**UPDATE** I have now provided an update below to my "first take" review...

**UPDATE 2011** see bottom of this initial review...

I just had a Friedrich Kuhl SS12M10 installed in my NYC co-op apartment. Since it is a brand new install, this is my "first take" or "very preliminary" review which I may update in the future. I hope you find it helpful.

My apartment is a 7th floor 500sq/ft co-op in Manhattan. I had a Kenmore 10,000 BTU window unit (75010) which worked great but was not programmable, and on 95 degree+ days, didn't seem to have enough 'oomph' to cool the 500 sq/ft adequately. So I opted to get a bigger unit, 12,000 BTU, which is programmable. Hence, I settled on the Friedrich Kuhl SS12M10.

Because I live in a co-op, we are not allowed to install our own window units for liability reasons (i.e., dropping onto the sidewalk below). Hence I had an HVAC contractor deliver and "install" (cough) a new SS12M10 unit. Suffice it to... Read more

I have a love/hate relationship with Friedrich. On one hand, the cooling mechanisms in their AC's (compressor, fan motor, coils, etc.) are the best in the business; solidly built that last and deliver excellent performance.

On the other hand, they skimp on things that make the unit a real PITA to own sometimes. Specifically, the front grill and the mechanism which operates the fresh air/exhaust vents. Both are flimsy and easily break. This new Kühl line is definitely an improvement, but it's no quieter than previous models, and G_D_it, the front grill still rattles!

However, I will say I just love what they did with the new thermostat. It now operates just like central AC systems, so I can keep the apartment an economical 85� when I'm not home during the day, and at 4pm throttle it up so it's a comfortable 75� when I get home from work. If it wasn't for this feature, I may have gone with another brand.

--- UPDATE: After owing this unit for 4... Read more