HVAC Installation & ReplacementSeasonal PreparednessHome Efficiency & Improvement

Upgrading to a Smart Thermostat This Summer

June 03, 2025
Image: Upgrading to a Smart Thermostat This Summer
As the summer heats up, our schedules get busier. From kids' sports tournaments, swimming at the local pool, family vacations and more, you may find yourself out and away from your home more often. There’s nothing better than coming back to a cool, air-conditioned home after a day in the sun. Leaving your AC running all day can cause your utility bills to rise. That is why upgrading to a smart thermostat is one of Atlanta’s hottest home upgrades this summer.

Benefits of Installing a Smart Thermostat

Especially in Atlanta, summers are hot and humid. Here are the top benefits of installing a smart thermostat in your home!

1. Smart Thermostats Can Lower Energy Bills

Atlanta, GA homeowners can expect to see a 10-20% decrease in heating and cooling bills when using a smart thermostat.

Smart thermostats learn your habits and adjust temperatures automatically. Your smart thermostat will adjust the temperature when you’re away at work, reducing AC strain and energy consumption.

On your way back home from the day of summer activities, the smart thermostat can lower the temperature, so your home is cool when you get home without using more energy throughout the day.

2. Control Your Home’s Temperature from Anywhere

Smart thermostats are the ultimate convenience for people on the go. Even while on vacation, you can adjust your thermostat with unpredictable Georgia weather changes. You also have the control to turn the air down before you get back, to come home to a nice, cool house after a long day of travel.

3. Integration with Weather Forecasts

Smart thermostats can also factor in local weather conditions. If a heatwave is coming to Atlanta, smart thermostats integrated with smart phone apps can warn you ahead of time and give suggestions on when and how much to cool your house.

Smart thermostats can also adapt to humidity levels, which can be high here in Georgia, for better home comfort and energy use.

4. New and Improved HVAC System Monitoring with Smart Thermostats

Smart home companies like Google, Nest, Honeywell and more continue to update and improve their smart thermostat technology.

Smart home apps that connect to smart thermostats can give you reports that show how and when you use energy, helping you to make smarter choices on how you heat and cool your home.

Other helpful features can include maintenance reminders, air filter change alerts, and performance reports that can flag if your HVAC might not be performing best, and it’s time to call in a professional.

Smart Thermostat, Smart Savings

We know you have a lot of big choices when it comes to which home improvement projects you want to invest in. Our heating and cooling experts share the most popular smart thermostat brands and an energy saving estimate for Atlanta homes.

Popular Smart Home Brands

1. Google Nest Learning Thermostat: Google has many smart home integrations, including the Nest thermostat. Features include:
• Easy to use app, and connections with Google Assistant or Amazon’s Alexa
• Motion sensors to know when to heat and cool efficiently
• Smart learning to adapt to your routines and preferences

2. ecobee Smart Thermostat: Ecobee is a smart home solution company offering products from thermostats to security devices. Depending on the version installed, features include:
• Seamless integration with smart home systems like Google, Amazon, or Apple.
• Smart sensors for zoned home systems
• Ideal for larger homes wanting different zoning capabilities

3. Amazon Smart Thermostat: Amazon is a leader in smart home technology, from their in-home assistant Alexa to security systems, Wi-Fi and more. Amazon smart thermostat systems can be a good option if you already own Alexa smart home devices.
• Great for renters or single zone homes
• Often more budget friendly
• Seamless integration with Alexa and Amazon systems

4. Honeywell Smart Thermostats: Honeywell is a trusted smart home brand, great for zoning in larger homes. They range in price depending on zones, version or equipment add-ons.
• Compatible with Google, Amazon and other home systems
• Variety of options to fit your zones and needs
• Smart room sensors for optimal efficiency

Rebates and Discounts

Georgia Power: Up to 75% of the cost of qualifying smart thermostats
Cobb EMC: For homes that are serviced by Cobb EMC, up to $100 off a new smart thermostat and additional rebates
Manufacturer Rebates: Be sure to check manufacturer websites for details.

Our experts offer a wide range of thermostats that can fit your home's needs, with professional installation making sure your thermostat is calibrated and running correctly. Ask our experts about possible rebates you could qualify for, and which smart thermostat solution is best for you.

Smart Thermostat Energy Saving Estimate

So are smart thermostats worth the initial investment? Check out these examples below to estimate how a smart upgrade could help your home energy bills*

  • • A standard smart thermostat in a 1,200 sq ft home:
    • o Summer energy bill: ~$160/month
    • o Energy savings ( up to 12%): Around $19/month
    • o Possible summer savings of up to $76 (June-September)*

  • • A mid-range smart thermostat in a 2,000 sq ft home:
    • o Summer energy bill: ~$250/month
    • o Energy savings (up to 15%): Around $37.50/month
    • o Possible summer savings of up to $150 (June-September)*

  • • A high-end smart thermostat in a 3,000 sq ft home:
    • o Summer energy bill: ~$350/month
    • o Energy savings (up to18%): Around $63/month
    • o Possible summer savings of up to $250 (June-September)*

Our heating and cooling experts can help you decide which thermostat is the best fit for your home's size, needs and budget. Call AHHS - Atlanta today to schedule your installation or find a location near you to learn more!

*Utility savings are not guaranteed and will vary depending on thermostat type and other household factors.