How to Turn Your Air Conditioner into a Smart Air Conditioner
With summer approaching and temperatures rising, having a smart air conditioner can be a game-changer for comfort and energy efficiency. Over the past few years, we have helped our readers learn what new technology they can use to ensure their smart home is cool 24/7 and save money on their energy bills. You don’t need to buy a new AC unit to enjoy the benefits of smart home technology; there are various devices that can upgrade your existing air conditioner into a smart AC unit. I put together this comprehensive guide on how to turn your traditional air conditioner into a smart one, complete with recommendations for smart devices that can help you achieve this transformation within minutes.
Why Upgrade to a Smart Air Conditioner?
Smart air conditioners offer numerous benefits. Upgrading to a smart air conditioner can significantly enhance your home's comfort and efficiency. Smart air conditioners offer numerous benefits beyond traditional units, providing advanced features and control options. Here are four reasons why you should consider making the switch or upgrade:
- Remote Control: Manage your AC from anywhere using your smartphone.
- Energy Efficiency: Reduce energy consumption with smart scheduling and automation.
- Enhanced Comfort: Maintain the perfect temperature with precise control.
- Integration: Seamlessly integrate with other smart home devices and systems.
Smart Devices to Upgrade Your Air Conditioner
Upgrading your current air conditioner to a smart system doesn't have to cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Several devices on the market can give your existing A/C unit modern, smart capabilities by sending infrared signals, much like those from your A/C's remote control. These devices connect to the internet via your Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control your A/C remotely through a dedicated smartphone app.
In addition to remote control, many of these devices are compatible with Alexa, enabling voice commands to manage your A/C. Some devices also integrate with IFTTT (If This, Then That), providing extensive automation options. For instance, you can set your A/C to turn on when you're nearing home based on your phone's location, when the room temperature hits a specific threshold, or when motion is detected in your smart home.
To use these smart devices, place them within sight of your A/C unit to ensure the infrared signals can reach it, plug them into a wall outlet, and connect them to your Wi-Fi. Here are some top smart devices that can help turn your traditional air conditioner into a smart A/C unit:
Sensibo Sky
sensibo sky
The Sensibo Sky is a top-rated smart AC controller that works with any air conditioner with a remote control. It connects to Wi-Fi and allows you to control your AC from your smartphone. You can set schedules, monitor the temperature and humidity, and even use voice commands through smart assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. The MSRP is $140, and it's available on Amazon for $99 and the company website for only $87.
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Sensibo
▲Sensibo Air and Room Sensor
For enhanced functionality, the Sensibo Air Pro combined with the Sensibo Room Sensor offers advanced features like geofencing, which turns your AC on or off based on your location. The room sensor ensures that the temperature is consistent throughout the room, providing a more comfortable environment. The MRSP for Sensibo Air is $215 but it is available on the company site for $139, 35% off. It's also available on Amazon for $149.
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Sensibo
▲Mysa Smart Thermostat for AC and Mini Split Heaters
The Mysa Smart Thermostat is perfect for controlling air conditioners and mini split heaters. It connects to your Wi-Fi and provides precise temperature control, scheduling, and energy reports. The sleek design and user-friendly app make it a popular choice for smart home enthusiasts. The MSRP for Mysa Smart Thermostat is $139 and it's available on Amazon for $99 (29% off) today.
Buy on Amazon
▲Tado Smart Air Conditioner and Heater Controller V3
Tado Smart Air Conditioner and Heater Controller
The Tado Smart Air Conditioner and Heater Controller V3 is an excellent option for those looking to integrate their AC units with a broader smart home system. It offers geofencing, smart scheduling, and energy-saving features. The smart thermostat can be controlled via the Tado app or through voice commands using Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. Tado claims the device works with all A/C units normally programmed by a controller displaying the temperature. This includes units from Daikin, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Toshiba, LG, General Electric, Samsung, Fujitsu, and many more.
The Tado Smart Air Conditioner and Heater Controller V3 costs $49 on Amazon.
Buy on Amazon
▲AIRPATROL WIFI V5 EU
AIRPATROL WIFI V5 EU
For Europeans, the AIRPATROL WIFI V5 EU is a versatile smart AC controller that works with a wide range of air conditioners. It allows you to control your AC from anywhere, set schedules, and monitor energy usage. The device also supports geofencing and voice control.
Buy AirPatrol
▲Frigidaire Gallery 8,000 BTU Inverter Window Room Air Conditioner with Wi-Fi (Energy Star)
Frigidaire Gallery 8,000 BTU Inverter Window Room Air Conditioner
The Frigidaire Gallery 8,000 BTU Inverter Window Room Air Conditioner has built-in Wi-Fi and can be controlled remotely using the Frigidaire app. It’s Energy Star certified, ensuring efficient operation, and it can also be integrated with smart home systems for voice control and automation. The MRSP for an 8,000 BTU unit is $469, and the 10,000 BTU is $499.
