I am very much a DIY'er and doing my own HVAC repairs have never been out of the question. Actually, I have rebuilt a couple of systems, less the pressurized parts of the system.
HVACs are great until they aren't and the need for repairs always comes up at the worst possible time. It would be nice to know more details for those reasons.
If you ignore the direct question about charging an HVAC, there could actually be a small, slow leak in my system as it stands. That'll get troubleshot in due time. (Still, I don't think I have ever had a system that didn't need the system to be topped off after a few years, even with no detectable leaks...)
It doesn't seem difficult: Ensure system is at correct temperature; attach a gauge; depressurize/pressurize as needed.
There has to be some "gotchas" in there somewhere. The equipment is cheap enough and I am fairly sure I can source the correct refrigerant easy enough.
Aside from needing to store and manage a small supply of refrigerant and that there are some annoying risks (like a system freezing over, etc..), what cost factor and equipment am I not taking into account?
You most likely won't be able to get the refrigerant through legitimate channels
I think you can get refrigerant from most gas supply stores, usually the same business sells welding supplies. I know you can exchange full bottles for empty there but I don't know about the reverse.
If you live in the US you cannot legally purchase most domestic refrigerant without EPA Section 608 certification. Many supply houses will ask to see your cert card if they don't recognize you.
Ok, I wasn't aware of that.