Brand New A/C Won't Turn On

[Art Maydan]

I bought my duplex in October and haven’t needed the A/C yet. Each unit has its own A/C unit and it was a gut rehab so everything is brand new and should be working. When I go to turn the A/C on, it won’t start. I’ve tried flipping the breakers. The fan icon either blinks or stays lit, but the A/C stays off.

I had this issue come up at a property I’m managing and the guy who came out charged $180 to change our Freon. That’s the only thing I can think of that mine needs, but shouldn’t it be ready to go since it’s never been used? Or is that a once a season thing? If so, is $180 fair or should I find someone else? Is it easy to DIY?