An alternative to central A/C
Written: Jan 20 '05
|
Product Rating:
|
|
| Ease of Use: |
 |
|
| Durability: |
 |
|
| Ease of Cleaning: |
 |
|
| Style: |
 |
|
|
Pros: Quiet, efficient, convenient, doesn't drip
Cons: big and heavy
The Bottom Line: An excellent appliance if you can tolerate the weight and size
|
|
|
| bartolomeo321's Full Review: Amana Quiet Zone 12M12TA Thru-Wall/Window Air Cond... |
This is a large, high efficiency, low noise air conditioner. I have found it to be effective, reliable, and quiet. The controls are straightforward and easy to use, and being able to set the thermostat to a particular temperature (rather than using an arbitrary 1-10 scale) is a big help.
This is as close as you can come to central air without actually having it. You get a set-it-and-forget it thermostat, and the fan noise on low is about the same as a typical central air system. It has a water slinger mechanism, so it evaporates the water outside, rather than dripping it on the ground. It can be installed through a wall, and works well for that.
The design tradeoff is that due to its high efficiency, low-noise design, this appliance is big and heavy. You get a sheet metal sleeve that you install in the window and brace into place, and then the air conditioner itself slides into the sleeve.
For most people, installation requires two able-bodied people.
Amana has done almost everything right on this. The box includes everything you need for a typical installation. The filter is effective and reusable, installation is as straightforward as possible for a machine this heavy and bulky, the appearance is neutral and fits well into most decor.
After a period of five years or so, I have noticed that the plastic has yellowed considerably. I would have expected more color stability on an appliance this costly.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 425
|
|
|
|
Epinions.com ID: bartolomeo321
|
|
Reviews written: 4
Trusted by: 0 members
|
|
|