Smart shower controllers bring this to an entirely new level, with voice-control shower activations, changes to temperatures, shower presets, and more!

In this article, I dive into the five ways you can incorporate Alexa, Siri & Google Assistant into your shower routine.

7.8

1. Kohler Moxie Showerhead

Top PickFully fledged smart speaker directly in the shower!

View Price

7.5

2. Bose Smart Speaker

My PickWater-resistant smart speaker with Alexa and Google Assistant built-in

View Price

7.2

3. Battery Base for Smart Speakers

Portable battery bases available for Echo, Homepod or Google Nest Smart Speakers

View Price

7.2

4. U Shower by Moen

Voice controlled smart shower system supporting 2 to 4 outlets

View Price

6.7

5. Bose SoundLink Revolve

Bluetooth Speaker to Connect to a Smart Speaker or your Phone

View Price

A problem I found when listening to music in the shower is the speaker generally needs to be quite loud to overcome the noise of the splashing water. Also while the various voice assistants are generally OK at filtering out background noise, voice commands can be tricky with the shower running at the same time.

I have a battery base for my Echo dot speaker so tested some voice commands and played some music with the shower running. The voice pickup was better than I expected, however, the speaker just wasn't powerful enough to really enjoy the music.

In the end, I went for option 2 below which gave me much more power than my Echo speaker.

Top Tip: Automate your smart speaker with a humidity sensor that triggers the playing of your preferred radio or Spotify playlist when the shower is turned on. To set this up, install a humidity sensor, connect it to a smart home hub or smart speaker, and set up a routine or automation that links the humidity sensor to your preferred music.

Option 1: Voice-Controlled Showerhead Speaker

Voice Assistant Support: Alexa Only

A voice-controlled showerhead speaker like the Kohler Smart Showerhead is a great option if you want to add voice control to your existing shower setup without doing any major renovations. 

The Kohler Smart Showerhead has a built-in Amazon Alexa speaker, so you can ask it to play music, set a timer, or even order shampoo while you shower. 

The speaker is also detachable, so you can take it with you when you're done showering.

7.8

Top Pick

1. Kohler Moxie Showerhead

Fully fledged smart speaker directly in the shower!

View Price
On Amazon

The Moxie has a built-in waterproof Bluetooth speaker that's magnetically docked into the showerhead

Specifications

• Built-in Alexa voice control so you can play music, set alarms, and update your grocery list right from your shower.
• Portable and durable with a removable magnetic speaker that securely holds the speaker in place, and you can remove it for charging or on-the-go listening.
• Quick charging battery that provides up to nine hours of play time.

The Kohler Moxie combines a high-quality speaker with a showerhead. The showerhead provides a full coverage spray, and the waterproof Bluetooth speaker is safe to use in the shower. The speaker attaches magnetically to the showerhead, providing optimal sound quality for your shower experience.

It has a quick charging battery that lasts up to nine hours, so you can listen to your favorite music or podcasts without worrying about the battery dying. The speaker is also equipped with Amazon Alexa, which allows you to use voice control to play your favorite music, set alarms, and update your grocery list without leaving the shower.

I like the fact that this device is relatively inexpensive and having the speaker in the shower itself dramatically improves the sound quality.

Option 2: Portable Wi-Fi Speaker with Fully Built-In Voice Control

Voice Assistant Support: Alexa & Google Assistant

If you don't want to install anything in your shower, a portable speaker with built-in voice control is a good option. 

The Bose Portable Smart Speaker is a high-quality speaker that has Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant built-in. So you don’t need your phone to control it. Instead, you simply need Wi-Fi. 

It is water-resistant so a good option for a bathroom. And unlike options 1 and 2, Bose is well known for their quality speakers so you're likely to get much better sound quality.

With this speaker, you can use it to play music or podcasts, set reminders, and control other smart devices in your home. As the speaker is portable, you can take it with you wherever you go, including the shower.

7.5

My Pick

2. Bose Smart Speaker

Water-resistant smart speaker with Alexa and Google Assistant built-in

View Price
On Amazon

The Bose Portable Smart Speaker functions as a portable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth speaker, with deep sound and powerful bass.

