How to Test for Freon Leaks in Evaporator Coil
by Lee Sallings
Detecting leaks in the evaporator core of your vehicle's a/c system can be a challenge. Tucked between the firewall and the dash on the inside of the vehicle, this radiator-like component is located in the plastic evaporator case. The electronic leak detector and refrigerant leak detection dye are the two preferred methods, used by professionals, to detect leaks in the evaporator. This project is within the abilities of the home mechanic, but it does require the use of specialized tools.
Step 1
Attach the a/c gauge set to the vehicles service ports. Always follow the procedure in the service manual for your specific vehicle. The blue hose of the gauge set goes to the low-pressure side service port, and the red hose goes to the high-pressure service port. See the resources section below for a link to online service manuals, if you do not have the service manual for your vehicle.
Step 2
Add one can of refrigerant, containing leak detection dye, to the system with the engine running and the a/c controls in the vehicle set for "MAX A/C". It is important to add refrigerant only through the low-pressure side to avoid explosion of the can due to high pressure.
Step 3
Test drive for 15 minutes with a/c on "MAX A/C. This will keep the pressures up, circulate the refrigerant dye through the system and help make the leak identifiable.
Step 4
Check the condensation coming out of the condensation tube for traces of the refrigerant dye. As the evaporator leaks, the dye will collect in the evaporator case, and drip out of the condensation tube onto the ground. The condensation tube is located coming out of the firewall, below the level of the evaporator case. If there is no dye in the condesation coming out of the tube, go to the next step.
Step 5
Turn engine off and let set for 15 minutes. As the evaporator leak refrigerant, it will collect in the evaporator case, and pass into the passenger compartment through the a/c vents on the dash. Test the vent nearest the evaporator with an electronic leak detector. Always follow the manufacturer's directions for using the specific leak detector you have. If the evaporator passes both of these tests, there is no leak present, or the leak is too small to detect.
References
Things You'll Need
- A/C gauge set
- Electronic leak detector
- Refrigerant with leak-detection dye
Warnings
- Always understand and follow the manufacturers safety, and use instructions when using any auto repair equipment. This will prevent serious injuries.
Writer Bio
Lee Sallings is a freelance writer from Fort Worth, Texas. Specializing in website content and design for the automobile enthusiast, he also has many years of experience in the auto repair industry. He has written Web content for eHow, and designed the DIY-Auto-Repair.com website. He began his writing career developing and teaching automotive technical training programs.
