7 Smart Home Upgrades That Make Rental Living More Sustainable (Without Losing Your Security Deposit)

Being a renter doesn’t mean you can’t live a greener, smarter life at home. Many think sustainable upgrades are out of reach if you can’t renovate or install permanent fixtures—but that’s not the case! With the rise of smart home technology and eco-friendly innovations, renters can easily reduce energy waste, lower utility bills, and shrink their carbon footprint—without risking that precious security deposit.

Below we share seven actionable smart home upgrades for renters that are easy to install, completely removable, and landlord-friendly. Ready to make your rental greener and smarter?

1. Smart Thermostats (No-Wire, Plug-In Models)

Why make the switch? Heating and cooling typically account for up to half of your apartment’s energy use. But old thermostats aren’t always precise, leading to wasted energy and inflated bills. Smart thermostats, especially plug-in or wireless models, can help you control temperature with pinpoint accuracy—even from your phone.

Renter-Friendly Installation

• Look for models that require no hardwiring. Some plug directly into a wall outlet and use wireless temperature sensors.
• Magnetic or sticky mounting options prevent wall damage.
• Take it with you to your next place—no permanent changes needed!

How It Helps the Planet

• Automates temperature adjustments when you’re away or sleeping.
• Provides energy usage reports to help you see (and curb) wasteful habits.
• Reduces heating/cooling energy by up to 23% annually.

Pro Tip

If your unit has window or portable ACs, look for smart plug adapters to give them remote scheduling and control—no specialist install needed.

2. LED Smart Bulbs & Lighting Controls

Switching to LED bulbs is a classic first step, but adding “smart” features brings your lighting game (and sustainability) up a notch.

Benefits for Renters

• No electrical work: Screw-in designs fit standard sockets—just swap them for old incandescents or CFLs.
• Control from your phone or voice: Set schedules or turn off lights remotely, preventing “accidental” all-day lighting.
• Color temperature adjustment for better comfort, focus, and mood.
• Take the bulbs when you move.

Eco Impact

• LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs.
• Last 15x longer—less landfill waste from burnt-out bulbs.

Extra Renter Hack

Combine with smart switches or motion sensors (adhesive-mount, no wiring) for rooms you often forget to turn off the lights—like closets, bathrooms, and hallways.

3. Smart Power Strips & Energy Monitoring Plugs

Did you know many devices draw “phantom power” even when off? Appliances like TVs, game consoles, and coffee makers quietly raise your electricity costs. Smart power strips and plugs tackle this silent energy drain.

How to Use

• Plug electronics into a smart strip or outlet.
• Use an app to schedule automatic shut-offs, group controls, or voice commands.
• Monitor real-time energy usage to spot power-wasting devices.

Eco Benefits

• Cut up to 10% off your energy bill by eliminating vampire loads.
• Enables better energy habits by visualizing usage.

Rental-Friendly Factor

• No wiring or tools—just plug and play.
• Easy to pack up and take with you when you move.

4. Filtered, Low-Flow Smart Showerheads

Conserving water is critical—but many renters put up with inefficient, water-wasting showerheads. This is one upgrade that can shrink your water bill and environmental impact in just minutes.

What Makes It “Smart”?

• Digital displays show water temperature and flow.
• Bluetooth models let you track usage and set conservation goals.

How to Replace (and Restore)

• Unscrew your current showerhead by hand (no plumbing skills required).
• Screw the new eco model in its place—use thread seal tape if included.
• Keep your original showerhead to restore before moving out.

Eco Impact

• Save up to 2,900 gallons per year with WaterSense-certified models.
• Filtered heads remove chlorine and impurities, so you save on bottled water use too.

5. Temporary Window Insulation & Smart Blinds

Draughty windows can ruin your efforts to save energy. Renters can’t replace windows, but you can make simple, non-permanent upgrades.

Smart Blind Options

• Battery-powered, adhesive-mount smart shades raise/lower via app or schedule.
• Open blinds automatically when it’s sunny in winter and close them in summer to save on heating or cooling.

Easy Insulation Ideas

• Use clear window insulation film kits in winter to stop drafts.
• Install removable thermal curtains for added protection.
• Removable adhesive weatherstripping around window frames.

How This Saves Resources

• Reduces energy loss by up to 25% through drafty windows.
• Keeps interiors comfortable year-round—less reliance on climate control.

6. Smart Leak Detectors

Leaks waste water and can lead to mold or costly damage. Since as a renter you’re not likely to upgrade plumbing, a smart leak detector is a perfect non-invasive solution.

How They Work

• Wireless devices rest discreetly under sinks, near toilets, or behind appliances.
• Send instant alerts to your phone when water is detected.
• Some models sound an alarm for immediate attention.

Why Renters Need Them

• Fast detection means you can report leaks to your landlord ASAP, preventing bigger issues (and possible disputes over damages).
• No setup or permanent installation—just place and go.

Eco Benefit

• Helps prevent waste—a slow drip can waste over 3,000 gallons per year!
• Avoids water-damaged building materials (less waste to landfill).

7. Smart Recycling & Composting Bins

Landlords rarely provide high-tech trash systems, but sorting waste is critical for sustainability. Smart bins give renters the extra boost needed to recycle and compost efficiently in small spaces.

Smart Features for Waste Reduction

• Sensors or indicators remind you to empty or sort bins correctly.
• Deodorizing technology keeps smells (and pests) at bay.
• Compact, sealed countertop composters fit any kitchen—turn scraps to soil, mess-free.

Installation? None Needed!

• Bins fit under cabinets, on counters, or in closets—no modifications required.
• Take them with you when you leave.

Eco Payoff

• Reduces household waste volume significantly—composters shrink food scraps by 80%.
• Makes recycling/composting routines easier to stick with, even in busy apartment life.

How to Upgrade Your Rental Sustainably—Without Risking Your Deposit

Here are some universal best practices for eco-friendly renters making smart home upgrades:

• Keep all packaging and original fixtures