After months of research and experimentation, I’m thrilled to share my journey in creating a DIY smart thermostat system to control two AC units in my home! 
The Challenge:
I wanted to automate the temperature control in both my living room and corridor. The goal was to ensure optimal comfort while minimizing energy waste. However, finding a single thermostat solution that could handle two units was proving to be quite the challenge. Traditional thermostats simply weren’t cutting it, and the idea of hacking into the AC units directly seemed too risky and complex.
The Solution:
I decided to go the DIY route using infrared (IR) controllers and an indoor thermometer. Here’s a quick breakdown of what I did:
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IR Controllers:
I purchased IR controllers that could send signals to both AC units. These controllers were connected to my Raspberry Pi, allowing me to control the AC units remotely. -
Indoor Thermometer:
To monitor the temperature in both areas, I installed multiple sensors. These sensors would trigger the respective AC units based on the detected temperature and occupancy. -
OpenHAB Integration:
Using OpenHAB, I created rules to manage the temperature settings and AC unit activation. The system now adjusts the temperature automatically, ensuring comfort without unnecessary energy consumption. -
Cloud Accessibility:
While my system is primarily local, I set up OpenHAB Cloud to access and control the thermostat remotely. This has been incredibly handy, especially when I’m away from home.
The Outcome:
It’s been a month since I implemented this system, and I’m delighted with the results! The AC units now run more efficiently, and I’ve noticed a reduction in my energy bills. Plus, the ability to control everything from my smartphone is a huge convenience.
Tips for Others:
If you’re considering a similar project, here are a few tips:
- IR Controllers: Ensure you choose controllers that are compatible with your AC units.
- Sensors: Invest in high-quality sensors for accurate temperature readings.
- OpenHAB Rules: Take the time to thoroughly test your rules to avoid any unintended behavior.
I’d love to hear from anyone who has undertaken a similar project or has questions about how I set this up. Let’s continue to innovate and share our smart home solutions! 