Tried AC for the first time this year and it won't get cold

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Tried AC for the first time this year and it won't get cold

I have a window unit AC from Walmart that I only have installed for a month or two in the summer.

Never had any issues.

I installed it last night and ran it all night, it never got cold.

I tried cleaning the filter, messing with the temp knob on the front, nothing.

Basically it's just a fan right now.

I hear the "whine" of what sounds like a compressor kicking in but no cold air.

Is this something I can troubleshoot? If not and I have to buy a new unit, is this worth anything on craigslist for parts or repair?

Question from user ShabazzCBD at AirConditioners at reddit.

It sounds like there might be an issue with the cooling system of your window unit AC. While there are a few things you can try to troubleshoot the problem, keep in mind that working with electrical appliances can be dangerous, and if you're not comfortable or experienced in doing so, it's best to contact a professional technician for assistance. However, here are some basic troubleshooting steps you can attempt:

1. Power and settings check: First, ensure that the unit is receiving power and that the settings are correct. Make sure it's plugged in properly and that the temperature and mode settings are appropriate for cooling.

   
   

2. Clean the coils: Dust and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils, hindering the unit's cooling efficiency. Turn off the unit, unplug it, and carefully clean the coils with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner.

   
   

3. Check for ice buildup: Sometimes, excessive ice buildup on the evaporator coils can block airflow and prevent cooling. If you suspect this is the issue, turn off the unit and let it thaw completely before trying again.

   
   

4. Inspect the compressor and fan: If you're comfortable with basic electrical troubleshooting, you can inspect the compressor and fan for any visible damage. Ensure that the fan is spinning freely and that there are no loose or damaged wires.

   
   

5. Check the refrigerant: Low refrigerant levels could be the cause of the AC not cooling properly. However, refrigerant handling requires specialized equipment, so it's not something you can easily do yourself. A professional technician will need to check the refrigerant levels and recharge the system if necessary.

   
   

If none of these troubleshooting steps work, and you're not able to fix the issue yourself, it might be time to consider getting a new unit. As for selling the non-functioning unit on Craigslist, there might be some people who are interested in buying it for parts or repair. However, don't expect to get a high price for it, as it's not functioning correctly. Be honest about the issues when listing it for sale.

Before disposing of or selling a broken unit, consider checking if there are any local recycling or electronics disposal programs available. It's always best to dispose of electronic devices responsibly to minimize environmental impact.