Information provision system, appliance, program, and information provision method

Abstract

The present invention provides an appliance, a program, an information provision method, and an information provision system capable of providing, to a user of a subscription service for providing an appliance of which the capability can be changed, appropriate information related to the subscription service.　The information provision system according to the present disclosure comprises a transmission unit that transmits prescribed information to the user of the subscription service that provides the appliance of which the capability can be changed. In the subscription service, a plan is provided for each changeable capability. The transmission unit provides the prescribed information to the user on the basis of the plan registered by the user and an operation time of the appliance provided to the user.

Description

Information Providing System, Electrical Appliance, Program, and Information Providing Method 【0001】 This disclosure relates to an information providing system, an electrical appliance, a program, and an information providing method. 【0002】 Patent Document 1 discloses an information processing system including a proposal unit that proposes one or more home appliances or one or more usage plans to a user based on user information including family information or housing information in a subscription service related to home appliances. 【0003】 Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2024-018558 【0004】 This disclosure provides an information providing system, an electrical appliance, a program, and an information providing method that can provide appropriate information related to a subscription service that provides an electrical appliance with changeable capabilities to a user of the subscription service. 【0005】 This specification includes all the contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-215286 filed on December 10, 2024, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2025-115341 filed on July 8, 2025. The information providing system in this disclosure includes a providing unit that transmits predetermined information to a user of a subscription service that provides an electrical appliance with changeable capabilities. In the subscription service, a plan is provided for each changeable capability, and the providing unit provides the predetermined information to the user based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the electrical appliance provided to the user. 【0006】 Further, the electrical appliance in this disclosure is an electrical appliance provided to a user of a subscription service and having changeable capabilities. In the subscription service, a plan is provided for each changeable capability, and the electrical appliance includes a providing unit that provides predetermined information based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time. 【0007】Furthermore, the program in this disclosure causes the processor to function as a providing unit that provides predetermined information to a user of a subscription service that provides electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities, the subscription service has a plan for each adjustable capability, and the providing unit provides the user with predetermined information based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the electrical appliances provided to the user. 【0008】 Furthermore, the information provision method in this disclosure includes a provision step of providing predetermined information to a user of a subscription service that provides an air conditioning system with adjustable capacity, wherein the subscription service has a plan for each adjustable capacity, and the provision step provides predetermined information to the user based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the air conditioning system provided to the user. 【0009】 The information provision system, electrical appliances, programs, and information provision methods described in this disclosure provide predetermined information based on the capabilities of the electrical appliances corresponding to the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the electrical appliances. Therefore, appropriate information related to subscription services that provide electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities can be provided to users of subscription services. 【0010】Figure 1 shows the configuration of the information provision system in Embodiment 1. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main parts of the control system of the air conditioning device in Embodiment 1. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the main parts of the control system of the server device and terminal device in Embodiment 1. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the terminal device, server device, and air conditioning control device in Embodiment 1. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the terminal device, server device, and air conditioning control device in Embodiment 1. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server device and terminal device in Embodiment 1. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the first screen in Embodiment 1. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server device and terminal device in Embodiment 1. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the server device and terminal device in Embodiment 1. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the terminal device; Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the second screen in Embodiment 1; Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the operation of the air conditioning device 1 in Embodiment 1; Figure 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of the information provision system in Embodiment 2; Figure 14 is a block diagram showing the main part of the control system of the air purifier in Embodiment 2; Figure 15 is a table showing an example of charges for the air purifier in Embodiment 2; Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the air purifier in Embodiment 2; Figure 17 is a diagram showing the configuration of the information provision system in Embodiment 3; Figure 18 is a table showing an example of charges for the ventilation device in Embodiment 3; Figure 19 is a diagram showing the configuration of the information provision system in Embodiment 4; Figure 19 is a table showing an example of charges for the hot water supply device in Embodiment 4. 【0011】(Knowledge and other information forming the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived of this disclosure, there was a technology, as described in Patent Document 1, that provided users of a subscription service with information on plans to use other home appliances. However, the inventors discovered that the conventional technology did not take into account cases where electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities were provided in a subscription service, and that it was not possible to provide users of a subscription service with appropriate information related to a subscription service that provides electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities. To solve this problem, the subject matter of this disclosure was established. Therefore, this disclosure provides an information provision system, electrical appliance, program, and information provision method that can provide users of a subscription service with appropriate information related to a subscription service that provides electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities. 【0012】 The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, some descriptions may be omitted to avoid unnecessary detail. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims. 【0013】 (Embodiment 1) [1-1. Configuration] [1-1-1. Configuration of the Information Provision System] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the information provision system 1000. The information provision system 1000 is a system that provides information in a subscription service. The information provision system 1000 can also be said to be a service provision system that provides a subscription service. A subscription service is a subscription-based service that can be used for a certain period of time by paying a usage fee. 【0014】The subscription service of this embodiment is a service that allows the use of the air conditioning system 1 for one month by paying a monthly usage fee. The air conditioning system 1 is an example of an electrical appliance. The one month is an example of a calculation period. In the subscription service of this embodiment, by paying a monthly usage fee, the period for which the air conditioning system 1 installed in facility H can be used is extended by one month. User P receives the service from the information provision system 1000 in the form of a lease or rental. 【0015】 The air conditioning system 1 comprises an indoor unit 20 and an outdoor unit 10. The air conditioning system 1 provides air conditioning to the rooms of facility H through the coordinated operation of the various parts of the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10. In this embodiment, the air conditioning system 1 has a maximum capacity of 5.6 kW, which corresponds to a room of 18 tatami mats, and a minimum capacity of 2.2 kW, which corresponds to a room of 6 tatami mats. 【0016】 In this embodiment, "capacity" refers to the maximum output capacity that the air conditioner 1 can provide, and is therefore the maximum capacity. Maximum capacity can also be called maximum power consumption. For example, a capacity of 2.2 kW, which corresponds to a room of 6 tatami mats in size, does not necessarily mean that the air conditioner 1 will always operate at 2.2 kW. Rather, it will operate at a capacity between the minimum capacity (e.g., 2.0 kW) and the maximum capacity (e.g., 2.2 kW). Thus, the capacity of each capacity plan indicates the maximum power consumption. 【0017】 The minimum capacity relative to the maximum capacity is appropriately pre-set. Furthermore, the capacities of each different capacity plan can be modified as needed. 【0018】 The air conditioning system 1 can change its capacity according to the capacity plan registered by user P. The air conditioning system 1 can adjust the capacity of each component it comprises according to the capacity according to the capacity plan. The capacity plan registered by user P is the capacity plan that user P has registered for use. The capacity plan corresponds to an example of a "plan". 【0019】The information provision system 1000 includes a terminal device 2 used by a user P of the subscription service. The terminal device 2 shown in Figure 1 is a portable computer such as a smartphone. However, the terminal device 2 is not limited to a tablet computer such as a smartphone, and may also be a desktop computer or a laptop computer. An application program for using the subscription service and receiving information related to the subscription service is installed on the terminal device 2, and it communicates with the server device 3 through the functions of this application program. The terminal device 2 communicates with the server device 3 via a communication relay device 4 installed in facility H, or without going through the communication relay device 4 installed in facility H. Hereinafter, this application program will be referred to as the "application" and designated as "221". This application 221 is an interactive application program that allows for message exchange. Application 221 corresponds to an example of the "program". 【0020】 The information provision system 1000 includes a server device 3. The server device 3 is connected to a network NW which consists of a public telephone network, a dedicated line, or other communication circuits. The server device 3 is a device that processes the transmission of information related to subscription services and the information provision included in subscription services, with terminal devices 2 connected to the network NW as clients. In each diagram, the server device 3 is represented by a single block, but this does not necessarily mean that the server device 3 is composed of a single device. 【0021】 The information provision system 1000 includes a communication relay device 4 installed in facility H. The communication relay device 4 is equipped with transceivers and relays communication between the air conditioning unit 1 and terminal device 2 located within facility H, and also relays communication between the air conditioning unit 1 and terminal device 2 and external devices connected to a network NW including a server device 3. 【0022】[1-1-2. Configuration of the Air Conditioning System] First, the configuration of the air conditioning system 1 will be explained. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main parts of the control system of the air conditioning system 1. The air conditioning system 1 comprises an indoor unit 20, an outdoor unit 10, and an air conditioning control device 100. The air conditioning control device 100 is installed in either the indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10. 【0023】 The air conditioning control device 100 is a control device that controls each part of the air conditioning system 1. The air conditioning control device 100 includes an air conditioning processor 110, which is a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processor Unit), an air conditioning memory 120, and an interface circuit for connecting other devices and sensors, and controls each part of the air conditioning system 1. 【0024】 The air conditioning memory 120 is a memory that stores programs and data. The air conditioning memory 120 stores the air conditioning program 121, data processed by the air conditioning processor 110, and identification ID 122. The air conditioning memory 120 has a non-volatile storage area. Alternatively, the air conditioning memory 120 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute the work area of ​​the air conditioning processor 110. The air conditioning memory 120 is composed of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). The identification ID 122 is identification information that uniquely identifies the air conditioning system 1. 【0025】 Although not shown in the diagram, the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 are equipped with communication hardware such as communication circuits and communicate with each other using a wired communication standard according to the control of the air conditioning control device 100. The outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 communicate with the air conditioning control device 100 using a wired communication standard. 【0026】 The air conditioning communication device 30 is equipped with communication hardware such as a communication circuit and communicates with the server device 3 according to the control of the air conditioning control device 100. The communication standard of the air conditioning communication device 30 may be either a wireless communication standard or a wired communication standard. The wireless communication standard may be cellular communication or Wi-Fi® communication. 【0027】The compressor 11 of the outdoor unit 10 pressurizes the refrigerant according to the control of the air conditioning control device 100. The outdoor fan 12 of the outdoor unit 10 rotates according to the control of the air conditioning control device 100 and sends air to the heat exchanger of the outdoor unit 10. 【0028】 The indoor fan 21 of the indoor unit 20 rotates according to the control of the air conditioning control device 100 and sends air to the heat exchanger of the indoor unit 20. The louvers 22 of the indoor unit 20 rotate according to the control of the air conditioning control device 100 and adjust the direction of the airflow sent by the indoor fan 21. 【0029】 The air purification unit 23 of the indoor unit 20 is driven according to the control of the air conditioning control device 100 and provides air conditioning by purifying the air in the facility H. The air purification unit 23 has, for example, an application means for applying high voltage and purifies the air in the facility H by generating ions, etc. 【0030】 The air conditioning processor 110 includes an air conditioning control unit 112 and an air conditioning communication control unit 111 as functional units. These functional units are realized through the cooperation of hardware and software, by the air conditioning processor 110 reading and executing the air conditioning program 121 stored in the air conditioning memory 120. 【0031】 The air conditioning control unit 112 controls the various components of the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 to provide air conditioning using the air conditioning system 1. The air conditioning control unit 112 provides air conditioning according to a predetermined capacity plan. For example, if the capacity plan is for a 6-tatami room with a capacity of 2.2 kW, the air conditioning control unit 112 limits the maximum power consumption to 2.2 kW when providing air conditioning. The air conditioning control unit 112 stores data related to the operation of the air conditioning system 1 in the air conditioning memory 120. 【0032】 The air conditioning communication control unit 111 communicates with the server device 3 and the terminal device 2 via the air conditioning communication device 30. 【0033】The air conditioning communication control unit 111 transmits operation data D1 to the server device 3 at predetermined data intervals (for example, one minute). The operation data D1 includes the current value of the compressor 11, the current value of the indoor fan 21, and the type of airflow setting for the indoor unit 20 at each data interval. In addition, the operation data D1 also includes the power consumption of the air conditioning system 1. 【0034】 [1-1-3. Server Device Configuration] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the main components of the control systems for the server device 3 and the terminal device 2. The server device 3 comprises a server control device 300 and a server communication device 301 connected to the server control device 300. 【0035】 The server control device 300 is a control device that controls each part of the server device 3. The server control device 300 includes a server processor 310, which is a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processor Unit), a server memory 320, and an interface circuit for connecting other devices and sensors, and controls each part of the server device 3. 【0036】 The server memory 320 is memory that stores programs and data. The server memory 320 stores the server program 321, data processed by the server processor 310, and the management DB (Data Base) 322. The server memory 320 has a non-volatile storage area. Alternatively, the server memory 320 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute the work area of ​​the server processor 310. The server memory 320 is composed of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). The management DB 322 is a database that manages data related to user P of the subscription service. Each record stored in the management DB 322 contains a user ID (Identification) 222, identification ID 122, communication information, registration plan information, score information, and address information. 【0037】User ID 222 is identification information that uniquely identifies user P. Communication information is information for communicating with terminal device 2, such as a predetermined address. Registered plan information is information that indicates the registered capacity plan and option plan. The registered capacity plan is one of the capacity levels of the air conditioning system 1 that user P has registered. An option plan is a plan that utilizes the various parts and functions of the air conditioning system 1. For example, by registering a corresponding option plan, the function of cleaning the inside of the indoor unit 20 becomes available. Point information indicates the number of points available. Address information is information that indicates the address of facility H. In addition, management DB 322 contains data on usage fees, operating hours, operating load, and cumulative results related to wear and tear. 【0038】 The server communication device 301 is equipped with communication hardware such as communication circuits and communicates with each part via the network NW according to the control of the server control device 300. The server processor 310 has a server communication control unit 311, an operational load calculation unit 312, a charge calculation unit 313, an accumulated result calculation unit 314, an assignment unit 315, a selection unit 316, and a generation unit 317. These functional units are realized through the cooperation of hardware and software, by the server processor 310 reading and executing the server program 321 stored in the server memory 320. The server communication control unit 311 corresponds to an example of a "providing unit". 【0039】 The server communication control unit 311 communicates with each unit via the server communication device 301. The server communication control unit 311 provides user P with predetermined information, described later, by transmitting it to the terminal device 2 used by user P. When the server communication control unit 311 receives a signal requesting arrears information, it transmits arrears information, which is information indicating arrears flag, to the outside. If the arrears flag is set, it indicates that user P is in arrears and has not paid the predetermined usage fee. 【0040】The operating load calculation unit 312 calculates the operating load of predetermined elements of the air conditioning system 1 based on the operating data D1. In this embodiment, the operating load calculation unit 312 calculates the operating load of the compressor 11 and the indoor fan 21. Based on the current value of the compressor 11 for each data interval included in the operating data D1, the operating load calculation unit 312 calculates the compressor operating intensity, which is the ratio to the maximum current value. The compressor operating intensity is calculated by the operating load calculation unit 312 for each data interval. Furthermore, the operating load calculation unit 312 calculates the operating load of the compressor 11 by multiplying the compressor operating intensity by the time corresponding to the data interval. Thus, the unit of operating load is time. In this embodiment, the data interval is one minute, and the unit of operating load is minutes [min]. 【0041】 Furthermore, the operating load calculation unit 312 calculates the total operating load of the compressor 11 during the calculation period. The operating load calculation unit 312 determines the degree of the operating load of the compressor 11 according to the magnitude of the total. If the total is equal to or greater than a first threshold, the operating load calculation unit 312 determines that the degree of the operating load of the compressor 11 is high; if the total is less than or equal to the first threshold but greater than or equal to a second threshold that is smaller than the first threshold, the operating load of the compressor 11 is medium; and if the total is less than the first threshold, the operating load of the compressor 11 is low. 【0042】 The operating load calculation unit 312 calculates the indoor fan operating intensity based on the type of airflow setting for each data interval included in the operating data D1. If, for example, there are five levels of airflow settings, the operating load calculation unit 312 calculates the indoor fan operating intensity as 100%, 90%, 80%, 70%, and 60% in descending order of airflow. The relationship between the type of airflow setting and the ratio of indoor fan operating intensity can be changed as appropriate. Alternatively, the operating load calculation unit 312 may calculate the indoor fan operating intensity based on the motor current value of the indoor fan 21, rather than the type of airflow setting for each data interval included in the operating data D1. 【0043】The indoor fan operation intensity is calculated by the operation load calculation unit 312 for each data interval. The operation load calculation unit 312 multiplies the indoor fan operation intensity by the time corresponding to the data interval to calculate the operation load of the indoor fan 21. Further, the operation load calculation unit 312 calculates the total sum of the operation load of the indoor fan 21 during the calculation period. As described above, the operation intensities such as the compressor operation intensity and the indoor fan operation intensity are indicators related to the operation load of each part of the air conditioner 1. The calculation method of the operation intensity is appropriately determined in advance from the perspective of the operation load. 【0044】 The operation load calculation unit 312 determines the degree of the operation load of the indoor fan 21 according to the magnitude of the total sum. Specifically, when the total sum is greater than or equal to the third threshold value, the operation load calculation unit 312 determines that the degree of the operation load of the indoor fan 21 is high. When the total sum is less than the third threshold value and greater than or equal to the fourth threshold value which is smaller than the third threshold value, the operation load calculation unit 312 determines that the degree of the operation load of the indoor fan 21 is medium. When the total sum is less than the fourth threshold value, the operation load calculation unit 312 determines that the degree of the operation load of the indoor fan 21 is low. 