This is my second LW1216ER; both bought to replace 5 year old Frigidaire 12,000 BTU units. The difference is so significant it's like they're not even competing products. The old unit was incredibly loud. It used to wake me up when it kicked on. I don't even notice the LG cycling on and off. Further, the LG unit cools dramatically better in energy saver mode than the Frigidaire did in normal mode. I've a feeling the LG will quickly pay for itself. Finally, LG has done a really smart thing by separating the frame from the internals. You install the frame in your window, when it's very light. THEN you slide the internals in and attach the front. SO much easier. Bravo, LG!