U- Shaped Air Conditioner Real Review 2023

[@betsylindsay8480]

Needed extra cooling in a bedroom in sunny, humid, hot, Florida. Installed the GE Clearview last week, right before a spat of 95+ weather. What a God send!!! Quiet, cold, and fairly easy to install. I am an old woman (nearly 72), and installed it by myself. A proud day!

[@ldylkr]

Are you still happy with it?

[@betsylindsay8480]

@@ldylkr yes, I am! Thankful for it everyday.

[@danram247]

This guy is on point...no reason to run a central a/c for the whole house at night when going to bed if you can just run a small window a/c unit for one room...this is ideal for a couple living with no other family of course...

[@HowTowithDoc]

Thanks... we have done this for 5 years.

[@jeevespreston]

Just curious, how much money do you save off your elec bills with this approach?

[@calvinh.8882]

@@jeevespreston My house isn't very large, It's around 1300sft. I've lived here for over 20 years and have central heat and air, and about 6 years ago I wanted to try something so I installed a 14000 BTU window AC with heat in the central area of the house (I had to run a 220volt line to that one) and a 6000 BTU window AC unit in the master bedroom, and I keep it cold in here, and around 65 during the winter, and my electric bill dropped by $100 per month. So the first year of savings paid for the unis, and in the 5 years since they have saved me at least $1200 per year.

[@JakeStarAstrella]

Unless you have pets

[@bossmodl3thalpoppa484]

Only true if there is low humidity if there is high that one room will be fine but the rest of the house would build up a ton of humidity and will take a long time to remove

[@acrothdragon]

I picked up a U shaped one from Midea I did look at these saddle type ones but found a good deal on the prior. I will say installation is a bit of a hassle especially having the minimum sized window it’s a very tight squeeze. But it runs well and keeps the bedroom icy cool. Like you I plan on running it while setting the houses main AC to minimum. Hopefully cutting the large electric bills

[@carterslakeguidesvc]

Love all the recent uploads. I’ll never buy one of these, have no interest in it whatsoever but when doc uploads I always watch!!!

[@newtonraymond77]

I wouldn't drill holes in those windows to possibly void the warranty, I'd cut strips of wood trim painted white and wedge them on either side to the top to prevent anyone from opening it from outside.

[@Mike-ys7rh]

Doc, the house renovation is outstanding-congrats!

[@shapp76]

Got one a few months ago and love it

[@nawtyshygirl6468]

This is a must have it’s very inexpensive, I found my comfort for my she shed. Thanks doc👍

[@HowTowithDoc]

Great for a shed.

[@AdventureAwaits972]

Thank you sooo much for this video. I just installed my first window unit. I have been dropping my HVAC to a very low temp at night which cools the whole house. I now realize that cooling the entire house is not needed ... plus it puts a strain on the systems to drop so low. I really only wait/need my bedroom to be very cold. So I start keeping my HVAC setting at a much higher temp

[@samscott54]

I would usually call that a saddle unit. I bought the u shaped Midea. It’s great. Thx for good review

[@gamecock-mk5zb]

I trust you Doc, therefore this is as good as bought. Every product you've reviewed prior has been a winner. When I'm interested in a product I check here first to see if you've reviewed it.

[@safdarally5690]

Great video. Does this AC have a drain plug?

[@UncleCharlie111x2]

They need to all go to this design! Nice!

[@SonneyJones]

Here in TX we have extended periods of 105+ temps, and my 3 central air units cant keep up once thevtemp is 95+. I wanted the 12K BTU unit for my den/kit/dining.....but had to settle for the 10k BTU. Installed it in a 48" window with additional insulation. Been really happy with outcome. Remote ecobee thermostats on central units allow independence for the GE Profile thermostat.

[@tw23707]

I have both types; the u shape is great if you have furniture in front of the window & the saddle type like the type you are showing is perfect for a window that you still want to raise up for fresh air just place one of those adjustable screens & you have almost full use of your window. Doesn't matter which type you choose they both are amazingly quiet.