【0045】 The charge calculation unit 313 calculates the charge based on a predetermined basic charge and additional charge, the operation time, and the operation load. The basic charge corresponds to an example of the "second charge". The additional charge corresponds to an example of the "first charge". 【0046】 The basic charge is predetermined for each capacity of the air conditioner 1. 【0047】 In this embodiment, the basic charge is 980 yen for a 6-tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 2.2 kW, 1080 yen for an 8-tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 2.5 kW, 1180 yen for a 10-tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 2.8 kW, 1480 yen for a 12-tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 3.6 kW, 1580 yen for a 14-tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 4.0 kW, and 1680 yen for an 18-tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 5.6 kW. In this embodiment, the basic charge is set to a higher charge as the capacity used by the air conditioner 1 is larger. Also, the basic charge is a fixed charge regardless of the operation time. 【0048】The basic charge is determined in advance for each capacity of the air conditioner 1. In the present embodiment, the additional charge is 480 yen for a 6 tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 2.2 kW, 500 yen for an 8 tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 2.5 kW, 520 yen for a 10 tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 2.8 kW, 540 yen for a 12 tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 3.6 kW, 560 yen for a 14 tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 4.0 kW, and 580 yen for an 18 tatami capacity plan corresponding to a capacity of 5.6 kW. 【0049】 In the present embodiment, the additional charge is set at a higher rate as the capacity used by the air conditioner 1 increases. The charge calculation unit 313 adds the additional charge to the current usage charge each time the operating time during the calculation period exceeds a predetermined additional time. In the present embodiment, the charge calculation unit 313 adds the additional charge to the usage charge each time the operating time during the calculation period exceeds 50 hours corresponding to the predetermined additional time. For example, when the air conditioner 1 set to 6 tatami operates for 210 hours within the calculation period, since the operating time exceeds 50 hours four times, the additional charge of 480 yen is added to the usage charge four times. 【0050】 In this way, the charge calculation unit 313 is calculated based on an additional charge whose amount increases for each predetermined operating time of the air conditioner 1 and a basic charge that is fixed regardless of the operating time of the air conditioner and is set higher than the additional charge. 【0051】 Furthermore, the charge calculation unit 313 calculates the usage charge based on the operating load according to the following calculation formula (1). Usage charge = Basic charge + Additional charge × Number of times exceeding the predetermined additional time × Operating load coefficient... (1) 【0052】 The operating load coefficient is a value obtained by adding 1 to a load value predetermined corresponding to the degree of the operating load, and is calculated by the charge calculation unit 313. 【0053】In this embodiment, the load value is set to 0.1 when the operating load of the compressor 11 is high, to 0 when the operating load of the compressor 11 is medium, and to -0.1 when the operating load of the compressor 11 is low. In this embodiment, the load value is set to 0.05 when the operating load of the indoor fan 21 is high, to 0 when the operating load of the indoor fan 21 is medium, and to -0.05 when the operating load of the indoor fan 21 is low. 【0054】 For example, if the operating load of the compressor 11 is high and the operating load of the indoor fan 21 is also high, the operating load coefficient calculated by the charge calculation unit 313 is 1.15. Also, for example, if the operating load of the compressor 11 is low and the operating load of the indoor fan 21 is medium, the operating load coefficient calculated by the charge calculation unit 313 is 0.90. 【0055】 Next, the cumulative result calculation unit 314 will be explained. For example, the greater the capacity of the air conditioner 1, the greater the wear and tear on the air conditioner 1. Also, the greater the operating load, the greater the wear and tear on each part of the air conditioner 1. From these perspectives, the degree of wear and tear is determined for each capacity of the air conditioner 1 and for each value of the operating load coefficient. The cumulative result calculation unit 314 calculates the cumulative result by accumulating the value obtained by multiplying the degree of wear and tear by the operating time. 【0056】 The point allocation unit 315 calculates the number of points available based on the usage fee when payment is requested, and stores it in the management DB 322, linked to the user ID 222. This allows the point allocation unit 315 to allocate points to the user that can be used for predetermined purposes. The higher the value of the points, the higher the value. Alternatively, the point allocation unit 315 may be configured to allocate points only when the user P has paid the usage fee, rather than when payment is requested. 【0057】The formula for calculating the points awarded by the awarding unit 315 is predetermined. The points are, for example, 1% of the usage fee. The predetermined use is, for example, a service available in a subscription service. Such services are, for example, points consumed when paying usage fees or receiving services related to the air conditioner 1, such as inspection, replacement, repair, and cleaning. Services related to the air conditioner 1 include work to remove or relocate the air conditioner 1, and replacement services include replacement of consumables (for example, filters) and replacement of the air conditioner 1 itself. The predetermined use may also be for converting points that can be used for other services. 【0058】 The selection unit 316 selects the capacity plan that has the smallest sum of usage charges and estimated electricity costs among the current capacity plan and other capacity plans. "Current" means the present time. In this embodiment, the current capacity plan can also be rephrased as the capacity plan at the present time of this month. 【0059】 The following describes an example of how the selection unit 316 selects a capacity plan in this embodiment. The selection unit 316 estimates the electricity cost for operating the air conditioner 1 based on the power consumption included in the operating data D1. The selection unit 316 estimates the electricity cost for each capacity when the air conditioner 1 is used at a different capacity by simulation. Next, the selection unit 316 calculates the usage fee for each capacity when the air conditioner 1 is used at a different capacity. The selection unit 316 selects the cheapest capacity plan from the sum of the estimated electricity cost and the usage fee calculated by the charge calculation unit 313, and the sum of the electricity cost estimated by simulation and the usage fee for each capacity plan. 【0060】 The generation unit 317 generates recommendation information, which includes strings. The dataset of recommendation information generated by the generation unit 317 is pre-stored in the server memory 320. 【0061】The generation unit 317 generates recommended change information, which is recommended information related to changing the capacity plan, based on the operation data D1 and the usage fee. The recommended change information corresponds to an example of "information recommending a change to the capacity plan". 【0062】 If the selection unit 316 selects the cheapest alternative capacity plan, the generation unit 317 generates change recommendation information, which is recommendation information prompting the user to change to the alternative capacity plan. 【0063】 Furthermore, the generation unit 317 generates maintenance recommendation information, which is recommended information related to the maintenance of the air conditioning system 1. The generation unit 317 generates this recommendation information based on at least one of the operating data D1, the capacity plan, and the operating load. 【0064】 In this embodiment, the generation unit 317 refers to the cumulative wear results stored in the management DB 322 and generates maintenance recommendation information corresponding to the cumulative results. 【0065】 Examples of maintenance recommendation information include information prompting the replacement of various parts of the air conditioning unit 1, information prompting the cleaning of various parts of the air conditioning unit 1, and information prompting the inspection of various parts of the air conditioning unit 1. 【0066】 Multiple predetermined service life thresholds are set in stages, and maintenance recommendation information generated by the generation unit 317 is defined for each predetermined service life threshold. A service life threshold is a threshold for the cumulative result of wear and tear. For example, the predetermined service life threshold for cleaning the air conditioner 1 is set to 5,000 hours, the predetermined service life threshold for inspection is set to 10,000 hours, and the predetermined service life threshold for replacement is set to 20,000 hours. 【0067】 The management unit 318 registers the user for the subscription service. The management unit 318 generates a record to be stored in the management DB 322 and stores the generated record in the management DB 322, thereby registering the user for the subscription service. 【0068】The management unit 318 manages changes to registered capacity plans on the management database 322. The management unit 318 manages data related to operating hours, operating load, and usage fees on the management database 322. The management unit 318 appropriately manages each data on the management database 322 for each calculation period. The management unit 318 manages data related to cumulative results of wear and tear on the management database 322. The management unit 318 manages available points on the management database 322. 【0069】 [1-1-5. Configuration of the Terminal Device] Next, the configuration of the terminal device 2 will be described with reference to Figure 3. The terminal device 2 comprises a terminal control device 200, a terminal communication device 201, and a touch panel 202. 【0070】 The terminal control device 200 is a device that controls various parts of the terminal device 2. The terminal control device 200 includes a terminal processor 210, which is a processor such as a CPU or MPU, a terminal memory 220, and interface circuits to which other devices and sensors are connected. The terminal processor 210 corresponds to an example of a "processor". 【0071】 The terminal memory 220 is a storage device that non-volatilely stores programs and data executed by the terminal processor 210. The terminal memory 220 is composed of a magnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage element such as flash ROM, or other types of non-volatile storage devices. The terminal memory 220 may also include RAM which constitutes the work area of ​​the terminal processor 210. The terminal memory 220 may also include non-volatile storage devices such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The terminal memory 220 stores data processed by the terminal processor 210, applications 221 executed by the terminal processor 210, and user IDs 222. 【0072】A terminal communication device 201 and a touch panel 202 are connected to the terminal control device 200. The terminal communication device 201 is equipped with communication hardware such as a communication circuit that conforms to a predetermined communication standard and communicates with the server device 3. The communication standard of the terminal communication device 201 is exemplified by a wireless communication standard, but a wired communication standard may also be used. The touch panel 202 comprises a display panel and a touch sensor that is superimposed on or integrated with the display panel. The touch panel 202 is an example of a display means and an input means. 【0073】 The terminal processor 210 has an application execution unit 211. This function is realized through the cooperation of hardware and software, by the terminal processor 210 reading and executing an application 221 stored in the terminal memory 220. The application execution unit 211 corresponds to an example of a "providing unit". 【0074】 The application execution unit 211 communicates with the server device 3 via the terminal communication device 201. The application execution unit 211 displays various screens on the touch panel 202. The application execution unit 211 receives various inputs from the user P via the various screens. 【0075】 [1-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the information provision system 1000 will be explained. 【0076】 [1-2-1. Operations related to registration for the subscription service] First, the operations of each part of the information provision system 1000 related to registration for the subscription service will be explained. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operations of the terminal device 2, the server device 3, and the air conditioning device 1. In Figure 4, flowchart FA1 shows the operation of the terminal device 2, flowchart FB1 shows the operation of the server device 3, and flowchart FC1 shows the operation of the air conditioning device 1. 【0077】 As shown in flowchart FA1, the application execution unit 211 sends ID request data requesting user ID 222 to the server device 3 (step SA1). 【0078】As shown in flowchart FB1, the server communication control unit 311 receives ID request data (step SB1). Next, the server communication control unit 311 generates a user ID 222 (step SB2) and transmits the generated user ID 222 to the terminal device 2 (step SB3). 【0079】 As shown in flowchart FA1, the application execution unit 211 receives user ID 222 from the server device 3 (step SA2). The user ID 222 received in step SA2 is stored in the terminal memory 220. 【0080】 Next, the application execution unit 211 displays a registration screen (step SA3). The registration screen is a screen for entering information to be registered when registering to use the subscription service. The registration screen in this embodiment has an input field for entering a capability plan, an input field for entering other option plans, and a confirmation button for confirming the information entered in each input field. Note that the types of input fields provided on the registration screen are not limited to these, and other input fields may be provided. 【0081】 The application execution unit 211 determines whether or not the confirmation button for confirming the information entered in each input field on the registration screen has been pressed (step SA4). 【0082】 If the application execution unit 211 determines that the confirmation button for confirming the information entered in each input field on the registration screen has been pressed (step SA4: YES), it sends registration request data to the server device 3 (step SA5). The registration request data is data requesting the registration of the information entered on the registration screen. The registration request data contains the capability plan entered on the registration screen, the address entered on the registration screen, and the user ID 222 received in step SA2. 【0083】 As shown in flowchart FB1, the server communication control unit 311 receives registration request data from the terminal device 2 (step SB4). 【0084】Next, the management unit 318 registers the user for the subscription service based on the registration request data received in step SB4 (step SB5). 【0085】 Step SB5 will be described in detail. The management unit 318 generates a record that includes the user ID 222 described in the registration request data, capability plan information indicating the capability plan described in the registration request data, option plan information indicating the option plan described in the registration request data, and communication information. The management unit 318 then stores the generated record in the management DB 322. 【0086】 As shown in flowchart FC1, the server communication control unit 311 then transmits capacity plan data to the air conditioner 1, which includes an instruction to perform air conditioning at the capacity of the registered capacity plan corresponding to the capacity plan information (step SB6). In step SB6, the air conditioner 1 is the air conditioner 1 having identification ID 122 associated with user ID 222. The air conditioning communication control unit 111 receives the capacity plan data from the server device 3 (step SC1). Then, the air conditioning control unit 112 decides to perform air conditioning of the air conditioner 1 at the capacity of the registered capacity plan based on the capacity plan data received in step SC1 (step SC2). 【0087】 Next, we will explain what happens when the capacity plan is changed. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the terminal device 2, the server device 3, and the air conditioning control device 100. 【0088】 As shown in flowchart FA2, the application execution unit 211 displays a change screen (step SA11). The change screen is a screen for changing the capability plan. The registration screen in this embodiment has input fields for entering the capability plan to be changed and a button to confirm the entered information. Note that the types of input fields provided on the change screen are not limited to these, and other input fields may be provided. 【0089】 The application execution unit 211 determines whether or not the button to confirm the information entered in the input field for entering the capability plan to be changed has been operated on the change screen (step SA12). 【0090】 If the application execution unit 211 determines that the button confirming the information entered in the input field has been pressed on the change screen (step SA12: YES), it sends change request data to the server device 3 (step SA13). The change request data is data requesting a change to the information entered on the change screen. The change request data contains the capability plan and user ID 222 entered on the change screen. 【0091】 As shown in flowchart FB2, the server communication control unit 311 receives change request data from the terminal device 2 (step SB11). 【0092】 Next, the management unit 318 modifies the capacity plan for subscription service registration based on the change request data received in step SB4 (step SB12). 【0093】 Step SB12 will be described in detail. The management unit 318 generates a record that includes the user ID 222 described in the change request data, change capability plan information indicating the capability plan described in the change request data, and communication information. The management unit 318 then stores the generated record in the management DB 322. 【0094】 Next, the server communication control unit 311 transmits modified capacity plan data to the air conditioning unit 1, which includes an instruction to perform air conditioning at the capacity of the modified capacity plan corresponding to the capacity plan information (step SB13). In step SB13, the air conditioning unit 1 is the air conditioning unit 1 having identification ID 122 associated with user ID 222. As shown in flowchart FC2, the air conditioning communication control unit 111 receives the modified capacity plan data from the server device 3 (step SC11). 【0095】 Thus, the air conditioning communication control unit 111 is an example of a receiving unit that receives modified capacity plan data indicating that a capacity plan registered by user P has been changed. The modified capacity plan data is an example of "plan change information". 【0096】Here, in step SC11, when the air conditioning communication control unit 111 receives capacity plan change data, it transmits reception information to the server device 3 indicating that the capacity plan change data has been received. The server device 3 is an example of an "external" device. The air conditioning communication control unit 111 is an example of a "transmitting unit" and a "receiving unit". 【0097】 Next, the air conditioning control unit 112 decides, based on the modified capacity plan data received in step SC11, to operate the air conditioning system 1 with the capacity of the modified capacity plan from the following month (step SC13). 【0098】 Furthermore, after step SC13 is completed, the air conditioning communication control unit 111 sends completion information to the server device 3 and terminal device 2 indicating that the settings for changing the capacity of the air conditioning unit 1 have been completed. The server device 3 and terminal device 2 are examples of "external" devices. 【0099】 [1-2-2. Operations related to information provision for each calculation period] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operations of the server device 3 and the terminal device 2. In Figure 6, flowchart FD shows the operations of terminal device 2, and flowchart FE shows the operations of terminal device 2. 【0100】 As shown in the flowchart FD, the billing unit 313 determines whether the current time is the predetermined billing time (for example, noon on the billing day of each month) (step SD1). If the billing unit 313 determines that the current time is the predetermined billing time, it calculates the usage fee for this month (step SD2). 【0101】 Next, the selection unit 316 selects the cheapest capacity plan based on the simulated electricity cost and the calculated usage fee (step SD3). 【0102】 Step SD3 will be described in detail. The selection unit 316 estimates the electricity cost for each capacity plan through simulation. Next, the selection unit 316 compares the sum of this month's usage fee and the estimated electricity cost corresponding to the current capacity plan with the sum of the usage fee for a different capacity plan and the estimated electricity cost corresponding to that different capacity plan, and selects the cheapest capacity plan. 【0103】 Next, the generation unit 317 determines whether there is another cheaper capacity plan in addition to the current capacity plan (step SD4). If there is another cheaper capacity plan in addition to the current capacity plan (step SD4: YES), the generation unit 317 generates change recommendation information (step SD5). 【0104】 If the generation unit 317 does not have another cheaper capacity plan besides the current capacity plan (step SD4: NO), it proceeds to step SD6, which will be described later. The case where there is no other cheaper capacity plan besides the current capacity plan corresponds to the case where the selection unit 316 selected the current capacity plan as the cheapest capacity plan in step SD3. 【0105】 Next, the generation unit 317 obtains cumulative results regarding wear from the management DB 322 (step SD6). Then, the generation unit 317 generates maintenance recommendation information based on the obtained cumulative results regarding wear (step SD7). 【0106】 Next, the awarding unit 315 awards the available points based on the usage fee calculated in step S2 (step SD8). 【0107】 Next, the server communication control unit 311 transmits data to the terminal device 2 that includes recommended change information, recommended maintenance information, usage fee information, and information on available points (step SD9). Note that if there is no other cheaper capacity plan available in addition to the current capacity plan, and step SD5 is skipped, the data transmitted will not include recommended change information. The data transmitted in step SD9 corresponds to an example of "predetermined information". Step SD9 corresponds to an example of a "provision step". 【0108】 As shown in flowchart FE, the application execution unit 211 receives the provided data from the server device 3 (step SE1). 【0109】 Next, the application execution unit 211 provides each piece of information included in the provided data to user P (step SE2). 【0110】In this embodiment, in step SE2, the application execution unit 211 displays the first screen G1 and provides the user P with the information. 【0111】 Figure 7 shows an example of the first screen G1. The first screen G1 has a first display area N1 for displaying text strings and a second display area N2 for displaying software buttons. 【0112】 The first display area N1 displays a text box, which is a speech bubble-shaped icon containing a string of text. Figure 7 illustrates the first screen G1 in which the first text box T1, the second text box T2, and the third text box T3 are displayed in the first display area N1. 【0113】 The first display area N1 has a first text box T1 that mainly displays information about usage fees. The top of the first text box T1 has the string "September billing amount confirmed" which month's usage fee it is. 【0114】 The first text box T1 contains operating time information J1, which indicates the operating time for this month. The operating time information J1 contains the string "Usage time 302 hours". The operating time information J1 exemplified in Figure 7 corresponds to the case where the operating time for this month was 302 hours. 【0115】 The first text box T1 contains usage fee information J2, which shows the usage fee for this month. The usage fee information J2 contains the string "The usage fee is 4,439 yen." The usage fee information J2 exemplified in Figure 7 corresponds to a case where the basic fee for a 6-tatami mat capacity plan is 980 yen, the additional fee is 480 yen, the operating load is 1.15, and the usage fee for this month is 4,439 yen. 