Buying a new window air conditioner

[CarolWilks 0]

I need a large a/c window unit bc it has to cool off a large open space of 450 sq feet. It looks like I need 12,000 BTUs. That's a heavy machine. So installation is not going to be easy. And we have vinyl siding on the house and don't want to have to screw anything into that on the outside. I assume a unit that large will need additional support brackets?

In addition to the installation issue, they've just recalled millions of units that were causing mold. Midea and associated brands...Frigidaire? Any way I am not sure if it is that particular model or if the new Ushape design units are a problem. I like the idea of the U shape and would it be easier to install? The GE has a clearview model that hangs below the sill and allows more view out the window etc. So it is one of the U shape units?

I am going around in circles about which one to get. In that 12,000 btu category - Of course I wouldn't buy a Midea, which is the most popular one. The GE Clearview - do I have enough space under the sill for it. I have a radiator there but...it is almost recessed and not on now. It would not come down low enough to cover the area where the heat comes out. But a lot of people hate the GE brand, but Consumer Reports gives it high marks.

The other two choices are LG which again, Consumer Reports rates highly, but on Amazon they tag it as something that is frequently returned. And a few very bad reviews with nightmare experiences with bad customer service for a damaged unit. I haven't read all the reviews on all the brands, I normally would but I'm rushing.

The only other unit I am considering is a Friedrich. Consumer Reports considers them lower then the others and rate them a 75 vs 89 and 92 for the others.

I was hoping that someone here might have experience with any of these air conditioners or has had some great experience with another unit that they could recommend?

Also has anyone used TaskRabbit for something like this a/c installation?

[GermanStein 0]

Is there a reason why you don't want to install a minisplit system? You can get a heat pump that will also heat in the winter, and no heavy bulky air conditioners to move up and down the stairs.

[Ullani 0]

For heavy window units on vinyl siding, I’d skip external brackets and use a strong interior support. I had a similar install and got great help from ac repair scottsdale az—they handled the job safely and even checked the unit’s seals. Might be worth a look for professional installation.