5 Simple Upgrades to Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient

With energy costs on the rise, making your home more energy-efficient can help you save money and reduce your environmental impact. The best part? You don’t need a massive renovation or a hefty budget to see results. Here are five simple upgrades that will make your home more energy-efficient, save on utility bills, and make your living space more comfortable year-round.

1. Switch to LED Lighting

Why: LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. They emit less heat, making them safer and cooler to use, especially in enclosed fixtures.

How: Replace incandescent or CFL (compact fluorescent) bulbs with LEDs in the most commonly used fixtures, such as kitchen lights, living room lamps, and outdoor lighting. LEDs are available in various colors and brightness levels, so you can choose the right ambiance for each room.

Cost and Savings: While LED bulbs are initially more expensive, they quickly pay for themselves through lower energy bills and infrequent replacements. For example, if you replace 10 bulbs with LEDs, you could save around GHC 2000 annually on energy costs.

In areas with frequent power outages, consider rechargeable LED bulbs. These bulbs can operate during power cuts, providing light when you need it most and making them a great investment.

2. Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Why: A programmable or smart thermostat helps regulate your home’s temperature based on your schedule, preventing unnecessary heating or cooling when you’re not home. This not only saves energy but also keeps your home comfortable.

How: Replace your traditional thermostat with a programmable model that allows you to set different temperatures for specific times of the day. A smart thermostat, like the Google Nest or Ecobee, offers remote control through a mobile app, so you can adjust settings from anywhere.

Cost and Savings: A programmable thermostat can cost between GHC 1000-5,000, while smart models are slightly higher. However, this small investment can save up to 10% on your heating and cooling bills, making it worthwhile in the long run.

If you don’t use a central heating or cooling system, focus on controlling air conditioning units individually by turning them off in unused rooms and closing vents to avoid cooling spaces that don’t need it.

3. Seal Windows and Doors to Prevent Drafts

Why: Drafts around windows and doors allow warm or cool air to escape, making your home less efficient and increasing your energy bills. By sealing these gaps, you can prevent energy loss and reduce the need for heating or air conditioning.

How: Use weatherstripping tape or silicone caulk to seal gaps around doors and windows. You can also use door sweeps to seal the gap at the bottom of doors. If you notice significant drafts, consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows or doors, though this can be more costly.

Cost and Savings: Weatherstripping materials and caulk are relatively inexpensive, costing between GHC 500-1500 for a full set. This upgrade can reduce energy costs by up to 15%, especially if you have multiple windows or doors in your home.

During Harmattan, sealing windows and doors can also help keep out dust, making your home cleaner and air-conditioning units more efficient as they won’t have to filter as much dust from the air.

4. Install Low-Flow Showerheads and Faucets

Why: Low-flow fixtures reduce water usage, which is especially helpful if you rely on pumped water or pay for your water supply. Reducing water usage also conserves the energy needed to heat water for showers, washing, and cleaning.

How: Install low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, and water-saving devices in your bathrooms and kitchen. These fixtures are designed to maintain water pressure while using less water, making them easy to install and highly effective.

Cost and Savings: Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators typically cost between GHC 100-200 per fixture. By reducing water and hot water usage, these upgrades can lower both water and energy bills by 10-20%.

Look for showerheads that are easy to install yourself to avoid plumbing costs. This upgrade is especially valuable if you have a family and use large amounts of hot water daily.

5. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances

Why: Appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners are among the highest energy consumers in the home. Replacing old, inefficient appliances with energy-efficient models can significantly reduce your energy consumption.

How: When shopping for new appliances, look for those with a high energy efficiency rating. The more stars the appliance has, the less energy it uses. Many energy-efficient models are designed to perform better while using less electricity.

Cost and Savings: Energy-efficient appliances may have a higher upfront cost, but they typically pay for themselves over time. For instance, an energy-efficient refrigerator can save you GHC 1500-4000 per year in electricity costs.

If you’re not ready to replace your appliances, start with smaller energy-saving adjustments, like unplugging appliances when not in use, using washing machines with full loads, and drying clothes in the sun rather than with a dryer.

Additional Tips for Maximizing Energy Efficiency

1. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely: Ceiling fans can help circulate air, making it feel cooler. In warmer months, set the fan to rotate counterclockwise for a cooling effect. In colder months, switch it to clockwise to redistribute warm air.
2. Make the Most of Natural Light: Use natural daylight to illuminate your rooms during the day, reducing the need for electric lights. Arrange furniture to take advantage of sunlight, and keep curtains open during the day.
3. Opt for Solar-Powered Solutions: Solar-powered lights, fans, and water heaters are great investments in sunny climates. Solar energy can reduce reliance on electricity and is especially useful in areas prone to power outages.

Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Impact

Making your home more energy-efficient doesn’t have to be expensive or complex. By implementing a few of these simple upgrades, you can reduce your energy bills, enhance comfort, and contribute to a more sustainable environment. Whether you’re switching to LED lights or sealing drafty windows, every step you take toward energy efficiency makes a difference.

If you’re looking for help with any of these upgrades, HandyJobber can connect you with skilled professionals who can assess your home’s energy needs and help you make effective changes. Save energy, save money, and enjoy a greener home—one upgrade at a time.