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

Having trouble with your Amana 11,900 BTU 230/208V Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner with Electric Heat and Remote (Model PBE123J35AA)? Here’s how to fix common heating and cooling issues before calling a technician.

If your Amana wall unit suddenly stops heating or cooling, don’t panic — most issues are simple and fixable with a little troubleshooting. Whether it’s blowing lukewarm air, refusing to start, or making strange noises, this guide walks you through practical, step-by-step solutions to get your comfort back fast.

🧊 1️⃣ How Your Amana Wall Unit Works

The Amana PBE123J35AA combines cooling and electric heating in one system. When cooling, the compressor moves refrigerant through coils to remove indoor heat. In heat mode, electric coils warm the air before circulating it back into the room.

If your system isn’t performing as expected, the problem typically falls into one of three categories: power, airflow, or mechanical failure.

For a deeper understanding of how air conditioners work, see Energy.gov’s air conditioning basics .

⚡ 2️⃣ When the Unit Won’t Turn On

If your unit isn’t powering up at all, start here:

✅ Check the Power Connection

Ensure the plug is firmly inserted into the 230/208V outlet. If it feels loose or the outlet looks discolored, unplug immediately and inspect.

✅ Reset the Circuit Breaker

Wall units draw a lot of power. A tripped breaker is common. Flip it off and on again to reset. Home Depot’s breaker reset guide offers a quick tutorial.

✅ Inspect the Power Cord

If the cord feels warm, frayed, or cracked, replace it. Faulty cords can prevent startup and pose a fire hazard.

✅ Use the Reset Button

Some Amana models have a small reset switch on the control panel or plug. Hold it for five seconds to reset internal circuitry.

If the unit still won’t start, the control board or internal fuse may need replacement — a job for a licensed technician.

🧭 3️⃣ When It Turns On but Doesn’t Cool

If the system runs but blows warm air, try the following fixes:

🌡️ Check Settings

Confirm it’s set to “Cool” mode and the target temperature is below room temperature.

🧽 Clean the Filter

Clogged filters block airflow and cause weak cooling. Remove, rinse, and dry the filter monthly. According to Consumer Reports , this simple step can restore 10–15% efficiency.

🧊 Inspect the Coils

If you see frost buildup, turn off the unit and let it thaw. Frozen coils often result from restricted airflow or low refrigerant.

🌀 Check Fan Operation

Listen for the fan. If it hums but doesn’t spin, the capacitor or motor could be failing.

⚙️ Refrigerant Issues

Low refrigerant drastically reduces cooling. Only certified HVAC techs can handle refills due to EPA refrigerant rules .

🔥 4️⃣ When It Isn’t Heating

When switching to “Heat,” the fan may run, but the air feels cool. Here’s what to check:

🔁 Verify the Mode

Set the system to “Heat” and ensure the thermostat temperature is higher than the room temperature.

🧲 Clean or Replace the Filter

Just like in cooling mode, restricted airflow prevents warm air from circulating.

⚡ Inspect the Power Circuit

Heating elements use more power. If your wall outlet shares a circuit with other devices, the unit might not get enough voltage. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI ) recommends using a dedicated circuit for heating appliances.

🔋 Heating Element Failure

If everything looks normal but there’s no heat, the electric coils may be burnt out. That’s a professional repair.

💧 5️⃣ Water Leaks or Condensation

If you notice water dripping inside, it’s usually a drainage problem.

🧰 Check the Drain Pan

Pull the front panel and inspect the drain pan. Clean out any dirt or algae buildup.

🧼 Clear the Drain Hole

Condensate must exit through small holes at the back of the unit. Use a paperclip or compressed air to clear blockages. Bob Vila’s AC leak guide explains the process.

⚖️ Check the Tilt Angle

Your wall sleeve should slope slightly downward outside. If tilted inward, water will pool indoors.

🔇 6️⃣ Noises, Vibrations, or Smells

🔊 Rattling

Loose screws or fan blades cause rattling. Tighten all visible screws and panels.

🌀 Hissing

A hissing sound could mean a refrigerant leak — shut the system down and call a professional immediately. EPA guidelines prohibit DIY refrigerant repair.

🌫️ Musty Odor

If it smells musty, mold may be growing on coils or filters. Clean with mild soap or a vinegar-water mix. The CDC recommends cleaning and drying coils regularly to prevent mold growth.

⚙️ 7️⃣ Common Error Codes and Quick Fixes

Code	Meaning	Fix
E1	Thermistor fault	Reset or replace temperature sensor
E2	Indoor temp sensor error	Restart unit
E3	Fan motor issue	Check for obstruction
E4	Drain error	Clean pan and tube
E5	Overheat	Shut off, cool down, and restart

To reset: unplug the unit for two minutes, plug it back in, and power it on. For model-specific help, visit Amana Care Support .

🧩 8️⃣ When to Call a Pro

Some problems need expert attention. Contact a certified HVAC technician if:

The unit trips the breaker repeatedly.
Cooling or heating still fails after cleaning.
You suspect a refrigerant leak.
The compressor or fan won’t start.
You smell burning or see smoke.

A professional can test the compressor, coils, and electrical components safely. If your unit is under warranty, authorized service keeps your coverage intact. Check your Amana warranty terms .

🧠 9️⃣ Prevent Future Problems

A little preventive maintenance keeps your Amana wall unit reliable year-round:

Clean filters monthly to maintain airflow.
Vacuum coils every few months to prevent dirt buildup.
Inspect the wall sleeve annually for air leaks or debris.
Check the outlet and power cord for wear.
Run the unit in “Fan” mode occasionally to dry coils and prevent mold.

ENERGY STAR’s maintenance checklist offers more ways to maximize lifespan and energy savings.

🏁 Final Thoughts

If your Amana through-the-wall unit isn’t heating or cooling, don’t jump straight to replacements — most issues are minor. Start by checking power, filters, and settings. If those don’t solve it, contact a licensed HVAC technician for a quick, safe repair.

With proper care and routine cleaning, your Amana 11,900 BTU unit will deliver consistent comfort and dependable performance for years to come.

In the next Blog we will learn more about Amana 11,900 BTU 230/208V Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner with Electric Heat and Remote

Tags: The savvy side