7 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Make Renting More Eco-Friendly

Looking to make your rental more sustainable without breaking the bank? Good news: you don’t need to own a home or spend thousands to reduce your environmental impact. With a few affordable smart home gadgets (all under $100), renters can boost energy efficiency, slash utility bills, and shrink their eco-footprint—no drilling or rewiring required!

Below, discover seven renter-friendly smart devices designed with the planet (and your security deposit) in mind.

1. Smart Plugs: Instantly Cut Phantom Energy Waste

Ever heard of “phantom” or “vampire” power? That’s the energy many devices use when left plugged in—even if they’re off or in standby mode. Over time, this hidden power drain adds up, costing you money and unnecessary emissions.

How Smart Plugs Help Renters Go Green

Remote control: Switch off lamps, TVs, and chargers from your smartphone, even when you’re out.
Scheduling: Set devices to turn off automatically at night or during work hours.
Energy tracking: Some models monitor device usage to help you spot energy hogs.
No permanent changes: Simply plug them into any outlet—perfect for renters!

Eco Tip: Use smart plugs for high-drain appliances like coffee makers, game consoles, or window AC units.

2. Smart LED Light Bulbs: Bright Savings, Low Impact

Lighting accounts for about 15% of the average household’s electricity use. Swapping out incandescent bulbs for smart LEDs is one of the fastest, cheapest ways to lower your footprint.

Key Benefits for Renters

Dimmable & scheduling features: Set lights to dim or turn off when not needed.
Color tuning: Adjust to daylight, warm, or cool tones to save energy (and set the mood).
Long lifespan: LEDs last up to 25x longer than old bulbs—less waste, more savings.
No rewiring needed: Just screw them in and connect via app or smart speaker!

Eco Tip: Pair with motion sensors to automatically turn lights off when you leave a room.

3. Water Leak Sensors: Stop Waste Before It Starts

Even a tiny drip from a pipe or appliance can waste hundreds of gallons per year. For renters, leaks not only increase water bills—they can threaten your damage deposit.

Why Renters Should Use Smart Leak Detection

Instant notifications: Get alerts on your phone if a leak is detected under sinks, washing machines, or water heaters.
No installation required: Battery-powered sensors are just placed where needed—no tools!
Prevent property damage: Catching leaks early stops mold and keeps your landlord happy.
Water conservation: Every drop saved lowers your environmental impact.

Eco Tip: Ask your landlord about using sensors in the shared laundry or basement areas, too.

4. Smart Thermostats* (Lite Models): Greener Climate Control

While the priciest smart thermostats can run $150+, many “lite” models now cost less than $100—and they’re a game-changer for energy efficiency.

Renters, Read Before You Buy:

Check compatibility: Some rentals have older HVAC systems; confirm before purchase.
Easy install options: Choose models designed for DIY installation with basic tools, or those that require no wiring.
Temporary mounts: If your landlord prohibits swapping thermostats, try a smart temperature sensor you simply set in the room (great for controlling portable ACs or heaters via a connected smart plug!).

Eco Benefits of Smart Thermostats

Automated schedules: Reduce heating/cooling when you’re out or sleeping.
Geofencing: App detects when you’ve left and adjusts temperature automatically.
Detailed reports: See your usage and adjust for better savings.

Eco Tip: Even 1°F of temperature adjustment can cut energy costs by up to 10% annually.

5. Smart Power Strips: Smarter Charging for All Devices

If you have a Netflix setup or charging station with multiple gadgets, a smart power strip is your next best eco-upgrade.

Features That Matter to Renters

Individual outlet control: Turn off specific devices while leaving others on.
Remote scheduling: Set to shut down at bedtime or during work hours.
Energy monitoring: See how much juice each device is using.
Portable: Just unplug and take it when you move.

Eco Tip: Combine with smart plugs for “zone control” of your TV, PC, or gaming systems.

6. Smart Showerheads: Conserve Water with Every Wash

Showers are one of the biggest water and energy users in any home. Enter the smart showerhead—a device that tracks and optimizes water use for efficiency without sacrificing comfort.

Why They’re Perfect for Renters

Easy to install: Unscrew your old showerhead (store it safely!), attach the new one. Zero plumbing skills needed.
Real-time feedback: See how much water you’re using each shower. Some models have LEDs, others connect to apps.
Customizable flow: Many feature pause buttons or eco-modes for even greater savings.
No landlord approval: As long as you save the original showerhead, you’re good!

Eco Tip: Look for models that limit flow to 2.0 GPM (gallons per minute) or less for maximum savings.

7. Smart Window Sensors & Blinds Controllers: Harness the Sun Responsibly

Natural light can heat or cool a room significantly. Smart sensors and blind controllers let you maximize comfort and minimize HVAC use—all from your phone.

How These Gadgets Help Renters

Smart window sensors: Get reminders if windows are left open during heating/cooling cycles.
Automated blind controllers: Schedule blinds to close during afternoon heat or open on winter mornings.
No permanent changes: Most sensors and controllers are adhesive-based or fit most blinds without tools.
Year-round savings: Slash A/C in summer and heating in winter with smarter sun/shade usage.

Eco Tip: Use with solar-powered blind controllers for maximum eco-cred.

Smart Home Eco Upgrades: Tips for Renters

Get Permission (When Needed)

For any gadget that involves wiring or plumbing changes, check your lease and ask your landlord first.
Most of the options above don’t require holes or permanent fixtures, making them ideal for apartments.

Optimize with Routines

Use your smart home app (Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, or others) to bundle actions. Example: “Goodbye” routine turns off all plugs and lights when you leave.
Even if you move soon, you can take these gadgets with you!

Combine for Best Results

Pair power-saving devices (like plugs and strips) with energy monitoring for actionable insights.
Target biggest impact zones: climate control, lighting, and water use.

Saving the Planet—and Your Wallet

You don’t need to wait for a “forever home” to make eco-conscious choices. Each smart gadget you add can lower your utility bills, reduce waste, and protect your deposit. These small changes add up—