a perfectly good $500 wine cooler. Worth a shot. Def need a gauge on cable.

[@LeroyJenkins666.]

When refilling Do you turn the compressor on lowest settings or max settings

[@DragonBuilds]

The compressor's speed cannot be changed, the switch only controls the temperature. I left the door open and set the switch to the coldest setting to allow the compressor to run.

[@porkchopdelight]

I did this after thinking this free mini fridge I got needed a recharge (don’t think it did) it had a bad switch relay which I replaced but the fridge wouldn’t go above 60F even with the temp knob set to 7 , I replaced the thermostat and still having the same issue, the freezer tray is cold but wet. I have tried turning the thermostat screw counterclockwise and currently monitoring it but I am not sure what the issue is. Also the outer sides and top of the fridge are super hot.

[@erik_dk842]

Symptoms of overfilling

[@fly2crawl]

Nice job and good info. I would add that the position of the valve might need to be clocked differently also. Might be better to install it up and down instead of the connector sticking out the back where it might get damaged or damage the tubing sliding the fridge against a wall.

[@DragonBuilds]

That’s a good idea, that will prevent the valve from ever getting damaged.

[@ibrahimbader]

thanx friend for the very informative video, our techi guy told me to install the piercing valve on the "small cut copper line" coming out from the compressor (in ur video it is on right hand side) , he said they always use that small line to recharge the refrigerant, is he correct or not? Im Saudi living in Philippines, I hope u can reply soonest, I'm doing this within next 24hrs 🙏🙏

[@DragonBuilds]

You can install the piercing valve on the "small cut copper line" you described, you can use either that line or the line I used in the video.

[@the1der]

​@@DragonBuildsdo you need that copper adapter to place the hose onto or can we go straight onto the piercing valve sir??

[@skud7480]

Pretty helpful video, i have 2 concerns. 1. Wich line i choose to put the adapter on, 2. After i am done putting freon should i take the adapter back off so i can close the cover plate properly or i have to leave the adapter on. Thank you for your video.

[@DragonBuilds]

You should put the saddle valve on the low side refrigerant line. After you are done, remove the adapter and put the cap back on.

[@telosfd]

Never seen something like that before. Nice video.

[@shawnfelix3573]

Hi good morning what is the size of the adapter you use thank you

[@haroldk3913]

I have a refrigerator with a bullet piercing valve already put in the copper line, but I don't have the adapter for the 134a quick connect end of the line that goes into the can. Can you point me in the right direction to find one? Any help is appreciated.

[@DragonBuilds]

@@haroldk3913 I found the adapters aren’t so good, you can actually get R134a hoses which connect directly to the valve. I have one linked in the video description.

[@haroldk3913]

@@DragonBuilds Alright - thank you very much. I was trying to connect the same quick connect I use for the car AC. I will go to the link you provided.

[@bodyshotjake7475]

So do you use both spacers or nothing on the top with the spike

[@DragonBuilds]

The spacers you use depend on the pipe size

[@jck1989]

What size adapter do you use?

[@Shah2]

Hi, can you use this exact same process for R600a refrigerant? Other videos involve cutting pipes etc. This seems doable.

[@yangdaniel5663]

I want to know too

[@Shah2]

Please someone help

[@DragonBuilds]

Sorry for the late reply, but you can absolutely use this process for R600a! You simply need an R-600a charging hose and gauge assembly instead of an R134a one. Everything else is the same and the piercing valve is compatible with R600a.

[@whobdis77]

Good stuff. Someone piecred a hole in a fin of a fridge someone gave me....trying to get ice out. Patched hole and used a compressor to get the air out and put in freon. It gets cold but compressor overheats after awhile and shuts off. Maybe it's just bad. But I also noticed oil inside the freezer area around where the hole was. Do I need to use an oil recharge of sorts..like we do on autos? Just wondered if that caused it to overheat. I know it was working ok as I there the day my buddy asked if wanted it (he got a bigger one for shop).

[@DragonBuilds]

If the oil leaked out you could try an oil recharge, I have seen them at auto parts stores.

[@JaceD4V1S88]

can i do this same thign with r600a for our mini fridge?

[@DragonBuilds]

Yes you can. The piercing valve works with any refrigerant and has a standard connector, but you will need a different can tap and charging hose.