[@southern9292]

This is my 2nd summer with this unit. I specifically got it because the majority of the noise is created outside and BELOW the window sill. Cools the entire downstairs of my condo. (About 700 sqft) Absolutely love it!

[@smithjj41181]

May I ask, what size BTU did you get to cool that size space?

[@Starry_Night_Sky7455]

​@smithjj41181 My curiousity too. What BTU size to cool about 700 Sq ft?

[@MuahMan]

@@Starry_Night_Sky7455 8000 BTU is for 750 SQ Ft

[@Vic-lk1zq]

@@Starry_Night_Sky7455 Wish he would answer when you ask a simple question.

[@Perly53]

Two complaints from other KZbin videos are 1) No inverter technology - so it's not as efficient as say Midea U Shaped. 2) The pump that removes condensation from inside the room clogs and water leaks onto the floor/wall. One question please: Do you feel the noise could be further reduced if you added additional thickness to the foam left and right of the unit to the window frame? Are you hearing not just the fan, but also the condenser and fan from the outside as well? Thanks so much. I'm considering this unit for my son's bedroom.

[@jc2386]

Doc is one of the best things in life, helped out so much and the neighbors are following. What a ripple ❤ really appreciate his videos.

[@ryanyoder7573]

Mine lasted 4 months. Had GE repair it twice unsuccessfully and they gave me a certificate to replace it with some other purchase. I haven’t gotten the money yet.

[@shortyps22]

agree GE portable a/c unit same issue

[@nwestark]

@@shortyps22 Are you getting the p1 error constantly?

[@tonyr0928]

GE has always made shitty small appliances. Crazy that they make jet engines too.

[@Mr.Martini549]

@@tonyr0928 Just today, I replaced a GE window AC unit from my garage. Only lasted 1-1/2 years. I couldn't find anyone to service it. I believe the refrigerant line has a leak. No more GEs!

[@josephb3147]

@@Mr.Martini549 Thanks for the review... I have a GE 8k for my bedroom and it has always sucked and barely cooled... after watching this video I thought I may give GE another try... but I think not...

[@iomis2001]

I like the sound of a running window AC.

[@martacrespo5358]

I just purchased this same air conditioner and model!!!! NOW I'M REALLY EXCITED!! I haven't installed it yet but THANK YOU!!! I got mine from Best Buy for the SAME price!!

[@dplj4428]

5:30 I didn't know the GE could be extended out. Good to know. Still too narrow for my place. Also,all my windows sit above those iron accordion shaped radiators. I have the Midea U-shape. In winter, because I didn't want to remove from window, I fashioned an insulated board that reduces heat flow upwards. I'm thinking to outfit a/c with a box to surround the inside of A/C which would also close off incoming air.

[@momkatmax]

Love that sunroom! I am surfing around to get remodeling ideas and I will be coming back to your channel.

[@HowTowithDoc]

Remodel video is in the feed

[@andrij66]

I bought both the Midea U & the GE. Midea is way quieter than the GE & only air filter maintenance so that's in my bedroom. GE has way more maintenance 2 air filters, water filter & Drain the water. But definitely puts out the cold air, does great when I'm in the living room. My GE has a rain sound or insect sound of the water pinging.

[@twobrotherskayaking4736]

Ordered one today (12200 BTU) for $569, $10 less than Amazon $579. But I get it for $550.51 cause I'm a veteran. Also, will pick up at local Lowes this weekend and will open it there and make sure it's not damaged. If so, they can send it right back and order another one. Many Amazon reviews stated the fins were dented or crushed in upon delivery. Also, Lowes gives me a year to return on my contractors account! Like that I can use the window with the unit installed. Also, better efficiency and the app are pluses. Not to mention works with Alexa! Hoping this turns out to be a good unit and lasts several years. The ac I'm replacing I had for about 10 years and still works well. Giving that to my daughter. Thanks for the video.

[@TRYtoHELPyou]

very cool, thanks for sharing the experience. I worry about the condensation but you do mention that, and so do they, that there is a pump for that. Nice! Find the seer rating? I see running amps is 4.6 amps per the amazon QnA.... very cool dude... very cool

[@bogieman101]

Condensation is my concern too. Don't want to rely on a pump. Do prefer the look of these, but went with the Midea instead for the gravity condensation drain.

