Having a smart conditioner at your home would really make your life easy. The energy-efficient unit connects to the internet and allows you to control everything from your smartphone app. So, you no longer have to get up from your comfy couch to adjust the settings on your AC.
However, choosing a smart air conditioner is not so easy. Don’t worry; the following article includes everything you must know.
In this buying guide, we have described the features of the top models in detail, which will help you pick the best one suiting your needs and budget. So, let’s get started.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Smart Air Conditioners
- OUR TOP PICK: LG LW1817IVSM
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: GE AHY08LZ
- BEST SMART WINDOW AIR CONDITIONER: Midea U Inverter MAW10V1QWT
Comparison of the Best Smart Air Conditioners
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What is a Smart Air Conditioner and How Does it Work?
Smart air conditioners are air conditioner units that connect to your smart appliances, giving you complete control over the unit. They come with a built-in Wi-Fi that allows you to connect it to smartphones via an app.
These units are compatible with smart home systems like Alexa and Google Assistant. You can easily control different modes using these smart home appliances, and they allow you to control the AC from the comfort of your couch or bed.
Smart air conditioners offer powerful cooling that can cool the entire floor of the house effectively. The internet connectivity connects the unit to your smart device, which allows you to control air conditioning functions from your smartphone.
Moreover, smart air conditioners stand out among other units due to their advanced functions. They can perform a wide range of functions remotely at your command. You can adjust the temperature settings, set timers, turn it on or off, and a whole lot more. This way, you have better control over your air conditioner than ever before.
How to Size a Smart AC
Sizing the air conditioner correctly holds great significance in effectively cooling your room. You may not want to have an undersized or oversized AC that does not cool your room well.
Air conditioners tend to reduce the temperature and humidity. A larger unit will not reduce enough humidity, resulting in damp and moist air. For this reason, it’s important to size the smart AC correctly.
Firstly, measure the size of your space to determine the square feet you want to cool. Next, select the air conditioner’s British Thermal Unit (BTU) that best suits your room size. The BTUs indicate the cooling power of a unit. A small room up to 300-350 square feet requires 8,000 BTUs. Meanwhile, a larger room up to 550-700 square feet requires 14,000 BTUs.
Bear in mind that a higher BTU rating increases the size and weight of the unit.
What Makes a Great Smart Air Conditioner?
It’s essential to consider some key aspects while buying a smart air conditioner for your room. These features considerably affect the operation of a unit. The most important ones to keep in mind are:
BTU
British Thermal Units (BTUs) indicate the cooling power of an air conditioner. It shows how powerful the unit is to cool an area.
Smart conditioners having higher BTU can cool a spacious area, while ones with lower BTU are suitable for a smaller space. For instance, 14,000 BTU is ideal for large rooms, whereas 8,000 BTU is best for smaller rooms.
Noise Level
Most people prefer complete silence while sleeping. Some smart air conditioners are noisy, which could disrupt your sleep.
However, some models come with noise-blocking features that tone the noise down. To be sure, check the reviews to know about the unit's noise level.
App Suitability
A smart air conditioner syncs with an app on your phone, which gives you control over the AC from anywhere.
If you are out running errands, you can just turn on the AC using your smartphone on your way back. It is as simple as that. To get the most out of this feature, make sure the app is compatible with your device.
Moreover, ensure that the app can control different functions such as modes, temperature, and turn the unit on or off.
Midea 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner MAP10S1CWT
Review of the Best Smart Air Conditioners
The following section reviews some of the best smart air conditioners. After thoroughly searching through various models, we shortlisted these products based on their features and attributes. Have a look.
Best Overall:
LG LW1817IVSM
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People who purchased this product loved its efficient operation. They were satisfied with its cooling efficiency. The AC made no noise while functioning. Also, the built-in Wi-Fi allowed the users to operate it with the smartphone app. All in all, users found it worth the money.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The LG LW1817IVSM is one of the best models for the exceptional features it offers. The efficient cooling with no noise makes this quite a great option. The dual inverter unit has an 18,000 BTU cooling capacity. It cools a large room up to 1000 sq ft.
The LG Smarthinq technology makes the unit compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Also, the built-in Wi-Fi allows you to control the air conditioner using the smartphone app. It also includes a remote control that enables you to operate and adjust the unit from the comfort of your couch.
Bottom Line
All in all, this model is ideal for those who are looking for a window AC with efficient cooling. It will cool large rooms of up to 1000 sq ft efficiently without making noise. Plus, the smart features make controlling the AC convenient.