Specifications

• The speaker is lightweight and has a handle to bring it in and out of the bathroom
• It delivers 360 degrees of deep, clear, and powerful sound with bass.
• The speaker has a rugged design and is water-resistant with an IPX4 rating.

With the Bose smart speaker, you can play music, reads the news, and controls smart home devices. You can control it by talking to it as Alexa or Google Assistant.

You can connect it to Wi-Fi and play music from popular services like Amazon Music, Spotify, and Pandora. When you're not near Wi-Fi, you can connect to it with Bluetooth from your phone or tablet.

It has excellent sound quality and you can connect it to other speakers to have the same music playing in different rooms.

You can even make calls with it, but only if you're using Alexa and connected to Wi-Fi.

My only issue with this speaker is the battery life as it tends to drain faster than other speakers I own. Other than that, I highly recommend it.

Option 3: Battery Base for your Smart Speaker

Voice Assistant Support: Alexa, Google Assistant & Siri

If you already have a smart speaker like an Amazon Echo or Google Home, you can make it portable with a battery base. 

A battery base like the Mission Battery Base allows you to use your Echo or HomePod device in the shower or anywhere else in your home without needing to be plugged in. 

Echo Speaker Base

Nest Speaker Base

Homepod Speaker Base

You can use your voice to control the water, play music, or ask for news or weather updates.

The only problem with this approach is that smart speakers are not fully waterproof.

Option 4: Comprehensive Smart Shower System

Voice Assistant Support: Alexa, Google Assistant & Siri

A comprehensive smart shower system like U by Moen allows you to control all aspects of your shower experience with your voice. 

You can start and stop the water, adjust the temperature and flow rate, and even set up personalized presets for each member of your household. 

The U by Moen system works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, so you can use whichever voice assistant you prefer. 

With this type of system, you'll need to install a digital valve controller in your shower, which can be a bit more involved than the other options on this list.

ThermaSol is another manufacturer of smart shower controllers and systems if you're looking to undertake a large-scale renovation. More info here.

My biggest issue with this solution is cost. Fully integrated smart shower systems are expensive. They usually require the services of a plumber and electrician and if upgrading your existing bathroom, you'll also need a tiler to tidy up changes to your shower area. Never mind the cost of the kit!

7.2

4. U Shower by Moen

Voice controlled smart shower system supporting 2 to 4 outlets

View Price
On Amazon

This fully integrated shower controller has a controller that's integrated into the wall, a smart water valve and battery backup

Specifications

• Allows you to control your shower with your voice, phone, or controller
• Remote activation with Amazon Alexa and U by Moen smartphone apps
• Easy-to-read LCD screen that's outlet powered and Wi-Fi connected

The Smart Shower by Moen is a showering system that allows you to customize your showering experience in three ways: voice, phone, and controller. You can use your voice via Siri, Alexa or Google Assistant. You can also use your phone, or the controller to start your shower, set a specific temperature, and stop or pause the shower remotely.

By using the Moen Smart Water App, you can also set your ideal shower temperature and save your preferred settings. The Smart Shower is adaptable and can be installed with either two or four outlets, based on your shower layout.

With the Moen Smart Water App, you can also time your shower perfectly, start and pause your shower, and receive device notifications. Installing the Smart Shower is easy, and you can learn how to use it through tutorials in the Moen Smart Water App.

With the Smart Shower, you can personalize your shower, sync your devices, and have a seamless and powerful showering experience.

My issue with the U Shower for Siri, Alexa or Google Assitant control is that it does not have the same functionality as their respective smart speakers.

 

Option 5: Portable Bluetooth Speaker with Microphone (Connected to your Phone)

Voice Assistant Support: Alexa, Google Assistant & Siri

Another option for adding voice control to your shower routine is to use a Bluetooth speaker with a built-in microphone that's connected to your phone. 

The Bose Soundlink Revolve is a high-quality Bluetooth speaker that you can use to play music from your phone while you shower. It also has a built-in microphone that you can use to issue voice commands to Siri or Google Assistant on your phone. 

