pipedream

The only way to properly check for a problem is with a set of gauges. It could be a leak, it could be the compressor or a lot of other reasons. The gauges will tell you if the problem lies with the freon or someplace else. The problem is if you don't know what you are doing you probably wont find the problem unless you get lucky. You said you checked it again later and it still had pressure so a leak is most likely not the problem. When you add freon on a hot day it is difficult because the cans become bound up and the only way you can get them to work is by putting them in a pan of water while filling the system. You can only check the pressure when the compressor is operating. You may find you might have to evacuate the system and set up a vacuum pump and bring the system down to specs before you can install new freon. Good luck and I hope your able to fix the problem.....

Lease87

More than likely the refrigerant was low, but when you hooked up the bottle it forced the air from the lines into the system. You need to vacuum the system out, (if you're using the bottle) make sure you get the air out, and then recharge. Or go somewhere have them do that, but add dye when you do the recharge. There are far too many o-rings to play the guessing game in ACADEMY. Lol. Good luck!