Panasonic CW-XC104HU Thru-Wall/Window Air Conditioner

Pros: Very, Very quiet Compact size
Cons: Unable to direct air to the left, timer increases temperature 2 degrees every 30 minutes.

When I purchased a new home, I replaced the existing units with new Friedrich units. After a few hours of use, I realized that I couldn't tolerate the low pitched drone of the Friedrichs. I contacted my dealer and he replaced them with Panasonics.

The Panasonics are smaller than the Friedrichs and MUCH quieter. However, these units direct air in one direction, straight out. The Panasonic "timer" is bizarre. You can set it to turn the a/c on or off but it increases the set temperature by 2 degrees every 30 minutes when the timer is in operation! The unit's "Energey Saver" and "Dry" settings are overly sensitive. The air conditioner fan seems to cycle on every 5 minutes or so under these settings. I was able to locate a replacement horizontal grill and vertical louvers from LG/Goldstar that would enable this unit to direct air more effectively to the left. However, if you plan to locate your a/c near the center of the room, the Panasonic is a top choice provided you can live with the bizarre timer settings. If, however you need to direct air to the left of the a/c, DONT buy the Panasonic.

Pros: Extremely quiet and efficient, well featured, attractive, remote operation and dry mode operation.
Cons: Reduced air flow to the left, temperature adjustment by two degrees only and cheap remote.

This unit was purchased for a master bedroom and is installed through the wall. Much consideration was given to other brands but after observing a unit in operation, I was sold by the extreme quietness. Better air flow to the right fit my room perfectly and the air sweep feature is great. Efficiency is outstanding and my central ac electricity cost has been reduced as well as increased comfort in the bedroom. The remote is a bit cheap and somewhat difficult to operate in a darkened room. A consumer magazine's high rating assisted me with the choice. Wall installation is no more difficult than with previous units although no instructions are provided for this type installation. The unit is flexible in fan operation with the special dry mode where the fan stops with the compressor and runs every three minutes to check for air temperature for great temperature maintenance. It is a gem of a unit and is highly recommended.

Pros: Has good efficiency and splasher to increase even more
Cons: Can't tell when outside vent / exhaust vent is on or off

I've enjoyed two summers of the Panasonic AC unit.

It installed easily and works on one of 3 fan speeds.
Use either the remote or keypad and you can select many modes of air flow, temp, and how it handles your room.