Spider Farmer AC5 Smart Power Strip Kit Review: Ultimate Grow Room Control

The Spider Farmer AC5 Smart Power Strip Kit revolutionizes indoor gardening with its comprehensive control and automation features. This innovative system offers more than just a simple power strip; it provides a complete solution for managing and optimizing your grow environment. With five individually controllable outlets, you can precisely manage your grow lights, fans, and other essential equipment, all from a user-friendly smartphone app. This app allows for scheduled automation, ensuring optimal light cycles, watering schedules, and fan adjustments – streamlining your grow process and freeing up your time.Beyond power control, the AC5 boasts integrated sensors for soil moisture (EC and pH), temperature, humidity, and light intensity. This real-time data, displayed directly within the app, empowers you to make informed decisions, reacting swiftly to environmental changes and ensuring your plants receive the ideal conditions for thriving. The AC5's versatility extends to compatibility with a wide range of grow room accessories, providing a scalable solution for growers of all levels and setups. From beginner to expert, the AC5 offers unparalleled control and convenience.

Pros And Cons

Spider Farmer AC5 Smart Plug
  • Individually controllable outlets (five in this version, a ten-outlet version also exists)
  • Connects via Bluetooth and app for remote control
  • Includes soil probe for EC and pH measurement
  • Includes temperature, humidity, and light sensor
  • App allows for control of lights, fans, and other devices
  • Can automate functions based on sensor readings (temperature, humidity)
  • Can simulate sunrise and sunset
  • Compatible with CO2 and PPFD meters (sold separately)
  • Can control Spider Farmer Dripper systems

Read more: AMI Meter Reading Guide: Understanding Your Smart Electricity Meter

Unboxing and Overview

The Spider Farmer AC5 Smart Power Strip is a game-changer for indoor gardening. Its five individually controllable outlets allow precise management of grow lights, fans, and other essential equipment. The included soil probe and environmental sensors provide real-time data, which helps optimize your grow conditions.

The Spider Farmer AC5 Smart Power Strip box
The Spider Farmer AC5 Smart Power Strip box

Beyond the basic on/off switches, the AC5 boasts Bluetooth connectivity and a user-friendly app for remote control and automation. This allows for scheduled watering, light cycling, and fan adjustments, all from your smartphone.

Close-up of the AC5's five outlets
Close-up of the AC5's five outlets

Features and Functionality

The AC5's features extend beyond simple power control. It includes a soil probe that monitors EC and pH levels, providing valuable insights into nutrient levels and soil health. This data is seamlessly integrated with the app for easy monitoring and adjustments to your nutrient regime.

A temperature, humidity, and light sensor are also included, offering a holistic overview of your grow environment. The app displays this information alongside the power outlet controls, empowering you to react to changes immediately.

App Control and Automation

The Spider Farmer app is the heart of the AC5 system. It provides a user-friendly interface for managing each outlet individually, scheduling routines, and monitoring environmental data. You can easily set up automated responses to temperature and humidity fluctuations.

The Spider Farmer app interface showcasing data
The Spider Farmer app interface showcasing data

From setting precise light cycles to controlling fans based on temperature, you maintain a stable environment. This automation minimizes the need for constant manual adjustments, simplifying your grow process.

The app's automation features
The app's automation features

Additional Accessories and Compatibility

The AC5 is compatible with various grow room accessories. You can connect lights such as the Spider Farmer SF2000, inline fans, and circulating fans. It offers broad compatibility for various setups.

Connecting the SF2000 to the AC5
Connecting the SF2000 to the AC5

Furthermore, optional CO2 and PPFD meters can be added for even more comprehensive environmental monitoring. This gives growers fine-grained control over their grow environment.

Conclusion and Verdict

The Spider Farmer AC5 Smart Power Strip Kit is a well-designed, feature-rich system providing complete control over your grow environment. Its ease of use, combined with its powerful automation capabilities, makes it a top choice for indoor gardeners of all levels.

While the initial cost is slightly higher than basic power strips, the ability to automate tasks, monitor environmental factors, and precisely control your equipment significantly simplifies growing and improves yields. The included sensors and probes provide valuable insights, leading to better-informed decisions regarding your plants’ needs. The AC5 is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a more efficient and high-tech approach to indoor cultivation.