As I sent the email to "David Xu" at the address noted on the Shinco website I noticed that I had already sent him an inquiry on October 2, 2009. He never replied to that October email.

So Monday I'll call GT World. If they can't or won't provide an answer to my satisfaction, I intend to yank the crappy Shinco unit out, return it personally to the Gardena Distributor's location and refuse to leave their facility until they credit me 100% for the defective product I've received and now returned.

I will never buy Chinese appliances again. Ever. It's probably going to cost me $$$ but I've learned my lesson. Even if I have to pay twice the price I will avoid off-brand Chinese junk. It just isn't worth it. If I put a price on my time and frustration it would be thousands and thousands.

Now for one last question - can someone recommend a non-Chinese mini-split in the 1 1/2 ton range? I'd place emphasis on quality, reliability and cost - in that order.

Thanks.