【0116】The first display area N1 has a second text box T2 that displays maintenance recommendation information generated by the generation unit 317. The second text box T2 has maintenance information J3 based on the maintenance recommendation information generated by the generation unit 317. As described above, the maintenance information J3 is information that recommends at least one of the following: replacement, cleaning, and inspection of the air conditioner 1. The maintenance information J3 has the string "Inspection within six months is recommended." The maintenance information J3 exemplified in Figure 7 corresponds to the case when the generation unit 317 determines that the cumulative result related to the wear and tear of the air conditioner 1 has exceeded a predetermined service life threshold until inspection. 【0117】 The first display area N1 has a third text box T3 that shows change recommendation information generated by the generation unit 317. The third text box T3 has current information J4 based on the change recommendation information generated by the generation unit 317. The current information J4 shows the current capacity plan, operating time, and the degree of operating load. The current information J4 has the string "This month, 6 tatami mats, 302 hours, high load." The current information J4 exemplified in Figure 7 corresponds to a case where the current capacity plan is a 6 tatami mat capacity plan, the operating time is 302 hours, and the degree of operating load is high. 【0118】 Furthermore, the third text box T3 contains change information J5 based on the change recommendation information generated by the generation unit 317. Change information J5 indicates that a capacity plan other than the current capacity plan is likely to be cheaper. Change information J5 contains the string "With the current load, the 8-tatami mat 302-hour plan will be a lower load, and the monthly fee will be 200 yen cheaper." In this case, it corresponds to the case where, for an operating time of 302 hours, the sum of the usage fee and estimated electricity cost for the 8-tatami mat capacity plan is cheaper than the sum of the usage fee and estimated electricity cost for the current 6-tatami mat capacity plan. 【0119】 The second display area N2 includes a linking button IC1 and a usage status confirmation button IC2. The linking button IC1 is a software button with the string "ID linking". When the linking button IC1 is pressed, the application execution unit 211 displays the registration screen described in step SA3 (see Figure 4). 【0120】 The usage status confirmation button IC2 is a software button that has the string "Usage Status Confirmation" as input. When the usage status confirmation button IC2 is pressed, the application execution unit 211 accepts the string "Usage Status Confirmation" as input via the touch panel 202. By pressing the usage status confirmation button IC2, user P can skip typing the string "Usage Status Confirmation" on the keyboard. When the usage status confirmation button IC2 is pressed, a text box with the string "Usage Status Confirmation" is displayed in the first display area N1. 【0121】 In addition to the linking button IC1 and the usage status confirmation button IC2, the second display area N2 may also have a software button for the application execution unit 211 to display the change screen described in step SA11 (see Figure 5). 【0122】 [1-2-3. Other Information Provision Operations] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the operations of server device 3 and terminal device 2. In Figure 8, flowchart FF shows the operation of server device 3, and flowchart FG shows the operation of terminal device 2. 【0123】 As shown in flowchart FF, the fee calculation unit 313 determines whether there is a trigger to send information about the current usage fee to the terminal device 2 (step SF1). This trigger is when the operating time exceeds the additional time. 【0124】 The fee calculation unit 313 calculates the current usage fee (step SF2) if there is a trigger to send information about the current usage fee to the terminal device 2 (step SF1: YES). 【0125】 Next, the server communication control unit 311 transmits usage fee data to the terminal device 2, which includes the current usage fee information calculated in step SF2 and the current operating time information (step SF3). The usage fee data transmitted in step SF3 corresponds to an example of "predetermined information". Step SF3 corresponds to an example of a "provision step". 【0126】As shown in flowchart FG, the application execution unit 211 receives usage fee data from the server device 3 (step SG1). 【0127】 Next, the application execution unit 211 provides each piece of information included in the usage fee data to user P (step SG2). 【0128】 In this embodiment, in step SG2, the application execution unit 211 displays the second screen G2, which will be described in detail later, and provides the user P with the necessary information. 【0129】 Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of server device 3 and terminal device 2. In Figure 9, flowchart FH shows the operation of server device 3, and flowchart FI shows the operation of terminal device 2. 【0130】 As shown in flowchart FI, the application execution unit 211 sends instruction data to the server device 3, including an instruction to check the usage status, which indicates the current operating time and usage charges (step SI1). The instruction to check the usage status will be described in detail using the second screen G2, which will be described later. 【0131】 As shown in flowchart FH, the server communication control unit 311 receives instruction data from the terminal device 2 (step SH1), and the fee calculation unit 313 calculates the current usage fee (step SH2). 【0132】 Next, the server communication control unit 311 transmits usage status data to the terminal device 2, which includes the usage fee calculated in step SH2 and usage status information including the current operating time (step SH3). The usage status data transmitted in step SH3 corresponds to an example of "predetermined information". Step SH3 corresponds to an example of a "provision step". 【0133】 As shown in flowchart FI, the application execution unit 211 receives usage status data from the server device 3 (step SI2). 【0134】 Next, the application execution unit 211 provides each piece of information included in the usage data to user P (step SI3). 【0135】In this embodiment, in step SI3, the application execution unit 211 is instructed to display the second screen G2, thereby providing the user P with the necessary information. 【0136】 Figure 10 shows an example of the second screen G2. Similar to the first screen G1, the second screen G2 has a first display area N1 for displaying text and a second display area N2 for displaying software buttons. 【0137】 Figure 10 illustrates a second screen G2 in which a fourth text box T4, a fifth text box T5, ​​and a sixth text box T6 are displayed in the first display area N1. 【0138】 The first display area N1 has a fourth text box T4 that shows the current usage fee. The fourth text box T4 contains information corresponding to the usage fee data corresponding to steps SF3 and SG1 (see Figure 8). 【0139】 The fourth text box T4 is triggered when the current operating time exceeds the additional time, corresponding to step SF1 (see Figure 8) explained in flowchart FF. The fourth text box T4 contains additional charge information J11 that indicates which additional time has been exceeded and the current usage fee. The additional charge information J11 contains the string "Usage time has exceeded 50 hours. The usage fee is 1460 yen." The additional charge information J11 exemplified in Figure 10 corresponds to a capacity plan of 6 tatami mats, a basic fee of 980 yen, an additional charge of 480 yen every 50 hours, and the operating time exceeding one additional time. 【0140】 The first display area N1 has a fifth text box T5 for checking the current operating time and usage fee. 【0141】 The fifth text box T5 displays usage status confirmation instruction information J12, which contains the string "Usage Status Confirmation". The usage status confirmation instruction information J12 is the trigger for the operation of step SI1 (see Figure 9) as described in flowchart FH. The string "Usage Status Confirmation" in the fifth text box T5 may be entered directly by user P, or it may be entered when the usage status confirmation button IC2 is pressed. 【0142】 The first display area N1 has a sixth text box T6 that shows the current operating time and usage fee. The sixth text box T6 contains information corresponding to the usage status data corresponding to steps SH2 and SI2 (see Figure 9). 【0143】 The sixth text box T6 contains usage information J13, which shows the current operating time and usage fee. The usage information J13 contains the string "Usage time is 52 hours. Usage fee is 1480 yen." The usage information J13 exemplified in Figure 10 corresponds to a case where the capacity plan is 6 tatami mats, the basic fee is 980 yen, the additional charge every 50 hours is 480 yen, the operating time exceeds one additional time, and the operating time is 52 hours. 【0144】 [1-2-4. Operation in case of non-payment of fees] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the air conditioning system 1. In Figure 11, flowchart FJ shows the operation of the air conditioning system 1. Flowchart FJ assumes that the air conditioning operation of the air conditioning system 1 has been started by the air conditioning control unit 112. 【0145】 First, the air conditioning communication control unit 111 determines whether or not a trigger for requesting delinquent payment information has occurred (step SJ1). The trigger for step SJ1 is, for example, that a predetermined time (for example, 30 minutes) has elapsed since the last request for delinquent payment information. 【0146】 Next, when the air conditioning communication control unit 111 detects a trigger that requests arrears information (step SJ1: YES), it sends a request signal to the server device 3 requesting arrears information (step SJ2). 【0147】 Next, the air conditioning communication control unit 111 receives a response signal corresponding to the request signal from the server device 3 (step SJ3). If the received response signal contains delinquency information indicating that the delinquency flag is set, the delinquency information is stored in the air conditioning memory 120. 【0148】After step SJ3 is completed, or if a negative judgment is made in step SJ1, the air conditioning control unit 112 refers to the air conditioning memory 120 to determine whether or not the delinquent flag is set (step SJ4). If there is no delinquent information in the air conditioning memory 120, the air conditioning control unit 112 makes a positive judgment in step SJ4, which means that the delinquent flag is not set. 【0149】 If the delinquent payment flag is not set (step SJ4: NO), the air conditioning control unit 112 continues to operate the air conditioning and ensures that no delinquent payment information is stored in the air conditioning memory 120 (step SJ5). If delinquent payment information is stored in the air conditioning memory 120, the air conditioning control unit 112 erases the delinquent payment information, and if no delinquent payment information is stored in the air conditioning memory 120, it continues that state, thereby ensuring that no delinquent payment information is stored in the air conditioning memory 120. 【0150】 Next, the air conditioning control unit 112 determines whether or not to stop the operation of the air conditioner (step SJ6). If the air conditioning control unit 112 determines not to stop the operation of the air conditioner (step SJ6: NO), it returns to step SJ1. If the air conditioning control unit 112 determines to stop the operation of the air conditioner (step SJ6: YES), it terminates its operation. The case in which the air conditioner operation is stopped is, for example, when a command to stop the operation of the indoor unit 20 is transmitted by user P. 【0151】 Returning to the explanation of step SJ4, if the air conditioning control unit 112 determines that the delinquent payment flag is set (step SJ4: YES), it stores delinquent payment information indicating that the delinquent payment flag is set in the air conditioning memory 120 (step SJ11). 【0152】 Next, the air conditioning control unit 112 determines whether a grace period (for example, 10 minutes) has elapsed since it determined that the delinquent payment flag was set (step SJ12). If the grace period has elapsed (step SJ12: YES), it stops the operation of the air conditioning system 1 (step SJ13). 【0153】As specifically shown in steps SJ4, SJ11, SJ12, and SJ13, the air conditioning control unit 112 stops the operation of the air conditioning system 1 after a grace period has elapsed if the operation of the air conditioning system 1 has started and the validity of the registration of the air conditioning system 1 in the subscription service cannot be confirmed. In this case, the air conditioning control unit 112 is an example of a "stop unit". Furthermore, the case where the validity of the registration of the air conditioning system 1 in the subscription service cannot be confirmed corresponds to the case where the delinquency flag is set. 【0154】 In this way, if there is arrears in payment, the operation of the air conditioning system 1 can be stopped. 【0155】 Furthermore, since information indicating that the delinquency flag is set is stored in the air conditioning memory 120, even if the air conditioning system 1 is stopped and then restarted, the air conditioning system 1 will operate for a predetermined grace period in accordance with the delinquency information stored in the air conditioning memory 120 before being stopped. 【0156】 For example, suppose user P pays the fee or renews their registration during the grace period. In this case, the server device 3 sends information to the air conditioning unit 1 indicating that the delinquent flag has been lowered, and information instructing it to continue operating, thereby allowing the air conditioning unit 1 to continue operating. 【0157】In step SJ3, the air conditioning communication control unit 111 receives delinquent payment information from the server device 3, but this is not limited to that. Instead of step SJ3, the air conditioning communication control unit 111 may determine whether or not it has received delinquent payment information from the server device 3. If the air conditioning communication control unit 111 has received delinquent payment information from the server device 3, it proceeds to step SJ4 as explained in Figure 11. On the other hand, if the air conditioning communication control unit 111 does not receive delinquent payment information from the server device 3, the air conditioning control unit 112 determines whether or not the grace period (for example, 10 minutes) has elapsed, and if the grace period has elapsed, it stops the operation of the air conditioning system 1. In this way, the air conditioning control unit 112 stops the operation of the air conditioning system 1 after the grace period has elapsed if the operation of the air conditioning system 1 has started and the validity of the registration of the air conditioning system 1 in the subscription service cannot be confirmed. In this case, the air conditioning control unit 112 is an example of a "stop unit". Furthermore, the case where the validity of the registration of the air conditioning unit 1 in the subscription service cannot be confirmed corresponds to the case where a response signal corresponding to the request signal is not received from the server device 3. 【0158】 [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the information provision system 1000 in this embodiment includes a server communication control unit 311 that provides predetermined information to a user P of a subscription service that provides an air conditioner 1 with adjustable capacity. The subscription service is provided with a capacity plan for each adjustable capacity, and the server communication control unit 311 provides predetermined information to user P based on the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the air conditioner 1 provided to user P. With this configuration, predetermined information is provided to user P based on the capacity of the air conditioner 1 corresponding to the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the air conditioner 1. Therefore, appropriate information related to the subscription service that provides an air conditioner 1 with adjustable capacity can be provided to user P of the subscription service. 【0159】The server communication control unit 311 further provides predetermined information to user P based on the operating load of the air conditioner 1. With this configuration, predetermined information that takes into account the operating load of the air conditioner 1 is provided, so that user P can recognize the degree of the operating load of the air conditioner 1. 【0160】 The specified information is change recommendation information that suggests a change to the capacity plan registered by user P. This configuration improves the likelihood that user P can select an appropriate capacity plan for the air conditioning system 1 depending on the situation. 【0161】 The specified information is information indicating the usage fee for the subscription service corresponding to the capacity plan registered by user P. With this configuration, even if the usage fee differs for each capacity plan, or depending on the amount of working time, information indicating the usage fee can be appropriately provided to user P. 【0162】 The specified information is at least one of the following: information prompting replacement of the air conditioning unit 1, information prompting cleaning of the air conditioning unit 1, and information prompting inspection of the air conditioning unit 1. With this configuration, the user P is prompted to replace, clean, or inspect the air conditioning unit 1, so that the air conditioning unit 1 lasts longer and the comfort of the air conditioning provided by the air conditioning unit 1 is improved. 【0163】 The system includes a point allocation unit 315 that allocates points to user P that can be used for predetermined purposes based on the usage fee. With this configuration, user P is allocated points that can be used for predetermined purposes according to the usage fee for the subscription service. Therefore, by using the subscription service, the range of services that can be used, including other services available in the subscription service and services different from the subscription service, is expanded, improving convenience for user P. 【0164】The air conditioning system 1 includes an air conditioning communication control unit 111 that receives modified capacity plan data indicating that a capacity plan registered by user P has been changed. With this configuration, when the air conditioning communication control unit 111 of the air conditioning system 1 receives the modified capacity plan data, the air conditioning system 1 can be set to operate at a capacity corresponding to the modified capacity plan. 【0165】 The air conditioning system 1 includes an air conditioning communication control unit 111 that, upon receiving modified capacity plan data, transmits either reception information indicating that the modified capacity plan data has been received, or completion information indicating that the setting to change the capacity of the air conditioning system 1 has been completed, to the outside. With this configuration, it is possible to recognize from the outside that the air conditioning system 1 is set to operate with the capacity corresponding to the modified capacity plan. In this embodiment, when the outside is a terminal device 2, the accuracy of the predetermined information provided to the terminal device 2 is improved, for example, by being able to display more accurate usage fees, etc. In this embodiment, when the outside is a server device 3, the server device 3 can recognize that the instruction to set the air conditioning system 1 to operate with the capacity corresponding to the modified capacity plan has been correctly transmitted to the air conditioning system 1. 【0166】 The information provision system 1000 includes an air conditioning control unit 112 that stops the operation of the air conditioning unit 1 after a predetermined grace period has elapsed, if the operation of the air conditioning unit 1 has started and the validity of the registration of the air conditioning unit 1 in the subscription service cannot be confirmed. With this configuration, if the validity cannot be confirmed, including when the registration of the air conditioning unit 1 in the subscription service is not valid, the air conditioning unit 1 will operate for the grace period. Therefore, for example, if the air conditioning unit 1 cannot communicate with the outside, user P can use the air conditioning unit 1 during the grace period, or if the validity is actually not confirmed, user P can be prevented from using the air conditioning unit 1 for longer than the grace period. 【0167】The terminal processor 210 functions as an application execution unit 211 that provides predetermined information to user P of a subscription service that provides an air conditioning system 1 with adjustable capacity. The subscription service has a capacity plan for each adjustable capacity, and the application execution unit 211 provides user P with predetermined information based on the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the air conditioning system 1 provided to user P. This configuration produces the same functions and effects as described above. 【0168】 The information provision method in this embodiment includes a provision step of providing predetermined information to a user P of a subscription service that provides an air conditioning system 1 with adjustable capacity. The subscription service is provided with a capacity plan for each adjustable capacity, and the provision step provides predetermined information to user P based on the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the air conditioning system 1 provided to user P. This configuration produces the same effects and benefits as described above. 【0169】 (Embodiment 2) [2-1. Configuration] [2-1-1. Configuration of the Information Provision System] Figure 12 is a diagram showing the configuration of the information provision system 2000. The information provision system 2000 in Embodiment 2 includes, in addition to the information provision system 1000 in Embodiment 1, an air purifier 2001 and a sensor device 2300. The air purifier 2001 and the sensor device 2300 are examples of electrical appliances and interconnected electrical appliances. 【0170】 The air purifier 2001 and the sensor device 2300 are items provided through a subscription service offered by the information provision system 2000. User P can subscribe to, or register for, the air purifier 2001 and the sensor device 2300, which operate in cooperation with the air conditioning system 1. 【0171】The air purifier 2001 has a dust collection function to remove airborne particles such as dust, pollen, and house dust floating in the room of facility H. The air purifier 2001 includes a purifying blower 2002 that generates airflow and a louver that controls the airflow. The air purifier 2001 adjusts the air volume or airflow mainly using the purifying blower 2002 and the louver 2005. 【0172】 Furthermore, the air purifier 2001 has a humidifying function for humidifying the rooms of facility H. The air purifier 2001 comprises a water tank and a humidifying unit 2003 that is ultrasonic, steam, evaporative, or a hybrid of these methods. 【0173】 Furthermore, the air purifier 2001 includes a sterilization unit 2004 that has a sterilization function to release sterilizing substances into the room of facility H. In this case, the air purifier 2001 includes an electrostatic atomizer that generates sterilizing mist as the sterilization unit 2004. 【0174】 The capacity of the air purifier 2001 is determined by its power consumption. The power consumption is linked to the area (in tatami mats) that the air purifier 2001 can cover. This area can also be referred to as the applicable floor area. 【0175】 The capabilities of the air purifier 2001 are changeable. For example, the capabilities of the air purifier 2001 can be changed by changing the rotation speed of the motor of the air purifier fan 2002. 【0176】 The rotational speed of the motor of the air purifier 2002 is appropriately defined in advance to correspond to the capacity of the air purifier 2001. 【0177】 The air purifier 2001's capacity can be changed according to a capacity plan registered by user P. Thus, Embodiment 2 is a configuration in which the air conditioner 1 and the air purifier 2001 are provided as electrical appliances whose capacity can be changed and whose usage fees differ depending on the capacity plan. In Embodiment 2, the capacity plan for the air purifier 2001 is indicated by the number of tatami mats corresponding to the power consumption of the air purifier 2001. 【0178】The sensor device 2300 installed in a room of facility H functions as a temperature and humidity sensor located outside the air conditioning unit 1. The sensor device 2300 is portable. The sensor device 2300 is installed, for example, near the bed BE used by user P. The sensor device 2300 may function as a remote control for the air conditioning unit 1, or it may function as an alarm device. 