7 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Boost Energy Efficiency for Renters

Saving energy isn’t just great for the environment—it can also lower your utility bills, making it a practical win for every renter. But what if you can’t install pricey solar panels or rip out old appliances in your rental? The good news: smart home technology has created plenty of low-cost, renter-friendly gadgets that help you reduce your energy usage, often with no tools or permanent installation required.

In this guide, we’ll break down seven of the best energy-efficient smart home gadgets, all under $100. Whether you’re in a studio apartment or a spacious rental home, these devices give you powerful control over your energy use, all without risking your security deposit.

Why Energy Efficiency Matters for Renters

As a renter, you may not have the freedom to make significant upgrades—but you can still control your daily energy consumption. Adopting small changes and tools can yield impressive savings, and many landlords appreciate tenants taking measures to lessen wear on appliances and reduce utility usage.

Lowers monthly bills: Less wasted electricity means money back in your pocket.
Eco-friendly: Reduces your carbon footprint and impact on the environment.
Portable solutions: Most gadgets in this list move easily with you to your next home.

Key Smart Home Features for Renters

Before we dive into the list, here are a few criteria that make smart home gadgets ideal for renters:

Easy installation: No drilling, rewiring, or landlord permission required.
Portability: Take them with you when you move.
Compatibility: Work with standard outlets, fixtures, and internet access.
Affordability: All featured products are under $100.

7 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Boost Energy Efficiency

1. Smart Plugs

Smart plugs are the unsung heroes for renters looking to manage energy use. Plug them into any standard outlet, connect to Wi-Fi, and instantly control lamps, fans, appliances, or chargers from your phone or with voice commands (Alexa, Google Assistant).

Automate schedules: Set devices to turn off when you’re sleeping or away.
Monitor energy use: Some models track power consumption in real time.
No tools required: Just plug-in and connect to your Wi-Fi.

Jump to product recommendations for some of the best-value smart plugs.

2. Smart LED Bulbs

Traditional incandescent bulbs are huge energy hogs. By switching to smart LED bulbs, you slash energy use by up to 80%—and get extra convenience features such as remote control, dimming, and programmable timers.

Longer lifespan: LEDs last up to 25,000 hours, perfect for rentals.
Customize light scenes: Adjust brightness and color to match your mood or routine.
Easy swap: No wiring needed; just replace your current bulbs.

You can even set “away” modes to mimic occupancy—great for security while saving energy.

3. Smart Thermostat (Affordable Options)

While many smart thermostats cost $150+, there are budget models under $100 that work with common HVAC setups (window A/Cs, baseboard heaters, or even portable units).

Remote temperature control: Adjust temperature before you get home using an app.
Custom schedules: Heat/cool only when needed, reducing wasted energy.
No wiring required: Some models (like smart A/C controllers) stick on the wall and use IR to control your unit.

Combining a smart thermostat or controller with your A/C and heating can quickly pay for itself in energy savings.

4. Smart Power Strips

Did you know most electronics use energy even when switched off? This “vampire” power can add up to 10% of your electric bill. Smart power strips allow you to cut power to multiple devices at once, on a schedule or with your phone.

Auto-off timers: Shut off multiple devices (TV, game console, chargers) at once.
App & voice control: Easily check and control power use from anywhere.
Surge protection: Safeguards your electronics from power surges.

Perfect for entertainment centers, desks, or where you have several gadgets grouped together.

5. Smart Radiator Valves or Controllers

If your rental uses steam or hot water radiators, smart controllers are clever add-ons that help you fine-tune heating room by room—without calling your landlord.

Room-by-room control: Heat only the rooms you’re using, preventing wasted energy.
No plumbing changes: Most screw on directly in place of manual valves or use external sensors.
App programmable: Automate comfort and savings with schedules and “eco” modes.

These gadgets put the power back in your hands, especially in NYC- or Boston-style rentals with tricky radiator setups.

6. Smart Window and Door Sensors

Simple, affordable sensors can alert you if a door or window is left open—key for keeping A/C or heat from escaping. Many work directly with smart hubs or your phone.

Energy loss alerts: Get notified instantly if windows/doors are letting out climate-controlled air.
Trigger automations: Shut off A/C or smart plugs when a window opens.
No hardwiring: Most attach with removable adhesive strips.

This is a great solution for both energy-conscious renters and anyone who wants peace of mind while away.

7. Smart Blinds Controllers

Controlling natural light is an underrated but powerful way to save on heating and cooling costs. Smart blinds controllers let you automate existing window shades—no custom blinds needed.

Sun tracking: Automatically open shades to maximize warmth, or close them to block heat.
Reduce A/C load: Keep your place cool in summer by closing blinds during peak sunlight hours.
Temporary installation: Most options clamp on and are easily removable.

Pair these with a voice assistant or routines for seamless energy-saving automation.

Bonus Tips: Maximizing Your Renter-Friendly Smart Gadgets

Connect to a smart home hub: Use platforms like Google Home or Amazon Alexa to unify control.
Audit energy use monthly: Many smart plugs/power strips offer reports—track trends and spot power vampires.
Create automation routines: Link devices together—like turning off all lights and plugs when you leave.
Always check compatibility: Some older sockets/bulbs may need adaptors; read product specs.

How to Convince Your Landlord (If Needed)

Most smart gadgets in this guide don’t require permission, but if you have to ask, highlight the benefits:

No permanent changes: All devices are reversible and portable.
Reduced wear on appliances: Helps maintain landlord’s equipment.
Lower overall building energy use: Many owners receive unit-based energy savings benefits.

Providing data about potential energy/cost savings can help win landlord approval, especially for options like smart thermostat controllers.

Budget Breakdown: Affordability for Renters

Here’s a snapshot of typical prices for gadgets on this list (as of June 2024):

Smart plugs: $15–$30 each (packs are best value)
Smart LED bulbs: $10–$25 each (multi-packs priced lower per bulb)