[@j777]

I recently ordered the 10k btu box (non-U) GE one, which has the inverter and higher efficiency than their 8k ones, can't wait to see how it goes!

[@kevinwomer5058]

I really enjoy your videos, and trust your opinion. I am looking into one of these for our upstairs bedroom. Thanks Doc

[@mojo4376]

What about horizontally opening windows?

[@momkatmax]

Just a tip foe security, cut a rod or wooden stick to fit the channel of the window. Cut it so you can easily get it clicked in and out of course. Then someone can't easily lift up that window when you are not at home. Dad did that as a safety bar for my patio door, a piece of rebar cut a couple of inches shy, fits down in the track and easily is removed and stored.

[@BigJohnson1566]

Why not install a mini split unit?

[@jacklucas7265]

I am with you. Window units are ugly and will leak into the house and damage the sill in a wind driven rain. Don' t ask how I know.

[@HowTowithDoc]

It's only temp for 3 months a year and the mini split is about $1800 and don't have the time. $400 bucks, 20 minutes and done. On to 30 other pending projects.

[@bryjbry]

Mini splits can create condensation and drip, ask me how I know 😅

[@newtonraymond77]

That is a type of mini split system

[@loyweaver2978]

Does it fit an old style window frame from the 70’s?

[@JeffRoeder]

you have mentioned those beams like 5-6 times now and the date always is something different, lol. Love your vids!

[@tretre1692]

Never bought a window unit, but that sounds like a good reason to buy one!! Do the skirts come with it to close off the window???

[@HowTowithDoc]

Yes

[@justiceonly9105]

Hi, Very grateful for you. Do you know if I can use this with a horizontal sliding windows?

[@WhittyPics]

I have noticed this design popping up this year and I have been wondering about them. They also have units with heat pumps built in too. I have been wondering about those too, how well they work in an emergency

[@COSolar6419]

The addition of a reversing valve provides indoor heating. It doesn’t even have to be an emergency to work well.

[@RealityTrailers]

Just got one from Amazon, installing it now. Thanks for your video.

[@HowTowithDoc]

What will amaze you... is how quiet it runs.

[@omarreynold6782]

Update?!

[@Bearded_Toy_Guy]

I'm gonna get one of these this year for my bedroom. I usually have a regular window one, but hate that it blocks the window and you can't see... and i can't open the window at night when it's cool. This is gonna be awesome!

[@LlyleHunter]

Great unit. Great design. The reason it’s much quieter than even other contemporary units is that the compressor is outside in a separate box.

[@tretre1692]

And has about half a wall hiding it!

[@LemonySnicket-EUC]

They still grunt when at max power on a 95 degree day. As they idle down to simply maintain temperature the quietness is amazing.

[@JW-lo2bh]

Interesting AC, although I'll never have the need for one. By the way Doc, my wife would cut my throat if I ever put my work boots on our table!!

[@HowTowithDoc]

She ain't here... 😂

[@tretre1692]

Mine too! Unless I was polishing mine! Lol

[@ChristmasChris77]

I went to a yard sale yesterday and then the grocery store and came back home and I noticed the seat of my pants had a big rip all the way down OMG😱 how embarrassing walking around in public with them like that 😂

[@Perly53]

Something tells me she wouldn't appreciate you cleaning car parts in the kitchen sink as well (not being married, it's not a problem for me). 😃

[@ClairePetersen-p6d]

🤢 yuck

[@troychambliss784]

Over sill vs U-shape, what is the difference? I want one that has heat even if it gets very cold( many say they are supplemental), & that drains outdoor!

[@peggybreaux8973]

I have been looking for something I could run on a generator if electricity goes out after a hurricane

[@paisteplayer1040]

You have similar idea to what we did when we built our barndo last year. We installed 4 mini split systems, 1 for each bedroom suite and 2 for the center portion. Home is essentially a pole barn style, lean-to on each side that are both master suites. At night we only heat or cool as needed.. Saves on electric

[@robertobermeier9172]

this is a genius design

[@richardsmith1161]

I hope it's not like the Media one, which only cools based on the outside temperature.