【0179】 [2-1-2. Configuration of the Air Purifier] The configuration of the air purifier 2001 will now be described. Figure 13 is a block diagram showing the main parts of the control system of the air purifier 2001. The air purifier 2001 includes a purification control device 2100. 【0180】 The air purification control device 2100 is a control device that controls each part of the air purifier 2001. The air purification control device 2100 includes an air purification processor 2110, which is a processor such as a CPU or MPU, an air purification memory 2120, and an interface circuit for connecting other devices and sensors, and controls each part of the air purifier 2001. 【0181】 The cleaning memory 2120 is a memory that stores programs and data. The cleaning memory 2120 stores the cleaning program 2121, data to be processed by the cleaning processor 2110, and the cleaning identification ID 2122. The cleaning memory 2120 has a non-volatile storage area. Alternatively, the cleaning memory 2120 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute the work area of ​​the cleaning processor 2110. The cleaning memory 2120 is composed of, for example, ROM or RAM. The cleaning identification ID 2122 is identification information that uniquely identifies the air purifier 2001. 【0182】 The air purification communication device 2030, provided by the air purification device 2001, includes communication hardware such as a communication circuit and communicates with the server device 3, the air conditioning device 1, and the terminal device 2 according to the control of the air purification control device 2100. The communication standard of the air conditioning communication device 30 may be either a wireless communication standard or a wired communication standard. In this embodiment, cellular communication using a base station CS is illustrated in Figure 12. 【0183】The air purification control device 2100 controls each component, including the air purification fan 2002, the louvers 2005, the humidification unit 2003, and the sterilization unit 2004. 【0184】 The cleaning processor 2110 includes a cleaning communication control unit 2111 and a cleaning control unit 2112 as functional units. These functional units are realized through the cooperation of hardware and software, by the cleaning processor 2110 reading and executing a cleaning program 2121 stored in the cleaning memory 2120. 【0185】 The air purification control unit 2112 controls each component of the air purifier 2001 and performs at least one of the following: dust collection, humidification, and sterilization. The air purification control unit 2112 operates according to a predetermined capacity plan. Specifically, the air purification control unit 2112 operates according to the same capacity plan as the number of tatami mats indicated in the capacity plan of the air conditioner 1 registered by user P. 【0186】 Furthermore, the air purification control unit 2112 works in cooperation with the air conditioning unit 1 to perform at least one of dust collection, humidification, and sterilization according to known methods. Also, if the air purification control unit 2112 cannot confirm that user P has registered to use the air purification unit 2001, it stops the operation of the air purification unit 2001 after a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes). 【0187】 The air purification communication control unit 2111 communicates with the server unit 3, the air conditioner 1, and the terminal unit 2 via the air purification communication device 2030. The air purification communication control unit 2111 receives plan information from the air conditioner 1 indicating the details of user P's registration. This plan information includes information indicating the capacity plan of the air conditioner 1 that user P has registered to use. This plan information also includes information indicating whether or not user P has registered to use the air purification device 2001. 【0188】 The air purification communication control unit 2111 transmits operation data to the server device 3 at predetermined data intervals (for example, one minute). This operation data includes the power consumption of the air purifier 2001. The operation data also includes information indicating settings related to airflow, air volume, humidification, or sterilization. 【0189】Regarding the airflow settings, there are options such as high, medium, and low. The motor speed of the air purifying fan 2002 increases in this order. 【0190】 Regarding the settings for airflow and air volume, for example, there are "pollen powerful" and "pollen standard" settings, in which order the motor speed of the air purifying fan 2002 increases and the louver operation differs from one another. 【0191】 Furthermore, settings related to humidification include, for example, high humidification, standard humidification, and low humidification. High humidification, standard humidification, and low humidification correspond to the following in order: high humidification, standard humidification, and low humidification, respectively, where the motor speed of the air purifier 2002 is higher and the power consumption of the humidification unit 2003 is higher. 【0192】 [2-1-3. Fees] An example of fees for the air purifier 2001 is explained below. The monthly fee for the air purifier 2001 is predetermined based on the operating time of the air purifier 2001. 【0193】 Figure 14 is a table showing an example of charges for the air purifier 2001. In Embodiment 2, the charge calculation unit 313 calculates charges for the air purifier 2001 based on predetermined basic charges and additional charges, and operating time. The basic charges correspond to an example of "second charges." The additional charges correspond to an example of "first charges." 【0194】 The basic fee is predetermined for each capacity of the air purifier 2001. 【0195】 In this embodiment, the basic fee is 1,000 yen for the 15-tatami, 20-tatami, and 25-tatami capacity plans, and 1,200 yen for the 30-tatami, 35-tatami, and 40-tatami capacity plans. 【0196】 The basic fee for Air Purifier 2001 applies when the Air Purifier 2001 is in operation for 10 hours or less. 【0197】 Furthermore, an additional charge is added to the fee for every 40 hours the air purifier 2001 is in operation. In this embodiment, the additional charge is set to be higher the greater the capacity of the air purifier 2001. 【0198】As shown in Figure 14, the additional charges for the first time the operating time of the air purifier 2001 exceeds 40 hours are 100 yen for the 15 tatami mat capacity plan, 300 yen for the 20 tatami mat capacity plan, 500 yen for the 25 tatami mat capacity plan, 500 yen for the 30 tatami mat capacity plan, 700 yen for the 35 tatami mat capacity plan, and 900 yen for the 40 tatami mat capacity plan. 【0199】 As shown in Figure 14, the additional charge for operating the air purifier 2001 from 80 hours to 200 hours is 500 yen for all capacity plans. Also, as shown in Figure 14, there is no additional charge for operating the air purifier 2001 beyond 200 hours. 【0200】 Furthermore, the fee for the sensor device 2300 is determined appropriately in accordance with the capacity plans of the air conditioning system 1 and the air purifier 2001. However, the fee for the sensor device 2300 may be a fixed value independent of the capacity plans of the air conditioning system 1 and the air purifier 2001. 【0201】 The usage fee is the sum of the usage fee for air conditioning system 1, the usage fee for air purifier 2001, and the usage fee for sensor device 2300. 【0202】 [2-2. Operation] The information provision system 2000 performs operations related to registration for use of the subscription service, operations related to the provision of information for each calculation period, other operations related to the provision of information, and operations in the event of payment arrears, as shown in Embodiment 1. 【0203】 Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the air purifier 2001. In Figure 15, flowchart FK shows the operation of the air purifier 2001. 【0204】The operation shown in flowchart FK is the operation that begins when the power to the air purifier 2001 is turned on and operation starts. The air purifier 2001 first starts operating at a predetermined capacity. The predetermined capacity is the capacity stored in the air purifier 2001's purification memory 2120. Furthermore, the predetermined capacity is the capacity of the registered air purifier 2001 stored in the purification memory 2120. In addition, if there is no capacity of the registered air purifier 2001 in the purification memory 2120, the predetermined capacity is the capacity corresponding to an appropriately determined initial value. 【0205】 First, the air purification communication control unit 2111 sends a request signal to the air conditioning unit 1 requesting plan information (step SK1), and receives plan information from the air conditioning unit 1 (step SK2). 【0206】 Next, the air purification control unit 2112 determines, based on the plan information, whether or not user P has registered to use the air purification device 2001 (step SK3). 【0207】 If user P has registered to use the air purifier 2001 (step SK3: YES), the air purification control unit 2112 sets the capacity of the air purifier 2001 based on the plan information (step SK4). 【0208】 In step SK4, the air purification control unit 2112 sets the capacity of the air conditioning unit 1 to match the number of tatami mats associated with the capacity of the air conditioning unit 1 indicated by the plan information. 【0209】 Next, the cleaning control unit 2112 continues operation with the capacity set in step SK4 (step SK5). 【0210】 Returning to the explanation of step SK3, if the air purification control unit 2112 determines that the air purifier 2001 is not registered for use (step SK3: NO), it determines whether a grace period (for example, 10 minutes) has elapsed since it was first determined that the device was not registered for use. 【0211】If the grace period has not elapsed (step SK6: NO), the air purification control unit 2112 returns to step SK1. If the grace period has elapsed (step SK6: YES), the air purification control unit 2112 stops the operation of the air purifier 2001 (step SK7). 【0212】 Based on the plan information received from the air conditioning unit 1, the sensor device 2300 operates in cooperation with the air purifier 2001 as an external sensor if it is registered for use, and stops operation if it is not registered for use. 【0213】 As a result, if user P registers to use either the air purifier 2001 or the sensor device 2300 in addition to the air conditioning system 1, user P can use the air purifier 2001 or the sensor device 2300 based on the plan information. Furthermore, usage fees for the air purifier 2001 or the sensor device 2300 can be charged in accordance with the capacity plan of the air conditioning system 1. In addition, if user P has not registered to use the air purifier 2001 or the sensor device 2300, the use of the air purifier 2001 or the sensor device 2300 can be restricted. 【0214】 [2-3. Effects] As described above, the information provision system 2000 in this embodiment includes a server communication control unit 311 that transmits predetermined information to a user P of a subscription service that provides an air conditioner 1 and an air purifier 2001 with adjustable capacity. The subscription service is provided with a capacity plan for each adjustable capacity, and the server communication control unit 311 provides predetermined information to user P based on the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the air conditioner 1 and air purifier 2001 provided to user P. With this configuration, predetermined information is provided based on the capacity of the air conditioner 1 and air purifier 2001 corresponding to the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the air conditioner 1 and air purifier 2001. Therefore, appropriate information related to the subscription service that provides an air conditioner 1 with adjustable capacity can be provided to user P of the subscription service. 【0215】Furthermore, the system includes an air conditioning unit 1, an air purifier 2001 and a sensor device 2300 that operate in conjunction with the air conditioning unit 1. Based on the capacity plan registered by user P for the air conditioning unit 1, the capacity plans for the air purifier 2001 and the sensor device 2300 are determined. This allows for the generation of usage fees for the air purifier 2001 or the sensor device 2300, which can be operated in conjunction with the air conditioning unit 1, in accordance with the capacity plan of the air conditioning unit 1. 【0216】 (Embodiment 3) [3-1. Configuration] [3-1-1. Configuration of the Information Provision System] Figure 16 is a diagram showing the configuration of the information provision system 3000. The information provision system 3000 in Embodiment 3 is equipped with a ventilation device 3001 in place of the air conditioning device 1 of the information provision system 1000 in Embodiment 1. The ventilation device 3001 is an example of an electrical appliance. 【0217】 The ventilation device 3001 is an item provided through a subscription service offered by the information provision system 3000. User P can subscribe to the ventilation device 3001, i.e., register for its use, instead of the air conditioning device 1 of Embodiment 1. 【0218】 The ventilation device 3001 has a ventilation function for ventilating the air in the room of facility H. The ventilation device 3001 comprises an intake fan 3010 and an exhaust fan 3011. 【0219】 The ventilation device 3001 includes an outdoor intake port 3002, an outdoor exhaust port 3003, an indoor intake port 3004, and an indoor exhaust port 3005, each of which can be connected to a duct. 【0220】 The intake fan 3010 draws in outside air through the outdoor intake port 3002 and discharges it into the room through the indoor exhaust port 3005, thereby providing air intake to the room in facility H. 【0221】 The exhaust fan 3011 draws in indoor air from the indoor intake port 3004 and exhausts it outside from the outdoor exhaust port 3003, thereby exhausting the air from the rooms in facility H. 【0222】The ventilation system 3001 mechanically performs intake and exhaust of air in the room of facility H. The ventilation system 3001 is a device that performs what is known as Type 1 ventilation. 【0223】 Furthermore, the ventilation device 3001 may perform Type 2 ventilation, which stops exhaust and only performs intake, or Type 3 ventilation, which stops intake and only performs exhaust. 【0224】 The ventilation device 3001 further includes a heat exchange element 3009. Heat exchange occurs between the air moving from outside to inside and the air moving from inside to outside via the heat exchange element 3009. 【0225】 The ventilation system 3001 includes a control device, which is not shown in the figure, and which consists of a processor and memory. The ventilation system 3001 also includes a ventilation communication device that communicates with the server device 3 via cellular communication through the base station CS, according to the control of the control device. 【0226】 The ventilation device 3001 transmits operation data to the server device 3 at predetermined data intervals (for example, one minute). This operation data includes the power consumption of the ventilation device 3001. 【0227】 The capacity of the ventilation system 3001 is changeable. For example, the capacity of the ventilation system 3001 can be changed by changing the rotational speed of at least one of the motors of the intake fan 3010 and the exhaust fan 3011 of the ventilation system 3001. 【0228】 The rotational speeds of the motors for the intake fan 3010 and the exhaust fan 3011 are appropriately defined in advance to correspond to the capacity of the ventilation system 3001. 【0229】 The ventilation device 3001 is further equipped with a sterilization unit 3012, and its capacity can be changed depending on whether or not the sterilization function is used. 【0230】 The ventilation device 3001 can change its capacity according to a capacity plan registered by user P. Thus, in embodiment 3, the ventilation device 3001 is provided as an electrical appliance whose capacity can be changed and whose usage fee varies depending on the capacity plan. 【0231】In Embodiment 3, the capacity plan of the ventilation device 3001 is indicated by the ventilation rate corresponding to the power consumption of the ventilation device 3001. 【0232】 [3-1-2. Fees] An example of fees for the ventilation system 3001 is explained below. The monthly fee for the ventilation system 3001 is predetermined based on the operating hours of the ventilation system 3001. 【0233】 Figure 17 is a table showing an example of charges for the ventilation system 3001. In Embodiment 3, the charge calculation unit 313 calculates charges for the ventilation system 3001 based on predetermined basic charges and additional charges, and operating time. The basic charges correspond to an example of the "second charge". The additional charges correspond to an example of the "first charge". 【0234】 The basic fee is predetermined for each capacity of the ventilation system 3001. 【0235】 In this embodiment, the basic fee is 1,000 yen for capacity plans with ventilation rates of 100%, 70%, and 50%, which are the maximum capacity of the ventilation device 3001. 【0236】 The basic fee for ventilation system 3001 applies when the operating time of ventilation system 3001 is 10 hours or less. 【0237】 Furthermore, an additional charge is added to the fee for every 40 hours the ventilation system 3001 is in operation. In this embodiment, the additional charge is set to be higher the larger the capacity of the ventilation system 3001. 【0238】 As shown in Figure 17, the additional charges for the first time the operating time of the ventilation system 3001 exceeds 40 hours are 1,000 yen for the 100% ventilation capacity plan, 700 yen for the 70% ventilation capacity plan, and 500 yen for the 50% ventilation capacity plan. 【0239】 As shown in Figure 17, the additional charge for operating the ventilation system 3001 from 80 hours to 200 hours is 500 yen for all capacity plans. Also, as shown in Figure 17, there is no additional charge for operating the ventilation system 3001 beyond 200 hours. 【0240】Furthermore, the price of the disinfection unit 3012 of the ventilation system 3001 is determined appropriately in accordance with the capacity plan of the ventilation system 3001. However, the price of the disinfection unit 3012 may be a fixed value independent of the capacity plan of the ventilation system 3001. 【0241】 [3-2. Operation] The information provision system 3000 performs operations related to registration for the subscription service, operations related to information provision for each calculation period, other operations related to information provision, and operations in case of payment arrears, as shown in Embodiment 1. In other words, the operation of the information provision system 3000 in Embodiment 3 is the same as the operation of the air conditioning device 1 in the information provision system 1000 in Embodiment 1, but with the operation of the ventilation device 3001. 【0242】 [3-3. Effects] As described above, the information provision system 3000 in this embodiment includes a server communication control unit 311 that transmits predetermined information to a user P of a subscription service that provides a ventilation device 3001 with adjustable capacity. The subscription service is provided with a capacity plan for each adjustable capacity, and the server communication control unit 311 provides predetermined information to user P based on the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the ventilation device 3001 provided to user P. With this configuration, predetermined information is provided based on the capacity of the ventilation device 3001 corresponding to the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the ventilation device 3001. Therefore, appropriate information related to the subscription service that provides a ventilation device 3001 with adjustable capacity can be provided to user P of the subscription service. 【0243】 (Embodiment 4) [4-1. Configuration] [4-1-1. Configuration of the Information Provision System] Figure 18 shows the configuration of the information provision system 4000. The information provision system 4000 in Embodiment 4 includes a hot water supply device 4001 in addition to the information provision system 1000 in Embodiment 1. The hot water supply device 4001 is an example of an electrical appliance. 【0244】The hot water heater 4001 is an item provided through a subscription service offered by the information provision system 4000. User P can subscribe to the hot water heater 4001, i.e., register for its use, instead of the air conditioning system 1 of Embodiment 1. 【0245】 The water heater 4001 is a so-called heat pump. The water heater 4001 heats water and supplies hot water to the water pipes of the bathtub 4002 and shower 4003, etc. The water heater 4001 includes an outdoor unit 4010 and a hot water tank 4020. A remote control 4040 is connected to the hot water tank 4020. The water heater 4001 can be operated in normal mode, first power saving mode, or second power saving mode by operating the remote control 4040 or terminal device 2. The power consumption is lowest in the order of normal mode, first power saving mode, and second power saving mode. The first power saving mode and second power saving mode are modes that suppress the power consumption of the water heater 4001 by slowing down the rate at which hot water is heated or adjusting the time of heating, according to known methods. 【0246】 The hot water supply system 4001 includes a control device consisting of a processor and memory, although this is not shown in the figures. The hot water supply system 4001 also includes a hot water supply communication device that communicates with the server device 3 via cellular communication through the base station CS, according to the control of the control device. 【0247】 The hot water heater 4001 transmits operation data to the server device 3 at predetermined data intervals (for example, one minute). This operation data includes the power consumption of the hot water heater 4001. It also includes the operating time for each mode. The operation data may also include the amount of hot water supplied by the hot water heater 4001, and the amount of hot water supplied is a parameter that depends on the operating time. 【0248】 The capacity of the hot water heater 4001 is changeable. For example, the capacity of the hot water heater 4001 can be changed by changing the current value of the compressor equipped in the outdoor unit 4010 of the hot water heater 4001. 【0249】 The range of current values ​​for the compressor is appropriately defined in advance to correspond to the capacity of the hot water supply system 4001. 【0250】 The hot water heater 4001 can also change its capacity depending on whether or not it uses a high-pressure intensity function, a fully automatic or semi-automatic function, or a heating function such as underfloor heating. 【0251】 The water heater 4001 can change its capacity according to a capacity plan registered by user P. Thus, in embodiment 4, the water heater 4001 is provided as an electrical appliance whose capacity can be changed and whose usage fee differs depending on the capacity plan. 【0252】 In Embodiment 4, the capacity plan of the hot water heater 4001 is indicated by the amount of hot water that can be supplied corresponding to the power consumption of the hot water heater 4001. 【0253】 [4-1-2. Charges] An example of charges for the hot water heater 4001 is explained below. The monthly charge for the hot water heater 4001 is predetermined based on the operating time of the hot water heater 4001. 【0254】 Figure 19 is a table showing an example of charges for the hot water heater 4001. In Embodiment 4, the charge calculation unit 313 calculates charges for the hot water heater 4001 based on predetermined basic charges and additional charges, and operating time. The basic charges correspond to an example of the "second charge". The additional charges correspond to an example of the "first charge". 【0255】 The basic charge is predetermined for each capacity of the hot water heater 4001. 【0256】 In this embodiment, the basic charge is 1,000 yen for the capacity plan with a maximum hot water supply of 370 L, for the normal mode, first energy-saving mode, and second energy-saving mode capacity plans. The basic charge is 1,500 yen for the capacity plan with a maximum hot water supply of 460 L, for the normal mode, first energy-saving mode, and second energy-saving mode capacity plans. 【0257】 The basic charge for the hot water heater 4001 applies when the hot water heater 4001 is in operation for 10 hours or less. 【0258】Furthermore, an additional charge is added to the fee for every 40 hours the operating time of the hot water heater 4001 exceeds. In this embodiment, the additional charge is set to be higher the greater the capacity of the hot water heater 4001. 【0259】 As shown in Figure 15, if the operating time of the hot water heater 4001, which has a maximum hot water supply capacity of 370L, exceeds 40 hours for the first time, the additional charge is 1,000 yen for the normal mode capacity plan, 700 yen for the first energy-saving mode capacity plan, and 500 yen for the second energy-saving mode capacity plan. 