TL;DR: Created a local Home Assistant integration for BGH Smart Control AC modules after the original cloud service shut down on Dec 31st, 2025. Uses reverse-engineered UDP communication to control air conditioning units locally without cloud dependency.
Local BGH Smart Control Integration - Rescuing Orphaned Hardware
After BGH Smart Control’s cloud service shut down on December 31st, 2025, I’ve developed a local Home Assistant integration that brings these devices back to life using reverse-engineered protocols.
Background
BGH Smart Control was a cloud-based AC control solution primarily sold in Argentina around 7 years ago. Despite its age, the hardware design remains innovative with features that are still hard to find today. Rather than discarding functional hardware, I decided to create a local alternative.
Hardware Overview
The system consists of two modules:
AC Monitor Unit: Connects to the wall outlet as a passthrough for the air conditioning unit. Uses vibration detection to sense when the AC is running and communicates via BLE with the IR module.
IR Module: Battery-powered unit that mounts on the AC’s internal unit. Receives commands via BLE and transmits IR signals to control the air conditioner.
Originally, these modules required connection to either BGH Smart Control Cloud or MyHabeetat Cloud (both by Solidmation). While MyHabeetat is still operational, it requires a local hub that wasn’t needed with the now-defunct BGH cloud service.
The Solution
I discovered that the BGH mobile app could communicate with modules even without internet connectivity. By capturing UDP traffic between the app and devices, I reverse-engineered the local protocol and created this integration.
Key Features & Benefits
- Local operation: No cloud dependency or internet requirement
- Existing hardware: Works with devices already installed and configured
- Long battery life: IR modules run 12+ months on batteries
- Toggle support: Handles air conditioners that use toggle IR codes for power
- Targeted IR: Designed to control specific units without affecting others in the same room
Requirements
- Devices must already be connected to your local WiFi
- IR module must be pre-configured for your AC brand
- Home Assistant with network access to the modules
Limitations
- IR module placement can be aesthetically challenging (requires mounting on AC unit)
- Thick enclosure limits IR range, requiring close proximity to target AC
- No initial device setup through this integration (must have used original app first)
Conclusion
This integration saves functional hardware from becoming e-waste while providing reliable, local AC control. If you have BGH Smart Control modules sitting unused after the cloud shutdown, this offers a path to continued functionality with improved privacy and reliability.