10 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Make Renters More Eco-Friendly
Today’s renters want more than just convenience—they want to live sustainably, too. Luckily, you don’t need to own your home or spend a fortune to make a positive environmental impact. With the right smart home gadgets (most well under $100), you can save energy, water, and money, all while reducing your carbon footprint. Even better? These gadgets don’t require any permanent installation, meaning you can take them with you when you move.
Ready to make your rental more eco-friendly? Here are ten smart home devices that are perfect for greener, smarter living.
Why Smart Home Gadgets Matter for Renters
Many renters feel stuck with outdated light bulbs, old thermostats, and wasteful setups. Smart technology is changing the game by offering:
- Plug-and-play installation – No wiring or drilling required.
- Remote control – Manage devices from your phone or with your voice.
- Portability – Take gadgets with you to your next place.
- Energy and water savings – Reduce utility bills and environmental impact.
Let’s dive into the best affordable devices to transform your rental into a smart, eco-friendly home.
1. Smart Plugs: Cut Hidden Energy Waste
Why They’re Eco-Friendly
Did you know standby power (“vampire power”) can account for 5–10% of your electricity bill? Smart plugs let you instantly turn off devices that drain power when not in use—right from your phone or schedule.
What to Look For
- App control for remote access
- Scheduling features to automate shutoffs
- Voice assistant compatibility (Alexa, Google)
Tip for Renters: Use smart plugs for lamps, coffee makers, or entertainment systems. Set schedules to ensure nothing is left on all day.
2. LED Smart Bulbs: Bright Savings
Why They’re Eco-Friendly
LED smart bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last for years. With app and voice control, you’re less likely to leave lights on by accident.
What to Look For
- Dimmable and color-changing features for flexibility
- Group control for multiple rooms or bulbs
- No hub required—just WiFi
Tip for Renters: Replace bulbs in frequently used lamps or fixtures. Take your bulbs with you when you move.
3. Smart Thermostat (Non-Hardwired): Comfort Without Commitment
Why They’re Eco-Friendly
Heating and cooling account for the majority of home energy use. Even if you can’t install a hardwired thermostat, portable smart thermostats (like Sensibo for window ACs and portable heaters) help you control room temperature and optimize use.
What to Look For
- Easy, appliance-specific setup
- Scheduling options
- Remote app control
Tip for Renters: Choose a device that supports your heating/cooling unit (like IR controllers for window AC units or smart outlets for portable heaters).
4. Smart Water Leak Sensor: Prevent Waste & Damage
Why They’re Eco-Friendly
Leaks waste thousands of gallons of water every year. Smart leak sensors alert you instantly (via phone or alarm) if water is detected under sinks, behind washing machines, or near water heaters.
What to Look For
- Battery-powered with a long lifetime
- App alerts for fast response
- No hub required
Tip for Renters: Place sensors in at-risk areas to avoid hidden water waste and save money (and stress) from damage.
5. Smart Shower Timer: Enjoy Shorter, Greener Showers
Why They’re Eco-Friendly
Showers can use up to 5 gallons of water per minute. Smart timers display water and time use, letting you track (and reduce!) your shower lengths.
What to Look For
- Easy stick-on or suction installation
- Visual/audible notifications
- No plumbing changes
Tip for Renters: Challenge yourself or family to reduce shower times. Some models even sync data with an app for goal-setting.
6. Smart Power Strip: Smarter Charging, Less Waste
Why They’re Eco-Friendly
Charging multiple devices? A smart power strip lets you control each outlet individually or together. Schedule off-times to prevent chargers and entertainment devices from drawing phantom energy overnight or while you’re away.
What to Look For
- App/voice control
- Surge protection
- Energy monitoring (for some models)
Tip for Renters: Use a smart strip for your desk area, home theater, or gaming setup to automate shut-off when not in use.
7. Bluetooth Plant Sensors: Greener Thumb, Lower Water Usage
Why They’re Eco-Friendly
It’s easy to over-water or under-water plants, wasting precious H2O. Smart plant sensors track soil moisture, light, and temperature—sending recommendations right to your phone, so you use only what your plant needs.
What to Look For
- Bluetooth connectivity for easy pairing
- Detailed real-time data and notifications
- App-based plant library
Tip for Renters: Use sensors for balcony or window plants to encourage healthy, efficient growth and cut down on wasteful watering.
8. Smart Window Shades (Budget-Friendly Models)
Why They’re Eco-Friendly
Blocking or letting in sunlight at key times can make a big difference in heating and cooling costs. Smart shades now come in affordable, renter-friendly models that mount with adhesive strips and connect to your phone.
What to Look For
- Simple no-drill installation
- Scheduling or sunrise/sunset automation
- Battery-powered operation
Tip for Renters: Install in your main living space to automatically close shades during the heat of the day and open them to let in winter sunlight.
9. Smart Thermostatic Radiator Valves
Why They’re Eco-Friendly
If you have baseboard or radiator heating, smart radiator valves let you control the heat in each room individually. This means you’re not overheating unused spaces, saving both energy and money.
What to Look For
- No plumber required—screw them on yourself
- Room-by-room programming
- Integration with Alexa or Google (on select models)
Tip for Renters: Great for older apartments that use radiator systems—get landlord approval if needed, but installation is typically reversible.
10. Smart Water Bottle: Stay Hydrated, Waste Less
Why They’re Eco-Friendly
Refillable smart water bottles track intake, remind you to drink, and keep you away from single-use plastics. Many track daily water goals via an app.
What to Look For
- BPA-free materials
- Long battery life
- Easy app connectivity
Tip for Renters: Use at home and on the go. Some bottles even glow or vibrate to remind you to hydrate!