[@michaeljustiniano2958]

What are you talking about??? I have the Media one works amazing no issues at all. Works the same as this one

[@richardsmith1161]

@@michaeljustiniano2958 If you get a watt meter You will see what I mean. I have mine set at 60 with high fan. If it's 95 outside it cranks up the wattage to around 1000 and cools well. I can get my room to 71. If it's 83 outside it lowers the wattage to around 400 and doesn't cool well, my room stays at 75. The unit was designed for energy efficiently over cooling.

[@barnowl6807]

It will cool like mad until the set temperature is reached and will then go into low energy mode to maintain that temperature. That works fairly well for temperature. Unfortunately, when it goes into low mode the evaporator temperature is not cool enough to properly dehumidify. This can get uncomfortable. If it is set in dehumidify mode it will run flat out and freeze the room. No temperature control at all and never shuts down. I wound up getting a separate power on off switch that is controlled by it's own temperature sensor. This allows me to set the AC to a very low temperature and depend on the remote sensor to switch the AC on or off at the proper level. Crude but works.

[@phdyoutubedegree1939]

best feature you have your view of your window back.

[@davidnorth3411]

The humming at my visits to my grandparents home in the 70s I remember was pretty loud , the funny thing is that’s what would put my out , if it was a cesta during the day it was the cooo coos of the dove calls in the peach tree lined backyard , goodtimes , always have them in my memories .

[@Tricia_JoElle]

Energy star? How much does it jack the electric up per month for normal use (not 24/7 use in FL or TX).

[@kimball4699]

Ive read alot of problems regarding drainage of the product? How do you solve that?

[@MT_Madman]

I remember helping my grandfather put a 'U' shaped AC unit in their house back in 1975 I think it was.

[@cgreenfield6655]

Just ordered one of these today. I'm a single dad with 1 kid and when I don't have her I will run this in my room with the central system off

[@DavidCajun-qf9ti]

I've got the 8300btu and love it, it's quiet and cools the place down good. Bad part is you have to constantly clean out the filter every other day. But besides that it works real good. But then again I'm in a RV living in a RV park. It's not dusty here because the whole park has gravel on it.

[@Grand1Admiral]

The design of it is logical compared to other u shaped units. It makes sense structurally.

[@frankdigristina5859]

Hi Doc, just wondering if by any chance of doing a quick review on this unit on how its held up, I value your opinion, thanks

[@MiGWar82]

Im pretty confident that the sound reduction w these types is the choke point/separation of keeping the loudest part of the machine outside

[@vortexecho72]

More like an N shaped unit, looks like a great unit and many thanks explaining how it drains, that was my biggest question o about it.

[@sandrajohnson2489]

Your link to this unit doesn't work. Amazon page: "Page Not Found".

[@saratemp790]

Yes getting a mini split installed is super expensive. I got some quotes of like 1500.00 labor, plus like 800 for the unit, then you might have to put in a special electrical line, that's another $300. So like $2,500 for one mini split. When you can buy this for $400 and maybe $80 for labor to put up. A savings of over $2,000.

[@aperson1122]

Based on the link, I saw that AC with different BTU and inverter/non-inverter. Which one did you get? Thanks

[@Slm-mb7cq]

This is my concern, will the water drain into the walls and damage the wood? I think I have this problem from the other window units even with the ac on a slant to drain water out the back. You can’t slant this unit??

[@chuckm8472]

Live in Central Florida, been a brutal summer so far. Had a Lg 10,000 BTU floor one that did fine until Temps hit 90. This GE is only 6100 btu model and hands down cools so much better and is very quite, the only you really hear it is when the pump is pumping water outside. Make sure you have a friend to help lift because it is very heavy to pick up.

[@HowTowithDoc]

It really is a nice unit.

[@chuckm8472]

Update on my GE, I can't recommend after owing it for a year. The outside unit rusted unbelievable bad and looked terrible. GE after multiple phone calls said they would send out a new metal cover and never received it. The final straw was it started having start issues and kicked the breakers. Wifi was also a pain because it kept disconnecting. It did cool well but the quality is bad and decided to get rid of it after only a year.

