Use Technology to Your Advantage with Streamlined Integration from AV Specialists

Florida's sunny skies, coastal breezes, and year-round warm weather make it a fantastic place to call home. But those same elements that drew you to the Sunshine State can also present some unique challenges when it comes to keeping your home comfortable, secure, and energy efficient. The good news is that the latest smart home technology offers an array of solutions tailored to Floridans' lifestyles. 

Below, we explore five upgrades homeowners in St. Petersburg and beyond should consider, so keep reading.

BRAND SPOTLIGHT: Light Can Help You

1. Automated Shading for Sun Control 

With an average of 361 days of sunshine per year in St. Petersburg, managing the abundant natural light is a must. Motorized shades or blinds can be programmed to automatically adjust based on the sun's position in the sky, keeping harsh glare and heat at bay. 

Many systems even integrate with other solutions, such as smart thermostats and lighting, to optimize comfort and energy use throughout the day. Your living spaces stay cool and inviting while your furnishings and artwork are protected from damaging UV rays.

2. Smart Thermostats for Energy Savings

Many Florida homeowners struggle to keep the indoor temperature comfortable without sky-high utility bills. A smart thermostat can help. It learns your preferences and habits and automatically adjusts to the most energy-efficient settings when you're away or asleep. 

Some models go a step further, factoring in humidity levels and accessing local weather data to make real-time adjustments so you don’t have to. You can also control your thermostat remotely via a smartphone app—perfect for giving your AC a head start on your commute home.

3. Smart Locks for Effortless Access

Whether you frequently host out-of-town guests or simply crave the convenience of keyless entry, a smart door lock is a wise addition. It allows you to lock and unlock your door remotely, receive alerts when someone accesses your home, and easily provide temporary virtual "keys" to visitors. There’s no need to hide a spare under the doormat anymore!

4. Outdoor Smart Lighting for Ambiance and Security

Overlooking outdoor lighting is a common pitfall, especially with waterfront homes where the view takes center stage. However, lighting can enhance your outside entertainment spaces while providing an extra security layer. 

Lighting systems let you program custom schedules or control lights remotely, so you never have to navigate a dark walkway and can return to a fully lit home. Consider motion-activated floodlights near entrances, soft up-lighting on statement trees, and subtle path lights to guide the way gracefully.

5. Smart Irrigation for Lush Landscaping 

Your smart home upgrades should continue beyond the front door. Smart sprinkler controllers take the guesswork out of irrigating your lawn and garden. They monitor weather conditions and soil moisture to deliver the optimal amount of water when it's needed. 

The result? More lush landscaping and less water waste. It’s a must in a state prone to drought and water restrictions. The latest models even offer app-based control, so you can pause your sprinkler schedule remotely when an unexpected downpour rolls through.

We’re St. Pete’s Smart Home Expert

While there are countless ways to weave smart tech into your lifestyle, starting with these five key areas will go a long way toward enhancing your comfort, convenience, and security. Your home and your family will thank you!

Fill out our contact form here or chat with us below to start a conversation about your smart home vision.