[@JaceD4V1S88]

@@DragonBuilds ok cool, thank god, i know its flammable so we are gonna take precautions, but we ordered from envirosafe the can and the gauge hose with the connector for it

[@DragonBuilds]

@@JaceD4V1S88 The Envirosafe kits should be good, and the piercing valve I linked in the description works with R600a.

[@JaceD4V1S88]

@@DragonBuilds My little brother ordered the Supco BPV31D from another vid looks like the same

[@DragonBuilds]

@@JaceD4V1S88 The Supco piercing valve is indeed the same as the one I used.

[@manstersr]

First of all, anyone doing this should check the sticker on the unit to make sure you have the correct refrigerant. There are lots of different ones in use now. At 7:14 you said to confirm 5-10 psi then shut the piercing valve off then you said with the refrigerator running check to see if you have 5-10 psi in the system. You can't read what's in the system with the piercing valve closed. I'm an auto tech so I'm not that familiar with the refrigerators. Should've let people know to put the valve on the low side pipe which is the larger one. It also looked like the pressure while NOT running was about 40 psi but it was hard to see the gauge. it would have been nice for you to tell us. I have an old coke machine I want to fix but it uses R-12 and I don't want to waste it so i'll put some in and use a refrigerant detector to try to find the leak. I can solder any leaking lines but if it's a coil I don't know what I'll do. I do have a friend that can weld thin aluminum evaps and condensers with a gas torch.

[@clientaaarei8367]

Great Video! Thank you for making it.

[@Alberto-ks4mn]

Nice and quick video 😊

[@humbertoperez7032]

Hi did you turn on refrigerator on to charge ?

[@DragonBuilds]

Yes you do

[@jimmieroan9881]

is there a low side and high side, if so how do you tell the difference

[@DragonBuilds]

The low side (the line to be tapped) is larger in diameter and feels cold during operation.

[@bretjones6303]

great stuff. I almost tossed this mini fridge someone gave me. But I see they must have used a screwdriver to chip away the ice in the freeze part. I put some epoxy over the holes and followed along with what youve' done here. It's getting cold but compressor stopped afterawhile and was really hot. I might have done something wrong so I'll retrace my steps. But I did wonder about the oil that clearly came out of the holes the guy created. Should I try to replenish that? Not sure if those oil recharge things would help that. Again..good stuff.

[@DragonBuilds]

If someone poked a hole in the refrigerant line and it all leaked out, you need to use a vacuum pump to remove all air from the system before recharging which is a significantly more involved project.

[@american-hero]

What is the piece you added to the valve?

[@DragonBuilds]

That is a 1/4 in flare to R-134a quick connect, it was included with the charging hose. You don't need it if your charging hose has a 1/4" flare connection.

[@american-hero]

Mine didn’t come with it. Do you know if I can grab in its place? Thanks and great video.

[@DragonBuilds]

@@american-hero You can buy them on Amazon www.amazon.com/Aupoko-Retrofit-Conversion-Coupler-Interface/dp/B085VS9QRW

[@american-hero]

@@DragonBuilds Thanks again!

[@baronvondeals3344]

great step by step thank you

[@ChuckAPayne]

I can't tell if the compressor is running or not while doing this procedure. No noise throughout. Can you tell me when to turn it on and off?

[@DragonBuilds]

I turned on the compressor when adding refrigerant and turned it off after I had finished adding it.

[@Allsportdriver]

Should the refrigerator be running while adding freon?

[@DragonBuilds]

Yes it should. You can set the temperature to the coldest setting and have the door open to ensure the compressor stays on.

[@nickwilliams4727]

Great video....next time please avoid the word tighten or any variations of the word tighten.....haha teasing

[@daywalker6847]

How do you remove it and seal the hole ?

[@DragonBuilds]

You don't remove it, after shutting off the valve you leave it in place. The valve can be used again later as well.

[@daywalker6847]

@DragonBuilds in the class im taking the instructor says to it should be removed becacuse the gaskets wear out and might coantaminate

[@MP-qm5dn]

Hi sir! I cannot find any ''r134a'' refrigerant. I only found ''frosty cool 134'' on amazon and some random ''134'' at walmart. Do you think these would fit in a r134a system? They have 2 different molecules type sos thats why i'm wondering if they can fit with each others in a same system. Thanks!