Buy on Frigidaire
Buy on Amazon
▲ROLLICOOL Alexa-Enabled Portable Air Conditioner – 10,000 BTU 4-in-1 Smart AC Unit
ROLLICOOL
ROLLICOOL Alexa-Enabled Portable Air Conditioner
The ROLLICOOL Alexa-Enabled Portable Air Conditioner is a powerful 10,000 BTU unit that offers cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan functions. With dual-band Wi-Fi and app control, it provides flexibility and convenience. You can control it using voice commands with Alexa or through the mobile app. It's available on Amazon for only $299.
Buy on Amazon
▲Midea 12,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter Air Conditioner
Amazon
Midea 12,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter Air Conditioner
The Midea U Smart Inverter AC features a unique U-shape design that uses your window to block outside noise, making it ultra-quiet—9 times quieter than traditional units with noise levels as low as 32 dBA. It offers over 35% energy savings thanks to advanced DC Inverter technology and is the first window AC to earn the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Certification. This Wi-Fi-enabled unit can be controlled via the MSmartHome app or through Alexa or Google Assistant voice commands. The flexible U-shaped design allows the window to open for fresh air and includes an Anti-Theft Mechanism for added safety. Installation is robust and straightforward, with a quick-snap bracket suitable for single-hung or double-hung windows with widths of 22"-36" and a minimum height of 13.75". And it costs only $439.99 on Amazon.
Buy on Amazon
▲GE Window Air Conditioner 8000 BTU
Amazon
GE 8000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner
The GE 8000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner is designed to efficiently cool rooms up to 350 sq ft and includes an easy installation kit. It is ideal for medium-sized areas, offers a quiet 8000 BTU cooling capacity, and is Energy Star-certified for lower energy use. The unit integrates with the SmartHQ app for remote monitoring, scheduling, and control and is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for versatile operation. It features Eco Mode to save energy by turning off the fan and compressor when the room is cool, with three cooling modes and three fan speeds. Installation is simple with the included EZ Mount kit, and the slide-out, washable filter ensures easy maintenance. And, it costs only $365 but is currently on sale on Amazon for only $280, 23% off.
Buy on Amazon
▲Smart Plugs
Plugging your AC unit into a smart plug can add smart capabilities to even the most basic air conditioner. Smart plugs allow you to control the power to your AC unit remotely and set schedules. Some recommended smart plugs include:
- Leviton Decora Smart Plugs - See Pricing on Amazon
- TP-Link Kasa Smart Plugs - See Pricing on Amazon
- Shelly Plug US - See Pricing on Amazon
- Govee Smart Plugs - See Pricing on Amazon
As with many household appliances, portable air conditioning units can be made more intelligent by attaching them to a smart plug. These plugs connect to your Wi-Fi and are controlled from your smartphone or with voice controls issued to a voice assistant or smart speaker. They can also be configured via IFTTT to switch on and off based on your location, room temperature, or local weather forecast. The key factor to consider is how the A/C unit is switched on. It will work with a smart plug if it starts working immediately when plugged into a wall outlet. However, a smart plug will not be effective if it requires a button to be pressed every time it is plugged in.
If A/C units are out of your budget for now, consider buying fans that switch on when plugged in and can thus be controlled via a smart plug. This setup lets your fans fire up when you're a block away from home, helping to take the edge off the heat when you walk through the door. Smart plugs can enhance your comfort and control over your home environment, even without investing in a full smart air conditioning system.
Using IFTTT and Smart Speakers
Integrate your smart AC with If This Then That (IFTTT) applets and a smart speaker to automate your cooling experience. Here’s how:
- Location-Based Control: Use geofencing to turn your AC on or off based on your location.
- Temperature-Based Control: Set your AC to activate when the room temperature reaches a certain level.
- Weather-Based Control: Automatically adjust your AC settings based on the local weather forecast.
- Voice Control:Use smart speakers like Amazon Echo or Google Nest to control your AC with voice commands.
Step-by-Step Guide to Turn Your AC into a Smart AC
Here are six easy steps to turn your AC unit into a smart one within minutes. We recommend identifying what you want to use as the controller and then implementing it. You might already have the controller in your home, like a spare smart plug or a smart speaker like Nest Hub Max or an Echo Dot.
- Choose a Smart Device: Select one of the recommended smart AC controllers or smart plugs that best fit your needs.
- Install the Device: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install and connect your smart device to your Wi-Fi network.
- Set Up the App: Download the companion app for your smart device and create an account.
- Configure Settings: Use the app to set schedules, geofencing, and other preferences.
- Integrate with Smart Home Systems: Connect your smart device with your smart home systems, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, for voice control and automation.
- Create IFTTT Applets: Set up IFTTT applets to automate your AC based on location, temperature, or weather conditions.
By following these steps and utilizing the recommended devices, you can easily turn your traditional air conditioner into a smart, efficient, and convenient part of your home. Enjoy the benefits of a connected home and stay cool this summer with your new smart air conditioner.
Check out The GearBrain, our smart home compatibility find engine. It can help you find, buy, and connect any smart device. It can even help you find other smart devices or systems that are compatible with your existing smart devices, such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa-enabled devices.
