In this comprehensive guide, we reveal the top smart air conditioning units that combine advanced connectivity with optimized performance for maximum energy efficiency and climate comfort.
Overview
Smart air conditioners integrate internet and wireless technology for app and voice control, automation, detailed tracking plus seamless integration with leading smart home platforms.
Beyond basic temperature adjustment, capabilities include:
- Remote Monitoring and Control
- Voice Assistant Integration
- Automated Scheduling
- Home / Away Mode Detection
- Advanced Usage Tracking and Insights
- Over-the-air Software Updates
Combining next generation convenience and money saving efficiency, smart ACs let you cool spaces exactly when and how you need – ensuring comfort while reducing energy bills.
And consumer demand for these innovative cooling solutions continues rising exponentially. The global market is projected to grow from $11 billion in 2022 to over $38 billion by 2030 according to Emergen Research – a stunning 25%+ compound annual growth rate as smart functionality becomes standard across appliance categories.
Let‘s explore the field deeper to understand how to choose the ideal modern air conditioner matching your climate comfort and connectivity expectations…
Types of Smart Air Conditioners Compared
Smart cooling technology is implemented across three air conditioner configurations:
Smart Portable AC Units – Freestanding floor models with caster wheels for flexible room to room mobility. Tend to be louder but enable targeted spot cooling anywhere.
Smart Window AC Systems – Direct replacements for existing window units. Cost effective cooling solution but intrudes on outdoor views.
Smart Central Home AC – Whole home ventilation systems with advanced zoning, highest efficiency and smart integration. Extremely expensive to install but nearly invisible while cooling quietly and powerfully. New higher end constructions often include these centralized solutions.
Below we reveal the highest rated smart portable and window AC picks. While whole home central air conditioners exceed the scope of this buyer‘s guide, contact a local HVAC specialist if seeking an integrated smart climate system across an entire newly built or renovated single family home.
Now let‘s explore what exactly makes an AC unit "smart" from a technical perspective…
What Makes These Units Smarter?
Smart air conditioners introduce complex sensors, electronic control boards and wireless antenna to enable advanced connectivity and automation.
Let‘s overview the key components upgraded from standard "dumb" AC units:
Direct-Drive Variable Speed Inverter – Ramps compressor motor up and down to precisely match target temperature instead of switching fully on/off. Enables up to 30% efficiency gains.
Integrated Wi-Fi Antenna – Enables direct wireless communication to your home network and the internet.
Electronic Control Board – The brains coordinating variable components, surfacing capabilities through user interfaces.
Remote Sensor Suite – Monitors internal temperature, humidity, leaks and airflow for self-diagnostics.
Firmware Upgrades – Logic and features improve over time with over-the-air software updates. No technician or replacement needed.
These enhanced electronics make all of the convenience, automation and intelligence smart ACs offer possible. The buying cost runs 10-30% more than comparable "dumb" systems – easily paying back through energy savings and comfort.
Now let‘s crunch some numbers revealing the electricity and cost efficiency upside…
Just How Much More Efficient Are Smart Air Conditioners?
Integrating connectivity unlocks entirely new potential to optimize energy consumption – saving home owners considerable money over years of operation.
We compared seasonal cost projections of popular traditional vs smart AC units based on average small home usage spanning spring through fall:
-
10,000 BTU Traditional Window AC
- Electricity Used: 706 kWh
- Electricity Cost (@ $0.15/kWh): $106
-
10,000 BTU Smart Window AC
- Electricity Used: 500 kWh
- Electricity Cost (@ $0.15/kWh): $75
- Total Savings: $31 / 30% Reduction
While upfront price runs higher, electricity savings from integrated automation and efficiency features save nearly one third off annual cooling bills.
Across a 20 year lifespan, a smart AC saves over $600 in utility costs on this usage model. And with electricity rates ever rising, savings scale even higher over time.
The advanced electronics make smart ACs a fine long term investment – paying back many times over through energy efficiency gains alone. Intelligent automation then takes optimization to the next level…
Smart Air Conditioners Adjust to You
While innovative variable components save electricity directly, connectivity also unlocks game changing convenience through automation tailored to each homeowner‘s lifestyle.
Capabilities making smart ACs standout include:
Intuitive App Control – Monitor operation or adjust cooling settings anywhere with iOS and Android apps.
Voice Assistant Integration – Use Alexa, Google Assistant and in some cases Siri for basic voice control.
Scheduling & Modes – Set schedules, home/away modes and trigger routines automatically based on time, occupancy sensing and more.
