Why can't the air conditioner be tested during a winter inspection?
Quick answer: Running a central air conditioner in cold weather can damage the compressor, the system's most expensive component, because the oil and refrigerant are not at safe operating conditions when outdoor temperatures are low. For this reason, a Bloomington inspector will not operate the AC during a cold-season inspection and will document that it could not be safely tested. This is a normal seasonal limitation, and you can have the system evaluated once temperatures rise to a safe level.
Air conditioners are designed to run in warm weather. Operating one when it is cold outside risks slugging the compressor with liquid refrigerant and inadequate lubrication, which can cause serious, costly damage to the unit.
Because of this, responsible inspectors decline to run the AC below a safe temperature threshold and clearly note the limitation in the report. It is not an oversight, it is protecting the equipment you are about to own.
If cooling is a concern, you have options. You can ask the seller about the unit's service history, request records, or have an HVAC technician evaluate the system once temperatures are warm enough to test it safely after closing or during the contingency if weather allows.
