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Japan Consumer Center Reports Rise in Air Conditioner Repair Scams
The National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan issued a warning on June 23 about increasing complaints over air conditioner repairs. The center recorded 1,251 complaints in 2025, more than double the 451 logged in 2021.
The Japan TimesAudio version
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The National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan issued a warning on June 23 about a rise in air conditioner repair scams as the country heads into summer. The center recorded 1,251 complaints about air conditioner repairs in 2025. That figure was more than double the 451 complaints logged in 2021.
Many customers located repair companies online that advertised low prices and same-day service, only to face much higher charges afterward. One woman in her 50s contacted a company that had advertised free consultations. She was charged ¥10,000 for an inspection.
The company then told her there was a gas leak and charged her approximately ¥50,000 in cash. The repairman instructed her to wait 90 minutes before turning the unit on and left without confirming the repair. The unit continued to malfunction, and repeated calls to the company went unanswered.
The National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan advises customers to scrutinize online offers that sound too good to be true. It recommends that customers not pay on the spot when trouble arises and request a thorough explanation if the amount charged seems disproportionate to the services rendered. Customers should also confirm the fix while the repairmen are still present.
