Mitsubishi HVAC & Z-Wave/Vera 3

Hi,

I’m planning to buy and install a multi-zone mini-split HVAC system. First, I was going to get a Mitsubishi M-Series (“Mr. Slim”) system. But then I was told that the only way to connect it to the Internet would be through their thermostat/controller MHK1 via “RedLink.” I was told that other Internet thermostats, such as those from Honeywell or Nest, would not be compatible. Connecting to the Internet is important to me, but connecting it to my MiCasaVerde Vera 3 Z-Wave-based home automation is important as well. Is there a way to make the Mitsubishi system work with it, or would I have to switch to a different HVAC vendor? If so, do you know any vendor that offers compatible systems? Unfortunately, all HVAC contractors in New York don’t seem to have an answer for me. That start laughing when I mention that I would like to control my HVAC system from my iPhone.

Thank you very much,
Daniel

I would recommend you get the installation manual for this model and then do a check of the wiring. Bounce this off the Nest website’s wire checker (if you would like to go the Nest route to control this).

You could also contact Nest customer support and ask them if they know if their product is compatible with this unit.

Hi Daniel,

Have you taken a look at the Remotec ZXT-120? It lists Mitsubishi in the supported units. I have an older Mits Slim Heat Pump Mini-split unit that I am thinking about using one of these with.

http://www.remotec.com.hk/zaspx/product_content.aspx?aboutno=36&subaboutno=45&main=f

-bob

I’ll have to agree with rbakley, the Remotec ZXT-120 is certainly a viable option since no one has attempted to interface (API) with the M line ductless systems. I’m taking this strictly from memory (not good) but I believe the 120 may be limited in the configurations (e.g. Vane position etc). Regardless, I’m installing my ductless (MUZ-GE09NA-8) in about 2 weeks and I’ll be using the MHK1 with the gateway (for now). Eventually I’d like to d-commision my inefficient 2 ton unit and install individual zones in my home. This is just a test to see how well it does in the master bedroom.

If anyone is familiar with Ruby, here’s a possible API to RedLink [glow=red,2,300][url=http://www.verious.com/code/gotwalt/redlink/]http://www.verious.com/code/gotwalt/redlink/[/url][/glow] assuming it can be ported over…

It sure would be great if Mitsubishi or any other ductless manufacturer would just offer a Z-wave add-on to their product.

Thank you for your responses. I think the Remotec ZXT-120 is an infrared device. The ducted Mitsubishi Mr. Slim mini-split systems don’t have an infrared receiver though. The thermostats are either wired or radio-frequency wireless. This route won’t work then.

Beringer,

I believe the Slims are indeed infrared since it’s managed via a remote control. If you decide to implement the Mitsubishi MHK1 kit (re-branded Honeywell stat) and wireless interface (MFH1), this will allow for scheduling (residential/commercial; 5+1+1/5+2) and I believe temp monitoring and remote interfacing (Redlink Gateway; Android & iPhone control). I’ve added a link below of a guy who shows how all of this is hooked up, apparently the instructions for installing the wireless add on is vague at best.

Installation instructions of Mhk1 Kit:
[url=http://cleanenergywonk.com/2013/04/16/adding-a-programmable-thermostat-to-mitsubishi-mr-slim-heat-pumps/#comments]The Clean Energy Times

What’s more interesting are the comments regarding a European Mitsubishi product that plugs in directly to the IDU and allows for control via Android or iPhone. The refer to this as Mel Cloud (Mitsubishi Electric Cloud). Not available in the U.S.
[url=http://www.innovations.mitsubishi-les.com/en/controls/wifi-adapter]http://www.innovations.mitsubishi-les.com/en/controls/wifi-adapter[/url]

Cuda

Hi,

Thank you. I think the ductless Mr. Slims are infrared, not the ducted.

I know that the MHK1 can be connected to the Internet via the Honeywell RedLink gateway. But I’m ultimately looking for a connection to my Vera home automation system, so that the A/C switches off when I leave the apartment.

Thanks everyone,
Daniel

assuming it can be ported
If it can be written in Ruby it can be done in a Vera Plugin. The problem is that you need an API key ... I do not know if those are free.

RTS,

That’s actually great news and I totally agree regarding the API key. I completed the installation of my ductless system this weekend and I too (like Beringer) want to control this unit as well as many future units for independent zoning via Red Link. Since I know little to nothing about Red Link, I’ll try to spend some time next weekend getting all the electronics setup (Thermostat/Gateway etc).

I thought I read somewhere that Honeywell (like Nest) was publicly releasing their API - I just don’t know IF or WHEN that will happen…
Perhaps I should start a thread discussing the details once I learn more.

[quote=“RichardTSchaefer, post:8, topic:176973”]

assuming it can be ported

If it can be written in Ruby it can be done in a Vera Plugin.
The problem is that you need an API key … I do not know if those are free.[/quote]

Beringer,

Before I forget, If you’re going to install the system yourself, specifically pressure and vacuum prior to releasing the refrigerant. I discovered that the service port fitting is indeed 1/4" on the Slims. I attempted to access the service port using a Yellow Jacket 5/16 (ball valve/core removal with side port) fitting and it was simply to big. I checked and it looks like Mitsu uses 5/16 on select units (I believe the city series).

Since most local HVAC supply stores will only sell to licensed HVAC techs, I had to order a 1/4" online.

[quote=“beringer, post:1, topic:176973”]Hi,

I’m planning to buy and install a multi-zone mini-split HVAC system. First, I was going to get a Mitsubishi M-Series (“Mr. Slim”) system. But then I was told that the only way to connect it to the Internet would be through their thermostat/controller MHK1 via “RedLink.” I was told that other Internet thermostats, such as those from Honeywell or Nest, would not be compatible. Connecting to the Internet is important to me, but connecting it to my MiCasaVerde Vera 3 Z-Wave-based home automation is important as well. Is there a way to make the Mitsubishi system work with it, or would I have to switch to a different HVAC vendor? If so, do you know any vendor that offers compatible systems? Unfortunately, all HVAC contractors in New York don’t seem to have an answer for me. That start laughing when I mention that I would like to control my HVAC system from my iPhone.

Thank you very much,
Daniel[/quote]

[quote=“CudaNet, post:6, topic:176973”]What’s more interesting are the comments regarding a European Mitsubishi product that plugs in directly to the IDU and allows for control via Android or iPhone. The refer to this as Mel Cloud (Mitsubishi Electric Cloud). Not available in the U.S.
[url=http://www.innovations.mitsubishi-les.com/en/controls/wifi-adapter]http://www.innovations.mitsubishi-les.com/en/controls/wifi-adapter[/url][/quote]

Have you seen an integration between vera and Melcloud?

Unfortunately not, but I’ve used homebridge with Melcloud plugin, so at least I’m able to control my HVAC with Siri…