Have you ever wished that you could make your boring air conditioner smart or smarter? Maybe you’ve wanted to have it turn on thirty minutes before you arrive home or turn off automatically when you leave home. Maybe you want it to optimize the temperatures and humidity levels of your home.

Fortunately, you don’t need a special type of air conditioner to do all those things (and more). If are looking for more control over your remote-controlled air conditioner at home or in the office, Sensibo is the answer. Once you learn everything it can do, it may just become your new best friend.

What is Sensibo?

Sensibo is a small device (aka the “smart pod”) that connects your air conditioner to the Internet (via the “smart hub”). It started out as an Indiegogo campaign in 2014 and was 236% funded on July 19, 2014.

It supports any A/C that can be used with a remote control (standing, split, window, central). It does this by communicating with the unit via IR commands. You can then control it via a mobile app (Android and iOS).

When you order Sensibo, you can choose the kit that best suits your needs:

  • Single comes with one smart pod and one smart hub.Starter comes with two smart pods and one smart hub.Home comes with three smart pods and one smart hub.

You can see Sensibo in action in the witty and creative video below. It will give you a short and fun introduction to the clever device.

Set Up and Usage

Sensibo works right out of the box. After setting up the smart hub, which connects to your router via an ethernet cable (included) and plugs into an outlet via a power adapter, you simply attach the smart pod to your air conditioning unit. Luckily, they’ve included 3M: Command mounting tape which allows you to securely attach the unit to any surface. If you want to remove it you can do so cleanly and without leaving a trace – it will slide right off.

Next, you’ll need to open up the Sensibo app on your mobile device and follow the instructions displayed on the screen. They’re really easy to follow and will have you up and running within minutes. That’s it. You can then monitor and control your A/C unit from wherever you are. You’ll be able to do things like change the temperature, set a sleep timer, and change the fan mode. Plus, you can keep track of all your latest activities.

Sensibo + IFTTT = More Control

If you’re a fan of IFTTT, you’ll love the Sensibo channel; it gives the device even more control and options. With the ability to create custom recipes to further automate Sensible, you can do cool things like the following.

  • When it’s steaming hot outside, switch the air conditioner on using Sensibo.When a meeting starts, switch on the air conditioner with Sensibo.When you enter an area with your iPhone, switch on your air conditioner with Sensibo.If you leave an area with your Android device, switch off your air conditioner with Sensibo.

Final Thoughts

Sensibo is an easy-to-use device that is sure to save you time and money (on your electric bill). If you have an air conditioner that has both cooling and heating functions, you’re better off because you’ll be able to use it year-round. The fact that Sensibo helps to cut down on energy consumption makes it invaluable.

After testing out Sensibo thoroughly, I couldn’t find any cons. It is compact and stylish, easy to set up, convenient to use, and the app is simple, yet extremely functional. I was also successfully able to control my air conditioner when away from home. If you’re looking for convenience and a great set of automation features, Sensibo won’t disappoint.

Sensibo

Charnita has been a Freelance Writer & Professional Blogger since 2008. As an early adopter she loves trying out new apps and services. As a Windows, Mac, Linux and iOS user, she has a great love for bleeding edge technology. You can connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.

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