During installation, you may encounter a condenser nameplate that is worn out, painted over, or completely missing. SmartAC.com uses nameplate data (manufacturer, model, serial number, refrigerant type, manufacture date) to power breakdown risk calculations, calibrate performance thresholds, and generate accurate Monthly Health Report insights.
Without this information, basic monitoring still works (cycle detection, temperature tracking, filter life), but breakdown risk and performance insights will be limited. The more information you can provide, the better the member's experience will be.
Take the Photo Anyway
Even if the nameplate appears worn, faded, or partially obscured, take the photo. SmartAC.com's recognition system can read nameplates that look illegible to the human eye. If you can make out the text on close inspection, the system should be able to recognize it.
Enter Details Manually
If the nameplate is missing, painted over, or otherwise unreadable (not just worn), the Pro App allows you to enter system details manually.
During the condenser nameplate step of onboarding:
Select the option to enter details manually
Enter as much information as you can identify:
Brand/Manufacturer
Model number
Serial number (if visible elsewhere)
Refrigerant type
Estimated age or year of manufacture
Complete the rest of the onboarding flow
Even partial information helps. If you can identify the brand and estimate the system's age, enter what you know.
Where to Find System Information
If the nameplate is completely unreadable, you can often find system details from other sources:
Ask the member if they have the owner's manual, installation paperwork, or warranty documents
Check service records or invoices from previous maintenance visits
Look at the indoor unit (furnace or air handler nameplate may have matching information)
Use your knowledge of the equipment based on visual identification
Members can also update their nameplate information later through the SmartAC.com app or by contacting support@smartac.com.