Carrier ComfortPro APU refrigeration unit on a semi truck

Recharge by diagnosis, vacuum, and measured weight

APU Recharge Service

A proper APU recharge is not a quick top-off. We recover refrigerant when required, vacuum test for moisture and leaks, recharge by weight, and verify temperature split under real sleeper conditions.

Refrigerants
R-134a, R-404A, custom applications
Brands
Thermo King, Carrier, RigMaster, Dynasys
Service
Recharge, repair, leak checks, diagnostics

Recharge service

APU recharge

APU Recharge helps drivers get cooling back without guessing. If the system is simply low, we recharge it correctly. If the charge leaked out because of a damaged hose, condenser, service valve, or fitting, we help find that before the same problem returns.

01

Recover and identify

We confirm the refrigerant type and recover refrigerant when required before opening the APU recharge process.

02

Leak and vacuum check

Vacuum testing helps remove air and moisture while exposing leaks that would waste the new charge.

03

Recharge by target

Service can include R-134a, R-404A, and custom refrigerant applications. The tech charges according to the equipment data and verified operating behavior.

04

Verify cold air

Final checks include vent temperature, compressor cycling, fan operation, pressure behavior, and customer notes.

APU freon recharge manifold gauge service
Gauge readings are interpreted with airflow, ambient temperature, and unit condition.

Better method

Why not just top it off?

A quick top-off may get cold air for a moment, but it can miss the leak, overcharge the system, or leave moisture inside. A professional recharge protects the compressor and gives dispatch better repair data.

  1. Check for oil and dye clues Oily fittings, service ports, condenser rub points, or repaired hoses can reveal where the charge escaped.
  2. Watch high-side behavior High pressure can point toward condenser airflow, overcharge, restriction, or fan operation problems.
  3. Watch low-side behavior Low suction can point toward charge level, restriction, metering, evaporator airflow, or freeze conditions.
  4. Document next steps If a leak or failed part is found, the driver gets a practical repair path instead of another short-lived recharge.

FAQ

Questions drivers ask before dispatch

Straight answers help avoid the wrong truck, wrong refrigerant, or wrong tool showing up.

How do you know how much refrigerant to add?

We use the unit data plate, manufacturer information when available, and operating readings. The goal is charge accuracy, not pressure-only guessing.

Can you recharge an APU that is completely empty?

Often yes, but a flat system should be leak checked before charging. Moisture and air inside the circuit can damage performance.

Do you handle custom applications?

Yes. Dispatch should know the refrigerant type, unit brand, and any custom sleeper, reefer, or auxiliary cooling details before sending a tech.

Call 800-554-0539