Universal Air Conditioning Controller - ESP32-S3

This universal air conditioning controller based on an ESP32-S3 is designed to replace the Wi-Fi dongle of most air conditioners. The controller can be programmed via the USB-C connection and used with, for example, Home Assistant via ESPHome or MQTT. Examples are available for various brands (see below).

The hardware on the controller converts the 3.3V signals from the ESP32-S3 microcontroller into 5V signals (which most air conditioners work with (do verify this of course)) via a bi-directional level converter. A total of 3 GPIO pins of the ESP32-S3 are available, which means that signal interfaces such as UART and SPI are supported. In addition, there is a step-down (buck) converter on the controller to also handle higher supply voltages (some air conditioning models from Mitsubishi and Daikin, among others, offer a higher voltage than 5V).

To connect the controller to an air conditioner, it offers 3 options:

1. The JST-GH connector. This connector is the standard connector on modern Haier air conditioners.
2. A USB-A connector hat needs to be soldered (this is not included). Various air conditioner brands such as (older) models from Haier, Midea, Electrolux, Comfee, Qlima, Electrolux, etc. use this connector. This pinout is generally universal, but always verify this with your own air conditioner.
3. Loose wires that need to be soldered to the controller yourself.

Finally, the controller also offers the option to solder an IR LED onto the module (this is not included). This way you can also send the same signals from the air conditioner's remote control.

Tested by us:

• ESPHome Haier (tested with a modern Haier air conditioner via the JST-GH connector, see the tab "Downloads" for an example)
• ESPHome Daikin (via custom DIY cable, or the existing cable must be modified)
• ESPHome Toshiba (via custom DIY cable)

Tested by others:

• ESPHome Mitsubishi (page recommends a DuPont cable, however a JST-XH kabel should also fit. Note: Cable colors do not match)
• ESPHome Panasonic 

Not tested:

• ESPHome Midea (and Electrolux, Qlima, Comfee, etc.)

Did you get it working with your air conditioner but is it not listed here? Let us know which model you have, how it is connected and we will add it to this page!

Note: Use of this controller is entirely at your own risk. Always check and verify the pinout and signal voltage of the air conditioner (this must be 5V) to prevent damage. We test the electrical part of the controller, but cannot guarantee that it will work with your air conditioner.

Check the tab "Downloads" for more information and/or downloads.