【0260】 As shown in Figure 15, the additional charge for the operation time of the hot water heater 4001 with a maximum hot water supply capacity of 370L from 80 hours to 200 hours is 500 yen for all capacity plans. Also, as shown in Figure 15, there is no additional charge for the operation time of the hot water heater 4001 with a maximum hot water supply capacity of 370L after exceeding 200 hours. 【0261】 As shown in Figure 15, if the operating time of the hot water heater 4001, which has a maximum hot water supply capacity of 460L, exceeds 40 hours for the first time, the additional charge is 1,500 yen for the normal mode capacity plan, 1,200 yen for the first energy-saving mode capacity plan, and 1,000 yen for the second energy-saving mode capacity plan. 【0262】 As shown in Figure 15, the additional charge for the operation time of the hot water heater 4001 with a maximum hot water supply capacity of 460L from 80 hours to 200 hours is 500 yen for all capacity plans. Also, as shown in Figure 15, there is no additional charge for the operation time of the hot water heater 4001 with a maximum hot water supply capacity of 460L after exceeding 200 hours. 【0263】 Furthermore, the usage fees for the high-pressure intensity function, fully automatic or semi-automatic function, and heating functions such as underfloor heating of the hot water heater 4001 are determined appropriately according to the capacity plan of the hot water heater 4001. These usage fees may also be fixed values ​​independent of the capacity plan of the hot water heater 4001. 【0264】[4-2. Operation] The information provision system 4000 performs operations related to registration for the subscription service, operations related to information provision for each calculation period, other operations related to information provision, and operations in case of payment arrears, as shown in Embodiment 1. In other words, the operation of the information provision system 4000 in Embodiment 4 is the operation in which the operation of the air conditioning device 1 of the information provision system 1000 in Embodiment 1 is replaced with the operation of the hot water supply device 4001. 【0265】 [4-3. Effects] As described above, the information provision system 3000 in this embodiment includes a server communication control unit 311 that transmits predetermined information to a user P of a subscription service that provides a hot water heater 4001 with adjustable capacity. The subscription service is provided with a capacity plan for each adjustable capacity, and the server communication control unit 311 provides predetermined information to user P based on the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the hot water heater 4001 provided to user P. With this configuration, predetermined information is provided based on the capacity of the hot water heater 4001 corresponding to the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the hot water heater 4001. Therefore, appropriate information related to the subscription service that provides a hot water heater 4001 with adjustable capacity can be provided to user P of the subscription service. 【0266】 (Embodiment 5) [5-1. Configuration] [5-1-1. Configuration of the Information Provision System] The subscription service in Embodiment 5 includes, in addition to the provision of the air conditioning system 1 in Embodiment 1, an electricity provision service by an electricity-related business operator. The electricity provision service is an example of "other services". The amount of electricity used for the electricity provision service is the amount of electricity used, expressed in units of kWh. 【0267】Furthermore, the other services included in the subscription service may be communication network services provided by telecommunications-related carriers, telephone communication network services provided by telephone line-related carriers, gas services provided by gas-related carriers, or water services provided by water-related carriers. In addition, the other services are not limited to public utility services; any service whose usage fee fluctuates according to the amount of other services used is acceptable. In addition, the other services may be subscription services that provide content such as movies or music. The other services may be services that have a fee structure consisting of a fixed fee until the amount of other services used exceeds a predetermined threshold, and a fee that fluctuates based on usage. 【0268】 [5-1-2. Fees] In the above-described Embodiment 1, the predetermined information was information indicating the usage fee for the subscription service, which corresponds to the capacity plan registered by user P and is based on the operating time. In Embodiment 5, the predetermined information is information indicating a set fee based on the capacity plan, the operating time, and the amount of electricity used for the power supply service. In Embodiment 5, the set fee corresponds to the usage fee for the calculation period of the subscription service. The set fee is an example of a "fee". 【0269】 The set price is calculated by the price calculation unit 313. The set price is the sum of the basic set price, the additional charge for the first set, and the additional charge for the second set. 【0270】 The set base charge is a fixed rate regardless of operating hours and electricity consumption. The first set surcharge is set based on operating hours. The first set surcharge is further set based on capacity plans. The second set surcharge is set based on electricity consumption. The second set surcharge is based on the rate regulations of the electricity-related business operator. These rate regulations are, for example, so-called tiered electricity rates. In tiered electricity rates, a unit price per kWh is set for each range of electricity consumption. 【0271】The following describes examples of set fee patterns. Let's explain the set fee in Pattern 1. In Pattern 1, the basic set fee is 1,800 yen. In addition, the first set surcharge and the second set surcharge are added to the set fee if the operating time exceeds the first set threshold (e.g., 10 hours). The first set surcharge is 200 yen each time the operating time exceeds the additional threshold (e.g., 100 hours). In Pattern 1, if the operating time is less than 10 hours, the set fee is equal to the basic set fee, regardless of the amount of electricity used. 【0272】 As a variation of Pattern 1, the first set surcharge is added to the set charge if the operating time exceeds the first set threshold (10 hours). Additionally, the second set surcharge is added to the set base charge if the electricity usage exceeds the second set threshold (e.g., 30 kWh). 【0273】 Let's explain the set fee in Pattern 2. In Pattern 2, the set fee is 2,000 yen. In addition, the first set surcharge and the second set surcharge are added to the set fee if the operating time exceeds the second set threshold (e.g., 100 hours). The first set surcharge is 200 yen each time the operating time exceeds the additional threshold (e.g., 100 hours). In Pattern 2, if the operating time is not 100 hours or more, the set fee is equal to the set base fee, regardless of the amount of electricity used. 【0274】 Pattern 2 differs from Pattern 1 in that the threshold for the first set surcharge and the second set surcharge are added. More specifically, in Pattern 1, these surcharges are added when the operating time exceeds 10 hours, while in Pattern 2, they are added when the operating time exceeds 100 hours. Thus, Pattern 2 is a pattern in which the first set charge for one set in Pattern 1 is incorporated into the base set charge. 【0275】As a variation of Pattern 2, the first set surcharge may be added to the set charge if the operating time exceeds the first set threshold (e.g., 10 hours), and the second set surcharge may be added to the set basic charge if the electricity usage exceeds the second set threshold (e.g., 30 kWh). 【0276】 In Pattern 3, the set fee is 2800 yen. In addition, the first set surcharge and the second set surcharge are added to the set fee if the operating time exceeds the first set threshold (e.g., 10 hours). Furthermore, the first set surcharge is 180 yen each time the operating time exceeds the additional threshold (e.g., 100 hours). The base set fee in Pattern 3 is higher than the base set fee in Pattern 2. Also, the first set surcharge in Pattern 3 is lower than the first set surcharge in Pattern 2. Thus, Pattern 3 is a pattern in which the base set fee is higher in exchange for a lower first set surcharge. 【0277】 As a variation of Pattern 3, the first set surcharge may be added to the set charge if the operating time is 10 hours or more, and the second set surcharge may be added to the set basic charge if the power consumption is 2nd set threshold (for example, 30 kWh) or more. 【0278】 In Pattern 4, the set fee is 11,800 yen. Additionally, the first set surcharge is added to the set fee if the operating time exceeds 10 hours. Furthermore, the second set surcharge is added to the set base fee if the electricity usage exceeds the second set threshold (for example, 300 kWh). The second set threshold for electricity usage in the second set surcharge of Pattern 4 is higher than that of the modified versions of Patterns 1 to 3. Also, the set base fee in Pattern 4 is higher than the set base fees in Patterns 1 to 3. Thus, in Pattern 4, similar to the modified versions of Patterns 1 to 3, the second set surcharge is added to the set fee when the electricity usage exceeds the second set threshold. Furthermore, Pattern 4 is a pattern in which charges incurred due to increased electricity usage are incorporated into the set base fee. 【0279】 Furthermore, as a variation of patterns 1 to 4, the first set surcharge and the second set surcharge may be added to the set charge if the amount of electricity used is equal to or greater than the second set threshold (for example, 100 kWh). In this case, if the amount of electricity used is not equal to or greater than the second set threshold, the first set surcharge will not be added to the set charge, regardless of the operating time. 【0280】 [5-1-3. Points] In addition, the points awarded by the awarding unit 315 in Embodiment 1 described above were set to be 1% of the usage fee. In Embodiment 5, the points awarded by the awarding unit 315 further include points based on the operating time that does not meet the first set threshold or the addition threshold. 【0281】 For example, if the operating time does not meet the first set threshold, the points awarded are the product of the set fee and the ratio of the difference between the first set threshold and the operating time. Let's say the set fee is 1800 yen, the first set threshold is 10 hours, and the operating time is 7 hours. In this case, the points would be 540 yen, calculated using the formula "1800 × (10 - 7) / 10 = 540". 【0282】 Furthermore, for example, if the operating time meets the first set threshold but does not meet the additional threshold, the points awarded are the product of the first set additional charge and the ratio described later. This ratio is the ratio of the difference between the operating time and the value obtained by subtracting the sum of the first set threshold and the unmet additional threshold from the additional threshold. For example, suppose the first set threshold is 10 hours, the first set charge is 200 yen, the additional threshold is 100 hours, and the operating time is 60 hours. In this case, the operating time after exceeding the first set threshold is 50 hours. Therefore, the points are 100 yen, calculated as "200 × (100 - 50) / 10 = 100". Also, suppose the first set threshold is 10 hours, the first set charge is 200 yen, the additional threshold is 100 hours, and the operating time is 180 hours. In this case, the operating time after exceeding the first set threshold and the additional threshold is 70 hours. Therefore, using the calculation "200 × (100 - 70) / 10 = 60", the points are worth 60 yen. 【0283】[5-2. Operation] The information provision system in Embodiment 5 performs the operations related to registration for the subscription service, operations related to information provision for each calculation period, other information provision operations, and operations in case of payment arrears, as shown in Embodiment 1. As described above, in Embodiment 5, in addition to the capacity plan and operating hours, information indicating a set charge based on electricity usage is provided. Furthermore, in Embodiment 5, information indicating a score based on the operating hours that do not meet the first set threshold or the sum threshold is provided. 【0284】 [5-3. Effects] As described above, the information provision system in this embodiment has the same effects as described in Embodiment 1. Furthermore, in the information provision system in this embodiment, the subscription service further includes the provision of services other than the air conditioning system 1, including the provision of electricity. The predetermined information is information indicating a set fee based on the capacity plan, operating time, and electricity usage. With this configuration, it is possible to appropriately provide users with information indicating usage fees based on both the capacity plan and the electricity provision service. 【0285】 Furthermore, the set charge is the sum of a set charge that is not based on operating time and power consumption, a first set charge that is added based on operating time exceeding the first set threshold, and a second set charge that is added based on power consumption exceeding the second set threshold. With this configuration, it is possible to appropriately provide users with information indicating charges based on both the operating time of the air conditioning system 1 and the power consumption of the power supply service. 【0286】 (Other Embodiments) As described above, embodiments 1-5 have been explained as examples disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited thereto and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to create new embodiments by combining the components described in embodiments 1-5. Therefore, other embodiments are described below as examples. 【0287】In the embodiments 1-5 described above, the server communication control unit 311 acts as a provisioning unit and provides predetermined information to the terminal device 2 used by the user P by transmitting it, but the system is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the information provision system may provide predetermined information to the user P via paper media such as postcards, or via email. 【0288】 In Embodiment 1 described above, the air conditioning system 1 is provided by User P through a subscription service; in Embodiment 2, the air conditioning system 1, the air purifier 2001, and the sensor device 2300 are provided; in Embodiment 3, the ventilation system 3001 is provided; and in Embodiment 4, the hot water supply system 4001 is provided. In other embodiments, a refrigeration unit equipped with a refrigerant circuit may be provided as an electrical appliance through a subscription service. The refrigeration unit includes a cooling storage unit. The cooling storage unit includes, for example, a display case such as a refrigerated display case and a freezer display case, and a household or commercial refrigerator. 【0289】 When an electrical appliance is a display case, its capacity plan is indicated, for example, by its cooling capacity. Furthermore, the cooling capacity may indicate, for example, the size of the space the display case cools. Alternatively, the cooling capacity may also indicate, for example, the volume of the space the display case cools. 【0290】 If the electrical appliance is a refrigerator, for example, multiple cold storage units are connected to a single refrigeration cycle. The number of connected cold storage units can be increased by increasing the cooling capacity of a single refrigeration cycle. 【0291】 For example, if the electrical appliance is a display case or refrigerator, one compressor may be connected to multiple display cases or refrigerators. In this case, if the user wants to use more display cases or refrigerators, they can do so by subscribing to a compressor with a higher capacity plan. 【0292】For example, if an electrical appliance is a unit-type delivery box, each unit can be divided into refrigerated, frozen, or room-temperature units. In this case, the number of refrigerated units, frozen units, and room-temperature units corresponds to the capacity plan. In such a delivery box, the more frozen units there are, the higher the capacity. Subscription services for such delivery boxes are contracted with the management of apartment buildings, etc. The delivery box consists of a control unit, a frozen box unit, and a refrigerated box unit, and the units can be freely changed to refrigerated, frozen, or room-temperature units according to the size, space, or needs of the apartment building. 【0293】 When the electrical appliance is a refrigeration unit, the power consumption, current value, or frequency of the compressor is large compared to other parts, so the capacity plan may be shown as an example of capacity in terms of the power consumption, current value, or frequency of the compressor. The hot water supply system 4001 also includes gas water heaters, electric water heaters, oil water heaters, gas-powered underfloor heating, bathroom heating and drying units, and so-called A2W (Air to Water) type heat pumps. The hot water supply system 4001 may also supply hot water by combining a heat pump and a gas water heater. 【0294】 In the embodiments 1-5 described above, a configuration in which one air conditioning unit 1 is provided in facility H is illustrated, but the invention is not limited thereto. Facility H may be provided with multiple air conditioning units 1, and the subscription service may provide multiple air conditioning units 1 to user P. 【0295】 In the embodiments 1-5 described above, the system is configured to provide predetermined information to user P through an interactive application 221 that allows for message exchange, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the means of providing predetermined information may be email, short messages, etc. 【0296】 In the embodiments 1-5 described above, the calculation period was set to one month, but it is not limited to this. The calculation period may be shorter than one month (for example, half a month) or longer than one month (for example, one year). 【0297】In the above-described embodiment 1, the operation data D1 includes the current value of the compressor 11, the current value of the indoor fan 21, and the type of airflow setting of the indoor unit 20 at each data interval. However, in other embodiments, the operation data D1 may also include information or current values ​​of the settings of the louvers 22 of the indoor unit 20, information or current values ​​of the settings of the air purification unit 23, and the current value of the motor of the outdoor fan 12 of the outdoor unit 10. Furthermore, the operation data D1 may also include information on the number of times a cleaning operation has been performed. A cleaning operation is, for example, an operation in which the filter of the air conditioning system 1 is automatically cleaned by a brush mechanism or a suction mechanism. 【0298】 In the first embodiment described above, the operating load calculation unit 312 is configured to calculate the operating load of the compressor 11 and the indoor fan 21, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the operating load calculation unit 312 may also calculate the operating load of the outdoor fan 12, indoor fan 21, louvers 22, and air purification unit 23 other than the compressor 11. 【0299】 Furthermore, the operating load calculation unit 312 may calculate the operating load based on the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 itself. In addition, the operating load calculation unit 312 may estimate the power consumption of each part of the air conditioner 1 based on the operating data D1, and calculate the operating load of each part based on the estimated power consumption. In these cases, the unit of operating load is the number of jobs, and an operating load coefficient is defined for the numerical value of the operating load. 【0300】 The operating load may also be defined in the air purifier 2001 of Embodiment 2, the ventilation device 3001 of Embodiment 3, and the hot water supply device 4001 of Embodiment 4. 【0301】 In the embodiments 1-5 described above, the fee calculation unit 313 is configured to calculate the usage fee based on the basic fee, additional charges, and operational load, but the system is not limited to this configuration. 【0302】 The fee calculation unit 313 may be configured to calculate usage fees without using operational load. In this case, the information provision system 1000 may not be configured to include the operational load calculation unit 312. 【0303】Furthermore, the basic fee can be changed as appropriate. For example, the basic fee may remain constant across all capacity plans. Alternatively, the basic fee may be constant across multiple capacity plans. In this case, the fee for the 6-tatami mat capacity plan through the 10-tatami mat capacity plan is a constant amount (e.g., 1,000 yen), and the fee for the 12-tatami mat capacity plan through the 18-tatami mat capacity plan is a second constant amount greater than the first constant amount (e.g., 1,200 yen). 【0304】 Additional charges, like the base fee, can be changed as needed. 【0305】 Furthermore, the additional time for the fee can be changed as needed. That is, the additional fee may be a fixed amount that remains constant across each capacity plan, or it may be a fixed amount across multiple capacity plans. 【0306】 Furthermore, the usage fee may be calculated solely based on additional charges, without a base fee. In this case, the additional charges may increase with higher capacity for each capacity plan, or they may be a fixed amount across multiple capacity plans. 【0307】 Furthermore, the additional charges included in the usage fee may vary depending on the continuous operating time, which is the time the electrical appliance operates continuously without interruption. In this case, the longer the continuous operating time, the lower the additional charge may be. For example, the additional charge for continuous operating time of 6 hours or more but less than 7 hours may be lower than the additional charge for continuous operating time of 0 hours or more but less than 6 hours. Furthermore, the additional charge for continuous operating time of 7 hours or more but less than 8 hours may be lower than the additional charge for continuous operating time of 6 hours or more but less than 7 hours. For example, if the electrical appliance is an air conditioner 1, the additional charge per hour of operation is 30 yen / hour for continuous operating time of less than 6 hours, 26 yen / hour for 6 hours or more but less than 7 hours, and 24 yen / hour for 7 hours or more but less than 8 hours. This reduces the user's reluctance to operate the air conditioner 1 continuously, and consequently, it is possible to maintain the comfort of user P through air conditioning. 【0308】Thus, in other embodiments, the usage fee varies according to the continuous operating time, which is the time the electrical appliance operates continuously without interruption. The longer the continuous operating time, the lower the usage fee. This can reduce user reluctance to operate electrical appliances continuously. 【0309】 Furthermore, the usage fee may be a fixed base fee with no additional charges. While the usage fee is calculated by multiplying the additional charges by the load factor as shown in equation (1), this is not the only configuration; the load factor may be multiplied by at least one of the base fee and / or additional charges. Additionally, other parameters or coefficients related to the load may be added to the usage fee calculation formula shown in equation (1). For example, an additional charge added according to the degree of the load may be added to the usage fee. 【0310】 Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment 1, an additional charge was added to the usage fee each time a predetermined additional time was exceeded, but this is not limited to this. For example, in other embodiments, an upper limit may be set on the number of times the additional charge is added to the usage fee. In this case, once the upper limit on the number of times the additional charge is added is exceeded, no additional charge will be incurred even if the operating time increases. 【0311】In addition to embodiments 1-5 described above, the information provision system in other embodiments may offer discounts on fees. The discounted fee is calculated, for example, by a fee calculation unit 313. In this case, the fee calculation unit 313 is an example of an application unit that applies a discount amount corresponding to a capacity plan to the usage fee. A fixed discount amount may be set for the basic fee for each capacity plan. A fixed discount amount may also be set for the additional fee for each capacity plan. Furthermore, the discount amount may be set to increase each time a predetermined additional time is exceeded for the additional fee for each capacity plan. Furthermore, the discount amount may be set to increase each time a predetermined additional time is exceeded when the operating time exceeds a predetermined value (e.g., 300 hours) for the additional fee for each capacity plan. Furthermore, a fixed discount amount may be set when the operating time exceeds a predetermined value (e.g., 300 hours) for the additional fee for each capacity plan. The discount amount may be set according to the discount ratio corresponding to the basic fee and the additional fee, or it may be set as a predetermined amount. Furthermore, if the time period during which the electrical appliance is operated falls within the discounted time period (for example, from 11 PM to 8 AM the following day), a discount may be applied to the usage fee for the operating time corresponding to the discounted time period. The above discount amounts may vary based on at least one of the following: capacity plan, operating time, or the number of times additional time is exceeded. 