[@DragonBuilds]

R134a is sometimes sold as "refrigerant 134" , "HFC-134a" or similar names, just make sure it contains 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane which is the chemical name for R134a.

[@ClearWater7.62]

You said to ignore the gauge and how can you tell if its at the psi you want?

[@DragonBuilds]

I said to ignore the color coded sections and to just use the numbers.

[@ClearWater7.62]

@DragonBuilds sorry I didn't clearly hear it. Thanks.

[@PhanOT11]

On these home refrigerators/freezer, the High/Low side tubes look similar in size. How do we know which side to add the refrigerant to? (Left or Right side of the compressor). Great video btw.

[@the1der]

Usually the colder line not warm

[@gabrielpichardo1492]

Are you supposed to do this with the refrigerator turned on or turned off?

[@HairyThorax]

on. The compressor needs to run as you install refrigerant.

[@frankcobbs8350]

How do i vent if i added too much freon?

[@garciafamily5850]

So that valve remains closed once done? I just filled mine and not noticing any difference.

[@DragonBuilds]

Yep, you keep it closed once you are done.

[@jasono2139]

Did you fill it with the correct amount? Over-filling refrigerant is just as bad as all of it leaking out!

[@potaylo]

I’ve got several non working dehumidifiers and want to try this but the gases are labeled R22 9.9oz on the old Kenmore and The Toshiba is R410A/6.88oz/0.195kg Can I use the 134a ?

[@DragonBuilds]

You cannot use 134a in an R22 system, but they sell R22 substitutes.

[@bruce7259]

Are we suppose to permanently leave the piercing valve connected or do we patch that little hole we made ?

[@DragonBuilds]

The piercing valve can be permanently left in place.

[@erik_dk842]

@@DragonBuilds It must be.

[@DragonBuilds]

@@erik_dk842 It is removable, but if you remove it all the refrigerant will leak out as it leaves a hole in the pipe.

[@erik_dk842]

@@DragonBuilds Exactly my point

[@sykotictendencies6032]

This is a sealed system the only correct way would be find and fix the leak recover the refrigerant pull a vacuum and recharge by the weight on the name plate . Those supco piercing valves however are meant as a permanent placement and if done right won’t leak .

[@DragonBuilds]

Well it's been a year and the fridge is still working great, so...

[@ZERONEINNOVATIONS]

My old fridge (probably 20yrs old) at my rent home, I had to refill the freon every 2 years. I think that's good enough for a $5+$10 job. It definitely gives you time to look for a new fridge. it's not like I have to buy it tomorrow or I can't cook.

[@IDAHOJAKE]

Ya this is annoying when customers call em after doing this. You don’t just add refrigerant. You fixed the leak most likely rusted out condenser coils. This may be a short term fix. Then they call me and I ask why is there a piercing valve on the charge pipe? They often say nobody touched it. lol you gotta check low and high side pressure. Let’s hear back if it’s still working?

[@yousefagila234]

Thank you, nice video. Excellent and helpful video.

[@potaylo]

Dumb question alert with the 3 copper pipes going into the compressor or if theres only 2 how do you choose which pipe to pierce?

[@DragonBuilds]

You always want to pierce the low side which will be larger diameter and will feel cold to the touch when the system is running.

[@smassicot]

I have a Danby Silhouette under counter dual zone wine cooler and beverage center that has been diagnosed with a freon leak. I was told that it is a sealed system and cannot be repaired so I should toss the unit and buy another unit. Will your repair work on this unit?

[@DragonBuilds]

You can always give it a try!

[@vladimirdzodzak5589]

How much money the jig on the tube? where I can buy it? forexample ali etc... thank you answer.

[@DragonBuilds]

It is called a refrigerant piercing valve. You can buy them online or at some hardwares tores.

[@wraithTAS]

Dude goes right past the adapter. Where do you get that? What kind of adapter is it? I bought everything mentioned but there was no adapter imcluded. Help?

[@DragonBuilds]

The adapter is a 1/4" SAE x 13 mm R134a quick connect adapter. You can also eliminate the need for an adapter by getting a can tap hose with a 1/4" SAE thread.

[@wraithTAS]

@@DragonBuilds yup I ordered the first one bc I wasn’t able to find anything that would work at Home Depot. We’ll see how it works in a fee days. Thanks!

