# How to make a dumb AC unit smart without losing your security deposit

A hacker shares a practical method to retrofit a standard window AC unit with smart controls, using non-destructive modifications. The approach is designed for renters who want IoT features but cannot alter property permanently. This matters because it offers a low-cost, reversible way to improve energy efficiency and remote control without risking a security deposit.

**Importance:** 2/5

## Sources

### Technology
- [Hacker News](https://prilik.com/blog/post/automating-ac-nyc/) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 18:28:51 +0000

### Health
- [BBC Health](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0m71plpj0mo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 00:22:27 GMT