After you have determined you have a sealed system problem you will need to recover the refrigerant in the system first, and in the case of R134 you will need to recover it properly to a recovery tank.
The only time the valves should be open is if you are removing or adding something to the system.
Attach Hoses:
Piercing valve on the process port at the Compressor (Low Side Hose).
Piercing Pliers on the Drier (High Side Hose).
(You may also use another type of access valve; these are just an example of the Piercing Pliers application).
DONOTLEAVETHETEMPORARY TAP VALVES ONTHEUNIT.
Hoses Attached to the Recovery Pump and Hoses Attached to the System.
(Recover all refrigerant fully before proceeding to repair).