Hot AC, high pressure on LP valve

[geccles]

2003 BMW 330xi

I think the AC has been working but it hasn't been very hot until now. Anyway, it does give somewhat cool air when driving but it definitely blows hot if the car is standing still.

I bought a recharge kit with a gauge and the LP valve (near the firewall) reads up around 175 psi.

I didn't add any refrigerant and I'm sure no one else has.

Any help is very much appreciated, it is hot hot hot in Boston these days.

[Manolito]

When you read 175 psi on the low pressure port, was the A/C running? You won't be able to add any freon unless it pumps down to less than a quarter of that pressure.

Does this car have a sight glass on the liquid side of the condenser so you can look for bubbles like we did in the old days?

If the AC does not work as well when it is standing still, is the electric fan in front of the radiator kicking on? If not, check to make sure you are getting power to the fan when the car is hot and the AC is running. If you are getting power but the fan does not start, either live with it or get ready to put out over $300 for a new fan. If the fan runs, it may be time to clean all the bugs, leaves, and pet hair out of the radiator and condenser.