How do you charge a window air conditioner?

Answer 1

This is a commonly asked question, but the simplest answer is: You don't recharge window air conditioners, since they are hermetically sealed at the factory and have no valves or ports for servicing in the field. If the unit needs more refrigerant, it needs to be checked for leaks, not just to be recharged!

If the unit is over 10 years old and has been used extensively, the compressor may simply be worn out, in which case it's time to get a replacement air conditioner.

The best advice anyone should give you is to call a licensed HVAC technician to do this job for you. For personal safety reasons only technicians who are licensed to work on HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) should do this kind of work, because they have the right test equipment and tools and have been trained in how to do this work safely.