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When you rent a property, you expect that everything will be intact. Facing a malfunctioning air conditioning unit during your Airbnb stay can be uncomfortable and frustrating.
Don’t worry; we’re here to guide you through this unexpected situation. In this article, you’ll discover essential steps to tackle the issue with ease.
We’ll help you understand the potential reasons behind the malfunction and your rights as a guest. You’d also learn how to effectively communicate with both the host and Airbnb support.
By the end of this read, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to handle this problem perfectly.
Reasons Why the Air Conditioning Unit May Not Be Working
If a property is advertised with air conditioning, such an air conditioning unit needs to function effectively. The air conditioning unit in your Airbnb property may not be functioning for various reasons.
Some of these reasons include ice buildup, a dirty air filter, a thermostat problem, a dead capacitor, a tripped circuit breaker, etc. You can try these quick steps to see if the air conditioning comes on:
- Find the air-conditioning circuit breaker and turn it off completely, then wait for a few minutes and turn it back on. If it keeps tripping off after you do this, then please do not touch it again.
- If the external shutoff switch is turned off, flip it on.
- Push the AC’s reset button before attempting to turn it on again.
If you have tried the above and the AC still does not come on, then it’ll need an expert’s attention. Do not attempt to fix the AC yourself, or you risk damaging it.
If you do this, you’d have to cover the cost of repairs in addition to staying in a hot rental.
Below are some ways you can tackle the issue.
What Should I Do If Airbnb’s AC Won’t Turn On?
You should not have to stay in a property that is as hot as the inside of a steam bath. Such an experience can be extremely frustrating, so instead of enduring it, here are some things you can do to resolve the issue.
1. Communicate with the Host
One of the best ways to resolve an issue is through communication. You have 72 hours from the time of discovery to report any issues you are having at your property.
You can report this issue to either your host or Airbnb. If you do not, Airbnb may not be able to process your refund. The first thing you have to do is document the issue, so there is proof.
Take a photo or make a video of yourself turning on the air conditioning without it working.
When you do this, then send a message to your host. You have to understand that the host is the best person to reach out to immediately when an issue occurs.
This is because the host has the duty of ensuring that all the equipment advertised in the rental is available for use. He or she is to ensure that the property is conducive, so you can enjoy your money’s worth.
Host’s Duty
The host is also responsible for responding to any issues that come up during your stay. Send a message to the host from your inbox and let him or her know about the issue you are facing.
You need to allow the host to resolve the issue. If the host is compliant with Airbnb’s ground rules, he or she will assist you in resolving the issue.
It is important that every communication between you and the host be done on the Airbnb app. That way, everything is being documented, and the host cannot deny that you took reasonable steps.
If the host is unable to resolve the issue or is not willing to do so, then ask for a refund. Do this by sending a message to the host in the resolution center. Provide the details with the photos and videos you have.
If the host informs you of the non-functional air conditioning unit before you arrive at the property, ask for cancellation and a full refund.
If you decide to remain at the property, then negotiate with the host for a partial refund for your inconvenience. If the host asks you to cancel the reservation, please do not do this, as you won’t receive any refund.
2. Contact Airbnb
This should be after you have informed the host of the problem. If your host makes no effort to resolve the issue, declines your refund request, or cannot resolve the issue, contact Airbnb.
Please note that you must do this within 72 hours from the time you discovered the faulty air conditioning unit.
Click or tap the “Get Help” box from the reservations page, and someone from the Airbnb team will contact you.
Airbnb’s AirCover guarantees that if there is a significant difference between the listing advertised and the listing you were given access to, Airbnb will help you find a similar place.
If another space is not available or you prefer not to rebook, Airbnb will give you a full or partial refund. This is one of the reasons you have to act promptly.
What You Need to Know about the Refund Policy
The platform advises guests to report any violations of ground rules within 72 hours. The host has a duty to ensure that the property is conducive and that everything advertised is available and functional.
If the host is not willing to resolve the issue or does not want to refund you, contact Airbnb.
When you follow the medium specified in the previous section, Airbnb will contact the host to find out what happened. Once this is done, the host will be warned.
If the host does nothing and you duly send a message to Airbnb within 72 hours, Airbnb will refund you from the host’s payout. Airbnb will review the evidence before deciding whether to give you a refund.
This is why you have to take pictures, videos, and screenshots of your conversation with the host about the issue. If the host has provided any relief regarding the issue, Airbnb will reduce the refund amount.
Rebooking assistance may also be adjusted. In a situation where you cannot report the issue within 72 hours, Airbnb may, at its discretion, allow late reporting.
So even if this time has elapsed, you can still reach out to Airbnb customer support.
Conclusion
There’s no need to panic when faced with unexpected challenges like a malfunctioning air conditioning unit during your Airbnb stay.
By following the steps and guidelines outlined in this article, you can navigate such situations with confidence and ease.
Remember to stay calm, communicate effectively with the host and Airbnb support, and be aware of your rights.
With a proactive approach, you can ensure a comfortable stay, enabling you to focus on making wonderful memories.
