GE window AC unit

[Jeff May]

Could use a little advise on this GE window unit.
I'm looking at a used 23,000btu GE window unit for my shop.
My main concern is when I went to look at it, the guy still had it in his window, he turned it on and it took 5 to 10 minutes for the compressor to kick on and start cooling. He claims its like that when its cooler outside, it was around 55 to 60 outside.
Is this normal? He is asking $200.00 for it, new ones that size are almost 3 times that.
Any advice or help would be appreaciated.
Thanks,
Jeff

 

[Geo-TH,In]

Some newer window A/C's have a built in delay timer, 2-3 minutes, so a small delay is common.

This time of the year there will be loads of sales on window units. I'll bet that for less than $100 more you can buy a new 24,000 on sale.

IMHO, The price of used things are over priced. I once bought a used trailer. By the time I got it all fix, wired, new tires, brakes, lights, painted it was close to the price of new and I had a 15 year old trailer.

Bought a Jubilee, by the time I got it fixed up have twice the money in it than I can sell it for.

The same with cars and trucks. I buy new cars and trucks when next years models come out. My Car and truck were discounted about 30%, which was close to what used was selling for.

Wait for sales and get a new A/C.
george

 

[Anonymous-0]

Seems a little high, but age and condition might make a difference. Most used units are usually a little cheaper. On the other side, I like the older units a little better, although they are a little pricier to operate. The new ones have a lot of plastic and are really noisy. We bought a new one for our bedroom and you can not sleep because of the noise it makes. We run it till we are ready for bed and then turn it off, and use fan. Have bought several new ones recently and all seem to be the same. As far a time for compressor to kick in, some of the newer ones do take longer, but how long I do not no for sure as temp. does make a difference.

 

[Bob - MI]

A/C units have protection for the compressor that delay the start at times. I would get the model number and see if you can find the manual for it on-line. 10 minutes does seem like a long time.

 

[Dick2]

If the unit hasn't been plugged in or turned on for awhile, it takes some time for the built-in electric heater to heat the compressor unit before it will start up. After that, it should start up if called for by the thermostat.

How old is the unit? What SEER is it? You might be better off waiting for the box stores to display their new models soon. Or check with Sam's Club if there is one in your area, although they may not sell that size unit.

 

[Steve@Advance]

I'm afraid you're about to buy someone's problem. It only delays when it's cold outside? How would he know that? Does he ever turn it on when it's cold outside? LOL

I agree with the others, wait a few weeks and buy a new one.

Depending on your needs, if this is for occasional use, or if you live in a mild climate, one from Walmart, Home Depot, Lowes, will probably be sufficient. But if you need something that is going to be worked really hard, like continuous use in a really hot shop, might want to step up to a commercial unit. Cost about double, but will last much longer, quieter, more efficient.

 

[Jeff May]

Thanks to all who responded. I decided to let this go. To old for the price, the guy wouldn't drop it any. I'll wait for a sale and grab a new one.
Thanks again,
Jeff