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Cuby Smart vs Universal Remote

Escrito por Cuby Smart
22 de August, 2025
4 minutos de lectura

Resumen del artículo

What is the difference between a universal remote and Cuby’s smart solution for vacation rentals?

A universal remote allows only basic functions such as turning the minisplit on and off or adjusting the temperature, but it does not offer remote control, automation, or operational visibility.

In contrast, Cuby’s smart solution made up of devices like G4, Aria, Sentry and Bee provides control from your phone, temperature limits, presence and open window sensors, voice assistant integration, and enables energy savings of 20% to 40%, all without affecting the guest experience. It is ideal for vacation rental properties looking for efficiency, savings and professional management.

The importance of climate control in vacation rentals

In the world of vacation rentals, the guest experience goes far beyond a clean bed and a good location. Thermal comfort is one of the most critical factors to ensure positive reviews, pleasant stays, and efficient operations. In warm climates, air conditioning becomes one of the greatest operational challenges for any professional host.

Managing that consumption and maintaining control without invading the guest’s privacy requires the right tools. Many hosts choose universal remotes, an inexpensive but limited solution. Others have discovered the value of investing in a comprehensive technological solution like Cuby’s.

 

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What does a universal remote do?

Universal remotes allow you to turn the minisplit on and off and change the temperature without depending on the original remote. They are inexpensive, easy to find, and work with multiple brands. For small properties with low turnover, they can be a sufficient solution.

However, universal remotes do not offer remote control from a phone, do not allow setting temperature limits, do not provide usage statistics, and do not integrate with sensors or voice assistants. In short, they cover the basics but are not suited for professional operations.

 

A complete solution for hosts

Cuby’s technology is made up of several devices that complement each other to provide a total control experience over air conditioning in rental properties.

  • Cuby G4 turns any minisplit into a smart air conditioner connected to the internet.

  • Aria is a physical wall control that lets the guest adjust the temperature, but within the limits defined by the host.

  • Sentry detects presence in the room and turns off the air if no one is there.

  • Bee detects open doors or windows, helping to avoid energy waste.

This modular setup allows each property to adapt the level of control and automation to its operation without the need for construction work or complicated installations.

 

 

 

Key advantages over a universal remote

Remote control from anywhere

Through the app you can see if the A/C is on, adjust the temperature, or turn it off remotely. Universal remotes, on the other hand, depend on physical presence in the room.

Automated rules and sensors

You can set actions such as turning off the A/C if a window is open (with Bee) or if no presence is detected (with Sentry). These functions protect the equipment, reduce consumption, and extend the lifespan of the air conditioner.

Temperature under control

With Aria, the guest can modify the temperature, but only within a predefined range. This prevents excessive use without removing the ability for the user to make adjustments. In contrast, a universal remote gives guests full access to control the A/C, causing equipment wear and energy waste.

Full visibility of the environment

Through the app you can monitor key variables such as ambient temperature, humidity, open doors, or human presence. This information helps make better operational decisions without relying on third parties.

Compatibility with voice assistants

The system can be integrated with Alexa or Google Home, allowing guests to use voice commands to control the A/C. A feature that enhances the technological experience of the stay.

 

Minimum requirements to use a system like Cuby

  • Air conditioner with infrared remote control
  • WiFi network available on the property
  • Smartphone with iOS or Android operating system

No professional installation or special tools are required. Everything is designed to be up and running in minutes.

 

Proven energy savings

The technology allows you to reduce energy consumption by up to 40% for air conditioning. This is achieved without compromising guest comfort, thanks to temperature limits, sensors, and automation.

 

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Automate humidity control as well

In many regions of the country, especially in warm or coastal areas, humidity is a factor that can compromise comfort during a stay, even when the temperature is at an ideal level. That is why having a tool that automates humidity control is not a luxury but an operational necessity.

Through the app, it is possible to program the air conditioner to automatically activate in dehumidifier mode when ambient humidity exceeds a specific threshold. Once the levels return to the desired range, the system shuts off without manual intervention.

This feature helps keep spaces drier, fresher, and more comfortable for guests, while also protecting the property against possible damage caused by humidity, such as bad odors or furniture deterioration.

 

Summary of pros and cons

Advantages of the technological solution

  • Total control from the app
  • Automation with smart sensors
  • Customized temperature limits
  • Real-time visibility of A/C usage
  • Integration with voice assistants
  • Energy savings of up to 40%
  • Improves the guest experience

Limitations of a universal remote

  • No remote control
  • No automation or sensors
  • No temperature or mode limits
  • No usage or behavior data

    Not designed for vacation rental operations

 

Conclusion

Choosing between a universal remote and a smart solution is not just a matter of budget but of operational vision.

While the universal remote covers the basics, Cuby’s technological solution transforms air conditioning into a strategic tool. It allows you to automate processes, reduce consumption, improve the guest experience, and operate with real-time data, all from a single platform.

For hosts managing one or multiple properties who want to professionalize their operation without technical complications, this is an investment that translates into efficiency, control, and sustainable profitability. It is more than controlling the climate: it is taking control of the business.