I know I have a leak (Uncle and repairman who charged us $400 to recharge last year verified this), but we're in the middle of a sudden heatwave and I have two small kids in the house (already made an appointment to see what kind of replacement unit we need). What do I need to recharge the system myself and how do I do it? Removing the panel, I found two of the same connectors where the coolant would go. Please advise ASAP. Thanks!

You cannot recharge the system yourself. You need to be EPA certified (license) to handle refrigerant (freon). That is the law.