Smart & Sustainable: 7 Energy-Saving Gadgets Every Renter Should Try in 2024
Living sustainably isn’t reserved for homeowners. Even if you’re renting, adopting smart, energy-saving gadgets can help you reduce your environmental footprint, save money, and make your living space more comfortable. The best part? Today’s gadgets are designed to be easy to install, remove, and take with you to your next home—perfect for any renter.
Ready to make your apartment smarter (and greener)? Let’s explore seven essential energy-saving gadgets that every renter should try in 2024.
Why Focus on Energy-Saving Gadgets as a Renter?
Renters often face unique challenges: limited ability to make permanent changes, restrictions from landlords, and the need to invest in products that are easy to move. The good news? The energy-saving gadgets available today are typically:
- Plug-and-play (no hardwiring)
- Non-invasive (won’t damage walls or fixtures)
- App-controlled (for remote management and optimization)
- Affordable (with options at various price points)
With these features in mind, let’s dive into this year’s top picks for smart and sustainable living—ideal for eco-conscious renters.
1. Smart Plugs: Your Energy-Saving Foundation
Why They’re Essential: Smart plugs are the low-hanging fruit of the smart home world. Simply plug them into any regular outlet, connect your devices, and take control over when and how much energy your gadgets use.
How Smart Plugs Help You Save
- Schedule appliances (coffee makers, lamps, fans) to run only when needed
- Turn off “energy vampires” that waste power in standby mode
- Monitor energy usage in real time via a mobile app
Renter-Friendly Tips
- Install and remove in seconds—no tools required
- WiFi-based options available to avoid extra hubs
- Perfect for hard-to-reach outlets (behind couches or entertainment centers)
Pro Tip: Look for smart plugs compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit for seamless integration into your routine.
2. Smart Thermostats: Big Savings, Zero Hassle
Why They’re Essential: While not all renters can replace their thermostat, many modern smart thermostats are designed to be easily installed and quickly swapped back when moving out.
How Smart Thermostats Help You Save
- Automatically adjust heating/cooling based on your schedule and presence
- Reduce energy waste by learning your preferences
- Remote control from your smartphone—never forget to turn down the heat again!
Renter-Friendly Tips
- Choose models with simple, reversible installation (just two wires in most cases)
- Talk to your landlord or property manager before altering the thermostat
- Save your old thermostat to swap back when you move out
Bonus: If thermostat replacement isn’t possible, consider smart radiator valves or portable plug-in AC controllers for similar benefits.
3. LED Smart Bulbs: Set the Mood and Cut Costs
Why They’re Essential: Old-fashioned incandescent bulbs waste both energy and money. Modern LED smart bulbs are ultra-efficient, long-lasting, and allow you to control brightness or color temperature—ideal for both ambience and energy savings.
How Smart Bulbs Help You Save
- Use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs
- Adjust brightness or set schedules to avoid unnecessary usage
- Manage from your phone or via voice
Renter-Friendly Tips
- No rewiring—just screw in and go!
- Take them with you when you move
- Choose WiFi bulbs for easy setup—no extra hub needed
Did You Know? Even if your landlord won’t upgrade fixtures, you can always swap out bulbs yourself!
4. Water-Saving Shower Heads: Cut Utility Bills, Not Comfort
Why They’re Essential: Heating water is one of the biggest energy drains in many homes. Innovative low-flow, high-efficiency shower heads can reduce both your water and energy bills—without sacrificing a satisfying shower.
How Efficient Shower Heads Help You Save
- Use up to 40% less water per shower
- Reduce hot water demand, lowering energy use
- Some offer built-in timers to nudge you toward quicker showers
Renter-Friendly Tips
- Easy, no-tools installation—just unscrew and replace
- Keep the old one to re-install before moving out
- Look for models with pressure-boosting features for a luxurious experience
Insider Tip: Some utility companies offer rebates or free efficient shower heads—check your local programs!
5. Energy Monitoring Devices: Knowledge is Power
Why They’re Essential: You can’t manage what you don’t measure. Energy monitoring devices (like smart meters or plug-in power monitors) help you track where, when, and how much electricity you’re using.
How Energy Monitors Help You Save
- Spot energy hogs and “vampire devices” around your home
- Get personalized tips based on your consumption
- Use breakdown reports to adjust habits and identify savings
Renter-Friendly Tips
- Choose portable, plug-in units for ease of use
- For whole-apartment monitoring, look for clip-on models that don’t require wiring
- Many models sync with your phone, letting you view real-time data
Take Action: Run an “energy audit weekend” and identify which gadgets or appliances are eating into your utility costs.
6. Smart Power Strips: Smarter Than Your Average Plug
Why They’re Essential: Even when turned off, TVs, gaming consoles, and chargers can suck up significant power in standby mode. Smart power strips automatically cut off electricity to devices that don’t need to stay constantly powered up.
How Smart Power Strips Help You Save
- Automatically turn off power to peripherals (like printers or speakers) when your main device is off
- Schedule or control outlets independently via app
- Protect devices from power surges
Renter-Friendly Tips
- No installation—just plug in
- Ideal for entertainment centers or computer setups
- Can be packed and reused anywhere you live
Pro Saver: Connect your whole setup once. Let the power strip handle energy management automatically.
7. Smart Window Sensors & Shades: Harness the Sun Wisely
Why They’re Essential: Windows play a big role in your home’s temperature, accounting for a sizable chunk of heating and cooling costs. Smart sensors and automated shades can help you optimize natural light and reduce unwanted heat gain or loss.
How Window Sensors & Smart Shades Help You Save
- Automatically close shades on hot summer afternoons or open them on sunny winter days
- Monitor temperature and sunlight to maintain comfort without overusing heat or AC
- Remotely control blinds to adjust for sudden weather changes, even when not home
Renter-Friendly Tips
- Look for peel-and-stick sensors—no drilling required
- Choose battery-operated shades or blinds that fit your windows without custom fitting
- Remove easily and reinstall in your next home
Advanced Move: Connect these gadgets to your smart thermostat or assistant for truly automated climate control.
