How to Use Arctic Air for R-22 Systems – The Complete Guide
When your air conditioning isn’t cooling like it used to, it’s not always a refrigerant problem. Sometimes, moisture and friction inside the system are the real culprits. That’s where Arctic Air for R-22 systems comes in. This dual-action formula works as both an AC booster and a drying agent, giving your system colder air, longer life, and fewer leak issues.
In this post, we’ll cover:
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✅ What Arctic Air is (and what it isn’t)
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✅ How it works inside your AC system
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✅ The benefits you’ll notice
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✅ Detailed directions for use
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✅ Important safety warnings and best practices
❄️ What Is Arctic Air?
Arctic Air is not a refrigerant. It’s a performance additive specifically made for R-22 systems. Instead of replacing refrigerant, it helps optimize what’s already there by:
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Removing moisture (which causes corrosion and leaks)
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Reducing friction (so parts last longer and run smoother)
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Delivering colder duct air temps in most cases
Think of it like a “tune-up in a can” for your R-22 AC system.
⚡ How Arctic Air Works
Arctic Air combines two proven Enviro-Safe additives into one powerful solution:
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Drying Agent: Pulls moisture out of the system to stop corrosion before it leads to pinhole leaks.
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AC Booster: Coats internal surfaces, reducing friction, lowering head pressure, and improving airflow temperatures.
Moisture = corrosion. Corrosion = leaks. Nobody wants that. By tackling both at once, Arctic Air helps your system stay colder and last longer.
🌬️ Benefits of Using Arctic Air
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Colder Air: See noticeable improvements in duct temperature output.
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Leak Prevention: Keeps moisture from eating away at your system.
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Extended Life: Less friction = less wear = longer service life.
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Efficiency Boost: Helps your AC work smarter, not harder.
📖 Directions for Use
⚠️ Important Safety Note:
Always read and understand all warnings before use. As with any flammable substance, take proper precautions when handling and charging your system.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Shake Well – Shake the can thoroughly before use.
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Prepare Equipment – Install the can tap valve and connect the charging hose.
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Connect to System – Attach the charging hose to the low-pressure service port only.
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Invert the Can – Hold the can upside down to allow proper product flow.
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Dispense Product – Install the entire contents of the can into the system.
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Run the AC – Operate the system for 30 minutes at normal cooling temperature to circulate the product.
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For Excess Moisture – If your system contains excessive moisture, use ProDry in addition to Arctic Air.
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Dispose Properly – Discard empty cans in accordance with all local disposal rules and regulations.
⚠️ Additional Note
If an air conditioning system charged with Enviro-Safe refrigerant develops a leak, it is recommended to evacuate any refrigerant before adding dye, oil charge, or installing new refrigerant.
🔧 Final Thoughts
If you want colder air, fewer leaks, and longer life out of your R-22 system, Arctic Air is an easy, effective solution. With its dual-action formula, it does more than just “boost” your AC — it protects it from the inside out.
Adding Arctic Air is a simple process that most technicians and DIYers can handle with basic tools. The result? A smoother-running system and colder air when you need it most.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How many cans of Arctic Air do I need?
Most residential R-22 systems will use one to two cans, depending on system size and condition. Always follow pressure readings and manufacturer recommendations when charging.
Q2: Can I use Arctic Air in systems other than R-22?
No. Arctic Air is designed specifically for R-22 air conditioning systems. It is not compatible with R-410a, R-134a, or other refrigerants.
Q3: Is Arctic Air a refrigerant?
No. Arctic Air is not a refrigerant. It is an additive designed to boost cooling performance, remove moisture, reduce friction, and extend system life.
Q4: Can Arctic Air fix leaks in my system?
Arctic Air does not seal leaks. However, by removing moisture and reducing corrosion, it helps prevent leaks from forming in the first place.
Q5: When should I add Arctic Air?
Arctic Air should only be added when your system is not fully charged. Never add it to a completely full system. It’s best used during maintenance, recharge, or repair service.
Q6: Do I need ProDry with Arctic Air?
In systems with excessive moisture, ProDry may be required in addition to Arctic Air for maximum effectiveness.
Q7: Can a DIYer install Arctic Air, or do I need a technician?
If you have the proper tools (charging hose, gauge, and safety gear) and are comfortable working with AC systems, you may install Arctic Air yourself. However, if you are unsure, it’s always safest to have a licensed HVAC technician perform the service.
Q8: How soon will I notice results?
Most users see results in 15–30 minutes of operation, with colder duct air temps and smoother system performance.