[@EastCobbTodd]

Thank you!

[@rickmiller1257]

Is R-134a the "replacement" gas for Freon?

[@runwayray]

Freon is a product name for the refrigerant. Like shell or Mobile names its gasoline. Freon is 134-A. . Refrigerator use 134-A refrigerant so do most cars. Home AC uses R22, R410A. New refrigerant are coming on to the market replacing 410A. R22 has been faded out.

[@natew.5511]

"Freon" was the name trademarked by DuPont in the early 1930s for the then new dichlodiflouromethane refrigerants R-11 and R-12. Today "freon" is sometimes used as a generic term for any refrigerant.

[@68pishta68]

quite a few comments on puncturing the coils while using an ice pick or screwdriver to chip ice, NOOOO! jut turn the darn thing off! Pour hot water over the ice formations if that is too slow. I got a fridge that just won get cold on the bottom as the cooling is all on top freezer portion. Freezer works fine with some ice formation but the fridge portion gets cold from the freezer via a adjustable air channel, like a conduit fromt he top and its always icing closed. ITs an old refer, about 20 years. Do you think Im just low?

[@johnmichaels4749]

Thank you this helped your a hero ❤

[@ToolManTaylor]

Where did you get the 134A refrigerant?

[@DragonBuilds]

I got it from AutoZone.

[@davidtrinh-df5hr]

You can by it in auto parts

[@patrickwetzel9576]

Walmart

[@wolfiemcqueen647]

Walmart and O’Reillys auto had it.

[@ozals.3913]

I just bought a second-hand mini fridge but it makes loud noise. I don't know how old is it? I've waited 6-7 hours before plug in to power after transport side way in the car.

[@DragonBuilds]

@@ozals.3913 Is it still cooling despite the noise and what kind of noise is it?

[@keithm1273]

I got a free refrigerator from a place I deliver to and after some inspection I found that someone had attempted to put Freon in it but they didn’t know what line to add the Freon so they tried to put it in both the high line and the low line. Is there any way to fix this without being very expensive?

[@DragonBuilds]

If they damaged the high side line then you will need to repair that section of tubing by brazing it.

[@IgnacioArceo-b7g]

So blue side is okay?

[@samanthony4967]

What is the part number for quick connect adapter? Thanks

[@DragonBuilds]

The adapter came with the pressure gauge and hose assembly

[@MrDmotor]

Is that automotive refrigerant ?

[@leonardoaraujo8481]

How do you know you don’t have a leak?

[@6StringMasterBuilder]

You should put the valve on the stub (right side), not the return line.

[@DragonBuilds]

They are connected internally so it doesn't really matter.

[@DragonBuilds]

@@timusa3937 Nobody will go through the trouble of replacing a compressor on a cheapo mini fridge.

[@6StringMasterBuilder]

@@timusa3937- exactly - it is not a good idea to place it on the suction line. That is what the stub is for.

[@qc6379]

@DragonBuilds, from what I’ve read some automotive r-134a has other junk in it does that not effect the fridge? Also how do you know how much psi to get? I have a converted system from r-12 and am unsure if I should do the original pressure or the pressure of the new compressor.

[@DragonBuilds]

Most automotive R-134a should be fine for a fridge. If you converted a system from R-12 you should use the pressure of the new compressor. However, this does seem unusual as most R-12 retrofits do not replace the compressor.

[@jean-christophegrujon807]

How do you that using R134a refridgerent? Looking on line it looks like refrigerators use R410.

[@DragonBuilds]

The process is the same for R410 or any refrigerant. You just have to use a different gauge and refrigerant

[@gabrielpichardo1492]

How do I know what refrigerant to use?

[@DragonBuilds]

The back of the refrigerator will have a label that states which type of refrigerant to use. Some refrigerants like R-12 are no longer produced but they make replacements.

[@kowboyinkorea]

Does anyone know why my pressure gauge is reading 70 psi when I open up the piercing valve to get an initial read? Definitely not showing up as negative pressure. I’m 99% positive I’m installed on the suction line.

[@teds1774]

If the compressor is not running, the pressure throughout the system will be the same. It will be the vapor pressure of the refrigerant which is around 70 psi at room temperature. To read the suction side pressure, the compressor must be running AND the piercing valve open AND the can valve closed.

