SmartAC™ Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the benefits of participating in the SmartAC program?• FREE technical support of your air conditioning system as long as you are a customer 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 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.
• 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. - How does SmartAC work?• Each SmartAC device receives 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. - What are the SmartAC technology options?Smart 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 home. Enroll Now
SmartAC Thermostat
• The free SmartAC thermostat replaces your existing thermostat. This thermostat is a $300 value, including installation.
• This 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 turning your thermostat back 10-15 degrees for eight hours, you can save about 5-15 percent a year on your heating bill—a savings of as much as 1 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?• Nothing. Not a cent. SmartAC technology and installation are provided free of cost.
- 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 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 login to restore your air conditioner to its previous setting. - What if I wish to stop participating?• 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 ever decide to join the SmartAC program again, just call us to re-activate your SmartAC device. - Eligibility requirements• You must be a PG&E electricity customer.
• You must have a central air conditioning unit or heat pump in suitable operating condition. Window units or evaporative coolers do not qualify.
• You must be the homeowner or have the homeowner’s written permission to participate in SmartAC.
*The ability to opt out for the day may not be available in the event of an extreme emergency.
For any further program questions or comments, please email SmartAC@pge.com.
