AC Not Cooling? Here's When You Can Demand A Full Refund From The Company

Last Updated:June 12, 2026, 19:04 IST

If your AC doesn't cool despite repeated repairs, Indian consumer laws may entitle you to a refund, replacement and compensation.

With temperatures soaring across India, air conditioners have become an essential household appliance. But what happens if a newly purchased AC fails to cool properly despite repeated repairs?

Consumer courts in India have repeatedly held that buyers are entitled to refunds, replacements or compensation when a product fails to perform its basic function. A recent Delhi consumer court order directing a company to refund ₹1.14 lakh for a defective AC has once again highlighted consumer rights in such cases.

When Can You Ask for a Refund?

Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, consumers can seek relief if a product suffers from a manufacturing defect, deficiency in service or fails to perform as advertised.

You may have grounds to seek a refund if:

• The AC does not cool properly despite correct installation.
• The company repeatedly fails to repair the defect.
• The same issue persists after multiple service visits.
• The product does not match the specifications or performance promised by the manufacturer.
• The company refuses to repair, replace or adequately address the complaint.

Consumer courts generally look at whether the appliance is fulfilling its primary purpose. In the case of an air conditioner, that purpose is effective cooling.

What Should You Do First?

Before demanding a refund, consumers should create a record of the problem.

Experts recommend:

• Keeping the purchase invoice and warranty documents.
• Recording service requests and complaint numbers.
• Saving emails, WhatsApp messages and communication with customer care.
• Taking photos or videos showing the issue if possible.
• Allowing the company a reasonable opportunity to inspect and repair the appliance.

These documents can become crucial evidence if the matter reaches a consumer forum.

Can the Company Refuse a Refund?

Companies often offer repairs before agreeing to a replacement or refund.

However, if the defect continues despite multiple repair attempts, consumer courts may conclude that the company has failed to provide a functional product.

In several cases, courts have directed manufacturers to provide:

• Full refunds
• Replacement units
• Compensation for mental harassment
• Litigation costs

The exact relief depends on the facts of each case.

Where Can Consumers File a Complaint?

Consumers can approach the Consumer Commission having jurisdiction over their area.

Complaints can also be filed online through the National Consumer Helpline and the e-Daakhil portal, which allows consumers to submit cases electronically without visiting the commission physically.

For claims involving defective appliances, courts often examine service records, expert reports and correspondence between the customer and the company.

What Compensation Can You Get?

Apart from a refund or replacement, consumer courts can award compensation for:

• Mental agony and inconvenience
• Deficiency in service
• Unfair trade practices
• Litigation expenses

In some cases, companies have also been directed to pay interest on the refunded amount.

Know Your Rights

Consumer rights experts say buyers should not assume that repeated repairs are the only option available.

If a newly purchased AC continues to malfunction and the company fails to resolve the issue within a reasonable time, Indian consumers have the legal right to seek a replacement, compensation or even a full refund through the consumer dispute redressal mechanism.

The key is maintaining proper documentation and acting promptly when problems arise.

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