Runner-up:
GE AHY08LZ
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People who recently used the product were satisfied with its overall performance. They were able to set it up in a few minutes without any problem. Also, they could easily adjust the settings with the remote control. Overall, they were pleased with the performance of the unit at such an affordable price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We love that this is one of the most affordable smart air conditioners for your room. It has 8,000 BTU cooling power and requires a standard 115volt electrical outlet. It also has built-in Wi-Fi that allows you to operate it with your smartphone. The unit is compatible with smart home systems, including Amazon Alexa, Apple Homekit, and Google Assistant.
Also, it is capable of cooling a room up to 350 sq ft effectively and dehumidifies up to 2.1 pints per hour. It comes with an air filter that makes it easy to clean.
Furthermore, the model consists of two-way air direction, three cool speeds, and three fan speeds. All these features add great value to the product, so you get great functionality at a reasonable price.
Bottom Line
To conclude, those who are on a tight budget should consider this model. In just a few minutes, you will have the AC installed and running. The remote control and smart features allow you to operate it without you having to leave your comfortable position on the bed.
Best Smart Window Air Conditioner:
Midea U Inverter MAW10V1QWT
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users found this to be an energy-efficient window AC. It did not make any noise at all due to its U-shaped design. Users also reported that the model is designed such that it lets in more light through the window than traditional models. They were able to connect it with the smartphone device easily, which made controlling it easy.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Midea U Inverter MAW10V1QWT is among the best smart window air conditioners. The Energy Star Most Efficient 2020 model saves more than 35% energy as compared to its traditional counterparts.
The high-performing unit has 10,000 BTU cooling power. The U-shaped design allows you to open your window to let some fresh air into your home even with the AC installed. Like other units, it features a built-in Wi-Fi that allows you to connect the MideaAir app to your smartphone devices. Additionally, the unit works with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can control your unit from anywhere you want.
Moreover, it comes with a bracket that gives more support to the unit.
Bottom Line
To sum up, if you are looking for an energy-efficient window AC, the Midea U Inverter MAW10V1QWT is the one for you. The advanced DC inverter offers powerful cooling with over 35% energy saving. Also, with its smart features, you can control the unit from anywhere you want.
Best Smart Portable Air Conditioner:
Midea 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner MAP10S1CWT
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Those who purchased the product could easily set it up. They were satisfied with the unit's cooling capacity and stated that the room cooled down within a few minutes. Moreover, the portable AC provided comfort to users with smart features like built-in Wi-Fi, remote control, timers, and more.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is another portable smart air conditioner that you should consider. The Midea 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner MAP10S1CWT features 10,000 BTU cooling power that can also dehumidify the area.
Furthermore, it features a 24-hour timer, which can adjust the temperature between 62°F and 90°F. You can choose from three modes: fan only, dehumidification, and cooling.
With the smartphone app, you can control the AC from the ease of your couch or bed. Also, you can change the temperature or set the timer using the remote control.
In addition, the installation is easy. Just attach adjustable brackets and a five-foot hose, and switch on the AC. The model also comes with all the tools and an instruction manual that makes the installation hassle-free.
Bottom Line
To conclude, the Midea 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner MAP10S1CWT is a great option that ensures powerful cooling. Your room will be cooled down in a few minutes using this model. Also, with the smartphone app, you can comfortably operate the AC from anywhere you want.
Best Frigidaire Smart Air Conditioner:
Frigidaire FGRC1044T1
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The powerful unit pleased people with its superior performance. Users were able to use the AC remotely with its Frigidaire smart app. The different modes provided ease and comfort while using the unit. People found the model ideal for cooling an area up to 450 sq ft or more, making it suitable for many areas.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Frigidaire FGRC1044T1 is one of the best smart air conditioners for its exceptional features. It is ideal for cooling a room up to 450 sq ft along with dehumidifying three pints per hour.
Moreover, the Frigidaire smart app allows you to control the unit remotely. If you are out doing groceries, you may just turn on the AC as you are heading back home so that you come back to a cool room.
You can also use your smartphone to change temperature, adjust fan speeds, control modes, and turn the AC on or off. Just a few clicks, and you can control your unit’s functions without even getting up.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is an ideal option for people who are on the lookout for smart air conditioners that can cool small to medium spaces. The unit cools up to a 450 sq ft space with its 10,000 BTU cooling power. The smart features provide ease and comfort, making this a good choice.
