7 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Make Rentals Greener and More Efficient

Are you a renter looking for easy ways to reduce your energy bills and shrink your eco-footprint? You’re in luck! With today’s smart home tech, you don’t need to own your home—or spend a fortune—to live greener. Many clever gadgets under $100 offer plug-and-play convenience, smart features, and genuine efficiency gains. Whether you’re in an apartment or a rental house, these tools help you save energy, water, and money—without requiring major alterations or landlord approval.

Why Smart Gadgets Make Sense for Renters

Renters often face unique challenges when trying to live sustainably. Permanent upgrades and modifications might not be allowed in your lease, and you may hesitate to invest in solutions you can’t take with you. That’s what makes portable, affordable smart gadgets a renter’s best friend—they’re easy to install, remove, and set up in your next place.

No drilling or rewiring needed: Most gadgets work out of the box with minimal setup.
Energy and cost savings: Smart automation helps reduce “vampire” energy use and overconsumption.
App-based control: Manage devices remotely for even more efficiency.
Portability: Take your investments with you when you move.

7 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 to Make Your Rental Ecofriendly

1. Smart Plugs: Kill Energy Waste at the Source

Did you know that electronics and appliances use power even when turned off? Smart plugs give you total control over what’s drawing electricity—all from your phone or by voice.

Schedule devices to turn off when not in use.
Monitor real-time energy usage of each plug.
Cut “standby” power from things like TVs, game consoles, or lamps.

Best for: Living rooms, home offices, bedroom electronics, and kitchen gadgets.

Tip: Daisy-chain with power strips for even more coverage.

2. Smart LED Bulbs: Bright Ideas for Efficient Lighting

Swap old bulbs for energy-saving smart LEDs and control lighting to fit your schedule and moods.

Use up to 80% less electricity than incandescent bulbs.
Set schedules or timers to avoid leaving lights on accidentally.
Adjust brightness and color for cozy or focus-friendly spaces.
Control via app or voice (many work with Alexa, Google, or Apple HomeKit).

Best for: Any room where you need flexible, personalized lighting.

Tip: Many bulbs can even simulate sunrise or help you wind down in the evening, supporting healthy sleep patterns.

3. Smart Thermostats for Renters: Comfort with Control

Traditional programmable thermostats typically require wiring changes—and landlord permission. Fortunately, affordable “smart” versions now exist for renters, often portable and battery-powered.

Control heating and cooling from your smartphone, even when away.
Track and optimize energy use with detailed usage reports.
Auto-learn your habits and adjust for efficiency.

Best for: Apartments with portable window units, space heaters, or baseboard heat.

Tip: Even if you can’t replace your thermostat, smart remote-control “AC controllers” can automate portable or window AC units and save money.

4. Water Leak Sensors: Prevent Waste, Save Money

Water leaks aren’t just damaging—they waste thousands of gallons annually. Smart leak detectors are simple, affordable, and don’t require plumbing know-how.

Place by sinks, washers, or water heaters to get instant app alerts about leaks.
Potentially save on renters insurance with documented preventative measures.
Many versions are battery-operated and reusable—move them when you do.

Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas, under-sink cabinets.

Tip: Some models include humidity sensors to help prevent mold in damp, poorly ventilated areas.

5. Smart Power Strips: Smarter Charging for Multiple Devices

Modern renters juggle plenty of plugs—chargers, entertainment equipment, and small appliances. Instead of unplugging everything by hand, a smart power strip automates the process.

Individual controls for each outlet–turn off everything or only what you choose.
Set up routines with bedtime, work hours, or travel plans.
Built-in surge protection to safeguard your electronics.

Best for: Desks, home theaters, or where you need to plug in several devices at once.

Tip: If you charge laptops or phones overnight, use a smart power strip to cut off power once fully charged.

6. Smart Shower Heads and Timers: Save Water with Every Wash

Wasted hot water is a double downer: it racks up both water and energy bills. Smart shower solutions can limit overlong showers or teach you new conservation habits—all with an app or a colorful timer.

Smart timers visually indicate how long you’ve been showering.
Low-flow smart shower heads reduce water use by up to 40%.
Track water usage over time for extra motivation.

Best for: Renters with access to swap showerheads (easy, tool-free in most cases) or those seeking a gentle behavioral nudge.

Tip: Bring your smart shower gadgets to your next rental—installation is reversible.

7. Smart Blinds Controllers: Harness the Sun without Lifting a Finger

Climate control is one of the biggest energy drains in any rental. Smart blind controllers let you automate your existing blinds or shades to capitalize on heat and light naturally.

Open blinds automatically in the morning for natural light and warmth.
Close blinds during peak sun to reduce overheating and AC costs.
Most units can be retrofitted to corded or chain blinds without permanent installation.

Best for: East or west-facing windows, spaces that get too hot or cold, or anyone who forgets to close the blinds before work.

Tip: Pair with a smart speaker for voice commands, or create schedules based on your local sunrise/sunset times.

How to Choose the Right Smart Home Gadget for Your Rental

Before clicking “add to cart,” keep a few considerations in mind to ensure your picks are renter-friendly and genuinely eco-helpful:

Is it non-permanent? All items on this list are easy to install and move, but always double-check the product’s setup requirements.
App compatibility: Ensure your phone (iOS or Android) and any existing smart home assistant (Alexa, Google, etc.) are supported.
Connectivity: Devices using Wi-Fi are usually most portable, but check if a smart hub is required.
Energy monitoring: The most effective gadgets let you track usage and spot waste.
Water or weather resistance: For devices in kitchens, bathrooms, or near windows, durability matters.

Not sure where to start? Begin with the area of your home that uses the most energy—typically heating/cooling, lighting, or entertainment gadgets.

Simple Steps to Maximize Your Ecofriendly Investment

Buying smart gadgets is only the first step. Here’s how to squeeze the most value—and green benefit—from every device:

Set up schedules for lights, plugs, and strips based on your daily routine.
Enable “Away” or vacation modes to save energy automatically while you’re out.