Checking if an air conditioner is working without a meter may not provide precise measurements of its performance, but you can still perform some basic checks to assess if it's operational. Here are some steps you can take:
Power and Display: Ensure the air conditioner is plugged in and receiving power. Look for any display lights or indicators on the control panel to confirm it is functioning.
Fan and Compressor: Turn on the air conditioner and set it to the desired temperature and fan speed. Listen for the sound of the fan running and the compressor engaging. You should be able to hear the fan moving air, and the compressor should produce a humming sound when it starts.
Airflow: Stand in front of the air conditioner's air outlet and feel if there is any airflow. You should be able to sense cool air coming out of the unit.
Temperature Drop: If you have a thermometer or a basic indoor thermometer/hygrometer, you can measure the temperature of the room before turning on the AC and then again after running it for some time (10-15 minutes). The temperature should drop as the air conditioner cools the room.
Condensation: Look for condensation on the indoor cooling coil or on the air outlet of the air conditioner. Condensation indicates that the cooling process is taking place.
It's important to note that these checks can only give you a basic idea of whether the air conditioner is functioning or not. They won't provide specific information about the air conditioner's efficiency or cooling capacity. For accurate assessments and measurements, it's best to use a meter or contact a professional HVAC technician to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the unit's performance.