7 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Make Renting More Eco-Friendly

Smart home technology is no longer just for homeowners. As a renter, you might think your options for upgrading your living space—and saving on energy bills—are limited. The truth? There are plenty of smart, eco-friendly gadgets available for under $100 that are renter-friendly, require minimal installation, and can help you live greener while saving money.

Below, we’ll explore the best affordable smart home gadgets you can use in your rental to reduce energy consumption, conserve water, cut waste, and create a more sustainable home—without upsetting your landlord or breaking your lease agreement.

Why Eco-Friendly Smart Gadgets Matter for Renters

• Lower Utility Costs: Energy-efficient devices help shrink electricity and water bills, which is especially appealing when you don’t control the property.
• Easy to Install and Remove: Modern smart gadgets are designed to be plug-and-play or require minimal installation—no drilling or rewiring, so you can take them with you when you move.
• Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Even small changes can make a big impact, supporting sustainability from home.

Here are the top seven smart gadgets under $100 every renter can use to make their home more eco-friendly.

1. Smart Plugs: Stop Energy Vampires

What Are Smart Plugs?

Smart plugs are Wi-Fi-enabled adapters that fit into any regular electrical outlet. Plug any device—lamp, fan, coffee maker—into the smart plug and control it via smartphone app or voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.

How Smart Plugs Help You Go Green

• Eliminate Standby Power: Many electronics use energy even when off. Smart plugs help schedule complete shutoffs, drastically reducing wasted power.
• Remote Control: Forgot to turn something off before leaving? Use the app to power down from anywhere.
• Set Schedules: Automate lights and appliances to only run when needed.

Why They’re Perfect for Renters

• No rewiring needed—just plug in and start saving.
• Easy to take with you to your next home.

2. LED Smart Bulbs: Bright Ideas for Energy Savings

How Smart Bulbs Work

LED smart bulbs replace standard bulbs in existing fixtures. They connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, letting you control brightness and color and set schedules via app or voice.

Eco Benefits

• Lower Energy Use: LEDs use up to 80% less electricity than incandescent bulbs.
• Automated Schedules: Set bulbs to turn off automatically when not home, or dim in the evening to save more energy.
• Long Lifespan: LEDs last up to 25,000 hours—reducing waste from frequent replacements.

Why Renters Will Love Them

• No tools required—just screw in the bulb.
• Works with standard lamp and ceiling fixtures.
• Easy to take with you when you move.

3. Smart Power Strips: Control Multiple Devices

What Makes Them Smart?

Smart power strips function like regular surge protectors, but each outlet can be individually controlled via app or voice assistant. Some also monitor energy use per device.

Eco-Friendly Features

• End Phantom Loads: Eliminate standby power for all plugged-in devices with one button.
• Energy Monitoring: See which items use the most electricity and optimize your setup.
• Synchronized Schedules: Group devices (home office, entertainment center, kitchen appliances) to power down together.

Rental Advantages

• Completely portable and non-invasive.
• Protects your electronics from power surges, too.

4. Wi-Fi-Enabled Thermostats (No Wiring Required)

What Sets Them Apart?

While most traditional smart thermostats require hardwiring, newer models designed specifically for renters can control window AC units or portable heaters wirelessly—no rewiring needed.

How They Make Your Home Greener

• Smarter Scheduling: Automatically adjust temperature based on your occupancy habits, reducing unnecessary heating or cooling.
• Remote Access: Make adjustments from your phone to avoid waste.

Renter Perks

• Non-permanent setup—just plug in and pair with your AC/heater.
• Take your investment with you to your next apartment.

5. Low-Flow Smart Showerheads

Features and How They Work

These intelligent showerheads track water usage, provide real-time feedback through integrated LEDs, and help you save water and energy.

Eco Impact

• Real-Time Monitoring: See exactly how much water you’re using with every shower.
• Gentle Reminders: Integrated lights or app notifications alert you when you’ve exceeded an efficient shower length.
• Reduced Hot Water Demand: Less water used means lower heating costs, shrinking your carbon footprint.

Why They’re Great for Rentals

• Easy DIY swap—no plumber needed, just unscrew and install.
• Bring it with you to your next place.

6. Leak and Freeze Detectors

How They Work

Wireless sensors are placed near potential trouble spots such as sinks, toilets, or washing machines. They alert your phone immediately if they detect moisture or dangerously low temperatures, helping prevent water damage and waste.

Benefits for the Planet (and Your Wallet)

• Prevent Leaks: Stop wasted water—and potentially expensive property damage—before it gets out of hand.
• Cold Weather Warnings: Prevent frozen pipes by getting timely alerts to keep water moving or increase heat.

Rental-Friendly Aspects

• No installation—just place them where needed.
• Battery-powered, portable, and fully removable.

7. Smart Sensors for Windows & Doors

How They Work

Attach these battery-powered sensors to windows and doors. If left open, they trigger notifications—ideal for saving energy and keeping your rental secure.

Sustainability Benefits

• Reduce HVAC Waste: Get reminders to close windows and doors when your AC or heat is running, avoiding massive energy loss.
• Monitor Activity: Know if windows or doors were opened when they shouldn’t be—added peace of mind.

A Renter’s Dream

• Installs with adhesive—no need for screws or drilling.
• Removable and reusable when you move out.

Tips for Using Smart Gadgets in Rentals

• Choose Non-Permanent Solutions: Focus on wireless, plug-in, or adhesive-based devices without permanent changes.
• Check Your Lease: While most gadgets are low-impact, always confirm there’s no issue with adding smart home tech.
• Save the Boxes: Original packaging makes it easier to take everything with you during your next move.
• Educate Roommates: If you share a space, walk everyone through using the new tech for maximum benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Install Smart Gadgets Without Landlord Approval?

Most plug-in and adhesive smart gadgets don’t alter the property, so approval isn’t typically needed. If you’re unsure or if the device involves plumbing or significant change (like a smart thermostat), check with your landlord or property manager.

What Happens When I Move Out?

Most smart gadgets are portable—just unplug, unscrew, or peel off (slowly, to avoid any surface residue) and take them with you. If you replaced anything (like a showerhead or light bulb), reinstall the original