SmartAC™ Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of participating in the SmartAC program?
- FREE SmartAC technology and technical support of your air conditioning system as long as you participate in the SmartAC program. If you have a problem with your system, please CALL US FIRST at 1-866-908-4916. We’ll send out a technician who will determine whether the SmartAC device is the cause of your problem. If our technicians determine that the problem is not related to the SmartAC device, we will recommend that you consult your service company.
- You reduce the likelihood of power outages in your community and throughout California and help the environment—all without sacrificing comfort or control.
- As California’s population rises, the demand for energy increases. By joining the SmartAC program, you can help reduce your electricity usage when demand approaches capacity. In fact, current SmartAC community members can help keep over 77,000 homes in California powered in the event of an energy supply emergency.*
- By generating less electricity from fossil fuel plants during peak periods, fewer greenhouse gases are produced and that means cleaner air for all of us.
*Participation in SmartAC reduces the risk and severity of power interruptions in the PG&E service area that may result from an extreme energy supply emergency.
How does SmartAC work?
- Each SmartAC device can receive a signal from PG&E. When demand for energy strains California’s power system, PG&E will activate the SmartAC devices. This action will allow your air conditioner to operate at a slightly lower capacity.
- The SmartAC program is triggered only during an energy supply emergency and SmartAC devices are activated only during the summer.
Will I notice a big difference in temperature?
- Participating in the SmartAC program won’t compromise comfort or control. In a recent survey, most SmartAC participants didn’t even notice when activation had occurred.
- If activation occurs at an inconvenient time, you can opt out for the day, online or via phone at 1-866-908-4916, without penalty.**
- The SmartAC device is activated only from May 1 through October 31.
**The ability to opt out for the day may not be available in the event of an extreme emergency.
What are the SmartAC technology options?
SmartAC Switch
- The free SmartAC switch is installed on or near the outside of your air conditioning unit.
- This installation does not typically require an appointment.
- When the SmartAC switch is activated, your air conditioner cycles at about half its normal rate, approximately 10 minutes out of each half-hour for no more than six hours. The fan runs normally, continuing to move air throughout your business. Enroll Now
SmartAC Thermostat
- The free SmartAC thermostat replaces your existing thermostat. This thermostat is a $300 value, including installation.
- Installation does require an appointment for replacement of your existing thermostat.
- It’s fully programmable. You can schedule both heating and air conditioning, with a schedule for weekdays and each weekend day.
- You can program your thermostat over the Internet.
- Properly programming a thermostat can save on the energy you use – both heating and cooling. By lowering your thermostat 10-15 degrees for eight hours, you can save about 5-15 percent per year on your heating bill—a savings of as much as one percent for each degree if the setback period is eight hours long.
- When the SmartAC thermostat is activated, the air conditioner can be cycled or the temperature can be gradually raised no more than four degrees and for no more than six hours. Enroll Now
How much does it cost to participate in the SmartAC program?
What AC equipment works with SmartAC technology?
- SmartAC technology works with standard central air conditioners and heat pumps.
- To participate, a SmartAC device must be connected to all air conditioners on the premises.
- Evaporative/swamp coolers, window and wall units are not eligible for the program.
What if an event occurs and I want my AC to be excluded for the day?
- You probably won't even notice when SmartAC technology is activated, but you can always opt out for the day without penalty.**
- Just contact us at 1-866-908-4916 or log in to restore your air conditioner to its previous setting.
**The ability to opt out for the day may not be available in the event of an extreme emergency.
What if I wish to stop participating in SmartAC?
- If, for whatever reason, you need to end your participation in the SmartAC program, you can call us at 1-866-908-4916 and we will disable your SmartAC device so that it will no longer be activated during a local or state energy emergency.
- If you decide to rejoin the SmartAC program, just call us to re-activate your SmartAC device.
Eligibility requirements
If you have questions or comments about SmartAC, please email SmartAC@pge.com.
Join Today

SmartAC Program benefits include:
• Year round energy management with the SmartAC thermostat
• Maintain control over your comfort and participation
• Help prevent summer power interruptions while staying comfortable
Already Signed Up?
If you are already enrolled with SmartAC, here are some helpful links.
SmartAC Tech Support
Free 24/7 technical support for SmartAC participants.
Just call 1-866-908-4916 or simply email us.