Best LG Smart Air Conditioner:
LG LW1019IVSM
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users loved the model for making no noise and cooling rooms well. The four-way air direction feature makes the cooling even better for them. Recent buyers found the unit ideal for a room up to 450 sq ft or more and stated that they could easily install it with the installation kit.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What makes this product stand out is the less noise it produces. In fact, you can sleep peacefully with this window AC on as it is incredibly quiet.
The 9,500 BTU inverter window AC is best for cooling a room up to 450 sq ft. It brings the temperature down within a few minutes, so you can just turn it on and instantly enjoy the cool air in your room.
Moreover, the model features four fan and cooling speeds along with four-way air direction. This makes the air move to areas where it is needed the most. And, of course, you can control the unit with your smartphone comfortably.
Additionally, it has an auto-restart option, which automatically turns it back on after a power outage. It also comes with an installation kit that is easy to use, making installation convenient. An instruction manual is also included to make things easier.
Bottom Line
All in all, this LG LW1019IVSM model is an attractive option if you are looking for a quiet unit that lets you sleep peacefully. It includes all the key features like easy installation, built-in Wi-Fi, and different modes, so you should definitely consider investing in this.
7. Frigidaire Cool Connect FGPC1244T1
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers had only positive things to say about this product. They claimed that it could cool an area more than 550 sq ft effectively. They could set it up easily, and it worked fine with the smart home systems. The built-in Wi-Fi and smart app made operating it convenient. Also, many people lauded the AC's sleek appearance, which enhanced the décor of their room.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For those looking for a portable room air conditioner, the Frigidaire Cool Connect FGPC1244T1 is just the right option. The powerful conditioner comes with a 12,000 BTU cooling capacity with three pints per hour dehumidification.
Furthermore, it has the capacity of cooling a 550 sq ft room effectively. You can control the temperature, fan speeds, different modes, and turn the unit on and off with the Frigidaire app.
Also, the sleek design of the model will blend in with any home decor. It is an energy-efficient unit that comes with a sleep and energy saver mode and a 24 hour on/off timer. With the timer, you can just set a schedule for your air conditioner and let it automatically turn on and off at your desired time.
Bottom Line
In a nutshell, the Frigidaire Cool Connect FGPC1244T1 is one of the best portable air conditioners on the market. You can place it wherever you want in your home, and with the built-in Wi-Fi, you can easily connect it to your smartphones and operate it from anywhere conveniently.
Common Issues With Smart Air Conditioners
Smart air conditioners come with their fair share of problems, but these are nothing to worry about. The following are some issues you might come across along with their solutions so you would know how to address the problem when the time comes.
Dirty Air Filters
There might be instances when you notice the AC is not cooling adequately. It could be due to dirty air filters. Many models come with washable air filters that should be washed at least once a week.
Cleaning them regularly makes your AC function effectively and efficiently. So, when you feel the room is not being cooled properly, take a look at the air filters.
Lack of Airflow
The lack of airflow from the air conditioner may occur due to clogged air filters. To resolve the issue, use a brush or vacuum to clean the dirt and dust trapped inside the filter.
Also, filters are replaceable. So, make sure to change them regularly to avoid any inconvenience.
LG LW1019IVSM
Wi-Fi Connectivity Issue
Some models have trouble enabling the Wi-Fi, which makes connecting the unit to the smartphone difficult. If this problem occurs, contact the concerned customer service to fix the problem.
Foul Odor in Air Conditioner
A musty smell coming out of an air conditioner is a common problem. The foul odor usually indicates the presence of mold or mildew and usually happens when the air conditioner retains water, making it a perfect breeding ground for mold spores. Removing water from the unit will make the odor go away.
How Do Smart Air Conditioners Compare?
Different air conditioners have varying features and functions. And to figure out the one that best suits your needs, it’s better to compare all the available options. The following are some options compared to each other to help you find the ideal unit.
AC Unit vs Smart AC Unit
Both units are designed to cool the air in your home. These are energy-efficient and work to cool a room quickly.
A smart AC comes with smart features. It has a built-in Wi-Fi that connects the unit to a smartphone. It can be operated from anywhere at any time using a smartphone. On the contrary, air conditioning units do not have any such features. They are regular air conditioners that provide efficient cooling to a room.
Moreover, smart ac units are more expensive than their regular counterparts. However, the investment goes a long way due to their higher cooling and energy-efficiency.
Dual Inverter vs Smart Inverter AC
Dual inverter and smart inverter ACs offer better cooling and energy efficiency than conventional air conditioners. Their compressors cool the room, depending on the requirement of a temperature set at the desired level.
