Do you know how much you could save on water every month just by making a few smarter choices? In this case, it’s not just about using less water but using smart water-saving devices to give you more control over your water usage.
While your water bill might show how much you’re using, it doesn’t exactly help you conserve. Imagine having a smart sprinkler that only waters when necessary. Or what about a smart device that alerts you to leaks early to avoid excess water usage and costly water damage? These are the types of devices your home needs.
Saving Money
You might already know that switching to smart bulbs actually helps save energy. After all, you can turn them off remotely and even set schedules to reduce how often your lights are on. However, watering your lawn, showering too long, and hidden leaks use energy and water. Smart water-saving devices let you take control all from the comfort of your favorite smartphone.
If you don’t think you could possibly save much, consider that leaks waste an average of 900 billion gallons of water each year. Improperly configured and maintained home irrigation systems can waste up to 25,000 gallons of water each year. That’s a lot of water you could save with a few simple smart additions to your home.
Rachio 3
Water your lawn often? One of the most popular smart water-saving devices is the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler. The system, available in an eight- and sixteen-zone variety, allows you to control your watering scheduling from an easy-to-use app. It also automatically adjusts the schedule based on weather (current and future) and only waters when needed. This prevents overwatering and watering in the middle of a thunderstorm. The eight-zone starts at just $229.
Orbit B-Hyve Hose Faucet Timer
If you want something a little simpler and cheaper, the Orbit B-Hyve Hose Faucet Timer starts at just $99. The Wi-Fi-enabled timer connects to your standard garden hose. Create schedules, detect leaks in your hose, and adjust easily based on weather alerts. Orbit also has the B-Hyve Wi-Fi Timer (starting at $59), which connects to any existing outdoor watering system so you can control it remotely.
Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller
Netro Smart Sprinkler Controller works much like the Rachio 3. It can auto-adjust based on weather conditions. You’ll also get pre-programmed watering recommendations based on your plants and soil type. Get alerts based on regional water restrictions as well. You’ll need to subscribe to Sprite for $29.99 per year, which includes your device, app, and all features.
Flo by Moen Smart Water Shutoff
Leaks aren’t only wasteful but lead to severe home damage if not caught early. Flo by Moen Smart Water Shutoff detects leaks and shuts off your water to prevent damage. The shutoff device connects to your water pipes and runs daily tests to detect changes in water pressure. It’ll also show you exactly how much water you’re using. You can also add water sensors in areas where leaks might occur, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
The sensors monitor for changes in humidity, water, and temperature and alert you immediately. The sensors can also trigger the shutoff device to shut your water off until you can address the problem. It may seem high at $499, but the first leak it detects will save you at least that much.
Other Water-Saving Leak Detectors
While Flo is the most popular overall, there are other smart-saving water devices that detect leaks, too. Some of the top alternatives to Flo include:
- Flume Water Monitor – Detects leaks, shows you where they are, and measures water usage. Connects to your water meter versus the plumbing and doesn’t shut off your water automatically. Cheaper option at $199.
- Lyric Wi-Fi Water Leak and Freeze Detector – Honeywell’s device alerts you to leaks and temperature changes. It’s a simpler option and only costs $79.99.
- Samsung SmartThings ADT Water Leak Detector – If you already have an ADT Security Hub, you can connect this device to your system to monitor for water leaks. The device only costs $34.99.
Fibaro Flood Sensor
The Fibaro Flood Sensor works a little differently than other leak detectors. Sit the sensor on the floor wherever you might experience leaks or flooding. Get an alert when water touches the sensor. You’ll also get temperature and tampering alerts. If you have electrovalves installed, such as the Wireless Z-Wave Water Valve, the sensor also turns your water off when a leak is detected.
Hydrao Shower Head
The Hydrao Shower Head won’t suddenly turn your water off in the middle of a shower. However, it will give you gentle nudges to conserve water with color-changing lights. When the light goes from green to yellow, it’s time to wrap things up. If it turns red, you’re using too much water. The fun part is it’s completely powered by water, so no batteries are needed, and it starts at $79.
While saving water is a smart thing to do, saving electricity is a good way to save money as well, and we have great hacks for that. Check them out.
Images: Pavel Ševela / Wikimedia Commons
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Crystal Crowder –
Staff Writer
Crystal Crowder has spent over 15 years working in the tech industry, first as an IT technician and then as a writer. She works to help teach others how to get the most from their devices, systems, and apps. She stays on top of the latest trends and is always finding solutions to common tech problems.
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