Do Smart Thermostats Really Lower Energy Costs in Florida Homes?

September 22, 2025
Do Smart Thermostats Really Lower Energy Costs in Florida Homes?

Energy bills are a major concern for homeowners in Pinellas County. With air conditioning running nearly year-round, many look to technology for savings, and smart thermostats are at the top of the list. But one common question remains: “Do smart thermostats really lower energy costs in Florida homes?”


The answer is yes — when properly installed and used, smart thermostats can reduce energy consumption and help homeowners save money. Here’s how.

How Smart Thermostats Work

Unlike traditional thermostats, smart thermostats use advanced sensors, Wi-Fi connectivity, and learning algorithms to optimize heating and cooling. They adapt to your schedule, track energy use, and allow adjustments from a smartphone.


Key features include:

  • Learning Technology: Adjusts settings automatically based on your daily routine.
  • Remote Access: Control your system from anywhere via an app.
  • Energy Reports: Provide data on usage patterns and savings opportunities.
  • Geofencing: Detects when you’re home or away to adjust temperatures automatically.


Energy Savings in Florida Homes

Florida’s climate means AC is the primary driver of energy costs. Smart thermostats help reduce those costs in several ways:


  • Efficient Scheduling: Automatically reduces cooling when you’re at work or asleep.
  • Humidity Control: Some models integrate with HVAC systems to manage moisture, which reduces strain and improves comfort.
  • Demand Response Programs: Many Florida utilities partner with smart thermostat manufacturers, offering rebates or incentives for allowing small adjustments during peak demand.


Estimated Savings: According to ENERGY STAR, homeowners can save up to 8–12% annually on heating and cooling costs with a smart thermostat. For Florida households, where AC often accounts for 40–50% of the electric bill, this can mean real savings.


Real-World Example in Pinellas County


A homeowner in Clearwater, FL upgraded to a smart thermostat and paired it with a high-efficiency heat pump. By scheduling temperature setbacks during work hours and monitoring energy use through the app, they saw their summer energy bill drop by almost $40 per month. Over a year, those savings paid for the thermostat itself.


When Savings May Be Limited


While smart thermostats offer real benefits, they aren’t a magic fix for every situation. Savings may be limited if:


  • Your HVAC system is old and inefficient.
  • You rarely adjust your thermostat or already manage energy carefully.
  • The thermostat is installed incorrectly or not connected to Wi-Fi.


For maximum savings, a smart thermostat should be paired with a well-maintained, efficient HVAC system.


Smart thermostats can be an effective tool for lowering energy costs in Florida homes, especially when paired with preventive HVAC maintenance and efficient equipment. By learning your habits, controlling humidity, and giving you real-time data, they help take control of energy use in a way standard thermostats never could.


At Williams Air Solutions, we help Pinellas County homeowners choose and install smart thermostats that integrate seamlessly with their HVAC systems.


Ready to start saving? Call Williams Air Solutions at (727) 353-0090 today and ask about upgrading to a smart thermostat for your Florida home.

How to Secure Your Outdoor HVAC Unit Before High Winds

September 17, 2025
Living in Pinellas County means preparing for more than just heat and humidity. Every year, homeowners face the possibility of strong summer storms and hurricane-force winds. While most people think about boarding windows or securing patio furniture, one often-overlooked task is protecting the outdoor HVAC unit. Your condenser is a critical piece of equipment, and without the right precautions, high winds can cause damage that leads to costly repairs or even system replacement . Here’s how to properly secure your outdoor HVAC unit before high winds arrive.

What’s Included in a Professional HVAC Tune-Up?

September 11, 2025
With Florida’s heat and humidity, your HVAC system is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. Homeowners in Pinellas County often ask: “What exactly is included in a professional HVAC tune-up, and is it worth the investment?”  The answer is yes — and understanding what’s covered will help you see why regular tune-ups keep your system running efficiently, lower your energy bills, and prevent costly breakdowns.

What to Do If My AC Floods After a Storm in Pinellas County

September 8, 2025
Florida homeowners are no strangers to heavy rain, tropical storms, and hurricanes. When flooding occurs, your outdoor AC unit (the condenser) is especially vulnerable. Even a few inches of standing water can cause electrical damage, corrosion, or mold growth inside your system. If your AC floods after a storm in Pinellas County, acting quickly and safely can make the difference between a minor repair and a costly replacement. Step 1: Turn Off the Power Safety comes first. If you notice flooding around your outdoor unit, shut off power at the breaker immediately. This prevents electrical shorts and protects you and your family from potential hazards. Do not attempt to restart the system until it has been inspected. Step 2: Remove Standing Water if Possible If it’s safe to do so, work to clear water from around the unit. Using a pump or directing runoff away from the condenser can minimize further damage. Avoid removing panels or opening the unit yourself, that should be left to a professional technician. Step 3: Check for Visible Damage Once water levels have gone down, take note of: Mud or debris lodged around the coils and fins Units that have shifted or tipped off the concrete pad Visible corrosion or rust on electrical components Musty odors coming from vents indoors Even if your system looks fine on the outside, hidden water damage may still exist. Step 4: Schedule a Professional Inspection Flooding can damage electrical wiring, refrigerant lines, and mechanical parts inside the unit. A professional HVAC technician should: Inspect all electrical components for water damage Clean coils and remove debris Check refrigerant levels and pressures Ensure the condenser is securely anchored to its pad Test the system safely before restarting Attempting to run your AC before it’s inspected can cause permanent damage. Step 5: Consider Long-Term Protection If your AC has flooded once, it’s at risk again in future storms. Preventive steps include: Elevating the Unit: Raising the condenser on a hurricane-rated stand helps protect against future flooding. Installing Surge Protection: Protects against lightning strikes and power surges common in Florida storms. Clearing Drainage Paths: Ensures water doesn’t pool near the unit during heavy rains.