Troubleshooting Guide: What to Do If Your Amana, GE or Hotpoint Unit Isn’t Heating or Cooling

Few things are more frustrating than when your heating or cooling unit suddenly stops doing its job. Whether it’s the middle of a hot summer or a chilly winter night, finding your Amana, GE, or Hotpoint wall unit blowing the wrong temperature—or nothing at all—can feel overwhelming.

But here’s the good news: many of the most common problems are easy to troubleshoot yourself before calling in a professional. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process I use whenever a unit isn’t heating or cooling, plus brand-specific tips for Amana, GE, and Hotpoint models.

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🔌 Step 1: Start with the Basics

Before you assume the worst, check the simplest issues first:

• Power supply

  • Confirm the unit is plugged in.

  • Test the outlet with another appliance.

  • For 230V models, make sure the breaker hasn’t tripped.

• Remote or thermostat

  • Replace remote batteries.

  • Verify the thermostat is set correctly (cooling vs. heating mode).

• Reset the unit

  • Many units have a reset button—press and hold for 3–5 seconds.

  • Alternatively, unplug the unit for 1 minute and plug back in.

👉 GE’s troubleshooting page recommends a simple reset before calling service, as it resolves many issues .

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🌬️ Step 2: Airflow Issues

Poor airflow is one of the most common culprits.

• Filters

  • A dirty filter can block airflow and cause poor heating or cooling.

  • Clean monthly; replace if damaged.

• Vents & ducts (if applicable)

  • Ensure furniture isn’t blocking the unit’s airflow.

  • For PTACs, check both intake and exhaust areas.

• Fan operation

  • Listen for the fan—if it isn’t spinning, the motor may be faulty.

👉 According to the DOE, dirty filters alone can increase energy use by 15% and make units seem like they aren’t working.

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💧 Step 3: Drain & Moisture Problems

When your unit isn’t draining properly, it can lead to water leaks, mold, or even ice buildup—all of which impact performance.

• Drain pan

  • Look underneath—if it’s overflowing, the drain line is clogged.

• Condensate line

  • Flush with a mix of vinegar and water.

• Ice on coils

  • Indicates blocked airflow or low refrigerant. Turn the unit off and let it thaw.

💡 Amana models are known for sturdy drain pans, but still need regular checks. GE’s angled drain design reduces clogs, while Hotpoint units often require more frequent attention.

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❄️ Step 4: Cooling-Specific Problems

If your unit turns on but doesn’t cool, here’s what to check:

1. Mode settings

   • Confirm the unit is actually in cooling mode.

2. Coils

   • Dirty evaporator or condenser coils block heat transfer.

   • Vacuum annually, or have them professionally cleaned.

3. Refrigerant

   • If cooling is weak even with clean filters and coils, refrigerant may be low.

   • Only an HVAC pro can recharge the system.

4. Compressor

   • Listen for clicking but no hum—this could indicate a bad compressor.

👉 The EnergyStar AC troubleshooting guide stresses that refrigerant work is not DIY and should always be left to certified technicians.

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🔥 Step 5: Heating-Specific Problems

For units with electric heat kits or heat pumps, issues can include:

• Electric heat kits

  • Check the circuit breaker.

  • If the coils don’t glow, the kit may need replacement.

• Heat pumps

  • In cold climates, heat pumps can struggle below 30°F.

  • Make sure defrost mode is working.

• Thermostat settings

  • Some GE and Amana models allow switching between “electric heat” and “heat pump” modes.

💡 Hotpoint heating performance is usually electric resistance only—so if it isn’t heating, the issue is likely electrical.

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🛠️ Step 6: Brand-Specific Tips

🔴 Amana

• Known for durability, but regular filter and drain checks are key.

• Strong warranty coverage—don’t hesitate to use it if major issues arise.

🔵 GE

• Many models include smart error codes—pay attention to flashing lights or digital displays.

• Quieter than most brands, so odd noises (rattling, humming) should be investigated quickly.

⚪ Hotpoint

• Basic models mean fewer features but more hands-on upkeep.

• Filters and coils clog faster—monthly checks are a must.

👉 Check your unit’s model manual at GE Appliances Support 

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🚫 When to DIY vs. Call a Pro

✅ Safe DIY Fixes

• Resetting the unit

• Cleaning/replacing filters

• Flushing drains

• Cleaning coils

• Checking thermostat settings

🚫 Professional Help Needed

• Refrigerant recharge

• Compressor replacement

• Electrical failures

• Persistent leaks after cleaning

👉 Use ACCA’s contractor search to find licensed professionals near you.

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🧾 Cost of Common Repairs

💡 Takeaway: A little maintenance goes a long way. Most issues are cheap to fix if caught early.

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📝 Samantha’s Final Thoughts

The first time my Amana stopped cooling, I panicked. But after pulling the filter out and seeing it was coated in dust, I realized the problem was simple. That experience taught me that most “big” problems start with small maintenance lapses.

Here’s my rule of thumb:

• Start simple. Check filters, drains, and settings.

• Look for signs. Ice = airflow or refrigerant. No heat = electrical or mode issue.

• Know your limits. Anything involving refrigerant or wiring is pro-only.

If you own an Amana, GE, or Hotpoint unit, following this troubleshooting guide will save you time, money, and frustration—and keep your home comfortable year-round.

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In the next topic we will know more about: Energy Efficiency Face-Off: Which Brand Saves You More on Utilities?