Advanced Tracking – View historical runtime, energy use and ambient temperature details for usage insights.
Smart Diagnostics – Many models automatically alert your phone if any operational issues arise for rapid troubleshooting.
Automation adjusts cooling to match your daily patterns and preferences – ensuring comfort when needed while conserving electricity otherwise. Modern conveniences making home climate peacefully perfect.
But tapping these smart benefits depends first on picking components sized appropriately for each space…
Properly Sizing Your Smart AC
To fully benefit from a smart air conditioner, it‘s vital to select adequate cooling capacity to match the rooms you want to treat.
The first step is carefully calculating your total square footage by multiplying room length times width for each space then adding all zones together. Include any openly connected areas you expect airflow to reach.
For example, an open concept kitchen, living room and dining layout with little separation should be counted as one large zone. While a separated media room in the finished basement would constitute its own independent area.
Next, consult individual AC manufacturer sizing charts to translate square footage into the required BTU or "British Thermal Unit" heating/cooling output needed for comfort. Take into account:
- Room dimensions
- 8 foot ceilings or taller?
- Window positioning
- Sun exposure
- Occupancy
- If also cooling connected spaces like a basement
Oversizing capacity leads to short cycling and wasting electricity. While undersizing means insufficient temperatures and straining at max load. Spend the time to precisely match cooling output to the spaces you expect your smart AC to treat.
Getting the size right ensures efficiency, full featured functionality and years of optimized operation. Now let‘s explore top brands pushing smart AC technology forward…
Leading Smart Air Conditioner Brands
The smart AC market currently centers around four core appliance and electronics manufacturers adapting existing product lines with wireless connectivity:
LG – The most popular premium option with excellent smart integration via LG ThinQ technology. Known for quiet, reliable performance and great mobile apps. Models include both portables and window units.
GE – Reliable mid-range pick integrating Alexa and Google Home control. Widely available through major retailers. Window unit focused.
Frigidaire – Budget smart AC pick from this recognizable appliance brand. Very affordable but basic app functionality. Low cost window units.
Midea – Emerging smart AC contender focusing on unique U-shaped window options. Emphasizes voice control and quiet operation.
While plenty of model variety exists, the manufacturers above represent widely available options from established names in appliances, electronics and HVAC technology.
Now let‘s explore a key technical difference that separates basic affordable picks from seriously advanced premium choices…
Inverter VS Non-Inverter Smart AC Units
As outlined previously, advanced "inverter" AC systems utilize variable speed compressors for much higher electricity efficiency – yielding 30% or more in annual savings.
More affordable non-inverter smart ACs still integrate great connectivity and voice control, but utilize traditional fully on/off compressors leaving savings on the table.
Here‘s a head to head comparison:
| Non-Inverter | Inverter | |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor Type | Single Speed | Variable Speed |
| Temp Control Method | Cycling On/Off | Precise Output Matching |
| Energy Efficiency | Base | 30%+ Higher |
| Cooling Performance | Good | Excellent |
| Price | $$ | $$$ |
While more expensive upfront, inverter-based smart ACs pay back the difference quickly through direct electricity savings while running quieter and keeping temperatures stable.
The decision point comes down to each homeowner‘s budget. Non-inverter models provide decent smart connectivity at very affordable pricing. While premium inverter units truly maximize efficiency and comfort.
Now equipped with this background knowledge, let‘s reveal the top smart window and portable AC picks across budget levels…
The Best Smart Portable Air Conditioners
Smart portable air conditioners deliver serious cooling power combined with voice assistant integration and app-based control. Let‘s review the top models:
Overall Best Smart Portable AC: LG LP1419IVSM
Cooling Power: 14,000 BTU
Highlights
- Powerful capacity for large rooms up to 700 sq ft
- Ultra quiet at 52 dB on low fan speed
- Energy efficient dual inverter variable compressor
- Works with Alexa & Google Assistant voice controls
- Monitoring and control from ThinQ mobile app
- 1 Year manufacturers warranty
LG stands at the top of the portable AC market by marrying best-in-class smart technology with excellent power, efficiency and reliability. Capable cooling large spaces quietly while linking environments with custom automation triggers.
Most Affordable: DeLonghi Pinguino PAC EX120
Cooling Power: 10,000 BTU
Highlights
- Lower price for solid mid-size room capacity
- Amazon Alexa voice assistant built directly in
- Quieter than comparable budget models
- Capable mobile app for remote monitoring
- Washable dust filters to maintain air quality
- 2 year limited manufacturers warranty
Delonghi‘s portable Air Conditioner packs voice control and connectivity into a less expensive 10,000 BTU system well suited for bedroom or den use. Reliable performance with versatile positioning.