[@RobSnow-ui4sz]

How does this compare to a heater. Most things that plug into power even at 120 will need amps. How many amps is such a device. Thanks

[@PlanetMezz]

Should we buy inverter or non inverter model???

[@derrickp]

id get a mini split you can heat and cool with it and they are way more efficient than window units

[@HowTowithDoc]

We don't need heat... and only need AC 2 months a year. Rest of the time it's gone. Also, nowhere to install the mini split without the outside pump showing and we would have to have an electrician come to do new wiring. So about $2500 vs $420. Just makes sense.

[@mibz1117]

Yep mini split is 3k minimum not worth it

[@YudronWangmo]

I got the same air conditioner for my 12 by 16 cabin about a month ago. It’s keeping me cool even when it is 108º outside. It’s not a blast of air, so I need to keep it on at about 80º if I am out, because it takes a long time (naturally) to cool the place down if it is in the 90 or more inside.

[@HowTowithDoc]

Glad it's working for you.

[@donnak.8422]

I'm looking for a window air conditioner for the upper level of my home. The windows are wide; but not tall enough for a regular sized air conditioner. Do you have any suggestions for that? The windows open out; not up & down.

[@thimitri1]

Hey Doc.. you should check out Soft Start ICM870 for A/C.. your generator will start the unit no problem.. And extend the life of you AC system..

[@HowTowithDoc]

I've seen it. Power loss isn't a big issue here. Once in 12 months plus we'll be doing solar next year.

[@dannelson6980]

The ones from Midea start up with below 200 watts and slowly ramp up. I would think the larger inverter version from GE would work and same way.

[@socal33]

The mini-split in our cabin flooded the floor after a leak from the head unit. After my a/c guy quoted me up to $600 for the diagnose and repair, I just wrote the Pioneer off. My Midea 8000 BTU will be arriving to cool a 264 sq. ft. cabin and I can't wait to see it. I think I'll post my review as well.

[@omarreynold6782]

Update?!

[@socal33]

@@omarreynold6782 Thanks for the reminder! Installation is a bit of a hassle compared to other window a/cs. The mount seems overly complicated which in turn left me with gaps to the outside, very tiny, but gaps an ant could get through. I guess they have to do this due to the different design from a traditional window mount. Once it was mounted it turned on like a champ and was very quiet. There was, however, a vibration from that metal mount! I had to wedge a piece of large foam under the head to keep it from vibrating when the compressor is on. Again, you have to improvise a little. The exterior mounts were easy to do but would have been way easier with two people. I really like the features of the remote and the front controls. When you set the eco setting and turn the fan setting it seems like they cancel each other out but just turning off too the temp increases. I only got to use it for a little while before the weather cooled and we didn't have any tenants in the cabin. This summer will be the real test but so far I like it way better than the mini-split for cost, features, and appearance.

[@omarreynold6782]

​@@socal33 appreciate your review. Seems like it's hit or miss with this unit.

[@socal33]

@@omarreynold6782 You're welcome. I should have added that I will miss having a heat pump but since the cabin is less than 300 sq ft a space heater will suffice.

[@stephanyre9662]

Thank you!!!

[@mayssm]

I'd love to have one of these, but between the wooden windowsill and brick outside, I have almost a 15 inch gap, and most of these, even the larger ones, top out at about 13.5 max gap.

[@marijncinjee]

Can I install this unit on a vertical window?

[@philcook9967]

You show adjusting the knobs from the outside to secure the AC, how do you adjust them if you are the 5th floor?

[@bryanduffy8791]

Reach thru the open space next to the ac and turn the knobs

[@robertdodd9623]

Having trouble with mine , pump shuts unit off when pump comes on. I have to keep inside drain open and a bucket under it .

[@nancen7128]

Exactly what I was wandering.. how the condensation gets outside.. a pump.. got it..😮

[@ronglennproductions5416]

What kind of shades are you rockin’ Doc?

