For Condo Managers
Understanding CondoClimate™ from a property management perspective
Contained In-Unit Installation
- The CondoElite is actually safer than the original control box because it now contains a 30 amp relay to protect motor in-rush to the switch.
- CondoElite™ helps reduce stress on the building’s power plant by automatically cycling fan coil units on and off instead of allowing continuous operation throughout the building.
- Modern, tool-free wiring is completed using industry-standard Wago-style connectors for secure, vibration-resistant connections that meet modern electrical standards.
The installation of the CondoElite™ is entirely contained within the individual residential unit. More specifically the control box of the HVAC unit. It requires no new wiring, installs in about 15 minutes, and creates no disruption or mess. Nothing is modified and it is totally removable.
What The CondoElite™ Changes — And What It Does NOT Change
CondoClimate™ Does NOT Modify
- The motor of the fan coil unit
- The convector
- The functionality of the valves
- The existing electrical breakers
CondoClimate™ ONLY Modifies
- The power sent to the motor
- Think of it as an on/off switch when the temperature reaches its set point
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Unit Owners coordinate private purchase with CondoClimate and schedule the install directly with our Techs.
Installation Options
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Associations can purchase CondoElite units in bulk at a discounted rate and offer them to unit owners—installed by building maintenance—as a potential new revenue stream.
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Associations can purchase the CondoElite units in bulk at a discounted rate and offer them to unit owners—as a potential new revenue stream, while leaving CondoClimate™ techs to perform the installations.
Fully Insured
CondoClimate, LLC is fully insured for general liability and worker's compensation. A certificate of insurance (COI) naming the association and the property management firm as additionally insured is provided for every installation.
Compliance and Code Considerations
- The CondoElite is Chicago Code Compliant and uses all UL rated components. It only uses existing building wiring. No new wiring is added.
- Non-Invasive: No cutting of drywall or modifications to building infrastructure.
Because the installation is categorized as a standard HVAC control replacement (similar to replacing a light switch or a traditional thermostat), it does not require any permitting. Under Chicago electrical code, CondoElite™ qualifies as a DIY installation, since it is as simple as replacing two wire nuts with no new wiring, conduit, or wall modifications required.
Impact on Building Operations
Electrical Load
The CondoElite™ control box cycles fan coils on and off instead of running continuously—reducing peak electrical load when multiple units would otherwise be operating at the same time.
Prolongs Fan Coil Lifespan
By automating motor shut-off, the CondoElite™ reduces component wear and extends the service life of fan motors. For associations that perform unit maintenance, the system is designed to be easily bypassed for testing and cleaning.
Unit Turnover and Sales
A unit with a thermostat is more attractive to buyers and renters. Think of it as an HVAC capital improvement without having to have a capital improvement.
Challenge, Solution, & Manufacturing Story
The Challenge
CondoClimate™ was developed by a Chicago condominium resident and product designer after discovering there were no dedicated wireless thermostat control systems designed specifically for fan coil buildings.
Living in a Chicago high-rise with a fan coil HVAC system meant dealing with the same frustrations thousands of other residents face: temperature swings, continuous fan noise, nighttime overheating, and no real control.
The existing Hi/Medium/Low switch or Rheostat offered only manual fan speed selection—not intelligent temperature regulation like we're accustomed to in homes. Running around and turning the units on and off, make the resident the thermostat control system.
Smart thermostats from brands like Nest, Ecobee, and Honeywell still require hardwire running through the walls to the HVAC unit. While your phone can communicate to the thermostat, they are not wireless to the HVAC equipment like CondoElite is.
The problem was clear—no practical solution existed. Cutting into walls, running conduit, and hardwiring a thermostat just wasn’t worth it—it's expensive, invasive, and disruptive.
The Solution
CondoClimate™ was conceived to solve this specific problem: providing intelligent thermostat control for fan coil units without modifying building HVAC systems or requiring complex installations.
The engineering requirements were straightforward but demanding:
- Create an inexpensive solution
- Work with existing fan coil units in all the configurations out there
- Provide true thermostat functionality (automatic temperature regulation)
- Require no modifications to building systems
- Use industrial-grade UL rated components
- Make it small to fit inside existing HVAC cabinets
- Install it quickly and safely using existing building wiring
- Operate reliably without internet connectivity or complex network setups
Engineered and Manufactured in Chicago
CondoClimate™ is not a mass-market consumer product. It is a professionally engineered control system designed, manufactured, and supported locally.
Manufactured by Zacuto
Zacuto, a Chicago-based product design and manufacturing company with over 20 years of experience engineering and producing professional-grade equipment in the film, bath, electronic and the electrical Insustries.
Supporting local manufacturing means we can provide faster lead times, superior quality control, and direct technical support from the people who actually built your system.
Zacuto brings precision engineering, quality manufacturing, and rigorous quality control to the CondoClimate™ product line. Every CondoElite™ control module is assembled, tested, and inspected by hand to ensure reliable operation in demanding residential HVAC applications.
Questions from Property Managers
What is the impact on building staff?
The installation is non-invasive and requires no building staff involvement. Once installed, the system is reliable and does not require maintenance from building personnel.
Does CondoClimate™ require building-wide Wi-Fi?
No. CondoClimate™ uses a dedicated, secure RF wireless connection between the thermostat and the in-unit control module. It does not rely on or interfere with building Wi-Fi networks.
Can we allow owners to install it themselves?
Technically yes, but we recommend installation by CondoClimate™ techs, outside installers or your maintenance staff. We have an install video or will make one for every building we're installing units in.
What happens during building-wide power outages?
Like your existing system, the CondoElite™ requires electricity. It uses the same building power that was supplying the previous control box. Upon power restoration, the system automatically resumes its previous settings without any manual intervention.