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Affordable Home Improvement Ideas, High ROI

high roi

Not every home improvement project requires a home loan to add measurable resale value. There are several affordable home upgrades with excellent return on investment (ROI), many of which can have an immediate impact on your monthly energy bills. For Raleigh homeowners seeking cost-effective home projects, these HVAC and plumbing upgrades are smart investments with short payback periods.

HVAC Upgrades: Switch to a Heat Pump

Heat pumps outperform central air conditioners during the summer and all types of heating systems through most winter conditions, offering a versatile replacement solution. Upgrading your HVAC system may be relatively expensive upfront, but the ROI on new HVAC equipment can be surprisingly good.

When paired with local, state, and federal energy credits, the ROI of a new heat pumpis roughly 60% in the first year. That doesn’t include longer-term savings or the fact that heat pumps add to your home’s resale value.

Additional HVAC system upgrades include:

  • Investing in a smart thermostat
  • Duct sealing and repair
  • New insulation

Home Lighting Upgrades

One of the most impactful and affordable ways to upgrade your home's décor, both inside and out, is to introduce new lighting. Residential lighting upgrades have an average ROI of approximately 100% in the first three years, and since LED bulbs typically last up to 15 years, homeowners tend to save hundreds of dollars by the time the bulb needs to be replaced.

  • Indoors. Choose lighting fixtures and bulbs that complement your home’s natural light to reduce your electricity use. Add new fixtures in dark areas of the house or introduce clever lighting, such as under-cabinet lighting, to increase visibility.
  • Outdoors. Use bright, warm exterior lighting to enhance your home’s curb appeal. LED bulbs offer exceptional clarity and security, which may also attract prospective buyers.

Like HVAC equipment, you may be eligible for rebates on LED lighting and related systems. These programs make it more affordable to upgrade lighting in homes and businesses, lowering energy costs and waste.

Read more: Our Favorite Smart Home Technology Upgrades

Smart Residential Plumbing Upgrades

Some of the best home upgrades for getting a good return on investment (ROI) also reduce water use and prevent water damage. Smart plumbing technology can greatly improve your home’s safety and help protect the environment.

Leak Detection Systems

Leak detection sensors and monitoring systems identify changes in water consumption or water pressure that indicate minor – or major – leaks as early as possible. Identifying problems early lowers the extent of water damage from leaks and floods.

Sump Pump Alarms

Sump pump alarms and battery-powered back-ups can offset flooding and water damage. First, the alarm notifies homeowners of power loss or elevated water levels. Battery back-ups then let the sump pump run, preventing basement flooding even when the power is out.

Low-Flow Toilets, Faucets, and Showerheads

Upgrading to WaterSense-approved products can lower annual bills and protect the planet. These certified products use at least 20% less water than standard toilets. Over a full year, that saves the average home over 13,000 gallons of water and $170 on their utility bill.

Raleigh’s HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing Upgrade Experts

Yellow Dot Heating & Air Conditioning is your local home service expert, equipped to recommend upgrades that save you money now while enhancing your property's value for the long term. Whether you need emergency HVAC services or thoughtfully designed lighting upgrades, we are the trusted choice for all your home service needs in Raleigh and beyond.

Call 919-925-4235 or contact us online to schedule HVAC, electrical, or plumbing services in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and the surrounding areas.