Orlando homeowners are starting 2026 with a new focus on their homes.
Instead of just hitting the gym, savvy residents are upgrading their electrical systems to add convenience and save money. The start of the year is a great time to plan these changes. With energy prices shifting and new tech launching every day, smart home upgrades are no longer just for techies. In fact, these updates can lower bills and increase property values. If you want a home that is ready for the future, here are the three most popular upgrades to consider this New Year.
1. Why Should I Upgrade to a Smart Electrical Panel?
The traditional “breaker box” in your garage is getting a massive makeover.
Upgrading to a smart electrical panel (brands include SPAN and Lumin) is a top trend for Orlando homes in 2026. These panels connect to a smartphone app, allowing you to track energy usage for every circuit in real time.
More than a gadget, it is a powerful tool to lower high central Florida electric bills. If you are on vacation, you can remotely turn off non-essential circuits like the water heater or pool pump to save money. More importantly, the panels can prevent expensive electrical service upgrades when adding a new EV charger or heat pump by managing the power load automatically. It is a key step in energy monitoring for a modern home.
Pro Tip for Orlando: Homeowners may qualify for a $600 federal tax credit for panel upgrades under the Inflation Reduction Act.
2. Is My Orlando Home Ready for an EV Charger Installation?
If you bought an electric vehicle (EV) during the 2025 end-of-year sales, you probably noticed that standard wall outlets are too slow for charging your EV. A Level 2 EV charger is the gold standard for home charging and delivers power up to nine times faster than a regular plug.
Installing a dedicated 240-volt circuit ensures your vehicle is fully charged and ready for a trip to Disney or the beach every morning. For the best results, look for “smart” chargers that allow you to schedule charging during off-peak hours when electricity is cheapest. A licensed electrician can safely assess your home’s capacity for the upgrade.
Local Tip: Many Orlando residents can receive up to $1,000 back through the federal Alternative Fuel Infrastructure tax credit if the equipment and installation are completed by June 30, 2026.
3. How Do Smart Lighting Upgrades Save You Money?
In 2026, smart lighting is moving away from simple “smart bulbs” and towards integrated smart switches and dimmers. These systems, like Lutron Caséta, allow you to control your entire home with a set schedule or your voice.
Smart lighting improves both your health and your wallet. You can program your Winter Park home to use circadian lighting, which mimics natural sunlight to help support better sleep. For energy savings, motion sensors can automatically turn off lights in empty rooms, cutting lighting costs. This is an essential part of an energy-efficient smart home design.
Why Are Homeowners in Maitland Making Smart Home Upgrades in January
Resourceful homeowners start in January to beat the spring rush, before local electricians get fully booked. By planning ahead, you will secure your spot on the schedule. Also, many utility providers, including Duke Energy and OUC, offer annual rebates that reset on January 1, giving homeowners early access to valuable incentives. By focusing on these three upgrades early in the year, you not only lower your monthly bills but also significantly increase your home’s resale value in the competitive greater Orlando house market.
Why Professional Installation Matters for Smart Home Upgrades
Smart home upgrades are not plug-and-play projects. Electrical panels, EV chargers, and smart lighting all place new power demands on your home’s electrical system. Before any project begins, the system will need an assessment.
A licensed electrician will check load capacity, grounding, and local code requirements. These steps protect both your home’s safety and the overall performance of the installation. When electrical upgrades are installed incorrectly, homeowners may face breaker trips, system failures, or problems during insurance inspections.
Electrical installations by a licensed electrician will also prepare the home for any upcoming upgrades. Whether you plan to add solar or more smart devices, proper planning before the start of the project helps avoid costly changes later. In short, designing a “smart home plan” with your electrician makes every upgrade work better and seamlessly for future installations.
What Should I Expect During A Smart Home Upgrade Project
Every smart home upgrade should begin with a conversation.
First, an electrician reviews the existing electrical system and asks how the home is used day to day. From there, options are explained and an electrical plan will be designed and tailored to your preferences. During installation, strong communication is key, especially when coordinating local inspections and power interruptions. A reputable electrician is equipped to handle all details involved with a code-compliant installation. Finally, your smart home project shouldn’t simply end at the installation. Your electrician will fully explain how to use the smart home upgrade with ease and confidence.
“Smartron Electric designs smart home solutions that make everyday living easier and more efficient.”
Choose Smartron Electric For Your Smart Home Electrical Project
Upgrading your home’s electrical system isn’t just about installing new technology. It’s making sure everything works seamlessly, safely, and is designed around how you actually live, everyday. Smartron Electric specializes in smart home and energy-focused solutions from smart electrical panels and EV chargers to integrated smart lighting systems that enhance daily life. Our licensed technicians stay ahead of emerging technology and evolving electrical codes, ensuring your smart upgrades are future-proof and expertly installed. If you’re planning electrical improvements in Maitland, Winter Park, or Orlando, Smartron Electric always provides exceptional client service, tailored electrical solutions, and a Lifetime Craftsmanship Guarantee.
Smartron Electric is Your Smart Home Electrical Expert
As a family-run, “home electrical service company” based in Maitland — we understand the mix of convenience, safety, and ease of use central Florida homeowners are looking for.
Work with our Smart Home Experts and Receive:
- Free smart home consultation
- 5-star service from start to finish
- Multiple options presented by our technician
- Safe, code-compliant installation by licensed technicians
- Lifetime craftsmanship guarantee
Our mission at Smartron Electric is simple: Deliver exceptional electrical service and give homeowners the clarity, respect, and control they deserve.
Why Orlando Homeowners Trust Us with Their Smart Home Upgrades and Installations
- Licensed and insured electricians
- 5 star service from start to finish
- Customized lighting design tailored to your needs
- We are your local indoor and outdoor lighting experts
- Transparent, upfront pricing
- Reliable communication and attentive support
- Detailed and expert installations
- A Lifetime Craftsmanship Guarantee on every job
Future-proof your home’s electrical system! Call Smartron Electric today and schedule a free smart home consultation with our expert licensed technicians.
Or visit SmartronElectric.com to schedule your appointment.
