Disclosure
We believe in complete transparency about how our business works. This page explains our business model, our relationship with utilities and our HVAC contractor partner, and why property owners pay nothing.
How We Are Funded
FreeStatUpgrade is funded through utility energy efficiency programs. The program covers the full cost of the ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostat and professional installation for each qualifying unit. Our business operations are sustained through the program funding — property owners pay nothing.
This means property owners never pay anything — no invoice, no hidden fees, no future charges. The entire upgrade is funded through utility energy efficiency initiatives. There are no strings attached, no subscriptions, and no financing arrangements.
Zero Cost to Property Owners
To be completely clear about what “free” means in the context of our service:
- •You do not pay for the thermostats. They are provided at no cost through the program.
- •You do not pay for installation. Our HVAC contractor partner is compensated through the program.
- •You do not pay a service fee. Our operational costs are covered by the program funding.
- •There are no future charges. This is not a lease, subscription, or financing arrangement. Once the thermostats are installed, they belong to the property.
Our Relationship with Utilities
FreeStatUpgrade is not affiliated with Oncor Electric Delivery Company, AEP Texas, or any utility company. We are an independent, third-party company that:
- •Is not employed by, contracted to, or endorsed by Oncor, AEP Texas, or any utility
- •Does not represent any utility in any official capacity
- •Operates within Oncor and AEP Texas service territories where utility-funded energy efficiency programs are available
- •Submits applications on behalf of property owners who authorize us to do so
Program availability and eligibility requirements are determined by the utility and may change without notice. Official program documentation always takes precedence over any information on our website.
Our HVAC Contractor Partner
All thermostat installations are performed by our dedicated HVAC contractor partner — a licensed and insured Texas HVAC professional specializing in multifamily installations.
- •Our HVAC partner is an independent contractor, not an employee of FreeStatUpgrade
- •They are compensated through the program — not by the property owner
- •They carry their own license, bonding, and insurance as required by Texas law
- •All technicians are background-checked before entering occupied residential units
Content and Recommendations
The informational content on our website — including energy savings estimates, property value impacts, and program details — is created by our team based on:
- •ENERGY STAR and U.S. Department of Energy published data
- •Thermostat manufacturer specifications and studies
- •Industry surveys and research (NMHC, Grace Hill, etc.)
- •Publicly available utility program documentation
We have a financial interest in property owners using our service — we acknowledge this openly. However, our content aims to be accurate and useful regardless of whether you use our service. For full details on how our content is created and fact-checked, see our editorial policy and methodology pages.
Questions About Our Business Model
If you have any questions about how we operate, how we are funded, or any aspect of our business model, we welcome your inquiry. Transparency is a core value — we are happy to provide additional detail. Visit our contact page or reach out directly.
Zero Cost. Full Transparency.
Now that you know how we work, see if your property qualifies for free smart thermostat upgrades. Limited spots available — first come, first served.