Shower sensor encourages users to save water

A novel pair of sensors help users to save water in the bathroom, by detecting toilet leaks and encouraging shorter showers

Spotted: Climate change is affecting water availability, with both the number and severity of droughts increasing in a number of regions around the world. In the UK alone, it is thought that an additional 3.5 million cubic metres of water will be needed each day, between 2025 and 2050. However, Aguardio has come up with an innovative way to help people reduce their water usage. 

The Aguardio G2 is a sensor for showers that measures usage and alerts users to the amount of water and energy wasted, helping to nudge them into shorter shower times. A second product, the Aguardio Leak Sensor, attaches to the toilet’s water inlet and detects leaky valves, notifying homeowners of this difficult-to-detect problem. Both products can be installed without plumbing. 

Data from the G2 is transferred to a cloud-based dashboard that provides users with real-time analysis of water and energy usage during a shower. Aguardio’s own studies show a 30 per cent reduction in water consumption from showers after installing the device. The Leak Sensor can be used as a stand-alone device on a single toilet or can be networked with other devices to cover an entire building. Both devices could also provide data for optimising operations in a wide variety of different building types. 

The company told Springwise that Aguardio is effective at reducing consumption because it uses “behavioural science in combination with smart technology to nudge people to have shorter showers, leading to savings in water, energy, carbon emissions and money”. Aguardio points to numerous studies that show the effectiveness of real-time feedback in leading to water-saving behaviour, adding “Real-time feedback works well because the individual is motivated to perform better.” 

Water shortages are a growing problem in many areas, including the UK. Within 25 years, climate scientists predict that England will not have enough fresh water to meet demand. In other countries, the situation is similar – or worse. There are numerous innovative ways being developed to reduce water usage, from using a “Fitbit” on your water meter, to installing panels that collect rainwater.  

Explore more: Computing & Tech Innovations | Sustainability Innovations