7 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Boost Energy Efficiency for Renters

Smart home technology isn’t just for homeowners—renters can benefit too, especially when it comes to energy efficiency and saving on monthly utility bills. The best part? There are plenty of smart gadgets under $100 that make practical upgrades without requiring permanent installation or risking your security deposit. Whether you’re new to smart devices or looking for renter-friendly solutions, these innovations can help you reduce your energy consumption, automate your apartment, and feel good about your eco footprint.

Why Smart Home Gadgets Are Perfect for Renters

Landlords usually aren’t keen on major modifications, but many smart home gadgets are portable, simple to install, and easy to remove when you move out. This means you can enjoy the benefits now and take your investment with you later. Smart gadgets also:

Lower energy bills without major upgrades
Modernize your rental with minimal effort
Boost comfort and convenience in daily routines
Fit most budgets—affordable options abound under $100

Let’s dive into the smart home gadgets every eco-minded renter should consider.

1. Smart Plugs: Simple Energy Monitoring and Automation

Smart plugs are among the most renter-friendly gadgets you can buy. They plug into any standard outlet and turn your existing lamps, fans, and appliances into smart devices you can control remotely.

How Smart Plugs Save Energy

Remote Scheduling: Set devices to turn on/off to match your schedule.
Kill “Vampire Power”: Eliminate standby energy draw from electronics not in use.
Energy Usage Tracking: Some models provide real-time usage data to highlight which devices use the most power.

Top Features to Look For

WiFi connectivity for easy smartphone or voice assistant control
Scheduling and countdown timers
Energy monitoring features (look for models that offer detailed usage stats)

Popular brands: Wyze, Kasa, TP-Link. Most models cost under $25 for a single plug or $40 for a pack of four.

2. Smart LED Bulbs: Efficient Lighting with Custom Controls

Upgrade your old light bulbs to smart LEDs and benefit from lower energy use plus convenient controls. Smart LED bulbs work in standard sockets so you can install them without tools or complex setup.

Benefits for Renters

Long lifespan: Modern LEDs can last over a decade, reducing replacement hassles.
Dimmable and color options: Perfect for setting the right mood without extra hardware.
App or voice control: Turn lights on/off, dim, or set schedules remotely.

How Smart Bulbs Improve Efficiency

LEDs use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
Scheduling and motion-sensing means lights only stay on when needed.

Popular products—Philips Wiz, Sengled, Wyze Bulb—cost between $10-$30 per bulb, with multi-packs offering the best value.

3. Smart Thermostats for Portable Heating & Cooling

While most renters can’t hardwire a new thermostat, there are smart thermostats designed for portable heaters and AC units, or for use with baseboard systems that plug into the wall.

Types of Thermostats for Renters

Plug-in smart thermostats work with appliances like window ACs and portable heaters.
Infrared smart AC controllers can control any remote-enabled air conditioner via WiFi.

Efficiency Upgrades

Learning schedules and smart routines minimize energy waste.
Remote adjustments mean you’ll never accidentally leave the AC running all day.
Usage monitoring helps track seasonal spikes.

Devices such as Sensibo Sky and Govee Smart Thermostat are well under $100, making them perfect for renters with window, portable, or mini-split A/Cs.

4. Smart Power Strips: Tackle Multiple Devices at Once

If you have a home entertainment center or a desk with several plug-in gadgets, a smart power strip brings energy-saving tech to a whole cluster of devices.

Key Advantages

Individual outlet control: Turn each device on or off remotely or on schedule.
Surge protection built-in—always a bonus in older buildings.
Energy usage tracking on some models.

Popular options like the Kasa Smart Power Strip or Teckin Smart Power Strip offer app management and voice assistant integration, typically priced between $25 and $40.

5. Smart Radiator Valves: Heat Efficiency for Historic Buildings

Many older apartments are heated via radiators without any individual control. Smart radiator valves fit onto standard radiator valves, letting you set schedules, monitor temps, and limit wasted heat in unused rooms.

Why Radiator Valves Matter

Room-by-room control: Heat only areas being used.
App or voice adjustment without touching the valve.
Vacancy detection: Some models can sense when a room is empty and reduce heat.

Brands like Hive and Tado offer affordable valves under $100 and require no pipework or wiring—perfect for renters in older buildings.

6. Smart Window & Door Sensors: Automate Climate Control

Window and door sensors can do more than just security—they can be used to automatically adjust heating or cooling when you crack a window or forget to close a door, helping to minimize energy waste.

How They Work

Triggers when open: Sends a notification or disables heating/cooling if a window or door is left open.
Integrates with other smart devices (like thermostats or window AC controllers) for automated routines.

Wyze, Aqara, and Eufy make affordable sensor kits starting around $20 for a pair, with no need for tools or drilling holes.

7. Smart Fans: Stay Cool the Efficient Way

A smart fan gives you precise control over airflow and temperature management without cranking up the AC. Many models connect to WiFi or Bluetooth for fine-tuned scheduling and voice commands.

Energy-Saving Features

Scheduling: Only run the fan when needed—at night, or when you’re home.
Auto-off timers: Prevent accidental all-day operation.
Integration with smart thermostats or sensors for real-time heat management.

Examples include Dreo and Govee, with pricing ranging from $50-$90 for high-quality, app-connected models.

Tips for Maximizing Your Energy Savings as a Renter

Use device routines—set schedules that match your daily life and avoid unnecessary device operation.
Bundle automation—coordinate your smart sensors, plugs, and bulbs to work together for added savings.
Check compatibility—ensure devices work with your phone, WiFi, and (if needed) your landlord’s policies.
Track your usage—review app dashboards for insights on further reducing your footprint.

Installation and Removal: No Tools, No Trouble

One major perk of the gadgets listed above is the tool-free installation: smart plugs, bulbs, power strips, and sensors simply plug in, screw in, or stick in place (often with removable, non-damaging adhesive). Smart