[@dutch1589]

well made video

[@chris2902010]

What about when there's a restriction on the system 😊

[@riverbottomband]

Which line do you tap? There are 3 off of the Compressor.

[@DragonBuilds]

The line that is squeezed off at the end is for the initial factory fill. Of the other two lines, you will want to tap the thicker line. Do not tap the thinner one, it is the high-pressure side.

[@riverbottomband]

@@DragonBuilds thank you.

[@xenoshade8997]

@@DragonBuilds Is there any reason you cant use the crimped factory line? For example, if my fridge loop is completely empty, could i just solder a quick connect to the factory line and charge from that?

[@DragonBuilds]

@@xenoshade8997 You could use the crimped factory line but it would require pulling a vacuum on the system after the repair.

[@davidtrinh-df5hr]

You connect it to low pressure line

[@michaeld954]

What was the total

[@38tonystarks]

I’ve done the steps but it’s getting warmer than cooler, anyway you can tell me why is that?

[@Lovelifeatallcosts]

I can

[@Lovelifeatallcosts]

Cause it didn't work 😂

[@Lovelifeatallcosts]

Just kidding

[@fonz9456]

Wouldn't it be beneficial to put a vacuum pump on the bleeding valve first to completely void out the old refrigerant?

[@DragonBuilds]

There's nothing wrong with the old refrigerant so there's no need to remove it.

[@justice5793]

​@DragonBuilds what about adding air to the system? even the little bit that's in the hose I've heard is bad?

[@Ptiou99]

​​@justice5793 he talks about it starting at 5:00

[@MaxWon56]

Many thanks!!

[@1GEP]

The 134a refrigerant is for automotive use you can use it but the system needs to be evacuated

[@kushpaladin]

well shucks. i have this same fridge, accidentally put a hole in the freezer trying to pry off ice. i heard the thing hiss gas, turned it off and patched the hole with JB weld. but now the thing won't get cold. looks like i'll have to add refridgerant because i seem to have lost it when i poked a hole in it

[@DragonBuilds]

You could try it but I doubt the JB-Weld will hold up very well. It won't hurt to try though!

[@stewart9723]

You should invert the can

[@elsyleeolga]

Hello! I have a question. I did not know I had an R600A compressor and I used the R134A. I turned it on and it did not cool. The compressor still turns on. Can I still get the R134A out and use R600A or did i completely mess it up? Thank you Elisse

[@DragonBuilds]

If you put R134a in a system designed for R600a all the refrigerant must be removed and the system recharged with 600a. This isn't really something you can fix yourself unfortunately, that's why it is important to check the label before adding refrigerant.

[@elsyleeolga]

@@DragonBuilds Hi! Thank you so much for your reply. Will the compressor and system work fine after the R134a is removed or does that cause damage to the actual system? Also, if there is any R134A residue left that was not efficiently taken out will that have any effect when mixed with the R600a? I really appreciate your time and information. Thank you again, Elisse

[@DragonBuilds]

@@elsyleeolga There is a chance that the system has been damaged, I would consult with a professional for advice.

[@michaelmckenna9022]

One should recover the refrigerant, remove the piercing fitting and braze on an access fitting, then test for leaks, repair any leaks in the system, vacuum the system down, recharge with real gauges using saturated temperatures and not pressures,

[@alexsalazar5028]

Those fridges allways have leak on the internal condenser, yup that heat do you feel on the fridge external wall thats the condenser, if you add more refrigerant and you have a small leak on that hig pressure, you goin to make bigger hole and you need to add refrigerant so often

[@preacherman9018]

Thank you sir for the detailed and clear instructions. I did not know that there was a tapping valve for these systems to DIY. I was wondering if you know if the same one works for a can of R12 for systems that use that refrigerant?

[@DragonBuilds]

The same tapping valve will work with an R12 system but you will need to fill your system with the proper refrigerant, most likely a modern R12 replacement.

[@preacherman9018]

@@DragonBuilds I appreciate that. I plan to get one as soon as I determine if my system requires it. The external sides of the chest freezer are warm, but inside it won't cool below 15°F. I just replaced the relay. Here's a short video that I hope is as much a blessing to you as it is to me. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXLTfmB-lquibJI

[@paulatudor691]

Unless you stored up R12 you can’t purchase it in the USA . Mexico will sell it to you then confiscate it at the border.