This option is more limited than the others since you'll need to have your phone nearby, but it's a good choice if you already have a high-quality Bluetooth speaker you'd like to use in the shower.

Shower Head Speakers: Why would you want a voice-controlled smart shower controller or smart speaker in the shower?

There are several reasons why having Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant in a shower is useful!

Convenience & Entertainment

With a smart shower controller, you can control all aspects of your shower experience with just your voice. You don't need to fiddle with knobs or buttons to adjust the temperature, flow rate, or lighting in your shower. This can be especially helpful if you have mobility issues.

With a smart shower speaker, you can listen to music or podcasts while you shower, which can help you relax and start your day on the right foot. Some smart shower speakers even have built-in lighting or aromatherapy features!

Customization and personalization

Many smart shower controllers allow you to set up personalized presets for different members of your household. This means that you can have your shower set up exactly the way you like it with just a simple voice command. You can also use your voice to play your favorite music or podcasts while you shower.

Improved energy efficiency

Smart shower controllers can help you save water and energy by allowing you to set up precise temperature and flow rate settings.

You can also set up timers or schedules to make sure that you're not wasting water or energy by leaving the shower running when you're not using it.

Integration with other smart home devices

If you already have an Alexa, Siri, or Google Home smart home system, adding a smart shower controller or speaker can help you integrate your shower with the rest of your smart home devices.

For example, you can use your voice to turn off the lights in your bathroom or adjust the thermostat in your house without needing to get out of the shower.

What is a Smart Shower Controller?

A Smart Shower Controller is a device that allows you to control your shower experience through your phone or voice commands, allowing hands-free activation, and adjusting the water temperature, and pressure according to your preferences.

Sources

https://www.moen.com/smart-home/smart-shower

https://www.kohler.com/en/products/showers/shop-shower-heads/moxie

https://www.bose.com/en_us/products/speakers/smart_home/bose-portable-home-speaker.html

https://www.thermasol.com/

https://www.smarthomeperfected.com

The post Top 5 Innovative Shower Head Speakers for an Unmatched Musical Shower Experience appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

While the idea of reducing the time spent in the shower is noble, habit is a hard thing to break! To force your hand, you can set up a shower timer shut-off system so when the time is up, it really is up.

There are two different ways to implement an automatic shut-off system. You can either install a dedicated smart shower device or you can cut the water at source with a smart valve controller.

Below, I dive into each approach while detailing some factors to consider when making your choice for the best shower timer.

Approach 1: Shower Timer & Automatic Shut Off Device

7.4

U by Moen Digital Shower Controller

Top PickA smart shower system that comes with a built-in shut-off timer

View Price

5.6

Acqua Tempus Shower Timer

RUNNER UPA dedicated shower shut-off timer device

View Price

Approach 2: Smart Water Valve

8.2

EcoNet Controls Valve Robot

Top PickRetrofits existing ball valves with an optional Wi-Fi module for non Z-Wave implementations

View Price

7.3

Zooz Titan Water Valve Actuator

Runner UpPowerful valve motor that integrates well with Z-Wave networks

View Price

What is a Shower Timer Shutoff?

A Shower Timer Shutoff is a device designed to control the duration of a shower to conserve water and energy. 

It functions by automatically shutting off the water after a predetermined amount of time, encouraging more mindful and eco-friendly shower habits. 

These devices can be particularly beneficial in settings where water usage needs to be monitored or reduced, such as in shared bathrooms or areas with water shortages. 

The timer can usually be adjusted to suit individual needs, and some models may include additional features like countdown displays or audible alarms.

How does the Best Shower Timer Shut-off work? 

A Shower Timer Shut-off works in one of two ways: through a dedicated smart shower device or via a smart valve controller.

1. Shower Timer & Automatic Shutoff Device

In the first method, a smart shower system is installed directly into the shower unit itself, featuring built-in timers that can be easily set and adjusted to automatically shut off water flow after a certain duration. 

This system may also include advanced features such as temperature control, digital displays, and connectivity to home automation systems. An example of this type of system is the U by Moen.