[@theicedevil]

I don't use eco mode either because what happens is the unit stops running and then the area you in will start to get warm and then hot way before the unit will turn itself back on. This is because there's is no fan circulating the air in the room and the air is always coldest next to the ac unit. Eco is possibly good if you are away from the house and you want to hold a cooler temperature in the living space while you are away. This will help save money, but it's no good when you are using that mode while you are living in that space. You still need that constant air flow, so don't use it while you are living in that space.

[@Mr.Martini549]

Econo Mode, less energy use, but less comfort.

[@troychambliss784]

In less developes countries minisplits are very common. After asking , I discovered that the total cost with install is about 1/3 compared to the US! Does anyone remember complaining about $25 house call from technicians ? Now prepare to pay thousands even if they only work for a couple hours.

[@terichapman8293]

Would this fit a wide window sill?

[@jcrockett870]

It is amazing that it has taken this long to make these... They should make a heat pump version.

[@lonniemcclure4538]

This is normally called a saddle-style unit. If it were referred to by shape, it would be an "n", instead of a "u".

[@connectdots]

How does this AC drainage condensation ? Does it have a condensation pump?

[@Mr.Martini549]

Yes. But some ppl has reported that is can become clogged. Proper maintenance & installation would probably avoid this.

[@PlanetMezz]

Can we leave it installed all winter too?

[@NairobyNunez-mr6ph]

Does it drop the water inside the house?

[@Shadx27]

I am thinking of one of these, but it would be for second story window...

[@brianwt1]

Maybe a dumb question but how high is your electric bill every month running this?

[@Larry-w6f]

I am looking for a/c for bedroom but am looking for one that when off and turns on the compressor noise doesn't wake you up each time. The one I have now when the compressor comes on its loud.

[@HowTowithDoc]

You can barely here this run.

[@jackwhite6030]

Doc is the best

[@PlanetMezz]

What is minimum width without the expanders on the sides? I have a very narrow window

[@lionintu]

The link is in the description

[@aperson1181]

Does it have an option for fresh air or the air is recirculated?

[@HowTowithDoc]

Recirc

[@mngirl7357]

I wonder about a second story install. I have a small window to work with and having to go up the ladder to install. It might be a dealbreaker. 😢. Any thoughts?

[@HowTowithDoc]

You can do it from the inside... it's just easier with one out and one in.

[@jamesdyer7535]

what about the heating function? how good does it heat a room, say a living room?

[@HowTowithDoc]

No only cooling

[@krowbar23]

Awesome how much it cost.

[@troychambliss784]

I'm told that there is a new minisplit window unit. Is this true?

[@Wvdoctorz68965]

Thanks for this informative video. Nice house.

[@Perly53]

Doc, I only have about 11 inches of height clearance. Do you think this unit could be slipped in from outside, at an angle, utilizing the available gap in the unit, to reduce the vertical height needed to get it onto the bottom window sill? Do you think the 2 parts can be separated at all to create a temporary larger gap just to get it placed? Thanks.

[@HowTowithDoc]

It does EXTEND... but I would look at the exact specs and check

[@wardraven8755]

Those feet that screw out and rest on the house do 2 things they all you to adjust the tilt so it drains properly and they hold the ac up like a ac brace dose. They remind me of a hang on back aquarium filter

[@Moondoggy1941]

I live in a state that mostly has slider windows, it is rare to see single or double hung windows, lucky I had two single hung windows installed in the family room, electricity is really expensive in my state, 50 to78 cents a KWH from 4pm to 9pm, this looks like something I can run during the peak season.

[@HowTowithDoc]

It's a life saver for us. Our bedroom is nice and chilly but we don't need to cool the rest of this big open concept house.

[@mattrowe1229]

how does the water from condention get out,since the front coil cant drain out

[@HowTowithDoc]

It has a pump

[@thefleaflop]

Can't find.the link.....

[@bubbablue1100]

Clean footprint? Why you step on it?

[@sandyalexander5880]

What if you can't be outside to install? Our window is high on the house and the ground below is steeply slanted. I suspect you don't recommend this product for our application?

[@HowTowithDoc]

As long as you have help and a regular size window it will be ok, not easy, but can be done.