How can I make a timer for my fan and ac/heating units?

Other Hardware Home Automation
1

Hello all,
First off, I apologize if this is not in the correct section, but this is the most appropriate section I could find for what I am trying to do.
I dont know if this is possible or not, so I am asking.
What I am trying to do is utilizing my 2 IR remotes for the fan/light and ac/heating system respectively, is to create a system that will turn the fan and the ac on at scheduled times and days. For example, from monday through thursday, I want my ac to turn on at 8pm and off at 8am, and on friday and saturday I want it on all day.
If possible, I also want to connect it to my home wifi so that if I want to turn it on and I am not at home, I can do that as well (similar to the remote systems like NEST). I would also like to add a temperature sensor that will both display the current temperature on a small LCD and (if possible) display it on my phone as well. (Displaying it on my phone is not a need, just a nice to have.)
I am quite a noob at arduino programming, so please be patient with me and try to explain how to do this in as simple a way as possible.

Edit: Ill try and make this a little clearer.
My ac/heating unit is one of the ones that is mounted on the wall and plugs into an outlet, so maybe I can somehow use the remote control that came with it or something?
My fan also has a remote and maybe I could use that for the controller?
I am not looking to start opening up the walls or removing the switches and outlets to get to the wiring. I simply want to (if possible, of course) use the IR remotes to turn the fan and ac on and off.

Thanks,
PhauxFenix

2

you could use Blynk or similar cloud with smart phone app service

3

Yes it is not that hard. First you need to get a bit of background on the arduino. Almost all of the code you need for timing is available in tutorials or other places on this web site. When you use external shields always be sure the low voltage grounds are connected. You can use LEDs to check your timing etc. When it is correct it now enters the dangerous area. If for the HVAC thermostat wires you can use relays, they will work great. When it gets to the fans etc you can use solid state relays or relays, either will do good and give you complete isolation. Never Never Never connect any part of the arduino to the mains without using proper isolation. Simply ask there are a lot of knowledgeable people on line willing to help you. This response is to help you get started in solving your problem, not solve it for you.
Good Luck & Have Fun!
Gil