I can only offer help on the AC system itself. Whatever you do I recommend that you first look at the manufacturer's information to see where they recommend connecting a remote signal. If there is no information then I'd suggest only opening/closing the same circuit(s) that the thermostat controls. Avoid just shutting main power to the unit on or off. There may be protective relays, timers, heating circuits, pumpdown controls, etc that are there to protect the equipment.