2. Smart Water Valve Shutoff

In the second method, a smart valve controller is used to manipulate the water supply at its source. 

This device can be integrated directly into the water feed or can be positioned over an existing ball valve to motorize it. 

Then the device can be configured via a connected Wi-Fi, Z-Wave or Zigbee system (sold separately) to automatically turn on or off based on certain conditions.

The location of these devices will naturally depend on your water supply layout. They are typically located outside of your bathroom area and usually need a power source located nearby.

My Two Cents

I’m very guilty of treating our bathroom like a steam room, with extra long 25-minute showers to help relax and unwind! 

Recently, for this website, I tested out a home energy monitor, (review here) and was surprised to find that those extra-long showers were costing me a fortune. The Mira power shower unit I use has an 11kW rating and the cost of electricity has skyrocketed in the last 12 months.

This experience was the main reason for looking into shower timer shutoff devices, as I clearly need to cut back on this daily routine!

Approach 1: Shower Timer & Automatic Shut Off Device

In this approach, a device is integrated directly into your shower system. It can be a smart shower system like the U by Moen, which has lots of functions including a shower timer. Or it can be a dedicated shower timer device like the Acqua.

7.4

Top Pick

U by Moen Digital Shower Controller

A smart shower system that comes with a built-in shut-off timer

View Price
On Amazon

Specifications

• Color: Matte Black
• Style: Shower Controller + 4 outlet Valve
• Voice Control: Yes
• Smartphone App: Yes
• Soft-touch Button Controls: Yes
• Wi-Fi Connectivity: Yes
• Valve Compatibility: 2-outlet & 4-outlet

The Moen smart shower comes in two parts. The first part is the shower controller with an easy-to-read 5" non-touch LCD screen with 2 outlet operation. The second part is the smart valve, which is available in 2-valve and 4-valve outlet models.

As there is both plumbing and electrics required, I recommend hiring professionals to assist with the installation.

How to setup the timer

In the Moen App, to set the timer, tap the "Timer" row. 

• Once there, enable the timer by sliding the control from left to right, then set the desired duration up to a maximum of 20 minutes. (You can adjust the timer in terms of minutes and seconds to meet your preferences.)
• The system default setting issues an audible tone from the controller to indicate when one minute is left, but this can be switched off by sliding the control from right to left. 
• The shower continues to run by default once the timer hits zero, but you can opt for it to automatically turn off by sliding the appropriate control from left to right. 
• After finalizing your timer settings, press "Done" to save these preferences and return to the "Preset Edit" screen.

Other Features 

The U by Moen can be integrated with Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant, so you can issue voice commands to choose from various personalized settings, including the temperature, rainfall, and massage spray options. You can even opt to upgrade your existing Moen unit with this.

Regarding hands-on control, the clear LCD screen and soft buttons let you easily manage multiple shower outlets. You can have up to 12 customized options when you download the app.

The controller comes in striking Terra Beige or Matte Black finishes, blending seamlessly with your bathroom design and complementing Waterhill, Voss, and Isabel Rainshower and Eco-Performance Handshower options.

5.6

RUNNER UP

Acqua Tempus Shower Timer

A dedicated shower shut-off timer device

View Price
On Arelia

Specifications

• Water-saving Timer: Yes
• Leak Prevention: Yes
• Recharges with water flow: Yes
• Stainless steel lining & reinforced protector (sold separately)
• Three-Phase Programming: Yes
• Set maximum daily shower limit

Unlike the U by Moen which is a smart shower system, the Acqua Tempus is a dedicated shower timer shutoff device.

Installation of this device is relatively straightforward and doesn’t require any plumbing or electrical modifications. Just connect the 70-cm hose to the shower tap outlet and mount the bracket easily on vertical shower bars or walls. The lithium battery that powers the device recharges with a minimum water flow of 7 liters per minute.

This gadget has three-stage programming: 

1. Shower 
2. Foam
3. Delay or stop 

Each program phase lasts up to 20 minutes and is controlled by an automatic internal valve.

