Smart Home on a Budget: 7 Energy-Efficient Gadgets Every Renter Can Install Without Landlord Approval

Looking to cut energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and upgrade your living space—all without risking your security deposit or landlord’s wrath? Modern smart home gadgets make it easier than ever for renters to go green and get tech-savvy, with plug-and-play devices that won’t require permanent changes.

Below, we highlight 7 energy-efficient gadgets that every renter can install on a budget. We’ll share what each device does, how it saves energy (and money!), and installation tips to keep your landlord smiling. Plus, check out our product recommendations at the end to get started today.

Why Renters Should Invest in Smart, Energy-Efficient Gadgets

• Lower utility bills: Small investments can lead to big savings on heating, cooling, and electricity.
• Environmental impact: Reduce your carbon footprint and help combat climate change from your apartment.
• No-permission upgrades: Most smart gadgets don’t require wiring or drilling, making them landlord-approved.
• Portability: Moving soon? These devices can move with you—no sunk costs!

1. Smart Plugs: Control and Conserve with a Simple Plug

Smart plugs are one of the most affordable—and powerful—tools for renters who want instant control over their energy use. These Wi-Fi enabled plugs fit between your wall outlet and any device (lamp, coffee maker, fan), letting you monitor and automate energy consumption from your smartphone.

How They Save Energy

• Eliminate phantom power drain by turning devices completely off when not in use.
• Set schedules or automate power cycles for appliances and lights.
• Some offer energy monitoring to track device usage and pinpoint waste.

Installation Tips

• Simply plug them in—no tools, wiring, or permissions.
• Pair with your smart home assistant (Alexa, Google Home) for voice control.
• Ideal for home offices, kitchens, and entertainment centers.

2. Smart Power Strips: Advanced Surge Protection (and Savings!)

Just like smart plugs—only bigger. A smart power strip manages multiple devices at once, perfect for entertainment setups or workstations. Some models let you control each outlet independently and feature surge protection to keep your gadgets safe.

How They Save Energy

• Automate on/off schedules for entire workstations or entertainment centers.
• Individually control outlets via app or smart assistant.
• Reduce standby power waste from devices left plugged in 24/7.

Installation Tips

• Plug the strip into any standard outlet—no landlord involvement required.
• Use in areas with clusters of electronics (TVs, speakers, computer gear).

3. LED Smart Bulbs: Bright Ideas for Energy Savings

If you can screw in a lightbulb, you can upgrade to smart LED bulbs. These Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled bulbs offer customizable schedules, dimming, and color-changing abilities—all while using far less power than outdated incandescent bulbs.

How They Save Energy

• 80% less energy than traditional bulbs.
• Remote control and scheduling to ensure you never leave lights on by accident.
• Use “away” modes to deter burglars while minimizing usage.

Installation Tips

• No tools needed—just replace your existing bulbs!
• Use in lamps or ceiling fixtures where you want automation and dimming.
• Most models work with Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit.

4. Smart Thermostats for Portable Heating/Cooling

Many renters don’t have access to a replaceable central thermostat—but there are still smart climate solutions for you. Portable smart thermostats and “learning” plugs work with window ACs, portable heaters, and fans. Control the temperature from your phone and automate comfort while saving energy.

How They Save Energy

• Optimize use based on your presence or schedule (heat/cool only when home).
• Some models learn your habits to auto-adjust.
• Remote access means you can always pre-heat or pre-cool before arriving.

Installation Tips

• Plug portable ACs or heaters into a smart plug with temperature control.
• No need to re-wire your unit or alter walls—all portable and reversible.

5. Water-Saving Showerheads with Smart Monitoring

Energy efficiency isn’t just about electricity—smart water-saving showerheads track water usage and provide feedback, motivating you to save both water and gas/electricity used for heating. Many models install without tools and can be removed just as easily.

How They Save Energy

• Reduce water flow while maintaining strong pressure.
• Some units track water usage via app or digital display.
• Save both water and the energy required to heat it.

Installation Tips

• Most showerheads simply screw off and on—bring your landlord’s original head with you when moving.
• Check thread compatibility, but most North American apartments share the same standard fitting.

6. Window and Door Sensors: Smart Security and Climate Control

While most renters can’t replace windows or add permanent insulation, smart sensors (wireless, battery-powered) can alert you to open doors or windows, helping you maintain the perfect temperature and boost security.

How They Save Energy

• Receive alerts if windows or doors are open during heating/cooling cycles.
• Integrate with other smart devices to pause your AC or heater when a window is open.
• Add security by tracking entries/exits from your phone.

Installation Tips

• Install with adhesive or magnetic strips—no drilling or screwing required.
• Battery-powered units last months or years.
• Remove and re-adhere in your next apartment, keeping your investment portable.

7. Smart Blinds and Curtain Controllers

Direct sunlight can heat up your apartment fast, leading to overuse of the AC. Smart blind controllers automate your window coverings, letting you schedule them to open at sunrise and close during the hottest parts of the day—no need to install new hardware.

How They Save Energy

• Block heat gain in summer and reduce heat loss in winter.
• Automate light exposure for plant care, productivity, and privacy.
• Use voice control or app-based scheduling based on weather forecasts.

Installation Tips

• Most devices retrofit onto existing pull cords, wands, or curtain rails.
• No drilling or permanent installation needed.
• Ideal for rental apartments with standard window treatments.

Making Your Smart Home Even Smarter

Want to maximize the impact of your energy-efficient gadgets? Try these renter-friendly strategies:

• Combine devices in scenes or routines—for example, program your smart plug to cut power to your entertainment center and shut off the lights at bedtime.
• Monitor your savings—many apps show you real-time and historical usage to help you spot trends and boost efficiency.
• Stay organized by labeling plugs and bulbs, especially if you move devices between rooms or apartments.
• Educate your household—teach roommates or family to use smart gadgets for maximum benefit.

What to Watch Out for as a Renter

• Always check your lease for restrictions on device installation. Most plug-and-play and adhesive gadgets are safe.