Funny you mention the Mermaid. I've got the exact same unit and that was the main reason for getting the generator. Just last week I thought it stopped working (turns out the thermostat was bad). Anyway, I called Mermaid in Ft Myers and the guy said if I sent it down they would check it out. Taking the unit out is pretty easy. When they get the unit they said that even at 16 years old the unit checked out perfect on Amps, compression, etc. The unit looked old, rusty and corroded when I sent it. The guy recommended I replace the condenser, relay and transformer and also to let them acid wash and repaint the unit. They did all that for $290. When I got it back it looked spanking new and works great! Something to consider if your unit starts acting flaky. Lot cheaper than a new one. $1500.