7 Smart Home Hacks for Renters to Save Energy Without Losing Your Security Deposit

Looking for ways to cut down your energy bill without compromising your security deposit? As a renter, it’s tricky: you want to make your home energy-efficient, but you can’t make drastic changes like rewiring or drilling holes. The good news? There are plenty of renter-friendly smart home hacks that can help you save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and stay in good standing with your landlord.

In this guide, you’ll find seven actionable hacks that combine the power of smart technology with practical, no-damage installation tips. Let’s jump in and start saving energy the savvy renter’s way!

Why Smart Home Energy Hacks Matter for Renters

Whether you rent an apartment, house, or duplex, your choices impact both the planet and your wallet. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, energy-efficient practices can save the average household hundreds of dollars annually. For renters—who often live in older buildings with outdated appliances and insulation—smart energy management matters even more.

• Lower utility bills – Put your savings toward something you love.
• Reduced carbon footprint – Contribute to a healthier planet.
• Upgrade your lifestyle – Enjoy comfort, convenience, and even increased property value for your landlord.
• No-hassle moving – Take your investment to your next home!

Hack #1: Install Portable Smart Thermostats

Why It’s Smart

Heating and cooling make up over 50% of energy use in most homes. Smart thermostats can “learn” your routines and adjust the temperature accordingly, but most require hardwiring—which rental units typically prohibit.

Renter-Friendly Workaround

• Look for portable, non-wired smart thermostats (sometimes called “plug-in” thermostats). These plug directly into your outlet and manage electric space heaters or window AC units.
• Consider models with self-adhesive strips that won’t damage walls and can be removed when you move out.
• Pair with a mobile app or voice assistant for easy scheduling and energy tracking.

Energy-Saving Tip

Set your thermostat to 68°F in winter and 78°F in summer when you’re home, and a few degrees higher or lower (depending on the season) when you’re away or asleep. Even a small shift can make a big impact!

Hack #2: Swap in Smart Light Bulbs

Why It’s Smart

Lighting can represent up to 15% of the average renter’s electric bill. Traditional bulbs waste energy and have short lifespans.

Renter-Friendly Workaround

• Replace standard bulbs with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled smart bulbs. These require no wiring and fit into standard sockets.
• Smart bulbs can be scheduled, dimmed, grouped, and even controlled by voice commands via Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri.
• Take them with you when you move!

Energy-Saving Tip

Use automation or motion sensor features to turn lights off when no one’s home, and schedule them around your daily routine.

Hack #3: Use Smart Power Strips

Why It’s Smart

Appliances and electronics passively draw power, even when not in use—a phenomenon known as “phantom load.” This can account for up to 10% of your monthly electric bill.

Renter-Friendly Workaround

• Swap in smart power strips or smart plugs to remotely control multiple devices from your phone.
• Choose options with energy monitoring so you can see which gadgets are drawing the most power.
• No drilling or electrical work required!

Energy-Saving Tip

Set a schedule to power down your entertainment center, kitchen appliances, or home office equipment overnight or during work hours.

Hack #4: Maximize Natural Light and Smart Window Coverings

Why It’s Smart

Using blinds, curtains, or shades wisely can reduce both heating and cooling costs. Many renters overlook windows as an opportunity to save energy!

Renter-Friendly Workaround

• Install temporary, adhesive roller shades (no screws or nails needed) that reflect heat away in summer, keep warmth in during winter, and block drafts.
• Upgrade to smart motorized shades that integrate with your phone or voice assistant. Look for options with tool-free mounting brackets.
• Open curtains/blinds in the morning to let in sunlight, and close them at night to trap heat.

Energy-Saving Tip

In winter, open window coverings on south-facing windows during the day (to bring in solar warmth), and close them at night. In summer, keep them closed during the day to keep your apartment cooler.

Hack #5: Optimize Airflow with Portable Smart Fans and Purifiers

Why It’s Smart

Running the central heating or air conditioning just to circulate air is inefficient. Portable fans and air purifiers with smart features improve air quality and comfort—without modifying your landlord’s HVAC system.

Renter-Friendly Workaround

• Use Wi-Fi or app-connected fans to automate airflow and support natural ventilation instead of cranking up the AC.
• Select fans or purifiers with energy monitoring, scheduling, and timer functions for automated savings.
• Portable units require no installation and move with you at lease’s end.

Energy-Saving Tip

Combine fans with open windows in the evening to quickly cool your space for free. Use purifiers’ scheduling features to only run when home.

Hack #6: Boost Efficiency with Water-Saving Smart Devices

Why It’s Smart

Heating water is often the second largest residential energy expense. Cutting back on hot water not only saves energy, but may reduce your water bill if you pay for consumption.

Renter-Friendly Workaround

• Install a smart shower timer with suction cups or adhesive (no drilling). Get alerts on your phone as you shower!
• Try a smart leak detector placed under sinks or near appliances for early warnings—protecting the property and potentially saving on expensive water damage claims.
• Upgrade to water-saving showerheads or faucet aerators—just save the originals to swap back before moving out.

Energy-Saving Tip

Limit showers to five minutes and run hot water appliances during off-peak hours if your utility offers time-of-use pricing.

Hack #7: Monitor, Track & Automate Energy Use

Why It’s Smart

The smartest way to cut energy use is simply to know where it’s going. Modern renters have access to plug-in energy monitors and smart home hubs that reveal usage patterns and suggest improvements.

Renter-Friendly Workaround

• Plug-in energy monitors install in seconds—just plug them between your device and outlet.
• Many smart hubs and apps offer goal tracking, reports, and automation triggers to cut your biggest energy wasters.
• No installation, drilling, or modifications required.

Energy-Saving Tip

Set up push notifications for excessive usage or let the smart hub automatically cut off forgotten devices.

Bonus Tips: Save Energy Without Breaking Lease Rules

• Keep all original fixtures and hardware—store them safely and reinstall when you leave.
• Always check your lease agreement and, if in doubt, ask your landlord about temporary modifications.
• Use removable or non-damaging adhesives for anything that needs mounting—think Command™ strips, suction cups, or adjustable tension rods.
• Document the condition of your rental before and after making changes, just in