On Tue, 08 Jul 2003 04:14:04 GMT, rs wrote:

John W. Wells wrote:
On Mon, 07 Jul 2003 12:14:56 GMT, rs wrote:

So, my question is: are TTW units really such a bad value, or am I
missing something?

I didn't know there WAS such a thing as a TTW unit. My window units
(Panasonics, highly rated by Consumer Reports) came with detailed TTW
instructions, plus various bits and pieces for window installation,
which of course, I didn't use.
Interesting. I saw the praise for the Panasonics, and also that they
could be mounted "TTW", as per the web site. However, and I've tried in
four stores now, salespeople say I cannot put them into a (completely
enclosing, front to back!) wall/sleeve. I have asked the question to
Panasonic itself, but am of course waiting for an answer (I'm sure
they're tracking down the engineer.. yeah, right).

At this time, I am thinking that they might be right.. after all, some
manufacturers make both types, but what really strikes me is that the
"TTW" units don't come with electronic controls/remote, the EER is
around 9.5, and yet they want about $500 for a 10,000 btu unit.

So what I'm trying to find out is whether the TTW units are a pricey
niche product, or whether they are a decent investment. Also, I would be
interested in those "detailed" TTW instructions of the Panasonics!

The instructions were no big deal. I cut a hole through the wall (2x4
studs) including one stud, added horizontal 2x4 pieces at the top and
bottom, forming a completely framed rectangular opening. Then insert
the sheet metal box through the opening, screw it to the top, bottom
and sides of the 2x4 'frame,' slide the A/C unit into the box and
screw it to it.

Repair the drywall, frame the unit with quarter-round or other
moulding, likewise the outside wall. Add the face plate and plug in.

My siding was 5/8" plywood--brick or stucco would have been a bit
harder.

--JWW

If the Panasonics don't work well in an enclosing wall,

I cannot imagine what this means! ??

the options
appear to be Sears (which, I hear, are loud, but they are electronic) or
Frigidaire (which might be on the same level as GE). The Friedrich's
don't fit.

Ray