Hi Folks. A few weeks ago I made a warranty claim 14 months after the purchase of our van as our Ibis 2 started to make a harsh rattling noise when the cooling compressor was operating. We had not used it for about 3 months having been in the cold VIC and NSW this year.

When I spoke to the manufacturers of the Ibis unit, Air Command, they told me it was out of its 12 mnth warranty and tough luck. I then spoke to the person about the Trade Practices Act and other consumer protection laws and their attitude changed somewhat. They have agreed that if I get one of their agents (in Perth) to inspect it and it turns out to be tree leaves or similar - its my cost. If it is faulty or defective, they will pick up the cost. HOWEVER, Air Command, has new owners and management starting on 1 January next and before any warranty approval is given, it must be first approved by a Manager after it has been inspected by them at their factory or one of their agents. If the manager refuses the warranty claim, its your cost! In the past, their warranty and service staff could arrange it themselves.

It was also mentioned that they were having on-going problems (don't know what) with the Ibis 3.

And like all air cons, they recommended you run it every month right throughout the year to prevent problems caused by lack of use

Another common problem with air con units is down to the RV manufacturers. We sometimes get an unpleasant, chemical smell in our van when the air con is on. Its caused by too much sealant being used when the unit is fitted and the smell is from the sealant - more obvious if you have the air con on "hot". According the Air Command guy I spoke with, to solve the problem, put the unit onto fan only, open all the windows and door and run the unit for a whole day - this apparently solves the problem.

But remember manufacturers and retailers cannot set a limited warranty (either in what parts are covered or the length of time). Consumer laws often over-ride these - often called an implied warranty. Some small electrical makers, like Breville, offer only a 12 mnth warranty in their booklet, but will also print that Aust. consumer laws may apply and the warranty will be extended