[@QuackZack]

Why use a pressure gauge instead of a scale on the freon canister and use the weight difference method? More accurate way to see how much you filled.

[@saraedlemon2632]

How do I vent out pressure?

[@Rico-oy3dc]

You must have EPA-601 card and recover refrigerant.

[@Jeralddoerr]

You can legally remove R-600a and R-441a without a license as it is not harmful to the atmosphere. The valve he is using is technically for removing refrigerant but people are using them to add refrigerant without having to solder tubes. Be careful as that refrigerant is flammable. But you can use that valve and a house to vent to an outside widow.

[@TheSimba86]

downside to those valves is they eventually work loose from the vibration and leak

[@DragonBuilds]

That's true, but it still allows you to get a few more years out of a failing refrigerator.

[@illiniwood]

Can't you just use thread locker on the screws?

[@DragonBuilds]

Yeah that would be a good idea.

[@quattrohead]

Mine has not leaked in 4 years, garage fridge in Florida so it gets the sheet beaten out of it !!!!

[@averageguy1261]

Why would freon leak out of a fridge in the first place?

[@jasono2139]

It wouldn't... Because FREON isn't used anymore! 🤦 R12 (freon) has been long gone.

[@jdub5413]

R134a refrigerant is still widely used, however the EPA will fine you $10,000 for doing this if you are not certified for refrigerant recovery.

[@jasono2139]

@jdub5413 yeah... you clearly have no clue what you're talking about. R134a is sold everywhere and nobody is checking to see if anyone buying a can of R134a from Autozone or Walmart has any certifications before using it. 🤦

[@averageguy1261]

@@jasono2139 The creator did say, "colloquially" speaking. Just going off of what he said. But thanks anyways.

[@jasono2139]

@@averageguy1261 and it's "colloquially" wrong... just like calling every truck a "Silverado" or every beer a "lager" would be equally stupid. 🤦

[@Mitgardxxl]

I build the Vent in the wrong pipe... on the WaRm pipe ... the messurement was very far in the Red danger Zone... what now ? ... when Machine was turned off, than everythings looks good. But when i turned the machine on, than i reach the middl of the red District... :(

[@DragonBuilds]

If you put the piercing valve on the high-pressure side, you can install another one on the low-pressure side and add refrigerant through the low-pressure side. The valve cannot be removed once installed.

[@Mitgardxxl]

@@DragonBuilds Thank you so much. That is a good idea.

[@marioherrera3070]

Ok question I'm a dork I was chipping 0:15 the freezer ice out and stabbed the copper tube witch put a little hole in it and all the freon leaked😢 can it be sealed with anything? Or am I just screwed

[@DragonBuilds]

If you put a hole in the copper tube it is time for a new refrigerator. It could be fixed with careful soldering or brazing but it is probably not worth the trouble.

[@caiobabe]

Im kinda amazed....I have not seen 134 used in anything other than automotive.

[@DragonBuilds]

Many small refrigerators use R-134a.

[@wellingtonappliance6778]

HUH, its been used in all sorts of Refrigerators, freezers

[@sykotictendencies6032]

Big fridges use it too

[@deckard5pegasus673]

This seems wrong. From my understanding, you have to connect a vaccum to the the system, to make sure there is no air nor humidity in the circuit. Just adding freon, really doesn't fix anything, because if it's low on freon, then most likely there is a leak to fix in the cicuit also.

[@wellingtonappliance6778]

It's very wrong, also never use 134a meant for automobiles on a refrigerator

[@quattrohead]

@@wellingtonappliance6778 Older fridges used 134A, exact same as cars. Newer units will be different, check the info plate fitted to every single refrigerant device made.

[@dcloes67]

@@wellingtonappliance6778 My fridge uses 134a. I'm assuming it depends on its age.

[@gabrielpichardo1492]

Where would he attach the vacuum part?

[@MyllerSWE]

​@@gabrielpichardo1492 On the puncture valve or brace a valve on the clamped off end on the compressor.

[@Zoom-47]

Where can I buy that tapping valve ?

[@DragonBuilds]

I got mine from supplyhouse.com, but Amazon also sells them. Make sure to get a genuine Supco bullet piercing valve, many of the knockoffs don't seal well.