Review on 🌬️ Haier 8000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner by Jason Paige

I was looking for a 12,000 BTU air conditioner and Revain had a short-term rebate about $100 less than everyone else (including weird brands you've never heard of). I was a little shocked as there were only a few reviews with little information, but I bought it. It arrived undamaged. The installation was carried out by two people due to the weight of the device. No bracing was required to keep it out. The accordion panels on each side are loosely attached to the side of the unit and daylight is visible. The manufacturer sent self-adhesive foam sheets to be cut and glued over the accordion panels to add an extra layer of insulation. Despite good intentions, I don't see a good way to fit them snugly to the side of the air conditioner. I plan to buy a thin piece of rigid foam insulation at a local hardware store and cut it to size, then seal the edges with window and door foam or caulking tape. Window frame where my window opens and closes so that's another reason to figure out my own insulation. The unit is installed in addition to my garage in a 15ft x 30ft insulated workshop with multiple single glass sliding windows, an insulated roller shutter door and a concrete slab floor. I'm in downtown Illinois so heat and humidity are an issue. The air conditioning keeps the set temperature without any problems. I don't have much experience with air conditioners and their noise levels. I wouldn't call it quiet, but I don't find it unusually loud either. Tonight I set up the device's Wi-Fi connection and installed the GE app on our phones. I was concerned that the app requires you to enter your full name, address, phone number, etc. The app lets you control the device's power, temperature settings, and other basic settings. After everything was set up, the application briefly lost contact with the device, but then the connection was restored. Possible software update? It's in an area with a good Wi-Fi signal -- a Roku device two feet away will stream HD content to the TV over the same Wi-Fi connection. When we're not working in the room, I set the device to 82 degrees in Auto and Eco modes. so it won't start until the temp is a few degrees above 82 and then shut off when it reaches that. So far, it's doing a good job of controlling temperature and humidity. The device does not have the option of supplying outside air. It circulates the room air strictly. I know air conditioners are prone to breakage which is why Revain gave me an extended 4 year warranty. seems like a solid performer.