The first window air conditioning unit with HomeKit launched this spring, and now GE has followed up with several more that can cool larger areas.
When people think of home automation, they generally think of whole-house systems. But that’s overkill in cooler climes. These single-room window AC units can be controlled by an iPhone app from anywhere.
Users can get refreshing cold air with a simple tap or by asking Siri. Owners can also create automations to instruct a unit to turn on or off at a certain time of day.
“We’re pleased to offer the very first air conditioners with HomeKit integration, bringing simple and secure control through the Apple Home app and using Siri. We are confident owners will find the convenience at the tip of their fingers,” said John Desmarais, Commercial Director, Window A/C, Portables & Dehumidifiers for GE Appliances.
HomeKit Windows AC units from Lowes and Home Depot
The first window air conditioner with HomeKit, the GE AHP08LX, puts out 8,000 BTUs, which is enough to cool a medium-size room (250 to 350 sq. ft). It’s available from Lowes for $279.
This has now been followed up by the GE AHP10AX, a unit that puts out 10,000 BTUs so it can cool a room that’s 350 to 450 sq. ft. Lowes is charging $349.
The Home Depot also has window AC units with HomeKit. Its first model is the GE AEC10AX, which offers 10,000 BTUs of cooling, enough to cool a 350 to 450 sq. ft. space. It’s $309 from this big-box retailer.
The AEC12AX is a 12,000 BTU windows unit. That’s sufficient to cool an area that’s 450 to 550 sq. ft. The Home Depot is charging $359.
