Help! - There is what looks like a large hex cap behind the valve....

HOMEOWNER CRIES FOR HELP...

posted: September 8th, 2008 - 2:04pm

QUESTION:
There is what looks like a large hex cap behind the valve.
Is there a shutoff valve under this cap and can it be closed to fix the leak or leave closed during operation?
Someone said to check the valve core with a valve stem tool to see if it is seated. Should this be done with the A/C off and/or with the shutoff valve closed? Would it have standard threads (turn CW to tighten)?

ANSWER: There is an industry tool available to replace a valve core with minimal loss of refrigerant. You can try tightening the Schrader valve with the AC off with a tool like a bicycle or auto valve stem tool. They are the same. Only tighten snugly without much force (Clockwise to tighten).
The hex cap you mentioned covers an isolation valve for the condensing unit it is possible to shut off the two isolation valves and recover the refrigerant make a repair then vacuum and recharge, that however is a lot of work that you may not be prepared for.
If tightening the valve core does not stop your leak your best bet is to probably put pipe thread sealant on the cap threads and tighten the cap this will stop the leak for the most part.