【0312】 In the embodiments 1-5 described above, the cumulative result calculation unit 314 is configured to calculate the cumulative result of the air conditioning system 1 itself, but it is not limited to this configuration. 【0313】In other embodiments, the cumulative result calculation unit 314 may be configured to calculate the cumulative result related to wear by accumulating the value obtained by multiplying the degree of wear and the operating time for the compressor 11. It is conceivable that the parts of the compressor 11 will wear out faster the greater the operating load. For example, when the compressor 11 is operated at a high operating load, the degree of wear is set to 1.1. The cumulative result will be larger when the compressor 11 is operated at a high operating load than when the compressor 11 is operated at a medium operating load. Multiple predetermined service life thresholds are set in stages, and maintenance recommendation information generated by the generation unit 317 is defined for each predetermined service life threshold. For example, the predetermined service life threshold until inspection of the compressor 11 is set to 10,000 hours, and the predetermined service life threshold until replacement of the compressor 11 is set to 50,000 hours. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined service life threshold for the compressor 11 before inspection is set to 10,000 hours, and the predetermined service life threshold for the compressor 11 before replacement is set to 50,000 hours. 【0314】 Furthermore, the cumulative result calculation unit 314 may also calculate cumulative results for the outdoor fan 12, indoor fan 21, louvers 22, and air purification unit 23, in addition to the compressor 11. The generation unit 317 may also generate maintenance recommendation information for each part. 【0315】 In the embodiments 1-5 described above, the point award rate granted by the awarding unit 315 was set to 1% of the usage fee, but this is not limited to this. The awarding unit 315 may increase the point award rate relative to the usage fee when the operating time exceeds a predetermined time threshold. Furthermore, the predetermined time threshold may be set in multiple stages. For example, the award rate may be set to 1.1% when the operating time exceeds 5,000 hours, 1.5% when it exceeds 12,000 hours, and 2% when it exceeds 20,000 hours. 【0316】In the embodiments 1-5 described above, the generation unit 317 is configured to mainly generate strings as recommended information, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the generation unit 317 may generate images as well as strings. In the embodiment 1 described above, step SJ3 (see Figure 11) shows the operation of the air conditioning communication control unit 111 to receive delinquent payment information from the server device 3. In other embodiments, if the air conditioning communication control unit 111 is unable to receive delinquent payment information from the server device 3, it may stop the operation of the air conditioning system 1 after a predetermined grace period (for example, 10 minutes) has elapsed. This allows the air conditioning system 1 to stop operating if, for some reason, the air conditioning system 1 is unable to establish communication with the server device 3 and the air conditioning system 1 cannot determine whether the subscription service registration is valid or not. 【0317】 In the above-described embodiment 1, if the capacity plan is changed in step SC11 (see Figure 5), the system is configured to perform air conditioning at the capacity of the changed capacity plan from the following month, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the system may be configured such that the air conditioning control unit 112 decides to perform air conditioning at the changed capacity plan from the moment the air conditioning communication control unit 111 receives the changed capacity plan data. In this case, the air conditioning system 1 may operate at multiple different capacities during a single calculation period. In this case, the data on operating time stored in the management DB 322 includes the operating time for each capacity plan. In this case, the charge calculation unit 313 calculates the usage fee for each corresponding capacity plan using formula (1), and calculates the usage fee for this month or the current usage fee by adding up the usage fees for each capacity plan. In this case, the current capacity plan does not necessarily mean the capacity plan for this month, and may be a changed capacity plan that is different from the capacity plan at the beginning of a single calculation period. 【0318】As described above, the information provision system 1000 in another embodiment includes a server communication control unit 311 that transmits predetermined information to a terminal device 2 used by a user P of a subscription service that provides an air conditioner 1 with adjustable capacity. The subscription service has a capacity plan for each adjustable capacity, and the server communication control unit 311 transmits predetermined information to the terminal device 2 based on the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time of the air conditioner 1 provided to user P. The predetermined information is information indicating the usage fee for the subscription service corresponding to the capacity plan registered by user P. Furthermore, if user P has registered multiple types of capacity plans, the usage fee is the sum of the usage fees corresponding to each capacity plan. With this configuration, even if the usage fees differ for each capacity plan, or if the usage fees differ depending on the length of the operating time, appropriate information indicating the usage fee can be provided to user P. Also, with this configuration, predetermined information is provided based on the capacity of the air conditioner 1 corresponding to the multiple capacity plans registered by user P and the operating time of the air conditioner 1 corresponding to each capacity plan. Therefore, appropriate information related to the subscription service that provides an air conditioner 1 with adjustable capacity can be provided to user P of the subscription service. 【0319】In the embodiments 1-5 described above, the capacity plan is changed via input from user P in the terminal device 2, and changed capacity plan data (plan change information) including an instruction from the server device 3 to operate at the capacity corresponding to the changed capacity plan is sent to the electrical appliance. Based on the changed capacity plan data, it is decided that the electrical appliance will operate at the capacity of the changed capacity plan. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the process of deciding that the electrical appliance will operate at the capacity of the changed capacity plan may be performed based on changed capacity plan data sent from the terminal device 2 or another device that can communicate with the electrical appliance (e.g., a remote controller). This allows the electrical appliance to change its capacity and operate according to the local communication standard at the location where the electrical appliance is installed, without going through the server device 3. In this case, the electrical appliance stores local usage data, including the capacity corresponding to the changed capacity plan and the usage time, in the storage unit of the electrical appliance or a device that can communicate locally with the electrical appliance, and transmits the local usage data to the server device 3 when the electrical appliance and the server device 3 can communicate again via the Internet. Furthermore, the capacity plan change data transmitted from terminal device 2 or other devices capable of communicating with electrical appliances is not data that instructs a change in the set temperature or airflow settings, but rather data that instructs a change in the capacity plan, and consequently changes the capacity associated with that capacity plan, if the electrical appliance is air conditioner 1. 【0320】In the above-described embodiment 1, an example was given in which maintenance information J3, which is information recommending at least one of replacement, cleaning, and inspection of the air conditioner 1, is displayed in the first display area N1 of the first screen G1 (see Figure 7), but the embodiment is not limited to this. In other embodiments, maintenance information J3 may have the string "With the current load, 302 hours for an 8-tatami room will result in a lower load and reduce wear and tear on the air conditioner." In this case, maintenance information J3 is information that encourages reducing wear and tear on the air conditioner 1 by lowering the level of operating load when the level of operating load is high. In other embodiments, maintenance information J3 may have the string "The current load on the air conditioner is high, so the air conditioner may fail sooner." In this case, maintenance information J3 is information that indicates a prediction of failure of the air conditioner 1. In the above-described embodiment 1, the additional charge information J11 and usage status information J13 are configured to display usage fee information that does not take operating load into consideration, but the embodiment is not limited to this. At least one of the additional charge information J11 and usage status information J13 may have usage fee information based on operating load. 【0321】In the embodiments 1-5 described above, the server device 3 is configured to obtain operating time information from the operation data D1 transmitted from the air conditioning system 1, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the server communication control unit 311 of the server device 3 may acquire operating time from the property information system. In these other embodiments, the server communication control unit 311 corresponds to an example of the "acquisition unit". The property information system is a system that manages information on rental properties. When facility H is a facility with multiple properties such as apartment buildings, the property information system has property occupancy information such as information on the contract status between the tenants of each rental property in facility H and the rental properties, and information on the contract status between the tenants and public electricity supply services. The properties are managed by an administrator corresponding to an example of user P. The administrator may be the landlord or a management company that manages the properties on behalf of the landlord. The capacity plan is a plan in which a usage fee is incurred when a tenant is occupying the property, and the administrator pays the usage fee. The usage fee may be paid by the landlord to the tenant. The property occupancy information indicates whether the tenant is able to use the air conditioning system 1. In other embodiments, the server communication control unit 311 of the server device 3 obtains operating time information by acquiring tenant move-in and move-out information from the property information system. In this case, the operating time information corresponds to whether the tenant is able to use the air conditioning system 1, and if the tenant is occupying the property, it means that the operating time is not zero. In this case, the usage fee is a fixed fee each month (for example, 3,500 yen) and does not change after the tenant moves in. As a result, the usage fee does not change according to the actual operating time of the air conditioning system 1, which tends to fluctuate seasonally. Therefore, for example, the administrator can pay the usage fee for several months or a year in advance. The actual operating time refers to the operating time based on the operation data D1. Furthermore, the subscription service in other embodiments may be contracted with the administrator of the apartment building. In addition, the prescribed information may be provided to either the lessor or the administrator. 【0322】The server device 3 may also be configured to include a function that determines when the rental property is powered on, indicating that user P has moved in. In addition, in other embodiments, the server device 3 may receive operating data D1 including the operating time of the air conditioner 1 and provide predetermined information to the terminal device 2. 【0323】 The effects of the configuration in other embodiments are described below. As described above, in other embodiments, the user is the property manager, the capacity plan is a plan in which a usage fee is incurred when a tenant is occupying the property, and the operating time of the air conditioner 1 is the time based on the property occupancy information of facility H where the air conditioner 1 is installed. With this, it becomes possible to notify the manager of the operating time of the air conditioner 1 as the property occupancy status, and thus provide the manager with information on whether or not a usage fee will be incurred. 【0324】 Furthermore, in another embodiment, the information provision system 1000 includes a server communication control unit 311 that acquires property occupancy information, which is information indicating the status of user P's occupancy and vacancy. With this configuration, if the user is occupying the property, it is known that the air conditioning system provided by the subscription service is available at that time, and if the user has vacated the property, property occupancy information is acquired that indicates that the air conditioning system is unavailable at that time. Therefore, it is possible to provide information on appropriate usage fees corresponding to the time when the air conditioning system is available. 【0325】 In the above-described embodiment 1, the information provision system 1000 is configured to include a server device 3 and a terminal device 2, but it is not limited to this configuration and may consist only of the air conditioning device 1. In this case, the air conditioning device 1 is equipped with a display means composed of LEDs (light-emitting diodes). The provision unit of the air conditioning control device 100 of the air conditioning device 1 provides predetermined information to the user P by controlling the lighting state of the LEDs. 【0326】The effects of the configuration in another embodiment are described below. An air conditioning device 1 is provided to a user P of a subscription service and has a changeable capacity. The subscription service is provided with a capacity plan for each changeable capacity, and includes a provisioning unit that provides predetermined information based on the capacity plan registered by user P and the operating time. This configuration provides the same functions and effects as the embodiment 1 described above. 【0327】 Embodiment 1 illustrates a configuration in which the maximum and minimum capacities are pre-set according to a capacity plan indicated by the number of tatami mats. In other embodiments, even with the same number of tatami mats, different maximum and minimum capacities may be associated with each other. For example, the appropriate maximum and minimum capacities will differ for air conditioning in a warm region (e.g., Okinawa Prefecture in Japan), a cold region (e.g., prefectures belonging to the Kinki region in Japan), and an intermediate region (e.g., Hokkaido in Japan), even with the same number of tatami mats. The maximum and minimum capacities corresponding to the number of tatami mats can be changed as appropriate from the viewpoint of air conditioning comfort. 【0328】 In this case, the maximum and minimum capacities corresponding to the capacity plan are pre-set for each region. Note that the minimum and minimum capacities may differ for heating and cooling. For example, in a capacity plan corresponding to a room of 10 tatami mats, the maximum cooling capacity in an intermediate region is 2.8 kW and the maximum heating capacity is 3.6 kW, and these are the standard values. Also, in this case, the maximum cooling capacity in a warm region is 2.8 kW, and the maximum heating capacity is 2.8 kW, which is smaller than the standard value. Also, in this case, the maximum cooling capacity in a cold region is 2.8 kW, and the maximum heating capacity is 4.2 kW, which is larger than the standard value. 【0329】Information regarding the area in which the air conditioning system 1 is installed may be obtained from user P's input, or from the location detection device of the air conditioning system 1 or the terminal device 2 used by user P. In Embodiment 1, the capacity plan of the air conditioning system 1 is exemplified by the corresponding number of tatami mats, i.e., the applicable floor area, and in Embodiment 4, the capacity plan of the hot water supply system 4001 is exemplified by the maximum hot water supply amount, but the system is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the capacity plan of the hot water supply system 4001 may be indicated by the power consumption of all or part of the air conditioning system 1 or the hot water supply system 4001, and one of the power consumption, current value, or frequency of the compressor. 【0330】 In Embodiment 1, the capacity plan for the air conditioner 1 was exemplified by the number of tatami mats corresponding to the maximum capacity, i.e., the applicable floor area, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the capacity plan for the air conditioner 1 may be indicated by at least one of the rated capacity, the maximum capacity of the air conditioner 1, the horsepower of the air conditioner 1, the rated power consumption of the air conditioner 1, the rated current value or maximum current value of the compressor 11 of the outdoor unit 10, and the rated rotational speed or maximum rotational speed of the indoor fan 21 of the indoor unit 20, or the number of tatami mats corresponding to these. 【0331】 Rated capacity refers to the stably supplied capacity of the air conditioner 1 when it is operated continuously under temperature conditions based on JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) standards. Rated power consumption refers to the power consumption when the air conditioner 1 is operated at its rated capacity. 【0332】 Furthermore, if the capacity plan is indicated by power consumption, the air conditioning system 1 may change its capacity by controlling the current value of the compressor 11 based on a table of power consumption and ranges of compressor current values. The air conditioning system 1 may also change its capacity by controlling the indoor fan 21 based on a table of power consumption and ranges of rotational speeds of the indoor fan 21 motor. 【0333】The airflow of the indoor unit 20 is controlled by the rotational speed of the indoor fan 21 motor, which corresponds to the fluctuating capacity. Furthermore, the capacity of the indoor fan 21 is controlled by limiting the maximum rotational speed of the indoor fan 21 motor according to the capacity of the outdoor unit 10, which is indicated by the power consumption of all or part of the outdoor unit 10. When the airflow is set to automatic, the range of rotational speeds of the indoor fan 21 motor is controlled according to the capacity plan. When the airflow is set manually, the range of rotational speeds of the indoor fan 21 motor corresponding to the airflow is controlled according to the capacity plan. When the air conditioning system 1 is a commercial air conditioner, the range of rotational speeds of the discharge fan motor and the intake fan motor are controlled according to the capacity plan. 【0334】 If the air conditioning system 1 is a so-called whole-house air conditioning system, the capacity plan of the whole-house air conditioning system is indicated, for example, by the number of rooms. The whole-house air conditioning system distributes air supplied from air conditioning units with heating and cooling functions to each room via a duct network. In this case, by installing dampers in the duct network, the number of rooms to be air-conditioned can be limited, and thereby the capacity of the whole-house air conditioning system can be changed. The capacity plan of the whole-house air conditioning system may also be indicated by other means, such as the volume of the rooms or the sum of the floor areas of the rooms. 【0335】 In Embodiment 1, the communication relay device 4 installed in facility H is configured to relay communications connected to the network NW, but the system is not limited to this. The air conditioning communication device 30 of the air conditioning system 1 may perform cellular communication via the base station CS. 【0336】 Furthermore, the air conditioning communication device 30 may be a centralized control device provided separately from the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20, or it may be provided on the outdoor unit 10 or the indoor unit 20. 【0337】 Alternatively, the air conditioning control device 100 may be installed on one outdoor unit 10, and the air conditioning control device 100 installed on the outdoor unit 10 may control one or more other indoor units 20. 【0338】In Embodiment 2, the capacity plan for the air purifier 2001 is exemplified by the corresponding number of tatami mats, i.e., the approximate applicable floor area, but it is not limited to this. The capacity plan for the air purifier 2001 in other embodiments may be indicated by at least one of the following: the approximate applicable room volume, or the purification time as defined by a method conforming to the Japan Electrical Manufacturers' Association standard JEM1467. The purification time, the approximate applicable floor area, and the approximate applicable room volume may be defined separately depending on whether or not humidification is performed. 【0339】 Furthermore, the capacity plan for the air purifier 2001 may be indicated by the humidification capacity. For example, the capacity plan may be indicated by at least one of the following: the approximate applicable floor area, the approximate applicable room volume, and the amount of water released per unit time. 【0340】 Furthermore, the capacity plan of the air purifier 2001 may be defined by airflow, including the dust collection function and humidification capacity. The airflow depends on the rotational speed of the motor of the air purifying fan 2002 provided in the air purifier 2001. 【0341】 The sterilization unit 2004 of the air purifier 2001 may be a device that generates electrolyzed water by electrolysis. 【0342】 Furthermore, the air purifier 2001 may also be equipped with a dehumidification function to dehumidify the room in facility H. In this case, the air purifier 2001 may be equipped with a compressor type, a desiccant type, or a hybrid type combining these methods. 【0343】 Furthermore, whether or not at least one of the humidifying unit 2003, the sterilization unit 2004, and the dehumidifying unit of the air purifier 2001 is usable is also included in the capabilities of the air purifier 2001. For example, the sterilization function of the air purifier 2001 may be used by user P by registering a capability plan in which the sterilization unit 2004 of the air purifier 2001 is usable. In this case, the capability plan of the air purifier 2001 may be indicated by the capability of the dehumidifying function. 【0344】The capacity plan for the air purifier 2001 may also be indicated by its dehumidification capacity. The dehumidification capacity is indicated by at least one of the following: the approximate applicable floor area, the approximate applicable room volume, or the amount of water that can be removed per unit time. 【0345】 The performance plan for the air purifier 2001 may also be indicated by its sterilization capacity. The sterilization capacity is indicated by at least one of the following: the approximate applicable floor area, the approximate applicable room volume, or the amount of sterilizing substance that can be released per unit time. 【0346】 In Embodiment 3, the ventilation rate is given as an example of the capacity plan for the ventilation device 3001, but it is not limited thereto. The capacity plan for the ventilation device 3001 in other embodiments may be indicated by at least one of the following: an approximate applicable floor area or an approximate applicable room volume. Furthermore, the ventilation rate, approximate applicable floor area, and approximate applicable room volume may be shown separately for each setting of the motor rotation speed of the intake fan 3010 and the exhaust fan 3011. 【0347】 Furthermore, the ventilation device 3001 may also have a humidification function, and the capacity plan for the ventilation device 3001 may be indicated by the capacity of the humidification function. For example, the capacity plan may be indicated by at least one of the following: an approximate applicable floor area, an approximate applicable room volume, and the amount of water released per unit time. This makes it possible to reflect the difference between the outside humidity and the inside humidity in the price of a subscription service for the ventilation device 3001, which functions as a total heat exchange ventilation fan with a humidity control function. 