10 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Make Green Living Easy for Renters

Making your rental greener and smarter doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Thanks to modern technology, you can now install energy-efficient, eco-friendly devices — all without drilling holes or making permanent changes to your space. Even better: many smart gadgets are now affordable, renter-friendly, and cost less than $100.

Whether you want to lower your electricity bill, conserve water, or reduce your carbon footprint, these 10 smart home devices will help you make a big impact. Here’s how you can go green, the easy—and smart—way!

Why Smart Gadgets Are Perfect for Renters

As a renter, you don’t always have the freedom to install solar panels or swap out appliances. The right smart home gadgets require no wiring or renovation, and most travel with you when you move.

No permanent installation: Tools like smart plugs, bulbs, and sensors can be used right out of the box and removed just as quickly.
Control from your phone: Most eco-friendly devices offer remote control, so you can easily make adjustments, even on the go.
Track and reduce energy use: Smart technology can help you see where you’re wasting resources—and save money every month.

Ready to upgrade your space? Here are the 10 best smart home gadgets for green renters — each for under $100.

1. Smart Plugs: End Phantom Energy Waste

How Smart Plugs Work

Ever heard of “phantom energy”? That’s the power your appliances draw even when they’re off but still plugged in. Smart plugs can stop this waste in its tracks.

Plug appliances into a smart plug
Use an app or voice assistant (like Alexa or Google Assistant) to turn devices on/off remotely
Set schedules so energy-hungry electronics are only on when needed

Best for Renters

Easy, tool-free setup — just plug and play
No wires or holes in the wall
Works with lamps, fans, TVs, chargers, and more

Pro tip: Choose smart plugs with energy monitoring to see which devices are using the most power.

2. LED Smart Bulbs: Bright Ideas for Efficiency

Why Switch to Smart LEDs?

Lighting accounts for about 15% of home electricity use. Smart LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs, and you can control them from anywhere.

Change brightness and color temperature to suit your mood
Automate on/off schedules to never leave lights on by accident
Install in minutes — no wiring or installation required

Many smart bulbs now cost less than $20 each. They last years, cut energy bills, and move with you to your next rental.

3. Smart Thermostats (Portable Options): Control Comfort and Costs

Smart Temperature Control Solutions

Traditional smart thermostats often require wiring and landlord approval, but portable or plug-in smart thermostats are now renter-friendly options.

Infrared “learning” remotes: Control window AC units or portable heaters with a smart IR blaster
Wi-Fi-enabled plugs: Turn AC units or space heaters on/off remotely or by schedule

Why They’re Great for Renters

No professional installation needed
Pack it up and take it with you when you move
Prevents wasted energy by only running when you need it

Search for portable smart thermostats or smart AC controllers compatible with your devices.

4. Smart Power Strips: Smarter Charging, Less Waste

What Makes Them Smart?

Smart power strips go beyond basic surge protection. They let you:

Set schedules for all connected devices
Turn off “always-on” electronics in one tap
Some models offer energy usage statistics per device

Unique Benefits for Renters

No need to unplug individual devices to save energy
No drilling or heavy lifting — just plug into the wall and enjoy

Choose a strip with enough outlets for your home office, media center, or kitchen gadgets.

5. Smart Water Leak Sensors: Prevent Water Waste & Damage

How They Help You (and Your Landlord)

Water leaks are common in rentals — under sinks, behind toilets, near water heaters. Smart leak sensors alert you to drips early, helping to prevent costly damage and water waste.

Place sensors near appliances, sinks, or in bathrooms
Get immediate smartphone alerts if a leak is detected
Avoid water damage and reduce wasted water

Easy, Damage-Free Installation

Place on floors — no tools or adhesives required
Small, battery-operated, and portable

Many models are well below $50. Peace of mind, major savings!

6. Smart Shower Timers: Save Water, Save Energy

The Shower Problem

Long showers use gallons of water and lots of energy to heat it, spiking both your bills and your carbon footprint.

Attach a smart shower timer to your wall or showerhead
App tracks your shower duration and encourages time limits
Some models include an LED countdown display or beep when time’s up

Renters Love Easy Installation

No plumbing required
Most attach with suction cups or waterproof adhesive
Battery-operated and totally portable

Tip: The EPA recommends showers under 5 minutes for sustainability!

7. Smart Sensors: Automate Lights and Appliances

How Sensors Work

Smart motion sensors can control lights or appliances, so they only run when someone’s in the room.

Place in hallways, bathrooms, or the kitchen
Automatically turn off lights or devices when you leave
Options include door/window sensors to further improve efficiency

Perfect for Renters

No wiring — just stick or set in place
Most integrate with popular smart home ecosystems

8. Smart Blinds Controllers: Harness Natural Light

Why It Matters

Natural sunlight can heat or light your space for free, reducing the need for AC and lamps.

Affordable, non-permanent smart blind controllers are available
Open/close blinds on a schedule or from your phone
Control blinds based on temperature, sunlight, or time of day

Renter Appeal

No drilling into window frames
Battery-powered and removable for your next move

These gadgets help you save energy and maximize comfort, even if you can’t swap out the windows.

9. Smart Plant Watering Systems: Grow Green, the Smart Way

No Green Thumb? No Problem!

Keep houseplants healthy and reduce water waste with smart watering devices.

Self-watering devices monitor soil moisture and release water as needed
App notifications let you know when plants are thirsty
Great for busy renters or frequent travelers

Why Renters Love Them

No permanent installation or plumbing
Works with standard pots and planters

Keep your indoor jungle lush and eco-friendly all year round.

10. Smart Recycling and Compost Bins: Make Sustainable Habits Easy

How Smart Bins Work

Smart recycling and compost bins help you build sustainable habits and avoid common waste sorting mistakes.

Sensor-based lids for touch-free use, keeping smells and mess at bay
App reminders for composting and recycling schedules