So let me start by saying that this is directed as those of us who actually live-in, and understand the world of "I cannot afford to take it to a repair shop".

Questions:

If you can see UV dye / yellow on the bottom plug of the compressor and/or you can see compressor oil spots/stains on the pavement where a car sits for a long time - is there any doubt that refrigerant has leaked out of that same location?

If the system has dropped from blowing like it should - to operating at a consistent, but poor level of approximately 25-30% of normal (that is to say it blows just cool air and takes a hell of a long time to get there) - is there a risk of blowing the current size of the leak even worse/larger by adding refrigerant so that instead of improving the situation, you end up worse than where you were?

Has anyone here used one of those cans of r134a and had it fix the problem? If so - how long had it been since you last had refrigerant added prior to doing this and how long did the fix last for you?

Just for info - it has been 9 years since anything was last done to my AC system including the refrigerant.

Thanks.

 

If you have a leak, you need to fix it or it will just continue with issue you have. If you suspect oil, under the compressor, put a set of gauges to see if it's making pressure, if it isn't you'll need to fix, and recharge the system. I had a problem with mine a few years ago, with dyed refrigerent, couldn't find it. Replaced the compressor due to bearing squalling turns out both suction, discharge O rings on the compressor was the original problem, quite possible the same issue with you. I understand the no money part, but you are really going to have to check the compressor pressure.

 

You can add refrigerant if leak is small, say charge last 3-6 months.
Lots of people do and its a cheap up front fix.
If you need the air and can't afford a shop or DIY tools/time, go for it.

Adding refrigerant: Compressor has built in pressure protection and any leaks will just continue to leak if not fixed.