【0348】 Furthermore, the ventilation device 3001 is equipped with a dehumidification function, and the capacity plan for the ventilation device 3001 may be indicated by the capacity of the dehumidification function. The capacity of the dehumidification function is indicated by at least one of the following: an approximate applicable floor area, an approximate applicable room volume, or the amount of water that can be removed per unit time. This makes it possible to reflect the difference between the outside humidity and the inside humidity in the pricing for a subscription service of the ventilation device 3001, which functions as a total heat exchange ventilation fan with a humidity control function. 【0349】The capacity plan for the ventilation device 3001 may also be indicated by its sterilization capacity. The sterilization capacity is indicated by at least one of the following: the approximate applicable floor area, the approximate applicable room volume, or the amount of sterilizing substance that can be released per unit time. 【0350】 The capacity plan for the ventilation device 3001 may be expressed in terms of its heat exchange capacity. The heat exchange capacity is expressed in terms of the amount of heat that can be exchanged. In this case, the ventilation device 3001 is equipped with a temperature sensor or a temperature and humidity sensor. In addition, the ventilation device 3001 is equipped with an airflow sensor. The amount of heat may be defined as a sensible heat load or as a total heat load. The amount of heat is defined as a variable whose parameters include the temperature and humidity difference and the product of the airflow and operating time. This makes it possible to reflect the difference between the outside temperature and the inside temperature in the price of a subscription service for the ventilation device 3001 that functions as a total heat exchange type ventilation fan. 【0351】 In Embodiment 4, the capacity plan for the hot water heater 4001 is illustrated by a configuration in which the amount of hot water that can be supplied corresponds to the power consumption of the hot water heater 4001, and the charges differ depending on whether it is in normal mode, first energy-saving mode, or second energy-saving mode, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the capacity plan for the hot water heater 4001 may be the amount of hot water actually heated, or the amount of hot water actually used. In this case, the hot water heater 4001 is equipped with a flow sensor that measures the amount of hot water heated or the amount of hot water used. In this case, the operating time, which is a parameter of the usage fee in the subscription service, is the time that is added to the flow rate when calculating the amount of hot water heated or the amount of hot water used. In this case, the operating time is not the time that the hot water heater 4001 itself was operating, but the time used to calculate the amount of hot water heated or the amount of hot water used. 【0352】Thus, in the information provision system of this embodiment, the capacity of electrical appliances is changed by limiting the maximum power consumption, rated power consumption, or the maximum function of the electrical appliance according to the capacity plan. This allows for the appropriate definition of the capacity of electrical appliances. The maximum function of an electrical appliance is, for example, if the electrical appliance is an air conditioner 1, represented by the amount of heat supplied to the target space by the air conditioner. This amount of heat is a physical quantity whose parameters are air density, specific heat of air, airflow rate, and the temperature difference between the blown air and the intake air. 【0353】 Furthermore, electrical appliances have multiple functions. For example, if an electrical appliance is an air conditioner 1, it may have heating and cooling functions. For example, if an electrical appliance is an air purifier 2001, it may have at least one of the following functions: humidification by a humidification unit 2003, sterilization by a sterilization unit 2004, and dehumidification by a dehumidification unit. For example, if an electrical appliance is a ventilation device 3001, in addition to ventilation, it may have at least one of the following functions: heat exchange, humidity control including humidification or dehumidification, and sterilization. For example, if an electrical appliance is a hot water supply device 4001, it may have a hot water supply function that supplies heated hot water to the water supply and a heating function that provides heating using heated hot water. For example, if an electrical appliance is a cooling storage unit, it may have a refrigeration function, a freezing function, a storage function that stores at room temperature without freezing or cooling, and a constant temperature function. 【0354】 The capabilities of electrical appliances can be changed for each of the functions described above. The subscription service in this disclosure may have capability plans for each of two or more functions. 【0355】 Thus, in the information provision system in other embodiments, electrical appliances have multiple functions, and the capabilities of each function can be changed. The subscription service provides a capability plan for each of the capabilities of two or more functions. This improves the convenience of the subscription service because the user P can change the capability plan for each function of the electrical appliance according to the situation. 【0356】 For example, if the electrical appliance is an air conditioner 1, the subscription service may have separate capacity plans for the heating function and the cooling function. More specifically, let's consider the case where the capacity plan for the air conditioner 1 corresponds to a 10-tatami mat room. In this case, if the maximum power consumption for the cooling function is 2.8 kW and the maximum power consumption for the heating function is 3.6 kW as the normal standard, then when the capacity plan for the air conditioner 1 is changed due to external factors 1 to 6 below, or other factors, the capacity plan for either the cooling function or the heating function may be changed, rather than both being changed. For example, the limit on the maximum power consumption for the heating function may remain unchanged, while the maximum power consumption for the cooling function may be changed from 2.8 kW to 3.4 kW. 【0357】 External factors 1 through 6 are as follows: External factor 1 is the region where the air conditioning system 1 is installed. External factor 2 is the season in the region where the air conditioning system 1 is installed. External factor 3 is the amount of sunlight at the location where the air conditioning system 1 is installed. Sunlight can fluctuate, for example, if the room where the air conditioning system 1 is installed is located in a specific direction where it does not receive much sunlight, or if a building is constructed next to the room. External factor 4 is climate change. External factor 5 is environmental changes at the location where the air conditioning system 1 is installed due to renovations, etc. Environmental changes due to renovations include cases where the thermal environment changes due to the removal of a wall in the room where the air conditioning system 1 is installed, or due to the installation of a new window. External factor 6 is user preference. User preference is, for example, the desire for heating to work faster than cooling. 【0358】Thus, in another embodiment, the electrical appliance is an air conditioner 1, which has heating and cooling functions, and the subscription service is provided with capacity plans for both the heating and cooling functions. With this, user P can change either the cooling or heating capacity plan of the air conditioner 1 according to the situation, so that user P can use the subscription service according to the environment in which the air conditioner 1 is installed. 【0359】 In the above-described embodiment 5, the example given was that the operating time during the calculation period corresponds to the operating time of the air conditioning system 1, but the embodiment is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the operating time may be the sum of the operating times of multiple electrical appliances provided in the subscription service. 【0360】 The air conditioning processor 110, terminal processor 210, server processor 310, and cleaning processor 2110 may be composed of a single processor or multiple processors. These processors may also be hardware programmed to realize the corresponding functional units. That is, these processors may be composed of, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). 【0361】 The configurations of the air conditioning program 121, application 221, server program 321, and cleaning program 2121 shown in Figures 2, 3, and 12 are examples, and the specific implementation is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily required that hardware corresponding to each part be implemented individually, and it is also possible to configure the system so that a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of each part. Furthermore, some of the functions realized by software in the above-described embodiment may be implemented as hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be realized by software. 【0362】The operational step units shown in Figures 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, and 15 are divided according to the main processing content to facilitate understanding of the operation, and the operation is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. Depending on the processing content, it may be further divided into more step units. Alternatively, it may be divided so that one step unit includes even more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps may be changed as appropriate, as long as it does not impede the intent of this disclosure. 【0363】 Since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes of the technology described herein, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the claims or their equivalents. 【0364】 (Note) The above description of embodiments discloses the following technology. 【0365】 (Technology 1) An information provision system comprising a provision unit that provides predetermined information to users of a subscription service that provides electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities, wherein the subscription service has a plan for each adjustable capability, and the provision unit provides the predetermined information to the user based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the electrical appliance provided to the user. With this, predetermined information is provided based on the capabilities of the electrical appliance corresponding to the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the electrical appliance. Therefore, appropriate information related to the subscription service that provides electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities can be provided to users of the subscription service. 【0366】 (Technology 2) The information provision system according to Technology 1, wherein the providing unit further provides the user with predetermined information based on the operating load of the electrical appliance. With this, predetermined information that takes into account the operating load of the electrical appliance is provided, so that the user can recognize the degree of the operating load of the electrical appliance. 【0367】(Technology 3) The information provision system described in Technology 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined information is information recommending a change to the plan registered by the user. This improves the likelihood that the user can select an appropriate electrical appliance capacity plan according to the situation. 【0368】 (Technology 4) The information provision system described in any one of the technologies 1 to 3, wherein the predetermined information is information indicating the usage fee for the subscription service corresponding to the plan registered by the user. With this, even if the usage fee differs for each capacity plan, or if the usage fee differs depending on the amount of working time, information indicating the usage fee can be appropriately provided to the user. 【0369】 (Technology 5) An information provision system according to any one of the following technologies: the predetermined information is at least one of the following: information that encourages the replacement of the electrical appliance, information that encourages the cleaning of the electrical appliance, and information that encourages the inspection of the electrical appliance. With this, users are encouraged to replace, clean, or inspect the electrical appliance, so that the electrical appliance lasts longer and the comfort of the air conditioning provided by the electrical appliance is improved. 【0370】 (Technology 6) The information provision system according to Technology 4, comprising an application unit that applies a discount amount corresponding to the plan to the usage fee, or an awarding unit that awards points usable for a predetermined purpose to the user based on the usage fee. With this, the usage fee becomes cheaper when a discount amount is applied to the usage fee, or points usable for a predetermined purpose are awarded to the user according to the usage fee in the subscription service. As a result, the range of other services that can be offered in the subscription service or services different from the subscription service is expanded by the amount of the discount amount or the amount of points awarded, improving convenience for the user. 【0371】(Technology 7) An information provision system according to any one of the Techniques 1 to 6, wherein the user is the property manager, the plan is a plan in which a usage fee is incurred when a tenant is residing in the property, and the operating time of the electrical appliance is the time based on the property occupancy information of the facility where the electrical appliance is installed. With this, it becomes possible to notify the manager of the operating time of the electrical appliance as the property occupancy status, and thus provide the manager with information on whether or not a usage fee will be incurred. 【0372】 (Technical 8) The information provision system described in Technical 7, comprising an acquisition unit for acquiring property occupancy information, wherein the property occupancy information is information indicating the status of the user's occupancy and vacating. According to this, property occupancy information is acquired that indicates when the user is occupying the property, that the electrical appliances provided by the subscription service are available, and when the user has vacated the property, that the electrical appliances are unavailable. Therefore, it is possible to provide information on appropriate usage fees corresponding to the time when the electrical appliances are available. 【0373】 (Technical 9) An information provision system according to any one of Technical 4, 6 to 8, wherein if the user has registered for multiple types of plans, the usage fee is the sum of the usage fees corresponding to each plan. According to this, predetermined information is provided based on the capacity of the electrical appliances corresponding to the multiple plans registered by the user and the operating time of the electrical appliances corresponding to each plan. Therefore, appropriate information related to subscription services that provide electrical appliances with adjustable capacity can be provided to users of subscription services. 【0374】 (Technology 10) The electrical appliance has multiple functions, and the capacity of each of the functions can be changed, and the subscription service has plans for each of the capacities of two or more of the functions, as described in any one of the information provision systems described in Technology 1 to 9. According to this, the convenience of the subscription service is improved because the user can change the plan for each function of the electrical appliance according to the situation. 【0375】(Technical 11) The electrical appliance is an air conditioning device, the air conditioning device has a heating function and a cooling function as its functions, and the subscription service has plans for the capacity of the heating function and the capacity of the cooling function, as described in Technical 10. With this, the user can change the capacity plan of either the cooling function or the heating function of the air conditioning device according to the situation, so that the user can use the subscription service according to the environment in which the air conditioning device is installed. 【0376】 (Technology 12) An information provision system according to any one of the technologies 1 to 9, wherein the capacity of the electrical appliance is changed by limiting the maximum power consumption, rated power consumption, or the maximum capacity of the electrical appliance's functions according to the plan. This allows the capacity of the electrical appliance to be properly defined. 【0377】 (Technical 13) The electrical appliance is equipped with a receiving unit that receives plan change information indicating that the plan registered by the user has been changed, as described in any one of Technical 1 to 12 of the information provision system. With this, when the receiving unit of the electrical appliance receives the plan change information, the electrical appliance can be set to operate with the capacity corresponding to the changed plan. 【0378】 (Technical 14) The electrical appliance, upon receiving the plan change information, includes a transmission unit that transmits to the outside reception information indicating that the plan change information has been received, or completion information indicating that the setting to change the capabilities of the electrical appliance has been completed, as described in Technical 13. With this, it is possible to recognize from the outside that the electrical appliance has been set to operate with the capabilities corresponding to the changed plan. 【0379】(Technical 15) An information provision system according to any one of Technical 1 to 14, wherein the electrical appliance includes at least one of an air conditioner, an air purifier, a hot water supply system, a ventilation system, a hot water heating system, and a cooling storage unit. According to this, for example, if the electrical appliance includes an air conditioner, appropriate information related to a subscription service that provides an air conditioner with adjustable capacity can be provided to the user of the subscription service. Also, for example, if the electrical appliance includes an air purifier, appropriate information related to a subscription service that provides an air purifier with adjustable capacity can be provided to the user of the subscription service. Also, for example, if the electrical appliance includes a ventilation system, appropriate information related to a subscription service that provides an electrical appliance with adjustable capacity can be provided to the user of the subscription service. Also, for example, if the electrical appliance includes a hot water supply system, appropriate information related to a subscription service that provides a hot water supply system with adjustable capacity can be provided to the user of the subscription service. Also, for example, if the electrical appliance includes a hot water heating system, appropriate information related to a subscription service that provides a hot water heating system with adjustable capacity can be provided to the user of the subscription service. Furthermore, for example, if an electrical appliance includes a refrigerated storage unit, appropriate information related to a subscription service that provides a refrigerated storage unit with adjustable capacity can be provided to users of the subscription service. 【0380】 (Technical 16) The information provision system according to Technical 15, wherein the electrical appliances include the air conditioning system and at least one linked electrical appliance which is an electrical appliance that operates in conjunction with the air conditioning system, and the plan for the linked electrical appliance is determined based on the plan registered by the user for the air conditioning system. According to this, usage fees for linked electrical appliances that can be operated in conjunction with the electrical appliances can be generated in accordance with the plan for the electrical appliances. 【0381】(Technical 17) An information provision system according to any one of Technical 1 to 16, comprising a stop unit that stops the operation of the electrical appliance after a predetermined grace period has elapsed, when the operation of the electrical appliance has been started and the validity of the registration of the electrical appliance in the subscription service cannot be confirmed. According to this, if the validity cannot be confirmed, including when the registration of the electrical appliance in the subscription service is not valid, the electrical appliance will operate for the grace period. Therefore, for example, if the electrical appliance cannot communicate with the outside, the user can use the electrical appliance during the grace period, or if the validity is actually not found, the user can be prevented from using the electrical appliance for longer than the grace period. 【0382】 (Technical 18) The subscription service further includes the provision of services other than the electrical appliances, and the predetermined information is information indicating charges based on the plan, the operating time, and the amount of other services used, as described in any one of Technical 1 to 17. According to this, information indicating usage charges based on both the plan and the electricity supply service can be appropriately provided to the user. 【0383】 (Technology 19) An electrical appliance provided to a user of a subscription service, wherein the capacity of the appliance is changeable, and the subscription service has a plan for each changeable capacity, and the appliance includes a provisioning unit that provides predetermined information based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time. This provides the same function and effect as Technology 1. 【0384】 (Technology 20) A program that causes a processor to function as a providing unit that provides predetermined information to a user of a subscription service that provides electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities, wherein the subscription service has a plan for each adjustable capability, and the providing unit provides the user with predetermined information based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the electrical appliances provided to the user. This produces the same functions and effects as Technology 1. 【0385】(Technology 21) An information provision method comprising a provision step of providing predetermined information to a user of a subscription service that provides an air conditioning system with adjustable capacity, wherein the subscription service has a plan for each adjustable capacity, and the provision step provides predetermined information to the user based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the air conditioning system provided to the user. This method produces the same effects and benefits as Technology 1. 【0386】 As described above, the information provision system, electrical appliance, program, and information provision method according to the present invention can be used for providing predetermined information in a subscription service that provides electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities. 【0387】1 Air conditioning system (electrical appliance) 2 Terminal device 3 Server device 4 Communication relay device 10 Outdoor unit 11 Compressor 12 Outdoor fan 20 Indoor unit 21 Indoor fan 22 Louver 23 Air purification unit 30 Air conditioning communication device 100 Air conditioning control device 110 Air conditioning processor 111 Air conditioning communication control unit 112 Air conditioning control unit 120 Air conditioning memory 121 Air conditioning program 122 Identification ID 200 Terminal control device 201 Terminal communication device 202 Touch panel 210 Terminal processor 211 Application execution unit (providing unit) 220 Terminal memory 221 Application (program) 222 User ID 300 Server control device 301 Server communication device 310 Server processor 311 Server communication control unit (providing unit, acquisition unit) 312 Operating load calculation unit 313 314 Charge Calculation Unit 315 Total Result Calculation Unit 316 Assignment Unit 317 Selection Unit 317 Generation Unit 318 Management Unit 320 Server Memory 321 Server Program 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000 Information Provision System 2001 Air Purifier (Electrical Appliance, Interconnected Electrical Appliance) 2300 Sensor Device (Electrical Appliance, Interconnected Electrical Appliance) 3001 Ventilation Device (Electrical Appliance) 4001 Hot Water Supply Device (Electrical Appliance) D1 Operation Data 322 Management DB G1 First Screen G2 Second Screen H Facility IC1 Linkage Button IC2 Usage Status Confirmation Button J1 Operating Time Information J2 Usage Fee Information J3 Maintenance Information J4 Current Status Information J5 Change Information J11 Additional Charge Information J12 Usage Status Confirmation Instruction Information J13 Usage Status Information N1 First display area N2 Second display area NW Network SD9, SF3, SH3 Step (Provided step)

