True.. If the reason you need to add refrigerant is due to a continuous leak in your A/C line, then this would only be a temporary solution that would only fix it for a matter of weeks/months until all the r134 leaked out again. You'd continue that cycle until you actually addressed why/where the refrigerant is leaking out in the first place. If you take it to a pro, they'll run a different gas through the A/C system that's bright purple, that will show them where the leak is so they can patch it. Then they'll fill it back up with 134 again. But that's probably closing in on $200 or more for something like that.

But if you only use A/C sparingly in the summer months, $20 for a couple refill bottles that will only last through the summer months might be preferred....

It isn't possible for it to be low and not have a leak.

And the system should be evacuated and put under a vacuum then recharged to get the moisture out of the system.
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And I usually just add dye to the r134a. Our actually use a leak detector..
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You are correct sir as long as the repair happens that includes a pressure test with dry nitrogen between the evacuation and the recharging.

That's not always necessary on a system if you can find the leak.

That's is to help find a leak that isn't obvious
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Sometimes I also use it as a flush agent too. Can't ever get all the moisture out of the shop air
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The use of dry nitrogen insures that you are not wasting your time with pulling a vacuum as well as shorten the vacuum time.
No it is not a must but it is the "right" way to do the job.

These products are awesome. Get the one at AutoZone or wherever for $40 instead of $200 at the dealer. I did 2 cars recently. Worked great.

What kills me is you have to have an EPA license to purchase/handle any other type of refrigerant, but they'll sell this stuff to anyone.

I agree.

I also try to save people money if at all possible. On an obvious leak this is a way to that
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What the heck, I'm going to go to an "auto parts store" and buy one. I'm actually kind of excited to try it now. I also found out that my car has an air filter, which I didn't know about, so I'm going to get one of those, too.

You've never been to an "auto parts store" before, have you?

Oh yes, many, many times before. But, not in probably 20 years.

I'm hoping you meant "cabin air filter" because if you didn't know it had an air filter you're in trouble.

LMAO

Yes, that is what I meant.