A smart inverter AC uses inverter technology to run the compressor depending upon the external demand. It keeps the temperature at the desired level, hence offering energy efficiency.
Dual inverters, on the other hand, are an advanced version of an inverter AC. They come with two rotary motors that ensure efficient cooling, improved controlling functions, and stable operation.
GE vs LG Air Conditioner
GE and LG air conditioners come with smart features, such as built-in Wi-Fi, voice commands, app control, and others. Their functions include remote control, timer, various fan speeds, and three or four-way airflow direction.
LG LW1817IVSM
Further, LG offers a wide variety of window units, while GE provides a handful of them. Also, the latter is known for having more expensive models.
GE models also have limited size options. Therefore, you may not find a wide range of sizes to choose from.
GE vs Frigidaire Air Conditioners
Most GE and Frigidaire air conditioners come with quiet operation, allowing you to sleep peacefully. They feature Wi-Fi connectivity that enables the users to control the unit remotely using their smartphones.
GE does not offer a wide range of smart window units. However, their models come with advanced features, which make them more expensive than Frigidaire units.
Most Frigidaire models come with a one-year limited warranty on labor and general parts and an extra four-year limited warranty on the closed system.
GE air conditioners, on the contrary, come with a minimal warranty. They offer a one-year warranty on replacement, refund, or repair.
How to Use a Smart Air Conditioner
Are you wondering how to use a smart air conditioner? We have you covered. Here’s a short guide on how to use a smart air conditioner unit.
- To use a smart air conditioner, first, connect the Wi-Fi to the air conditioner.
- Download the smart app on your smart device.
- Once it is done, you can connect the unit to your smartphone via the app and control all the functions.
- With your unit connected successfully to the Wi-Fi and smart device, you can conveniently use it from a distance.
How to Connect Air Conditioner to WiFi
Smart air conditioners come with a built-in Wi-Fi that allows you to control them remotely. To connect your AC to Wi-Fi, here’s what you must do:
- Download your smart AC's app on your smart device.
- Create an account on the app and sign in.
- Turn on the AC and click the "Wi-Fi Connect" button until the LED light starts blinking.
- Add the device from the list of available smart appliances.
- Follow the instructions on your smartphone to register the product and link it to your home network.
- After connecting it, proceed on the app and press registration complete.
- Once the unit is registered, you can use your smartphone to control the features of the smart AC.
How to Control AC With Mobile Phone
A mobile app makes it possible for you to control the AC with a mobile phone. Once your air conditioner is connected with the Wi-Fi, you can control different functions of your unit using the app on your smartphone.
The smart app ensures complete air conditioning control. Once the app is connected, you can have the best smart home experience using all the features with just a few taps on the screen.
Another way to control your AC with a mobile phone is to download the remote app on your phone. Search your AC company, follow the instructions, and connect it. These apps make your phone act as a remote control, allowing you to manage various functions from the comfort of your couch.
Conclusion
You can find the best smart air conditioner if you bear in mind all the information mentioned above while shopping for one. Identify what kind of unit you require, and choose the best one from the list that suits your requirements. While shopping, be sure to look for key features such as BTUs, energy efficiency, and smart features. Good luck shopping!
People Also Ask
We have answered some commonly asked questions below. These responses will help clear any confusion that you may still have regarding smart air conditioners. Hopefully, after reading it, you would be able to make a wise buying decision.
What is Inverter Air Conditioning?
An inverter air conditioner has an inverter technology designed to save 30-50% energy as compared to a regular air conditioner. The compressor power is adjusted depending on the incoming air temperature and the level of the thermostat. An air conditioner with inverter technology runs continuously but adjusts the compressor power to the desired level of temperature.
What Makes an Air Conditioner Smart?
A smart air conditioner has a built-in Wi-Fi that allows you to connect it to your smartphone. It can be controlled from anywhere using an app on your smartphone.
Which Type of Phone Can You Use With a Smart AC?
You just require a basic smartphone to connect with the smart AC. Android and iOS phones work well with a smart AC. A smartphone is connected to the unit via Wi-Fi, allowing you to control different functions from anywhere.
Will a Smart AC Work With My Computer?
Smart air conditioners are designed to connect with smartphones or tablets via an app. The Wi-Fi makes it possible for these devices to work and control the unit remotely. To see if it is compatible with the computer, check if the smart app is compatible with your PC.
Are Smart Air Conditioners Energy Efficient?
Yes, smart air conditioners are energy-efficient. Many models save up to 35% of energy. Also, you will find models that are Energy Star-certified, which ensures they are indeed energy-efficient.