10 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Boost Energy Efficiency in Your Rental Apartment

Improving your rental’s energy efficiency doesn’t need a big budget or permanent upgrades. Thanks to affordable smart technology, renters can easily cut energy costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy modern convenience—all without putting their security deposit at risk.

In this guide, we spotlight 10 smart home gadgets under $100 that are renter-friendly, simple to install, and proven to shrink your energy bills. Ready to make your apartment smarter and greener? Let’s dive in.

Why Smart Gadgets Matter for Renters

Energy efficiency is important for everyone, but it’s especially crucial for renters who:

Often have limited control over heating, AC, and appliances.
Want eco-friendly solutions that move with them to their next place.
Prefer upgrades that don’t require landlord approval or major installation.

The good news? Today’s smart home devices are non-invasive, easy to use, and make a measurable difference in both comfort and utility bills.

10 Smart Home Gadgets to Maximize Efficiency (and Savings!)

1. Smart Plugs

Smart plugs let you turn electronics on or off remotely or on a schedule, so you’re never wasting power on forgotten gadgets.

How it saves energy: Set timers for lights, fans, or coffee makers. Eliminate vampire power drain from devices in standby mode.
Best for: Lamps, small appliances, entertainment units.
Installation: Just plug in—no tools or wiring needed.

2. Smart Light Bulbs

LED smart bulbs are an instant upgrade for any rental. Control brightness and color with your phone, set schedules, and integrate with smart assistants.

How it saves energy: LEDs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs, and scheduled automation avoids unnecessary usage.
Best for: Main room lighting, bedside lamps, mood lighting.
Installation: Swap them with your existing bulbs—no rewiring.

3. Smart Thermostat Controllers

While you can’t install a new thermostat in most rentals, you can add a smart thermostat controller if you use a mini-split, portable AC, or window unit.

How it saves energy: Optimize heating or cooling based on schedules, room occupancy, and outside weather—all from your phone.
Best for: Spaces with remote-controlled AC or heating units.
Installation: No hardwiring—these attach with sticky pads or sit on a surface.

4. Energy Monitoring Smart Plugs

Beyond simple on/off switching, energy monitoring plugs track each device’s actual power usage.

How it saves energy: Identify power-hungry electronics and adjust your usage to avoid “energy vampires.”
Best for: TVs, game consoles, kitchen appliances, or anything you suspect uses too much energy.
Installation: Like standard smart plugs—just plug them in.

5. Smart Power Strips

Turn off multiple devices at once and conquer “standby” mode with a Wi-Fi-enabled smart power strip.

How it saves energy: Cut power to several gadgets from your phone or via a schedule. Perfect for electronics clusters.
Best for: Home office desks, entertainment centers.
Installation: Plug and play—no tools or modifications needed.

6. Smart Radiator Valves or Controllers

If you have radiator heat, a smart valve lets you adjust room temperature more effectively—even without touching the main building thermostat.

How it saves energy: Fine-tune each room’s heat output, avoid overheating, and program heating zones during your actual occupancy.
Best for: Apartments with individual radiator units (check compatibility first).
Installation: Most require just a screwdriver and can be reversed when you move out.

7. Smart Window Sensors

Window sensors detect if windows are open or closed, alerting you when you’re wasting AC or heat.

How it saves energy: Receive alerts if windows are open while your heating/cooling is running, so you don’t lose conditioned air.
Best for: Any high-traffic or frequently opened window.
Installation: Simple adhesive strips mean no drilling needed.

8. Smart Fans and Switches

A smart fan or add-on smart switch can run fans on a schedule or in response to actual temperature/humidity levels.

How it saves energy: Keep air moving only when you’re home, optimize comfort, and reduce the need for AC.
Best for: Ceiling fans, portable fans, bathroom exhausts.
Installation: Smart plugs or switches, or choose a Wi-Fi-enabled fan you can take with you when you move.

9. Smart Water Leak Sensors

Avoid costly water waste and damage with smart leak detectors, which alert you instantly about leaks or drips.

How it saves energy: Catch leaks early to prevent water waste (and help your landlord resolve issues faster).
Best for: Under sinks, behind toilets, near washing machines, or anywhere leaks could occur.
Installation: Battery-powered—just place them on the floor where needed.

10. Smart Curtains or Blind Controllers

Automatic curtain/blind openers are surprisingly affordable and a game-changer for energy efficiency and convenience.

How it saves energy: Schedule your shades to block heat during the hottest part of the day or let the sun warm your space in winter—all on a timer or via your phone.
Best for: Any windows with regular curtains or blinds.
Installation: Most models use simple clamps or brackets—no drilling required.

How to Choose Renter-Friendly Smart Gadgets

Check for no-drill or non-permanent installation: Look for adhesive, plug-in, or easy-swap devices.
Prioritize compatibility: Stick to gadgets that only need Wi-Fi (no smart home hub or wiring changes).
Invest in portable solutions: The best gadgets move with you to your next rental.
Look for app control: Manage energy use from your phone and set schedules even when you’re away.

Quick Energy-Saving Wins for Renters

Group devices by location: Use smart plugs and strips in areas with lots of electronics.
Automate schedules: Set “away” routines so lights and devices are never left on by accident.
Monitor and adjust: Use energy monitoring plugs to learn which gadgets cost you most—and unplug the biggest offenders.
Coordinate gadgets: Pair window sensors with smart thermostats or controllers for