There are optional accessories like the Security Lock and the Function Plus. The security lock is a tamper-proof safety lock that secures the faucet connection, ensuring the user cannot bypass the Acqua Tempus. 

The function lock blocks the device when the maximum limit of scheduled showers has been used for the day. This system ensures water security and conservation in homes or hotels.

Other Devices

ShowerBoss provides shower timer cut-off systems for both residential and commercial use. You can find more information about these systems here.

If the devices mentioned in this article seem too complex, an alternative low-tech method to conserve water would be installing a self-closing valve, like this one here. These valves are commonly found in gym and locker room showers. 

Approach 2: Smart Water Valve

Next up on the best shower timer shutoff list are smart valves. When installed on the pipework leading to the shower, they allow you to remotely control the water flow.

As these devices can be programmed in a smart hub and can interact with other devices, you can get creative when creating a shower shutoff system.

Example Routine

Configure a routine within the Alexa app to “Start Shower.” Then by saying “Alexa, start shower”, this triggers the smart water valve to open, providing water for the shower. 

A delay of, say, 5 minutes is set within the routine. Once the 5 minutes are up, the routine triggers the smart water valve to close, which stops the shower. A further delay of, say, 10 minutes is then added to prevent someone from trying to continue the shower.

The above routine could be further improved by being triggered via a battery-powered smart button located beside the shower. A battery-powered light could also illuminate to signal that the shower has started.

8.2

Top Pick

EcoNet Controls Valve Robot

Retrofits existing ball valves with an optional Wi-Fi module for non Z-Wave implementations

View Price
On Amazon

Specifications

• Compatible with up to 1.5" valves
• Works with Smart Devices: Yes
• Optional Bulldog-WiFi: Yes
• High Torque: Yes
• Plug-In Wired Leak Sensor: Yes
• Smooth plastic finish
• Attaches to the valve body

The valve robot's easy installation process requires only the basic tools and no plumbing skills, making it hassle-free. Its design fits various valve sizes from 1/2" to 1.5", and it can tackle tough valves with powerful torque and smart stroke management.

Compatibility is a bonus, as the robot works with many smart home systems like SmartThings, Hubitat, Wink, and Honeywell.

For homes without smart home controllers, the optional Bulldog Wi-Fi lets you connect to your local Wi-Fi network to control the valve using your smartphone.

Some users have mentioned that the instructions can be hard to follow. However, they also said that customer support is quick to help with any installation issues.

7.3

Runner Up

Zooz Titan Water Valve Actuator

Powerful valve motor that integrates well with Z-Wave networks

View Price
On Amazon

Specifications

• Smart Flood Prevention: Yes
• Powerful motor for reliable valve control
• Easy to install without tools
• Suitable for outdoor use
• Can integrate water leak sensors
• Works with 0.5" - 1.25" ball valves
• Z-Wave Compatible: Yes

Similar to the EcoNet, the the Zooz Actuator can retrofit existing ball valves for smart control. Through a connected Z-Wave network, you can then configure scenes and routines as mentioned above, to implement a shower time shut-off system.

The strong motor of this water valve actuator works well with stubborn valves. It is compatible with ball valves from 0.5" to 1.25", making it suitable for various plumbing systems, and the IP66 rating means it can be used outside.

I like that this device is quick and easy to install and offers improved signal coverage and faster communication with the 700 Series Z-Wave chip. 

The actuator also has S2 Security and SmartStart features, allowing smooth integration with your smart home systems like SmartThings, Hubitat, and Home Assistant.

Factors to Consider when Implementing a Shower Timer Shut-Off System

1. Shower System Compatibility

Ensure that the device you select is designed to work seamlessly with your current shower's components and layout. 

For instance, the U by Moen Shower Controller is available in both two-outlet and four-outlet models, making it suitable for various shower configurations. 

Alternatively, the Acqua Tempus shower timer has a universal design that can be easily installed without needing plumbing modifications. 

In addition, smart devices such as the EcoNet Controls Bulldog Valve Robot or the Zooz Water Valve Actuator require compatibility with existing ball valves and specific smart home controllers.

