I was looking for information on how disconnect the two halves of a split air conditioning unit without losing any freon. I'm not sure if the manual I have explains the installation since it is in español but I'm looking for general information for all mfgs.

Basically, the airco comes with the inside and outside halves separated and capped with the full freon charge in the condenser. During installation the copper tubing is connected between the halves and the unit is bled to remove air using the compressor of the unit and a set of airco gauges.

It is also possible to "suck" all the freon back into the condenser/compressor leaving the evaporator dry. This is used for disassembling the unit for moving or for cleaning the inside unit.

Does anyone have detailed instructions on how to separate the units without losing freon and to reinstall them? I have gauges and have recharged units before but have never worked on a split unit.

Thanks much.

Obviously I am not an HVAC technician or I would not be asking these questions. I have fixed leaks in auto airco and recharged and I have also added freon to home units that were low and freezing up.

As far as what I'm capable of, I'm a network systems engineer, have worked as an auto mechanic, have remodeled my own homes, added additions, done major plumbing work, have rewired my own homes and replace electrical service panels (which by the way passed code from an inspector) so I am plenty capable. I fully understand how airco works although I haven't done much in the way of service.

My original post is based on seeing what others have done. I live on a small island and unlike living where there are a multitude of HVAC professionals, there's not a whole lot of difference between the skill level of the service engineer who comes out and overcharges you for simple maintenance and the average Joe with a decent aptitude for hands on. (This is by no means meant to be a slam on a qualified trained professional, but we don't have the luxury of having many of them down here and usually who you wind up with is someone who just barely knows what they are doing.)

So, set me straight; that's why I'm asking questions.

I'm sorry; the previous post was not meant to be negative in any way. You asked a question and I answered. That's the problem with email, postings, memos, etc. There's no tone of voice. I just reread my posting and could see how as a whole it could be taken incorrectly. I also understand the CMA. I apologize for any misconception.

Okay now that we are on the same page. :)

1. Attach the gauge manifold to the high and low side charging ports on the condensing unit.

2. Remove the caps to gain access to the service valves. You will need allen wrenches to turn them as they are recessed.

3. Run the unit and gradually close down the high side service valve, while watching the low side, gradually close the low side until guage starts to lower. DO NOT bring into a vacuum. @ 2psi., shut electric disconnect and shut low service valve.

That's helpful. Please read the third paragraph of my second post (the third in the thread) then comment again.