Go With the Flow: A/C Expansion Valves and Orifice Tubes
Expansion Valves: The expansion valve is a complex valve which regulates refrigerant flow at the evaporator inlet with an internal moving rod mechanism. This rod opens and closes to differing heights based upon the cooling burden put upon the system. This process of metering modulates the flow according to the temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator coil. Too much refrigerant could cause the evaporator to get too cold and even freeze up the coils.
Should I Save Money and Use a Propane or Butane Refrigerant in My Auto A/C?
Short answer: No. Long answer: There is a reason FJC has never sold propane, ammonia, butane, or blends of them to use as refrigerants—because they are not safe. Propane , Butane, and Ammonia are highly flammable hydrocarbons. Here are several reasons to NEVER use flammable refrigerants in your vehicle: They’re illegal under the EPA’s 2017 Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) Policy: “The SNAP program evaluates and lists substitutes that reduce overall risk to human health
How Much Refrigerant is the Right Amount to Add?
A question we hear often is, “How do I know how much refrigerant to add to my car’s A/C?” Stated simply, it depends. (1) It depends on the car. Most cars will hold between 28 and 32 ounces of refrigerant (or about 2-3 12oz cans), however larger vehicles and those with rear A/C will likely hold more. Check your vehicle manual for proper system capacities. Remember that you will most likely have some refrigerant left in