7 Smart Home Gadgets That Cut Energy Costs Without Drilling a Single Hole

Energy savings are no longer limited to homeowners. Thanks to modern technology, renters can enjoy lower bills, greener living, and a more comfortable home—without ever having to put a hole in the wall. In this guide, we’ll explore 7 renter-friendly smart home gadgets that slash energy use without risking your deposit. Let’s jump in!

Why Smart Gadgets Make Sense for Renters

Traditional energy upgrades, like insulation and permanent fixtures, often require landlord approval and may not be worth investing in as a renter. However, plug-and-play smart devices offer a different story:

No drilling, wiring, or permanent installation required
Take them with you when you move
Control via smartphone or voice assistant
Avoids costly or time-consuming modifications

These advantages make smart devices the perfect choice for renters who want to save money and live sustainably.

1. Smart Plugs: Instantly Smarten Up Your Energy Use

Smart plugs are a game-changer for renters. Just plug them into any standard outlet, connect to WiFi, and use the compatible app to control devices such as lamps, fans, or coffee makers. No drilling or tools needed!

How Smart Plugs Save Energy:

Schedule appliances to power down when not in use
Eliminate standby power drain (“vampire power”) from electronics
Monitor usage patterns and identify energy hogs

Top Tips for Renters:

Choose models with energy monitoring features
Set up routines to automatically turn off appliances during work hours or at night
Take them with you from one apartment to the next

2. Smart Thermostats: Comfort and Savings—No Tools Required

While most smart thermostats require wiring, portable or plug-in smart thermostats are perfect for renters. These devices work with window AC units, portable heaters, or through managing IR (infrared) controlled appliances.

How Smart Thermostats Cut Costs:

Let you schedule heating and cooling on your own terms
Respond to your location—automatically lowering energy use when you leave home
Track your energy use with detailed reports

How to Use as a Renter:

Look for models that control via WiFi/IR (like Sensibo Sky or Tado Smart AC Control)
Simply place in your room—no wall modifications
Pair with portable air conditioners or space heaters

3. Smart Light Bulbs: Brilliant Illumination, Zero Installation Hassle

Swapping out traditional bulbs for smart LED bulbs takes just seconds. There’s no rewiring, and you can take your smart bulbs with you when you move!

How Smart Bulbs Save Energy:

Use up to 80% less power than incandescent bulbs
Set light schedules and scenes
Control remotely to ensure lights aren’t left on

Renter Advantages:

No tools needed, just screw in and set up via app
Customize brightness and color for greater comfort (and savings)
Compatible with most rental fixtures

4. Smart Power Strips: Eliminate Phantom Energy Loss

Many devices—think TVs, gaming consoles, microwaves—draw power even when “off.” Smart power strips help renters reclaim this wasted energy effortlessly.

How They Work:

Automatically cut power to selected outlets when not in use
Create schedules or respond to voice commands
Track how much energy each device uses

Why Renters Love Them:

Plug in, set up, and start saving—no damage or installation
Popular models have USB charging ports for added convenience
Bring your power strip to your new home with ease

5. Smart Window AC Controllers: Turn Any Old AC Efficient

If you rely on a window or portable AC, bringing it up to speed is easy with a smart AC controller. These clever gadgets stick to the wall (using included adhesive) or simply rest on your nightstand, controlling your AC via infrared signals.

Energy Savings Made Simple:

Remote control—no more running home to turn off the AC
Set schedules, geofencing, and smart routines to optimize usage
Monitor room temperature and adjust automatically

Renter-Friendly Setup:

Uses tape—not screws—for installation (when needed)
Moves with you whenever you change homes
Adds smart features without replacing your AC

6. Smart Radiator Valves: Precise Control for Central Heating

If your apartment uses radiators, smart radiator valves put you in control. Simply unscrew your old manual valve and attach the smart version—no permanent changes involved. Even in historic or older buildings, this upgrade is totally reversible.

Heat Smart, Save Big:

Enjoy room-by-room control, preventing wasted heat
Set custom temperature schedules
Turn down radiators remotely if you forget

Ideal for:

European-style apartments with radiator heating
Anyone wanting to avoid central thermostat installation
Renters who want control—without long-term changes

7. Smart Shades: Block Heat, Cut AC Costs

Don’t underestimate the power of your windows. Smart motorized window shades make it easy to keep sun out—and coolness in—without climbing ladders or drilling holes. Many brands offer easy-to-install, adhesive or tension-mounted shades perfect for renters.

Here’s How They Help:

Schedule shades to close during peak sunlight hours
Reduce room temperature gain by up to 15%
Automate with voice assistants or smartphone apps

What Renters Need to Know:

Seek no-drill mounting systems (look for tension-rod or adhesive options)
Take them with you to future apartments
Pair with solar sensors for optimal efficiency

Additional Tips for Renters Maximizing Energy Efficiency

Smart gadgets give you granular control over your apartment’s energy use, but your habits matter too. Combine tech with these low-effort strategies:

Seal drafty windows/doors with removable weatherstripping
Use thermal curtains to keep warmth in or out
Keep filters clean in any HVAC or air filtration devices
Opt for energy-efficient appliances when possible
Unplug seldom-used electronics

Smart Home Integration for Renters

Worried about compatibility? The vast majority of smart home gadgets mentioned here work with:

Amazon Alexa
Google Assistant
Apple HomeKit

As a renter, you can create