2. Installation

You need to consider installation when deciding on a shower timer shutoff. The Moen for example requires large-scale works to implement, while the Acqua Tempus shower timer offers much quicker installation without any plumbing modifications or electrical involvement. 

Similarly, the EcoNet Controls Bulldog Valve Robot fits over existing levered ball valves with sizes ranging from 1/2″ to 1.5″, and it comes with all necessary mounting hardware and instructions. 

3. Set Time Limit Range and Adjustability

A device such as the Acqua Tempus shower timer offers programming with three phases and a maximum time limit of 20 minutes each, ensuring control throughout your showers. With its automatic internal valve shutoff feature, you can conserve water and save on utility bills. 

Remember the adjustability aspects of other devices, like the Moen Smart Shower Controller, which enables customization through its app, presets, and voice-activated controls via Amazon Alexa.

FAQs

How Long Can I Set the Timer for and Is It Adjustable?

Most dedicated shower timer shutoffs can be adjusted to a maximum of 20 minutes, depending on your preference. 

With the Moen for example, you can change the timer via the app on your smartphone.

Smart valves, on the other hand, can be controlled through an app on your smartphone or by voice if connected to a voice assistant. In addition, you program the routine on a mobile or desktop app (depending on your smart controller), so it can be whatever duration you want.

Can a Shower Timer Shut Off Be Installed in Any Bathroom?

The installation of a Shower Timer Shut Off device differs based on the approach you take.

1. Shower Timer & Automatic Shutoff Device

If you’re looking at a dedicated device, then the Acqua Tempus is pretty hassle-free as you install it between your tap outlet and the shower head. A mounting bracket is needed for the LCD controller, but that’s about it, and you’re good to go. 

So it’s much more likely to work in most bathrooms.

The U by Moen is much more invasive, requiring tiling, plumbing, and electrics, and is more suited to a full bathroom remodel.

2. Smart Water Valve

The two examples I listed don’t require any special installation tools or skills. You just locate the water ball valve that provides water to your shower and mount the motor over it. Align the smart valve handle with the ball valve and screw on the clamps that hold the device onto the pipe. 

Make sure to check your device's compatibility and the pipe's size. Double check also for surrounding clearance so that the shutoff can fully operate.

The pipes feeding the shower are unlikely to be visible in the bathroom so you’ll more than likely be installing this in a hot press or maintenance closet.

What Are Some Benefits of Using a Shower Timer Shutoff?

1. Water and Energy Conservation: A shower timer shutoff and smart valves help you track and limit your shower time, reducing water and gas consumption. It promotes responsible water usage and contributes to environmental sustainability.

2. Increases Savings, Reduces Cost, and Gives Peace of Mind: Reducing your water and energy usage with a shower timer shutoff allows you to be more mindful of your showering habits, ultimately saving you money in the long run.  
   
   As for the smart valves, you can extend the functionality of the smart valves by integrating plug-in or wireless leak sensors. You can program the device to shut off the water supply when your sensors detect a leak and alert you on the app. 
   
   Imagine if you had a leak while you were away for a couple of days and came home to a water-damaged home that would have cost you thousands of dollars in repairs if you didn’t have it.

3. Convenient and Easy to Use: Shower timer shutoffs are usually designed to be easy to use and install, with the exception of installation procedures like the U by Moen. They often come with features like programmable timers, LCD digital displays, and voice-activated controls, making setting and adjusting your showering preferences simple.  

4. Eco-Conscious Lifestyle: Incorporating a shower timer shutoff into your bathroom routine is a tangible way to embrace a more eco-conscious lifestyle. It demonstrates your commitment to reducing your environmental footprint and encourages sustainable habits.

5. Increased Awareness: Using a shower timer shutoff heightens your awareness of your water usage and encourages you to be mindful of your daily habits. It prompts you to make conscious choices, cultivating a mindful and sustainable lifestyle in the long run.

Sources:

https://www.amazon.com

The post Best Shower Timers of 2024: Maximize Efficiency in Your Bathroom Routine appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.