As energy prices fluctuate and the cold and hot seasons get more extreme, finding ways to cut costs while being environmentally conscious is more important than ever. For many renters, managing monthly expenses is crucial, and electricity bills can quickly add up, making it hard to budget consistently.
Fortunately, energy-saving devices can help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint. From smart thermostats to internet-connected appliances, these technologies make conserving energy easier than ever.
Why smart energy devices make sense for renters
You may sometimes feel stuck when upgrading your apartment, worried changes may cut into your security deposit. But the truth is, most smart energy-saving devices for homes are designed to be flexible, making them easy to take with you on your next move. That means you’re not just investing in your current place — you’re building a smarter electricity solution you can use wherever you go next.
Plus, saving electricity is good for your wallet and the planet. With energy prices going up in many areas, these tools can quickly pay for themselves. And the best part? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to get started.
Home automation
Ever left a light on all day without realizing it? Or wished you could turn all your non-essential electronics off in your apartment with one tap? Home automation systems make that possible, and they’re more accessible than ever.
With a few smart plugs or light switches, you can set schedules, create routines, and control your lights, fans, and other devices with your phone or voice assistant. Want everything to turn off when you say “goodnight”? Done. Want your coffee maker to start brewing at 7 a.m. sharp? Easy.
Not only does this make life more convenient, but it helps cut down on wasted electricity. Plus, most home automation tools are portable and transferable. You can take them with you when you move, which is a huge bonus for any renter.
Connected appliances
If you can’t upgrade major appliances like your fridge or washing machine, don’t worry. There are still plenty of connected devices that can help you save electricity as a renter.
For example, smart air purifiers, fans, and dehumidifiers now come with built-in energy-saving features. You can control their settings through mobile apps and monitor their electricity usage in real time.
If your apartment allows it, swap out old bulbs for smart LED lights. You can dim or schedule them from your phone, so no more wasting electricity by accidentally leaving the lights on.
Smart thermostats
These devices are a game changer for managing your home’s temperature. Unlike traditional thermostats, which simply raise or lower the temperature when you adjust them, smart thermostats learn your habits and preferences over time. They can automatically adjust the heat or AC based on when you’re home or on vacation.
You can control most smart thermostats through an application on your phone. If you head out for the day and forget to turn down the AC, you can adjust it remotely. Some models even use your location to figure out if you’re home or not and adjust settings automatically.
Smart thermostats are usually easy to install and don’t require permanent changes to your place. If you’re not sure whether you can swap out the thermostat in your place, ask your landlord or property manager. Just keep the original one so you can reinstall it when you move out.
Energy monitoring systems
You can’t fix what you don’t know, and tools that help you monitor your energy usage can show you how much electricity you’re consuming in real-time. By getting detailed reports about your energy habits, you can make small changes that can turn into significant savings. That’s why these energy-saving devices are useful for home setups.
Plugging one of these devices into a power strip or outlet can give you a clearer picture of where your energy is going and how much certain devices are eating up electricity. You might be surprised how much power your TV, gaming console, or old fan is using — even when these items are in standby mode.
Once you have the data, you can figure out what to unplug, what to put on a timer, or what you should replace with something more efficient. You don’t have to completely change how you live to lower your energy consumption; being more mindful of your electricity consumption can help you get into better habits.
Make the switch
Now that you know more about energy-saving devices, what’s a good strategy to implement these savings? Start with one or two items that resonate with your lifestyle. For example, if you’re blasting the AC or heater, invest in a smart thermostat. If you have a lot of energy-intensive devices, like a PC gaming setup or surround-sound system with your TV, add a few smart plugs to manage these devices when they’re not in use.
Once you see the savings, you may be motivated to explore more options like energy monitoring systems and connected appliances. Many of these devices are accessible when renting, meaning you don’t need a permanent setup to reap the benefits. Finally, invest in portable or wireless solutions that won’t disrupt your lease terms.
Incorporating energy-saving devices into your home has never been easier, and the benefits could be substantial. You’ll not only see a potential decrease in your electricity bills, but you’ll also develop sustainable habits and enjoy a more comfortable life in your apartment.
