Before consulting a mechanic for an air-conditioner condenser replacement on your vehicle, flush the condenser with an approved flushing solvent. This saves time and money. The performance of your entire air-conditioning system will improve after oil and other contaminants have been removed from the condenser and it is refilled with refrigerant. However, you might need to purchase a new evaporator and hoses if the compressor has failed. Renting the flushing equipment to complete the condenser flush might be the best option. The equipment is pretty expensive, but a discount auto parts store might have the equipment for rent at a reasonable price. Whether you buy or rent, be sure to flush only the condenser.
Disconnect the refrigerant lines from the condenser to be flushed. Remove the hoses and the expansion valve or accumulator.
Prepare the flush solvent. Mix with the recommended amount of water in a separate container. Use 1 gallon of the mixture for best results.
Attach the hose, gun, and adapters to the tank, and position the catch pan of the flushing equipment. Then connect the equipment to the condenser to begin flushing.
Flush the condenser for at least 15 minutes to remove the debris. Apply 90 to 125 pounds-per-square-inch of pressurized air to the condenser for at least 30 minutes. All residual solvent must be evaporated from the condenser.
Install the new evaporator orifice to the proper position according to the manufacturer's instructions, if the compressor has failed.
Install the new refrigerant hoses according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Disconnect the serviced condenser from the flushing equipment, and reconnect the condenser to the proper position according to the parts diagram of the vehicle's owner's manual.
Vacuum the entire air-conditioning system using high pressure for 30 to 40 minutes to evacuate the system.
Turn on the ignition, and let the engine idle. Complete a leak test, and charge the air-conditioning system to ensure proper functioning.
