10 Smart Home Upgrades Under $100 That Cut Energy Bills for Renters

If you’re a renter, saving money on utility bills and making your living space more eco-friendly can sometimes feel out of reach. After all, you can’t rip out old appliances or replace windows yourself. But the latest surge in affordable, renter-friendly smart home gadgets is changing the game. For under $100, you can make simple upgrades that help shrink your energy bills while keeping your landlord happy.

Below, we’ll cover ten of the best low-cost, high-impact smart home upgrades you can install today—with no permanent changes, no contracts, and no stress. Each tip comes with practical advice on how to get started, maximize savings, and keep things easy when the time comes to move out.

Why Smart Home Upgrades Matter for Renters

As energy prices rise, efficiency matters more than ever. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average home wastes 30% of its energy on inefficiency. Even small improvements can add up to hundreds of dollars in annual savings for renters—and reduce your carbon footprint in the process.

Lower bills: Cut electricity, gas, and water usage.
More comfort: Enjoy a home that’s always the right temperature and lighting.
Easy portability: Upgrade your current rental, then take devices with you when you move.
Automation: Simplify your everyday routine and avoid energy waste caused by forgetting to turn off lights or appliances.

10 Smart Home Upgrades Under $100 for Renters

1. Smart Plugs

What they do: Smart plugs work with your existing outlets to let you remotely control appliances, lamps, fans, and more using your phone or voice assistant.

Schedule on/off times for devices to avoid energy waste.
Eliminate “vampire loads”—power drawn by electronics in standby mode.
No wiring or installation: just plug in, connect, and save.

Tip: Use smart plugs for high-drain devices like coffee makers or entertainment systems, and group related items for maximum convenience.

2. LED Smart Bulbs

What they do: Replace your existing incandescent or CFL bulbs with LED smart bulbs to gain better control over lighting, scheduling, and dimming—all while using 75% less energy.

Change brightness and color to suit your mood.
Setup routines to mimic occupancy when you’re away.
Most fit standard sockets with no tools required.

Tip: Focus on rooms where lights are left on the longest, like living rooms or kitchens, to maximize impact.

3. Smart Power Strips

What they do: Smart power strips let you control multiple devices at once and identify/easily cut off “phantom power” sources.

Automate groups of electronics with a single command.
Monitor real-time energy usage right from your phone.
Protect devices from surges as a bonus.

Tip: Use smart strips for clusters of electronics, like entertainment centers or work-from-home setups.

4. Battery-Operated Smart Thermostats

What they do: Battery-powered, no-wiring thermostats (like Nest or Ecobee Lite alternatives) strap onto your existing thermostat and allow smart scheduling and remote adjustments.

Save on heating/cooling by learning your schedule and preferences.
No hardwiring or landlord approval needed.
Some models work via adhesive mounting and can be removed without residue.

Tip: Double-check compatibility with your HVAC system and opt for models specifically marked “renter-friendly.”

5. Temperature & Occupancy Sensors

What they do: These ultra-portable sensors detect room temperature, humidity, and movement, then communicate with smart plugs or thermostats for more efficient energy use.

Automatically adjust heating or cooling when rooms are empty.
Manage comfort in problem areas or drafty corners.
Small, battery-powered sensors mean no tools and easy removability.

Tip: Place sensors in rooms that run hotter or colder to better balance comfort and efficiency.

6. Water Leak Detectors

What they do: Smart water leak detectors send instant alerts to your phone when leaks occur under sinks, near water heaters, or behind washing machines.

Prevents costly leaks and water waste.
Many models are small, battery-powered, and reusable.
Helps keep utility bills down and avoid disputes with landlords.

Tip: Place detectors in every area where a spill or leak could cause damage for maximum peace of mind.

7. Programmable Shower Timers and Smart Shower Heads

What they do: Smart shower solutions track water usage and duration, sending gentle reminders or automatically reducing flow after a set time. Some models display real-time water temperature and usage.

Cut down on wasted hot water—one of the biggest energy drains.
No tools required: suction cups or standard-fit replacements.
Customizable for kids, roommates, or varying schedules.

Tip: Look for detachable models that easily move with you to your next rental.

8. Window Insulation Kits

What they do: Peel-and-stick window film and insulation kits add a clear, nearly invisible layer against drafts—no need to replace actual windows!

Quick DIY install in minutes—no tools required.
Reduce heating and cooling loss through old single-pane windows.
Can save 10-20% on seasonal heating/cooling costs.

Tip: Leave a small edge for easy removal at move-out, and avoid damaging frames or paint.

9. Door Draft Stoppers and Seal Kits

What they do: Simple under-door stoppers, weatherstripping, and gap sealers keep outside air out and expensive conditioned air in.

Cheap but highly effective—often pay for themselves in one season.
Adhesive or slide-on models won’t damage doors.
Mute sound and block dust or insects, too!

Tip: Measure gaps ahead of time, and choose removable solutions to maintain your security deposit.

10. Smart Blinds Controllers

What they do: Aftermarket smart blind controllers fit most existing mini blinds and let you automate light and heat control using your phone or a timer.

Close blinds remotely on hot days to reduce AC loads.
Open blinds on cold days to invite in the sun’s warmth.
Attaches as a clip-on—no need to drill or modify existing window treatments.

Tip: Combine with smart sensors for automated sunlight management, maximizing daylight while minimizing overheating or overcooling.

How to Prioritize Upgrades for Maximum Savings

You don’t have to buy everything at once. Start with the upgrades that make the biggest immediate impact on your bills and daily routine:

Focus on heating, cooling, and hot water: These three account for the majority of home energy use. Smart thermostats, window kits, and shower timers save the most.
Target “always-on” devices: Smart plugs and strips tackle hidden power drains.
Address insulation weak spots: Gaps around windows and doors are easy fixes that pay off year-round.

Track your results by comparing before-and-after utility bills, or use smart energy monitors for instant feedback.

Lease-Friendly Installation and Removal

The best part about these upgrades? They’re designed for renters, so installation and removal are a breeze:

No drilling or permanent changes—just peel, plug, or clip-on solutions.
Portable—take your investment with you when you move