7 Smart Apartment Upgrades That Cut Energy Bills Without Losing Your Security Deposit

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to put up with high energy bills or wasteful power usage. With landlords watching over their properties and those ever-present security deposit rules, many renters fear making energy-saving upgrades. The good news? There are smart, renter-friendly solutions that cut costs, shrink your carbon footprint, and won’t risk your deposit.

This guide walks you through seven savvy, reversible, and landlord-approved upgrades to make your apartment more efficient—and your wallet happier—all without a single nail or scratch.

1. Switch to LED Lighting

Why LEDs Make a Difference

Lighting uses about 15% of an average apartment’s energy. Old-school incandescent and CFL bulbs eat up power and burn out fast, becoming both a drain and a hassle. LED bulbs, however, are:

80-90% more energy efficient than incandescents
Long-lasting—up to 25,000 hours or more
Cooler, lowering your cooling bill during hot months

How to Upgrade Without Losing Your Deposit

Carefully unscrew the existing bulbs and store them safely in your closet or a box.
Install your chosen LED bulbs in all fixtures (overheads, lamps, and even in that awkward hallway light).
When you move out, simply swap the original bulbs back in.

This upgrade is reversible and, since it doesn’t alter fixtures, is 100% deposit-proof.

2. Add Smart Power Strips

The Hidden Cost of “Vampire” Power

Many electronics and chargers drain power even when “off.” This “phantom load” can account for up to 10% of your electricity bill!

How Smart Strips Help

Automatically cut off power to devices when not in use
Offer USB ports for flexible charging
Simple, plug-and-play installation

Deposit-Safe Tips

Use smart power strips for TV setups, computer desks, and kitchen appliances.
Take the strips with you when moving—no installation required and no impact on the apartment.

3. Install Removable Window Insulation

The Problem with Apartment Windows

Single-pane, drafty, or old windows are a common energy-waster in rentals. Drafts not only make you cold but also drive up heating and cooling costs.

What Are Removable Window Insulation Options?

Window insulation film: Clear plastic sheets applied with double-sided tape and heat-shrunk with a hairdryer
Draft stoppers/seals: Removable foam or rubber strips for edges
Thermal curtains: Heavy fabric panels that block heat loss and sunlight

How to Stay on Your Landlord’s Good Side

Choose products designed to be removable without residue.
Apply tape or sticky parts to glass, not the painted frame, when possible.
Keep the original curtain rods and hardware intact—use tension rods or hooks for thermal curtains.

These solutions boost comfort year-round, cut your energy bill, and leave nothing behind when you move out.

4. Replace Showerheads and Faucet Aerators

Why Water-Saving Fixtures Matter

Heating water for showers and sinks is one of the priciest energy costs in an apartment. Swapping out a wasteful showerhead for a low-flow model is a simple way to save both water and energy.

The Renter-Friendly Approach

Buy a low-flow showerhead and easy-install faucet aerators.
Unscrew the old fixtures by hand (or with a towel for grip).
Store the originals in a safe place.
Install the new gear and enjoy instant savings—without calling maintenance.
Swap back to the original fixtures before moving out to keep everything just as it was.

You’ll use about 40% less water per shower and see less energy needed for heating—without a single permanent change.

5. Use Programmable or Smart Thermostats (If Allowed)

The Smarter Way to Heat and Cool

Most apartments come with old manual thermostats, making efficient temperature control tricky. If your landlord approves, smart or programmable thermostats make a huge dent in your energy bill—some save you up to 10% a year.

How to Approach This Upgrade as a Renter

Ask your landlord (in writing) if you can make a temporary thermostat swap. Highlight the benefits: it’s an easy way to improve their property, and you’ll restore the old device on move-out.
Choose a smart thermostat that uses the existing wiring for quick, reversible installation.
Save the original thermostat and screws in a labeled bag.
Install the new thermostat yourself (or with professional help if needed).
Set up schedules, temperature zones, or remote control features through an app for maximum savings.

Don’t have permission for a hardwired swap? Try a plug-in smart heater or A/C controller for window units and portable heaters as an alternative—no wiring or approval needed!

6. Weather-Strip Doors and Outlets

The Apartment Leak Issue

Drafts around doors and even electrical outlets on outside walls can waste energy by letting hot or cold air escape.

Quick, Reversible Fixes

Weather-stripping foam tape: Stick around the edges of doors to seal gaps
Door sweeps/draft blockers: Slide-on or weighted fabric options require zero screws or adhesives
Child-safety outlet seals: Simple foam pads that block drafts around outlets—just pop them in and out

No-Trace Removal

Test a small area first to ensure tape peels away cleanly.
Remove all foam, pads, and fabric when vacating—no residue or alterations left behind.

These upgrades silently cut your utility costs and create a more comfortable living space.

7. Add Smart Plugs for Appliance Control

Why Smart Plugs?

Many apartment renters overlook the flexibility and efficiency of smart plugs—small devices that plug into any outlet and can control lamps, fans, coffee makers, and more via an app or voice assistant.

Benefits for Renters

Schedule appliances to turn off when not needed
Remotely switch off forgotten devices to prevent waste
Monitor plug-level energy usage with certain models
Bring them along when you move—no impact on the apartment

Pair with your existing WiFi network and start optimizing your power use instantly and effortlessly. No tools, no mess, and zero deposit risk.

Bonus Tips: Maximize Your Savings Without Hardware

Adopt Efficient Habits

Run appliances only when full, like dishwashers and laundry machines.
Adjust ceiling fans—counterclockwise for summer, clockwise for winter.
Keep blinds and curtains drawn to block heat or trap warmth, depending on the season.
Unplug chargers and small appliances when not in use.

Combining these simple habits with the above upgrades ensures even bigger savings.

Renter Q&A: Common Concerns About Apartment Upgrades

Can I really avoid losing my deposit with these upgrades?

Yes! Every upgrade mentioned is either completely removable, plug-in, or uses non-damaging stick-on