7 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Make Renting More Energy-Efficient
Living in a rental shouldn’t mean you miss out on the latest home tech—especially when it comes to saving energy (and lowering your utility bills). Fortunately, there are a multitude of affordable smart home gadgets available today that don’t require drilling holes, running wires, or seeking your landlord’s approval. The best part? Many can be installed in minutes, removed easily, and taken with you to your next home.
This guide spotlights seven smart home devices under $100 that are perfect for renters looking to make eco-friendly, cost-saving upgrades. We’ll cover what each gadget does, why it’s renter-friendly, and how it can help you use less energy. Plus, there are actionable tips for getting the most out of your devices—no advanced DIY skills required!
Why Go Smart in a Rental?
Energy-efficient smart home tech is no longer reserved for homeowners. As a renter, embracing these devices means:
- Lower utility bills (without big investments)
- Less environmental impact
- Increased comfort and convenience
- Easy, portable solutions you can take when you move
Let’s dive into the top seven gadgets to consider for your rental.
1. Smart Plugs: Simple Automation Anywhere
How They Work
Smart plugs fit into existing electrical outlets and allow you to control virtually any appliance or lamp via your smartphone or voice assistant. Set timers, automate routines, and even monitor energy use—all without rewiring or electrician visits.
Why They’re Great for Renters
- No installation or tools needed—just plug them in!
- Move them from room to room or apartment to apartment
- Helps eliminate “vampire power” draw on electronics left plugged in
Energy-Saving Benefits
- Automate schedules to shut off things like fans, lights, or coffee makers when not needed
- Remotely power off forgotten devices from your phone
- Track energy usage to spot (and reduce) high-energy appliances
Pro Tip: Look for models that support energy monitoring and are compatible with your preferred smart home ecosystem (Alexa, Google Home, etc.).
2. LED Smart Bulbs: Efficient Lighting, Total Control
How They Work
Swap out standard bulbs for WiFi-connected LED smart bulbs. You control color, brightness, schedules, or timers through an app or voice command—no hub or special wiring needed.
Why They’re Great for Renters
- No electrical work or special fixtures—just screw them in!
- Take them with you when you move
- Cut energy use immediately by switching from incandescent or CFL to high-efficiency LED
Energy-Saving Benefits
- LEDs use 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs
- Dimmable capabilities mean using only as much light as you need
- Automated on/off times reduce accidental all-night usage
Actionable Tip: Program bulbs to follow sunrise/sunset or your work schedule—never forget to turn off the lights again!
3. Smart Power Strips: Taming the Energy Vampires
How They Work
Regular power strips offer surge protection, but smart power strips take energy savings a step further. They let you control each outlet individually, create schedules, and cut off power to peripherals when your main device powers down.
Why They’re Great for Renters
- No need to modify walls or electrical systems—just plug and play
- Perfect for TVs, gaming setups, or home offices brimming with electronics
Energy-Saving Benefits
- Stops “phantom” power loss from devices on standby
- Automated on/off for clusters of devices (e.g., everything on your desk shuts down at night)
Eco-Savvy Suggestion: Use them for your media or entertainment setup. For example, power off your TV and your streaming device, soundbar, or game console all at once.
4. Smart Thermostats for Renters: Control the Climate
How They Work
Full-fledged smart thermostats (like Nest or Ecobee) often require wiring, but several innovative smart thermostat solutions are specifically designed for renters—including devices that attach magnetically to existing HVAC controls or work with portable A/C units.
Why They’re Great for Renters
- No permanent installation or wiring needed
- Many models use adhesives or magnets (won’t damage walls)
- Compatible with a wide range of window, portable, or split A/C units
Energy-Saving Benefits
- Program temperature schedules based on when you’re home
- Control heating/cooling remotely from your phone
- Get real-time usage data and tips for further savings
Landlord-Friendly Reminder: Always check with your landlord before attaching anything to a thermostat or A/C unit, but most non-invasive products are considered safe and temporary.
5. Smart Radiator Valves or A/C Controllers
How They Work
If you rely on radiator heating or use a window/portable A/C, consider smart controllers that attach directly to the device (no electrician needed). These let you schedule temperature changes, control units remotely, and reduce waste.
Why They’re Great for Renters
- Non-permanent, easy to attach and remove
- No hardwiring involved
Energy-Saving Benefits
- Program heat/cooling only for occupied rooms or during specific hours
- Prevent overheating/cooling when away
- Some models include occupancy sensors for automatic shutoff
Green Rental Tip: Pair with heavy curtains, door draft blockers, and window insulation film for maximum climate control and energy savings.
6. Smart Leak and Water Sensors: Stop Wasting Water
How They Work
Smart leak sensors sit quietly beneath sinks, behind toilets, or near your washing machine. When they detect water, you’ll get an instant alert to your phone—letting you prevent water waste (and water damage).
Why They’re Great for Renters
- No installation—simply set them on the floor where leaks might occur
- Take them with you easily
Energy & Water-Saving Benefits
- Catch plumbing leaks before they become disasters
- Prevent wasted hot water (which wastes both water and the energy used to heat it)
- Avoid mold and structural damage that can compromise insulation and HVAC efficiency
Landlord Bonus: You can notify your landlord quickly if a leak is detected, speeding up repairs and reducing the risk of bigger, costlier issues for all parties.
7. Smart Sensors: Automate for Efficiency
How They Work
Smart motion, door/window, or occupancy sensors can automate other devices in your home—like lights, fans, or climate controls. These sensors often connect directly to your WiFi or via a small, removable hub.
Why They’re Great for Renters
- Most are adhesive or freestanding (no drilling)
- Let you automate rooms or devices without rewiring switches
- Full portability—reposition or take with you at move-out
Energy-Saving Benefits
- Turn off lights or electronics automatically when nobody’s home
- Trigger fans or A/C only when movement is detected
- Enhance security while saving energy