Honorable Mention – Honeywell MN Series
Cooling Power: 8,000 – 14,000 BTU capacities available
Highlights
- Reliable portable AC performance
- Easy connectivity with mobile app control
- Good energy efficiency ratings for the price
- Reasonably quiet operation
- Dual filtration to capture airborne particles
- Standard 1 year limited warranty
The iconic Honeywell brand extends to capable smart portable air conditioning units spanning a range of room sizes – although app functionality lags category leaders LG and DeLonghi. Still a solid choice to consider where the brand is preferred.
The Best Smart Window Air Conditioners
Smart window mounted units introduce connected conveniences like app controls and voice integration to classic wall insert designs at very affordable price points.
Here are the top cost conscious picks if seeking cheaper first step into smart cooling capabilities:
Best Budget Smart Window AC – GE 115 Volt Electronic Smart Room Window Air Conditioner
Cooling Power: 8,200 BTU
Highlights
- Works with Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant
- 10.7 EER energy efficiency
- Cools rooms up to 350 square feet
- Electronic controls w/ remote in smartphone app
- Energy Star approved for added savings
- Lightweight for easier installation
- 1 year limited entire appliance warranty
This popular GE window unit taps into smart assistants and mobile app control to offer connected features and added comfort for a very reasonable MSRP. Great for first time smart buyers prioritizing price over highest capability performance.
Most Affordable – Frigidaire FFTA1233Q1 12,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Cool Connect Smart Air Conditioner
Cooling Power: 12,000 BTU
Highlights
- Network connection for app monitoring/control
- Built-in temperature sensing
- Programmable 24-hour on/off timer
- 12,000 BTU cools rooms up to 550 square feet
- Effortless restart & delay start options
- Washable mesh filter reduces particles
- Full function remote control included
- Solid overall owner ratings
This cost effective Frigidaire model still packs modern connectivity into a classic design – proving smart window air conditioners need not break budgets. Reliable mid-size capacity to consider if top brands carry a price premium locally.
Honorable Mention – LG LW8017ER 8000 BTU 115V Window Air Conditioner
Cooling Power: 8,000 BTU
Highlights
- LG smart technology connects with their ThinQ app
- Works with Alexa and Google voice assistants
- 8,000 BTUs perfect for smaller rooms
- Energy Star certified for power efficiency
- Auto cool, fan, dehumidify and dry modes
- Convenient slide out filter for easy cleaning
- Jam-resistant 3 speed motor
- 1 year limited warranty on parts
The iconic LG AC brand also caters to smart buyers on a budget with their ThinQ enabled window unit line spanning a range of capacities. Reliable mid-size cooling solution to benchmark other low cost competitors against.
Smart Air Conditioner Buyer‘s Guide
We‘ll wrap up with key factors to weigh as you evaluate smart AC models for your climate comfort needs:
Compatibility With Smart Home Platforms – Ensure mobile app and voice assistant platform aligns with your overall smart home ecosystem. Will you be integrating primarily with Amazon Alexa vs Google Home ecosystem?
BTU Cooling Capacity – Carefully size units based on square footage as outlined above. No one wants an AC constantly lagging or cycling on/off unnecessarily. Precision equals efficiency.
Ventilation Requirements – Account for how ventilation hoses or window alignments function. Can ducts reach properly aligned windows or exterior building walls?
Noise Output – Portable units in particular vary widely in sound profiles from near silent operation to RV loud. Check manufacturer specs and consumer reviews to asses real world noise. Will this unit run reasonably quiet?
Features & Modes – Compare extras like energy tracking, filter indicators, special sleep/eco modes etc. The capabilities and usability of mobile apps frequently vary as well.
Warranty Protection – Given the added electronics, extended warranty periods provide peace of mind should components fail. Check lengths as basic protection varies widely from 1 to 5 years across AC brands and models.
Taking the time to properly evaluate options using the criteria above helps ensure you select the ideal smart air conditioning solution matching your household comfort needs and technology expectations.
The additional cost over "dumb" models pays dividends through remote access convenience, automated electricity savings and seamless integration with your smart home ecosystem.
Stay cool while keeping energy bills down with a smart air conditioner personalized to your lifestyle throughout every season. Give connected AC options serious consideration for maximizing both climate comfort and efficiency over traditional dated window inserts. The advanced electronics integrated into modern smart models push residential climate enjoyment into the 21st century.
