Warm up for less: 3 affordable energy-saving home upgrades

The Citizen

20-06-2025

As the chill of winter sets in, the household electricity bill begins to climb. Thankfully, keeping your home comfortable doesn't have to come at the expense of high energy bills or environmental impact. By making smart choices and small investments, you can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency during the colder months.
Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, says that electricity costs have been steadily rising, placing increased pressure on household budgets. For example, for a typical household consuming 800 kWh per month, a Homelight user could go from R1636 last year to R1729 this year; and a Homepower user can go from R2456 last year to R2727 this year.
'Homes that are energy-wise are becoming increasingly popular among buyers,' he notes. 'Homes with off-the-grid features like solar panels often sell faster and at higher prices, as buyers are willing to pay a premium for reliability and reduced running costs.'
However, installing solar power can be a bit of a stretch for most households. There are other ways to keep your home cosy this winter without breaking the bank. REMAX Southern Africa shares a few energy-efficient upgrades homeowners could try:
Seal Drafts and Insulate
One of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency is by sealing gaps and cracks where warm air escapes. Common culprits include windows, doors, and areas around plumbing or electrical outlets. Weatherstripping doors and windows can prevent heat loss, caulking around windowsills helps close tiny cracks, and insulating your ceiling space can help keep heat inside where it belongs.
Add rugs, curtains & throws
Adding rugs, curtains, and throws is a simple yet effective energy efficient way to warm up your home during the winter months. Rugs help insulate floors, especially on tile or wooden surfaces, preventing heat loss and keeping your feet warm. Thick curtains act as thermal barriers, trapping heat inside and blocking out chilly drafts from windows—particularly when closed at night. Meanwhile, throws and blankets not only add a cosy aesthetic to your living spaces but also provide extra warmth without relying on additional heating.
Switch to a gas cooker
Switching to a gas cooker during the winter can be a smart move for both warming your home and lowering your electricity bill. Gas cookers generate ambient heat that naturally warms up the kitchen and nearby areas, providing additional warmth without the need for extra electric heaters. Unlike electric stoves, gas cookers are often more energy-efficient and cost-effective, especially during peak electricity pricing periods.
Making your home more energy-efficient this winter doesn't have to involve major renovations or costly investments. Simple, low-cost upgrades can make a noticeable difference in both comfort and savings.
'Energy efficiency is no longer just a nice-to-have—it's a smart, forward-thinking investment. With rising electricity costs and increased demand for greener homes, making these changes today not only enhances your quality of life this winter but also boosts your home's appeal for future buyers,' Goslett concludes.
Issued by: Kayla Ferguson