Claims

1. An information provision system comprising a provision unit that provides predetermined information to users of a subscription service that provides electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities, wherein the subscription service has plans for each adjustable capability, and the provision unit provides the predetermined information to the user based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the electrical appliances provided to the user.

2. The information provision system according to claim 1, wherein the provisioning unit further provides the predetermined information to the user based on the operating load of the electrical appliance.

3. The information provision system according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined information is information recommending a change to the plan registered by the user.

4. The information provision system according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined information is information indicating the usage fee for the subscription service corresponding to the plan registered by the user.

5. The information provision system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the predetermined information is at least one of information that prompts the replacement of the electrical appliance, information that prompts the cleaning of the electrical appliance, and information that prompts the inspection of the electrical appliance.

6. The information provision system according to claim 4, comprising an application unit that applies a discount amount corresponding to the plan to the usage fee, or an awarding unit that awards points usable for a predetermined purpose to the user based on the usage fee.

7. The information provision system according to claim 1, wherein the user is the property manager, the plan is a plan in which a usage fee is incurred when a tenant is residing in the property, and the operating time of the electrical appliance is the time based on the property occupancy information of the facility where the electrical appliance is installed.

8. The information provision system according to claim 7, comprising an acquisition unit for acquiring the aforementioned property occupancy information, wherein the aforementioned property occupancy information is information indicating the status of a user's move-in and move-out.

9. If the user has registered for multiple types of plans, the usage fee is the sum of the usage fees corresponding to each plan, as described in claim 4.

10. The electrical appliance has multiple functions, and the capacity of each of the functions can be changed, and the subscription service has plans for each of the two or more functions, according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

11. The information provision system according to claim 10, wherein the electrical appliance is an air conditioning device, the air conditioning device has a heating function and a cooling function as its functions, and the subscription service has plans for the capacity of the heating function and the capacity of the cooling function, respectively.

12. The information provision system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the capacity of the electrical appliance is modified by limiting the maximum power consumption, rated power consumption, or the maximum capacity of the electrical appliance's functions, according to the plan.

13. The information provision system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the electrical appliance comprises a receiving unit that receives plan change information indicating that the plan registered by the user has been changed.

14. The information provision system according to claim 13, wherein the electrical appliance, upon receiving the plan change information, includes a transmitting unit that transmits to the outside received information indicating that the plan change information has been received, or completed information indicating that the settings for changing the capabilities of the electrical appliance have been completed.

15. The information provision system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the electrical appliance includes at least one of an air conditioner, an air purifier, a hot water supply system, a ventilation system, a hot water heating system, and a cooling storage unit.

16. The information provision system according to claim 15, wherein the electrical appliance includes the air conditioning unit and at least one interlocking electrical appliance which is an electrical appliance that operates in conjunction with the air conditioning unit, and the plan for the interlocking electrical appliance is determined based on the plan registered by the user for the air conditioning unit.

17. The information provision system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a stop unit that stops the operation of the electrical appliance after a predetermined grace period has elapsed, if the operation of the electrical appliance has been started and the validity of the registration of the electrical appliance in the subscription service cannot be confirmed.

18. The information provision system according to claim 1, wherein the subscription service further includes the provision of services other than the electrical appliances, and the predetermined information is information indicating the plan, the operating hours, and the charges based on the amount of use of the other services.

19. An electrical appliance provided to a user of a subscription service, wherein the capacity of the appliance is adjustable, and the subscription service has a plan for each adjustable capacity, and the appliance includes a provisioning unit that provides predetermined information based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time.

20. A program that causes a processor to function as a provision unit that provides predetermined information to a user of a subscription service that provides electrical appliances with adjustable capabilities, wherein the subscription service has a plan for each adjustable capability, and the provision unit provides the user with predetermined information based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the electrical appliances provided to the user.

21. An information provision method comprising a provision step of providing predetermined information to a user of a subscription service that provides an air conditioning system with adjustable capacity, wherein the subscription service has a plan for each adjustable capacity, and the provision step provides predetermined information to the user based on the plan registered by the user and the operating time of the air conditioning system provided to the user.

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