If the A/C system has been opened for more than two minutes, what should be done?

When an A/C system is opened for more than two minutes, the correct action is to evacuate the system completely. This is essential because opening the system exposes it to ambient air, which contains moisture and other contaminants. If these substances enter the system, they can compromise the functionality and efficiency of the A/C unit.

Evacuating the system involves using a vacuum pump to remove air and moisture. This process helps ensure that the refrigerant operates effectively and prevents potential freezing or damage to the components, such as the compressor or evaporator. Proper evacuation also helps maintain the longevity and reliability of the system.

While recovering refrigerant is an important step when servicing, it does not fully address the issues caused by opening the system to the outside environment. Installing a new accumulator is not necessarily required unless the existing one is damaged or contaminated. Cleaning the system with solvent is also not a standard practice and could potentially introduce more issues. Thus, evacuating the system completely is the best course of action to ensure optimal performance and system integrity.